Cleaning device and lifting structure used therein

Abstract

A lifting structure of a cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present invention may include: a housing; a first bushing rotatably disposed inside the housing; a second bushing that can move up and down and rotate relative to the first bushing; and an intermediate bushing that connects the first bushing and the second bushing and can move up and down and rotate relative to the first bushing and the second bushing.

Description

Cleaning equipment and lifting structures used therefor

[0001] The embodiments provide a cleaning device and a lifting structure used therein.

[0002] A cleaning device is a device that cleans a surface, such as a floor. There are two ways in which a cleaning device cleans a surface: dry, which removes contaminants through suction, and wet, which removes contaminants by wiping them with water.

[0003] A cleaning device may include a wet pad configured to come into contact with a surface to be cleaned for wet cleaning. This wet pad may become contaminated during the process of removing contaminants. When the cleaning device is moved after completing cleaning, a structure may be considered to separate the contaminated wet pad from the surface to be cleaned. Furthermore, the surface to be cleaned by the cleaning device may have areas that are not suitable for wet cleaning. For example, if the floor is carpeted, the wet pad of the cleaning device may be structured to separate the wet pad from the surface to be cleaned, regardless of whether it is contaminated.

[0004] A cleaning device according to an embodiment may include a main body and a wet cleaning module provided in the main body.

[0005] The above wet cleaning module may include at least one wet pad that is detachably arranged at the lower portion of the main body and rotatable around a rotation axis; a lifting structure that supports the wet pad so that the wet pad can rotate and move up and down; and a driving unit that provides a rotational driving force to the lifting structure so that the wet pad can rotate and move up and down.

[0006] The lifting structure may include a housing, a first bushing arranged to be fixedly positioned within the housing and configured to rotate by receiving a rotational driving force from the driving unit, a second bushing configured to transmit the rotational driving force of the first bushing to the wet pad so that the wet pad can move up and down and rotate when the first bushing rotates, and an intermediate bushing that connects between the first bushing and the second bushing and is configured to move up and down and rotate by the rotational driving force of the first bushing when the first bushing rotates.

[0007] The lifting structure can move up and down and rotate the intermediate bushing as the first bushing rotates, and the second bushing can move up and down and rotate as the intermediate bushing rotates.

[0008] A lifting structure according to one embodiment is used in a cleaning device and can be configured to support a wet pad so that the wet pad can rotate and move up and down.

[0009] The lifting structure may include a housing, a first bushing arranged to be fixedly positioned within the housing and configured to be rotatable relative to the housing, a second bushing configured to transmit a rotational driving force of the first bushing to the wet pad so that the wet pad can move up and down and rotate when the first bushing rotates, and an intermediate bushing connected between the first bushing and the second bushing and configured to be moved up and down and rotated by the rotational driving force of the first bushing when the first bushing rotates.

[0010] The lifting structure can move up and down and rotate the intermediate bushing as the first bushing rotates, and the second bushing can move up and down and rotate as the intermediate bushing rotates.

[0011] A cleaning device according to an embodiment may include a main body and a wet cleaning module provided in the main body.

[0012] The above wet cleaning module may include at least one wet pad that is detachably arranged at the lower portion of the main body and rotatable around a rotation axis; a lifting structure that supports the wet pad so that the wet pad can rotate and move up and down; and a driving unit that provides a rotational driving force to the lifting structure so that the wet pad can rotate and move up and down.

[0013] The above lifting structure may include a housing, a first bushing arranged to be fixedly positioned inside the housing and configured to rotate by receiving a rotational driving force from the driving unit, an intermediate bushing configured to move up and down and rotate by receiving a rotational driving force from the first bushing, and a second bushing configured to move up and down and rotate by receiving a rotational driving force from the intermediate bushing and configured to transmit a rotational driving force to the wet pad.

[0014] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a cleaning device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0015] Figure 2 is a drawing of the cleaning device of Figure 1 viewed from below.

[0016] Figure 3 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of a wet cleaning module according to an embodiment.

[0017] Figure 4 is an assembled perspective view showing a lifting structure according to one embodiment;

[0018] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view showing a lifting structure according to one embodiment.

[0019] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a lifting structure according to one embodiment.

[0020] Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a lifting structure in a lift-down posture according to one embodiment.

[0021] Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a lifting structure in a lift-up position according to one embodiment.

[0022] Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which a wet pad is separated from a lifting structure according to one embodiment.

[0023] FIGS. 10 to 12 are drawings for explaining another example of a lifting structure according to one embodiment.

[0024] Fig. 13 is a block diagram showing an example of a cleaning device according to an embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing a cleaning device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing a cleaning device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the contents described in the attached drawings. The same reference numbers or symbols presented in each drawing indicate parts or components that perform substantially the same functions.

[0028] Terms that include ordinal numbers, such as "first," "second," etc., may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by the terms. The terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the present invention, the first component could be referred to as the second component, and similarly, the second component could also be referred to as the first component. The term "and / or" includes any combination of multiple related items or any one of multiple related items.

[0029] The terminology used in this application is for the purpose of describing embodiments and is not intended to limit and / or restrict the present invention. The singular expression includes plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this application, it should be understood that the terms "comprise" or "have" indicate the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof described in the specification, but do not exclude in advance the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof. The same reference numerals presented in each drawing represent elements that perform substantially the same function.

[0030] Fig. 1 is a perspective view showing a cleaning device (1) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Fig. 2 is a view of the cleaning device (1) of Fig. 1 as viewed from below. Fig. 3 is a block diagram schematically showing the configuration of a wet cleaning module (30) according to an embodiment.

[0031] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a cleaning device (1) according to an embodiment can perform wet cleaning by cleaning a surface to be cleaned (SF) using a mop. As an example for this, the cleaning device (1) can include a main body (10) and a wet cleaning module (30) provided in the main body (10). The cleaning device (1) according to an embodiment can further perform dry cleaning by sucking up foreign substances from the surface to be cleaned (SF). As an example for this, the cleaning device (1) can further include a dry cleaning module (20) provided in the main body (10).

[0032] Contaminants placed on the cleaning surface (SF) can be removed by suction of the dry cleaning module (20) or by being attached to the wet pad (31) of the wet cleaning module (30). Depending on the user or the cleaning environment, the cleaning device (1) can perform dry cleaning or wet cleaning alone, dry cleaning and wet cleaning simultaneously, or wet cleaning after dry cleaning.

[0033] The main body (10) can form the exterior of the cleaning device (1). The main body (10) can be provided in a circular or polygonal structure. A wet cleaning module (30) and a dry cleaning module (20) can be arranged inside the main body (10). The wet cleaning module (30) and the dry cleaning module (20) can be arranged inside the main body (10) so that a portion of the wet cleaning module (30) and the dry cleaning module (20) is exposed to the outside.

[0034] Although not shown, a battery may be placed inside the main body (10). Powered by the battery, the cleaning device (1) can run (or move) or perform cleaning operations. The battery may be charged by the station (2) when the cleaning device (1) is docked to the station (2).

[0035] The main body (10) may include a driving unit (40) capable of driving on a two-dimensional plane. A sensor unit (50) may be arranged on the upper portion of the main body (10). The sensor unit (50) may detect information for obstacle recognition and cleaning map creation. The sensor unit (50) may detect the indoor environment. The sensor unit (50) may detect at least one of a cleaning target and a contaminant. The sensor unit (50) may detect a liquid-state cleaning object or a cleaning area that does not require wet cleaning, such as a carpet.

[0036] The sensor unit (50) may be implemented as a lidar sensor. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the sensor unit (50) may also be positioned on the side of the main body (10). The sensor unit (50) may further include a sensor capable of identifying external objects other than the lidar sensor.

[0037] The dry cleaning module (20) may be configured to suck up contaminants from a surface to be cleaned (SF). The dry cleaning module (20) may include a suction motor that generates suction force and a dust bin that stores the sucked contaminants. The dry cleaning module (20) may further include a rotatable brush (21) to collect contaminants.

[0038] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 3, the wet cleaning module (30) may include at least one wet pad (31). The wet pad (31) may be detachably disposed at the lower portion of the main body (10). The wet pad (31) may be rotatable around a rotation axis (RX).

[0039] The wet pad (31) may include a pad member (32) that can come into contact with the surface to be cleaned (SF) to enable wet cleaning of the surface to be cleaned (SF), and a frame member (33) that detachably supports the pad member (32).

[0040] There may be a plurality of wet pads (31). For example, the wet pads (31) may be a pair of wet pads (31) having the same size. However, the number and size of the wet pads (31) are not limited thereto and may vary. For example, although not shown, the number of wet pads (31) may be one or three or more. For example, although not shown, the sizes of the plurality of wet pads (31) may be different from each other.

[0041] The wet cleaning module (30) may further include a driving unit (35) that generates a rotational driving force to enable the wet pad (31) to rotate and move up and down. The driving unit may provide a first rotational driving force to rotate the wet pad (31) in a forward direction and a second rotational driving force to rotate the wet pad (31) in a reverse direction. By rotating the wet pad (31) while in contact with the surface to be cleaned (SF) by the driving unit (35), cleaning of the surface to be cleaned (SF) may be performed.

[0042] As described above, in the cleaning device (1) according to the embodiment, the wet pad (31) may come into contact with the surface to be cleaned (SF) for wet cleaning. However, in the cleaning device (1) according to the embodiment, when wet cleaning is not performed, the wet pad (31) may not come into contact with the surface to be cleaned (SF). For example, when the cleaning device (1) passes over an area (such as a carpet) or an obstacle that does not require wet cleaning, the wet pad (31) may not come into contact with the surface to be cleaned (SF). For example, when the wet pad (31) of the cleaning device (1) is contaminated, the wet pad (31) may not come into contact with the surface to be cleaned (SF) to prevent further contamination of the surface to be cleaned (SF).

[0043] The wet cleaning module (30) of the cleaning device (1) according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a lifting structure (100) that supports the wet pad (31) so that the wet pad (31) can rotate and move up and down. By using the lifting structure (100), the wet pad (31) can be rotated and its height can also be adjusted. The driving unit (35) can provide a rotational driving force to the lifting structure (100).

[0044] Fig. 4 is an assembled perspective view showing a lifting structure (100) according to one embodiment, and Fig. 5 is an exploded perspective view showing a lifting structure (100) according to one embodiment. Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a lifting structure (100) according to one embodiment.

[0045] Referring to FIGS. 4 to 6, a lifting structure (100) according to an embodiment includes a housing (110), a first bushing (120), at least one intermediate bushing (140), and a second bushing (130). The first bushing (120), the intermediate bushing (140), and the second bushing (130) may be arranged to rotate coaxially. In other words, the rotation axes (RX) of the first bushing (120), the intermediate bushing (140), and the second bushing (130) may be arranged coaxially.

[0046] The housing (110) may have an open bottom structure. The side surface of the inner surface of the housing (110) may not be parallel to the direction of the rotation axis (RX), taking into account the manufacturing stage of the housing (110) (mold design, etc.). For example, the inner surface of the housing (110) may have a width that slightly widens toward the bottom.

[0047] A first bushing (120) may be arranged inside the housing (110). The diameter (D) or width of the housing (110) may be larger than the first diameter (D1) of the first bushing (120). The inner diameter of the housing (110) may be larger than the first outer diameter of the first bushing (120) arranged inside the housing (110). At least a portion of the intermediate bushing (140) and at least a portion of the second bushing (130) may be arranged inside the housing (110).

[0048] The first bushing (120) can be positioned so that its position (or height) is fixed with respect to the housing (110). The first bushing can be rotatably supported on the housing (110).

[0049] The first bushing (120) may include a support region (1201) rotatably supported by the housing (110) and a connection region (1202) connected to the intermediate bushing (140). The width of the connection region (1202) may be greater than the width of the support region (1201). The first bushing (120) may have a cylindrical structure and may have a curved cross-section. The width of the connection region (1202) may correspond to the first diameter (D1) of the first bushing (120).

[0050] The lower end of the first bushing (120) may be positioned higher than the lower end of the housing (110). The lower end of the connection area (1202) of the first bushing (120) may be positioned higher than the lower end of the housing (110).

[0051] A bearing (111) may be placed between the housing (110) and the first bushing (120). The bearing (111) may be placed between the housing (110) and the support area (1201).

[0052] The first bushing (120) may be configured to rotate by receiving a rotational driving force from the driving unit (35). The first bushing (120) may be mechanically connected to the driving unit (35). For example, the first bushing (120) may be connected to the driving unit (35) by at least one gear (351). For example, the first bushing (120) may be fixed to the gear (351) by a fixing member (352). The rotational driving force of the driving unit (35) may be transmitted to the first bushing (120) through the gear (351). The driving unit (35) may be arranged on the side rather than the upper portion of the housing (110). As the driving unit (35) is arranged on the side of the housing (110), the height occupied by the wet cleaning module (30) within the main body (10) may be reduced.

[0053] The rotation direction of the first bushing (120) may vary depending on the rotational driving force of the driving unit (35). When the driving unit (35) generates a first rotational driving force that rotates in a first direction, the first bushing (120) may rotate in a forward direction. When the driving unit (35) generates a second rotational driving force that rotates in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the first bushing (120) may rotate in a reverse direction.

[0054] The second bushing (130) may be disposed at least partially within the housing (110). The second bushing (130) may have a second diameter (D2) different from the first diameter (D1) and may be configured to be rotatable. The second bushing (130) may be configured to be able to move up and down with respect to the first bushing (120). The second diameter (D2) may be larger than the first diameter (D1).

[0055] The second bushing (130) may be configured to receive a rotational driving force from the intermediate bushing (140) to be described later and to be able to move up and down and rotate. The second bushing (130) may be configured to transmit the rotational driving force to the wet pad (31). The second bushing (130) may be configured to transmit the rotational driving force of the first bushing (120) to the wet pad (31) so that the wet pad (31) can move up and down and rotate when the first bushing (120) rotates. The second bushing (130) may support the wet pad (31). For example, the second bushing (130) may support the wet pad (31) via a pad support member (150) to be described later. Accordingly, when the second bushing (130) moves or rotates in the up-and-down direction, the wet pad (31) can move or rotate in the up-and-down direction together with the second bushing (130).

[0056] The second bushing (130) may be connected (or coupled) to the first bushing (120) by means of the intermediate bushing (140). However, the connection between the second bushing (130) and the first bushing (120) is not necessarily limited to being connected by means of the intermediate bushing (140), and, if necessary, the second bushing (130) and the first bushing (120) may be directly connected without the intermediate bushing (140).

[0057] The intermediate bushing (140) may be disposed at least partially within the housing (110). The intermediate bushing (140) may be configured to connect between the first bushing (120) and the second bushing (130). The intermediate bushing (140) may have an intermediate diameter (D3). The intermediate diameter (D3) may be a size between the first diameter (D1) and the second diameter (D2). For example, the intermediate diameter (D3) may be larger than the first diameter (D1) and smaller than the second diameter (D2).

[0058] The intermediate bushing (140) may be configured to be able to move up and down and rotate relative to the first bushing (120) and the second bushing (130). The intermediate bushing (140) may be configured to be able to move up and down and rotate by receiving a rotational driving force from the first bushing (120).

[0059] The intermediate bushing (140) may be configured to move up and down relative to the first bushing (120) when the first bushing (120) rotates. The intermediate bushing (140) may be configured to move up and down relative to the second bushing (130). The intermediate bushing (140) may receive a rotational driving force from the first bushing (120) and may be configured to transmit the rotational driving force to the second bushing (130). As the first bushing (120) rotates, the intermediate bushing (140) may move up and down and rotate. As the intermediate bushing (140) rotates, the second bushing (130) may move up and down and rotate. The specific operations of the first bushing (120), the intermediate bushing (140), and the second bushing (130) will be described later in the description of FIGS. 8 and 9.

[0060] As the intermediate bushing (140) is arranged between the second bushing (130) and the first bushing (120), the second diameter (D2) of the second bushing (130) can be made larger than the first diameter (D1) of the first bushing (120) by at least the thickness of the intermediate bushing (140). The circumferential length of the second bushing (130) can be larger than the circumferential length of the first bushing (120). When the rotational driving force is transmitted to the wet pad (31) through the second bushing (130) having a large circumferential length, the rotational driving force can be transmitted through a relatively wide area compared to when the rotational driving force is transmitted to the wet pad (31) through the first bushing (120) having a small circumferential length. Since the wet pad (31) is supported by a relatively wide surface area through the second bushing (130) and the rotational driving force is transmitted thereto, shaking caused by unintended external force acting on the wet pad (31) during the wet cleaning operation of the cleaning device (1) can be reduced. Thus, the lifting structure (100) of the cleaning device (1) according to the embodiment can be advantageous in absorbing shock or vibration acting on the wet pad (31) during the wet cleaning operation.

[0061] The intermediate bushing (140) and the first bushing (120) may be configured to be thread-coupled. For example, one of the first bushing (120) and the intermediate bushing (140) may be provided with a first screw groove (141) that is inclined with respect to the rotation axis (RX), and the other of the first bushing (120) and the intermediate bushing (140) may be provided with a first screw projection (121) inserted into the first screw groove (141). For example, the inner circumference of the intermediate bushing (140) may be provided with a first screw groove (141), and the outer circumference of the first bushing (120) may include a first screw projection (121) that is coupled to the first screw groove (141). To facilitate the relative movement of the first screw projection (121) with respect to the first screw groove (141), the height and width of the first screw projection (121) may be smaller than the depth and width of the first screw groove (141).

[0062] The extension length of the first screw groove (141) may be three times or more the inner diameter of the intermediate bushing (140). The extension length of the first screw groove (141) may be ten times or less the inner diameter of the intermediate bushing (140). However, the extension angle and length of the first screw groove (141) are not limited thereto and may vary depending on the lifting operation time and lifting height of the intermediate bushing (140).

[0063] The first screw projection (121) may be provided in a portion of the outer circumference of the first bushing (120). For example, the first screw projection (121) may be provided in a lower region of the outer circumference of the first bushing (120). The first screw projection (121) may be discontinuously arranged on the outer circumference of the first bushing (120). For example, the first screw projections (121) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other along the circumferential direction on the outer circumference of the first bushing (120).

[0064] A stopper that blocks the relative movement of the first screw projection (121) may be arranged at least at one end in the longitudinal direction of the first screw groove (141). For example, a first stopper (143) may be arranged at the upper end of the first screw groove (141). When the first screw projection (121) contacts the first stopper (143) of the first screw groove (141), the first bushing (120) and the intermediate bushing (140) may rotate together. When the first bushing (120) rotates in the forward direction while the relative movement of the first screw projection (121) is blocked by the first stopper (143), the intermediate bushing (140) may rotate in the forward direction together with the first bushing (120).

[0065] The lower end of the first screw groove (141) may be open without a stopper. Since the lower end of the first screw groove (141) is open, the first bushing (120) and the intermediate bushing (140) may be assembled so that the first screw projection is inserted into the first screw groove (141).

[0066] When the first bushing (120) rotates in the reverse direction while the intermediate bushing (140) is raised to overlap the first bushing (120), the intermediate bushing (140) may be configured to rotate in the reverse direction together with the first bushing (120). For example, the intermediate bushing (140) may be raised to contact the inner surface of the housing (110). Before the first screw projection (121) falls through the lower portion of the first screw groove (141), the intermediate bushing (140) may contact the inner surface of the housing (110). In other words, since the height to which the intermediate bushing (140) can be raised is limited due to the contact with the housing (110), the first screw projection (121) may not fall into the first screw groove (141). Accordingly, the rotational driving force of the first bushing (120) is transmitted to the intermediate bushing (140) by the first screw protrusion (121) and the first screw groove (141), so that the intermediate bushing (140) can be rotated in the reverse direction together with the first bushing (120).

[0067] The intermediate bushing (140) and the second bushing (130) may be configured to be thread-coupled. For example, one of the intermediate bushing (140) and the second bushing (130) may be provided with a second screw groove (132) that is inclined with respect to the rotation axis (RX), and the other of the intermediate bushing (140) and the second bushing (130) may be provided with a second screw projection (142) inserted into the second screw groove (132). For example, the second screw groove (132) may be provided on the inner circumference of the second bushing (130). The outer circumference of the intermediate bushing (140) may include a second screw projection (142) that is coupled to the second screw groove (132) provided on the inner circumference of the second bushing (130). To facilitate the relative movement of the second screw projection (142) with respect to the second screw groove (132), the height and width of the second screw projection (142) may be smaller than the depth and width of the second screw groove (132).

[0068] The extension length of the second screw groove (132) may be three times or more the inner diameter of the second bushing (130). The extension length of the second screw groove (132) may be ten times or less the inner diameter of the second bushing (130). However, the extension angle and length of the second screw groove (132) are not limited thereto and may vary depending on the lifting operation time and lifting height of the second bushing (130).

[0069] The second screw projection (142) may be provided in a portion of the outer surface of the intermediate bushing (140). For example, the second screw projection (142) may be provided in a lower region of the outer surface of the intermediate bushing (140). The second screw projection (142) may be discontinuously arranged on the outer surface of the intermediate bushing (140). For example, the second screw projections (142) may be arranged to be spaced apart from each other along the circumferential direction on the outer surface of the intermediate bushing (140).

[0070] A stopper that blocks the relative movement of the second screw projection (142) may be arranged at at least one end in the longitudinal direction of the second screw groove (132). For example, a second stopper (133) may be arranged at the upper end of the second screw groove (132). When the second screw projection (142) contacts the second stopper (133) of the second screw groove (132), the intermediate bushing (140) and the second bushing (130) can rotate together. When the intermediate bushing (140) rotates in the forward direction while the relative movement of the second screw projection (142) is blocked by the second stopper (133), the second bushing (130) can rotate in the forward direction together with the intermediate bushing (140).

[0071] The lower end of the second screw groove (132) may be open without a stopper. Since the lower end of the second screw groove (132) is open, the intermediate bushing (140) and the second bushing (130) may be assembled so that the second screw projection is inserted into the second screw groove (132).

[0072] When the intermediate bushing (140) is rotated in the reverse direction while being raised to overlap the second bushing (130), the second bushing (130) may be configured to rotate in the reverse direction together with the intermediate bushing (140). For example, the second bushing (130) or the pad support (150) coupled to the second bushing (130) may be raised to contact the inner surface of the housing (110). Before the second screw projection (142) falls through the lower portion of the second screw groove (132), the second bushing (130) may contact the inner surface of the housing (110). In other words, since the height to which the second bushing (130) can be raised is limited due to the contact with the housing (110), the second screw projection (142) may not fall into the second screw groove (132). Accordingly, the rotational driving force of the intermediate bushing (140) is transmitted to the second bushing (130) by the second screw protrusion (142) and the second screw groove (132), so that the second bushing (130) can be rotated in the reverse direction together with the intermediate bushing (140).

[0073] By the screw-joint structure between the first bushing (120) and the intermediate bushing (140) and the screw-joint structure between the intermediate bushing (140) and the second bushing (130), the intermediate bushing (140) and the second bushing (130) can move up and down and rotate. By the up and down movement of the intermediate bushing (140) and the second bushing (130), the lifting structure (100) can adjust the up and down position of the wet pad (31). The lifting structure (100) can have a lift-up position (102; see FIG. 8) in which the wet pad (31) is raised and a lift-down position (101; see FIG. 7) in which the wet pad (31) is lowered.

[0074] In this way, the lifting structure (100) can lower the wet pad (31) so that it comes into close contact with the surface to be cleaned (SF) when wet cleaning is required by adjusting the vertical position of the wet pad (31), and can raise the wet pad (31) so that it is away from the surface to be cleaned (SF) or an obstacle when wet cleaning is not required. Since the lifting structure (100) has a structure in which the first bushing (120) and the second bushing (130) are connected by the intermediate bushing (140), the height adjustment range of the wet pad (31) can be increased compared to a structure in which the first bushing (120) and the second bushing (130) are directly connected. Thus, the lifting structure (100) can not only raise the wet pad (31) higher to avoid obstacles, but also lower the wet pad (31) lower to bring it into close contact with the cleaning surface (SF) so that stronger pressure is applied to the cleaning surface (SF).

[0075] In addition, the lifting structure (100) can cause the second bushing (130) and the intermediate bushing (140) to move upward when an impact is applied to the wet pad (31). In this way, when an impact is applied to the wet pad (31), the second bushing (130) and the intermediate bushing (140) can move upward to absorb the impact, thereby minimizing the impact transmitted to the first bushing (120) and the driving unit (35). Through this, the durability of the lifting structure (100) can be improved.

[0076] The lifting structure (100) may further include a pad support (150) fixed to the second bushing (130). Since the second bushing (130) and the pad support (150) are fixed, the rotational driving force of the second bushing (130) is equally transmitted to the pad support (150), so that the pad support (150) can rotate in the same direction around the same rotational axis (RX) as the rotational axis (RX) of the second bushing (130).

[0077] The pad support (150) may be arranged to surround at least a portion of the second bushing (130). The pad support (150) may have an open upper portion and surround an outer circumferential surface of the second bushing (130). The pad support (150) may include a protruding portion (151) that protrudes to be inserted into the interior of the second bushing (130).

[0078] The width of the protruding portion (151) may be smaller than the inner diameter of the second bushing (130). The width of the protruding portion (151) may be smaller than the inner diameter of the intermediate bushing (140). The width of the protruding portion (151) may be smaller than the inner diameter of the first bushing (120). Accordingly, when the second bushing (130), the intermediate bushing (140), and the first bushing (120) are overlapped, the protruding portion (151) may be inserted into the interior of the first bushing (120).

[0079] The width of the pad support (150) may be greater than the width of the first bushing (120). The width of the pad support (150) may be greater than the width of the intermediate bushing (140). The width of the pad support (150) may be greater than the width of the second bushing (130). The width of the pad support (150) may be smaller than the inner diameter of the housing (110).

[0080] The pad support member (150) may be detachably coupled to the frame member (33) of the wet pad (31). The protruding portion (151) of the pad support member (150) may be configured so that the frame member (33) can be detachably assembled. For example, the frame member (33) and the pad support member (150) may be coupled by a hook connection. For example, the frame member (33) may be hook-coupled to the protruding portion (151) of the pad support member (150). However, the coupling between the frame member (33) and the pad support member (150) is not limited thereto and may vary.

[0081] The frame member (33) of the wet pad (31) may have a disc shape. The pad member (32) may be detachably attached to the frame member (33). For example, the pad member (32) may be attached to the frame member (33) by a hook-and-loop method. However, the method of coupling between the pad member (32) and the frame member (33) is not limited thereto and may vary.

[0082] The housing (110) may be configured to cover at least a portion of the first bushing (120), the intermediate bushing (140), and the second bushing (130). For example, the housing (110) may cover at least a portion of the intermediate bushing (140) and the second bushing (130) so that a connection portion between the intermediate bushing (140) and the second bushing (130) is not exposed to the outside. For example, the housing (110) may cover at least a portion of the intermediate bushing (140) and the second bushing (130) so that the second screw projection (142) and the second screw groove (132) of the intermediate bushing (140) and the second bushing (130) are not exposed to the outside.

[0083] The lifting structure (100) according to the embodiment may be configured such that a frictional force is applied between the second bushing (130) and the housing (110). For example, the structure may be configured such that a frictional force is applied between the pad support (150) fixed to the second bushing (130) and the housing (110). The pad support (150) may include a frictional portion (152) arranged on the outside of the second bushing (130). The frictional portion (152) may be configured to contact the housing (110) so that a frictional force is applied between the housing (110) and the second bushing (130). The frictional portion (152) may be configured to contact and pressurize the inner surface of the housing (110). For example, the frictional portion (152) may be configured such that it is elastically deformed toward the inner surface of the housing (110).

[0084] The friction portion (152) contacts the inner surface of the housing (110), so that a frictional force is applied between the pad support (150) and the housing (110), and accordingly, a frictional force is applied between the second bushing (130) fixed to the pad support (150) and the housing (110). As the frictional force is applied between the second bushing (130) and the housing (110), when a rotational driving force is provided from the driving unit (35), the first bushing (120) rotates, and the intermediate bushing (140) and the second bushing (130) can move up and down with respect to the first bushing (120). For example, when the first bushing (120) rotates in the forward direction, the intermediate bushing (140) and the second bushing (130) can descend with respect to the first bushing (120). For example, when the first bushing (120) rotates in the reverse direction, the intermediate bushing (140) and the second bushing (130) can rise with respect to the first bushing (120).

[0085] The lifting structure (100) may further include a center pin (160) disposed inside the first bushing (120), the intermediate bushing (140), and the second bushing (130). The center pin (160) may extend along the rotational axis (RX). A side surface of the center pin (160) may be parallel to the direction of the rotational axis (RX). The center pin (160) may be disposed at the rotational centers of the first bushing (120), the intermediate bushing (140), and the second bushing (130).

[0086] The center pin (160) may be supported at the top by the first bushing (120) and at the bottom by the pad support member (150). The bottom of the center pin (160) may be supported by the protruding portion (151) of the pad support member (150). The center pin (160) may play a role in fixing the wet pad (31) so that it can maintain its central position from centrifugal force and vibration generated when the wet pad (31) rotates.

[0087] The pad support member (150) may be provided with a through hole (1511) that surrounds the center pin (160) and through which the lower end of the center pin (160) passes. For example, the through hole (1511) may be provided at the end of the protruding portion (151) of the pad support member (150). When the pad support member (150) of the second bushing (130) rises, the lower end of the center pin (160) may pass through the through hole (1511). The through hole (1511) may perform a function of guiding the up and down movement of the second bushing (130).

[0088] Fig. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a lifting structure (100) according to one embodiment in a lift-down position, and Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing a lifting structure (100) according to one embodiment in a lift-up position. Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which a wet pad (31) is separated from a lifting structure (100) according to one embodiment.

[0089] Referring to FIG. 7, the lifting structure (100) may have a lift-down posture (101) in which the wet pad (31) is lowered so as to contact the surface to be cleaned (SF). When the lifting structure (100) is in the lift-down posture (101), the first bushing (120) and the second bushing (130) in the lifting structure (100) may not overlap in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis (RX). The first screw projection (121) of the first bushing (120) may be caught on the first stopper (143) of the first screw groove (141) of the intermediate bushing (140), and the second screw projection (142) of the intermediate bushing (140) may be caught on the second stopper (133) of the second screw groove (132) of the second bushing (130). Accordingly, when the first rotational driving force is provided by the driving unit (35), the first bushing (120), the intermediate bushing (140), and the second bushing (130) can rotate together in the forward direction. As the second bushing (130) rotates in the forward direction while the wet pad (31) is in contact with the surface to be cleaned (SF), the pad support (150) fixed to the second bushing (130) and the wet pad (31) fixed to the pad support (150) can rotate in the forward direction.

[0090] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, when the driving unit (35) provides a second rotational driving force to the lifting structure (100) in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the first bushing (120) rotates in the reverse direction. Since a frictional force is applied between the pad support unit (150) and the housing (110), when the first bushing (120) rotates in the reverse direction, the intermediate bushing (140) moves upward by the first screw groove (141) and the first screw projection (121). After the intermediate bushing (140) comes into contact with the inner surface of the housing (110), the intermediate bushing (140) does not move upward, but rotates in the reverse direction together with the first bushing (120). When the intermediate bushing (140) rotates in the reverse direction, the second bushing (130) moves upward by the second screw groove (132) and the second screw projection (142). Accordingly, the lifting structure (100) can have a lift-up posture (102) in which the first bushing (120), the intermediate bushing (140), and the second bushing (130) overlap each other in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis (RX).

[0091] The cleaning device (1) according to the embodiment can move while the lifting structure (100) is in a lift-up position (102).

[0092] When the lifting structure (100) is in a lift-up posture (102), the overall height of the lifting structure (100) may have a first height (H1), and when the lifting structure (100) is in a lift-down posture (101), the height of the lifting structure (100) may have a second height (H2). The difference between the first height (H1) and the second height (H2) may be 10 mm (millimeters) or more. The difference between the first height (H1) and the second height (H2) may be 100 mm or less. Here, the overall height of the lifting structure (100) may be defined as the height from the upper surface of the housing (110) to the lower surface of the pad support portion (150).

[0093] The driving unit (35) can be operated so that the lifting structure (100) is converted to a lift-down position (101) when it is in a lift-up position (102).

[0094] While the driving unit (35) provides a first rotational driving force to rotate in the first direction, the first bushing (120) connected to the driving unit (35) by the gear (351) rotates in the forward direction. The forward rotational motion of the first bushing (120) is converted into a linear motion of the intermediate bushing (140) by the first screw projection (121) of the first bushing (120) and the first screw groove (141) of the intermediate bushing (140). Accordingly, the intermediate bushing (140) moves downward with respect to the first bushing (120). The intermediate bushing (140) moves downward until the first screw projection (121) is caught by the first stopper (143) of the first screw groove (141). After the first screw protrusion (121) is caught on the first stopper (143) of the first screw groove (141), the intermediate bushing (140) rotates in the forward direction together with the first bushing (120).

[0095] The forward rotational motion of the intermediate bushing (140) is converted into a linear motion of the second bushing (130) by the second screw projection (142) of the intermediate bushing (140) and the second screw groove (132) of the second bushing (130). Accordingly, the second bushing (130) moves downward. The second bushing (130) moves downward until the second screw projection (142) catches the second stopper (133) of the second screw groove (132). After the second screw projection (142) catches the upper stopper of the second screw groove (132), the second bushing (130) rotates forward together with the intermediate bushing (140). The pad support (150) supported by the second bushing (130) and the wet pad (31) supported by the pad support (150) rotate in the forward direction. When the wet pad (31) is in contact with the surface to be cleaned (SF), the wet pad (31) can rotate in the forward direction.

[0096] When there are multiple wet pads (31), the rotation directions may be different. For example, when one wet pad (31) rotates clockwise in the forward direction, another wet pad (31) may rotate counterclockwise in the forward direction.

[0097] When wet cleaning is finished or stopped, the lifting structure (100) can be switched to a lift-up position (102). For this purpose, the driving unit (35) can generate a second rotational driving force as described above.

[0098] Referring to FIG. 8, while the driving unit (35) provides a second rotational driving force to rotate in the second direction, the first bushing (120) connected to the driving unit (35) by the gear (351) can rotate in the reverse direction. As the first bushing (120) rotates in the reverse direction, the first screw projection (121) and the first stopper (143) of the first screw groove (141) are spaced apart, and the first bushing (120) rotates relative to the intermediate bushing (140). The first bushing (120) rotates relative to the intermediate bushing (140) until the intermediate bushing (140) contacts the inner surface of the housing (110). Accordingly, the intermediate bushing (140) thread-connected with the first bushing (120) moves upward with respect to the first bushing (120). Thereafter, when the first bushing (120) continues to rotate in the reverse direction, the intermediate bushing (140) comes into contact with the inner surface of the housing (110), and the intermediate bushing (140) rotates in the reverse direction together with the first bushing (120). As the intermediate bushing (140) rotates in the reverse direction, the second bushing (130) moves upward with respect to the intermediate bushing (140) by the second screw projection (142) and the second screw groove (132).

[0099] The second rotational driving force of the driving unit (35) may be stopped before the second bushing (130) contacts the upper portion of the inner surface of the housing (110). For example, the rotation of the driving unit (35) in the second direction may be stopped when or before the frame member (33) of the wet pad (31) contacts the lower portion of the housing (110).

[0100] Meanwhile, in the lifting structure (100), the lower end of the center pin (160) may be supported by the protruding portion (151) of the pad support portion (150). The lower end of the center pin (160) may be inserted into the through hole (1511) of the protruding portion (151). When the second bushing (130) moves up and down in the lifting structure (100), the lower end of the center pin (160) may move up and down through the through hole (1511). The center pin (160) may guide the movement of the second bushing (130) in the up and down direction. In addition, since the center pin (160) is inserted into the through hole (1511) of the protruding portion (151), it is possible to prevent the second bushing (130) from shaking in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis (RX) when it rotates.

[0101] Referring to FIG. 9, the lifting structure (100) according to the embodiment may have a separation posture (103) in which the wet pad (31) is separated. The lifting structure (100) may be configured such that the wet pad (31) is separated. As an example for this, the height of the housing (110) may be greater than the height of the second bushing (130). The second bushing (130) may rise to a position where its lower end is higher than the lower end of the housing (110). For example, even after the lower end of the housing (110) comes into contact with the pad support (150), the second rotational driving force of the driving unit (35) may be provided. Accordingly, the first bushing (120) and the intermediate bushing (140) continue to rotate in the opposite direction, and the second bushing (130) and the pad support (150) fixed thereto may move upward by the reverse rotation of the intermediate bushing (140).

[0102] Since the frame member (33) of the wet pad (31) is restricted from rising by the housing (110), the second bushing (130) and the pad support member (150) move upward with respect to the frame member (33). Accordingly, the frame member (33) of the wet pad (31) can be separated from the pad support member (150). In the cleaning device (1) according to the embodiment, even if the user does not manually separate the wet pad (31) from the pad support member (150), the wet pad (31) can be automatically separated from the pad support member (150).

[0103] Meanwhile, in the above-described embodiment, a structure in which there is one intermediate bushing (140) between the first bushing (120) and the second bushing (130), and a center pin (160) is arranged between the first bushing (120) and the second bushing (130) is exemplified. In addition, a structure in which the first bushing (120) is surrounded by the intermediate bushing (140), and the intermediate bushing (140) is surrounded by the second bushing (130) is exemplified. However, the structure of the lifting structure (100) is not necessarily limited thereto and may be modified in various ways.

[0104] FIGS. 10 to 12 are drawings for explaining other examples of lifting structures (100A, 100B, 100C) according to one embodiment. In FIGS. 10 to 12, the structures are conceptually represented for convenience, and the same drawing reference numerals are used for the same components as in the above-described embodiments.

[0105] For example, as shown in FIG. 10, in a lifting structure (100A) according to one embodiment, the center pin (160) may be omitted. For example, as shown in FIG. 11, in a lifting structure (100B) according to one embodiment, the second bushing (130) may be surrounded by the intermediate bushing (140), and the intermediate bushing (140) may be surrounded by the first bushing (120). The first diameter (D1) of the first bushing (120) may be larger than the intermediate diameter (D3) of the intermediate bushing (140), and the intermediate diameter (D3) of the intermediate bushing (140) may be larger than the second diameter (D2) of the second bushing (130). In this case, the driving unit (35) may transmit the rotational driving force to the second bushing (130) without passing through the first bushing (120) and the intermediate bushing (140), but is not necessarily limited thereto.

[0106] For example, as shown in FIG. 12, a lifting structure (100C) according to one embodiment may have a plurality of intermediate bushings (140C). For example, the intermediate bushing (140C) may include a first intermediate bushing (1401) connected to the first bushing (120), and a second intermediate bushing (1402) connected to the first intermediate bushing (1401) and connected to the second bushing (130). As another example, although not shown, the number of intermediate bushings (140) may be three or more.

[0107] Meanwhile, in the lifting structures (100, 100A, 100B, 100C) according to the above-described embodiments, the explanation has been centered on an example in which the second bushing (130) is connected to the first bushing (120) by the intermediate bushing (140). However, the intermediate bushing (140) of the lifting structures (100, 100A, 100B, 100C) may be omitted as needed. For example, although not illustrated, the second bushing (130) and the first bushing (120) may be directly connected without the intermediate bushing (140).

[0108] Fig. 13 is a block diagram showing an example of a cleaning device (1) according to an embodiment. The configuration of the cleaning device (1) shown in Fig. 13 is an example, and some of the configurations may be omitted or configurations not shown may be included depending on the embodiment.

[0109] Referring to FIG. 13, a cleaning device (1) according to an embodiment may include a user interface (71) that receives input from a user or displays information, a communication unit (72) that performs communication with an external terminal, and a control unit (60) that controls the sensor unit (50), driving unit (40), dry cleaning module (20), and wet cleaning module (30) described above.

[0110] A user interface (71) is provided on one side of the main body (10) and can receive user input or display information. To this end, the user interface (71) may be provided as an input device of a known type or a display panel of a known type, and may be configured such that the touch panel and the display panel are provided as an integrated unit.

[0111] The user interface (71) can receive user input regarding whether to perform wet cleaning. For example, the cleaning device (1) can receive an input to initiate wet cleaning or an input to stop wet cleaning through the user interface (71).

[0112] The communication unit (72) can communicate with an external terminal. For example, the communication unit (72) can communicate wirelessly with a user terminal device. For example, the communication unit (72) can receive an input from the user terminal device to initiate wet cleaning or an input to stop wet cleaning. For example, the communication unit (72) can communicate wirelessly with the station (2).

[0113] The sensor unit (50) can detect the indoor environment. For example, the sensor unit (50) can detect areas that do not require cleaning or obstacles. The sensor unit (50) can detect the status of the battery. The sensor unit (50) can detect the battery's charge status.

[0114] The control unit (60) can control the operation of the driving unit (40), the wet cleaning module (30), and the dry cleaning module (20). The control unit (60) can control the operation of the driving unit (40), the wet cleaning module (30), and the dry cleaning module (20) based on the status of the cleaning device (1) or external input.

[0115] For example, the control unit (60) can control the cleaning device (1) to return to the station (2) when it is determined that the planned cleaning has been completed, or when it is determined that the wet pad (31) needs to be replaced or cleaned, or when it is determined that the battery needs to be charged.

[0116] For example, the cleaning device (1) may be performing wet cleaning with the lifting structure (100) in a lift-down position (101). At this time, the control unit (60) may determine whether to return to the station (2) of the cleaning device (1). For example, the control unit (60) may determine to return to the station (2) of the cleaning device (1) when it is determined that the planned cleaning is completed, the wet pad (31) needs to be replaced or washed, or the battery needs to be charged.

[0117] The control unit (60) can generate a station (2) return command and switch the lifting structure (100) to the lift-up position (102). In the process of switching the lifting structure (100) to the lift-up position (102), the wet pad (31) can be separated from the cleaning surface (SF). The control unit (60) can control the driving unit (40) so that the cleaning device (1) moves toward the station (2) while the lifting structure (100) switches to the lift-up position (102) or after switching to the lift-up position (102).

[0118] For example, the control unit (60) can control the cleaning device (1) to continuously perform wet cleaning after performing dry cleaning.

[0119] For example, the cleaning device (1) can receive a dry cleaning command through the user interface (71) or the communication unit (72). The control unit (60) can switch or maintain the lifting structure (100) of the wet cleaning module (30) in a lift-up position (102). Thereafter, the cleaning device (1) can perform dry cleaning.

[0120] The control unit (60) can determine whether wet cleaning is to be performed according to a preset cleaning plan. For example, the control unit (60) can determine whether dry cleaning is to be completed according to a preset cleaning plan, and if it is determined that dry cleaning is to be completed, determine whether wet cleaning is to be performed.

[0121] When wet cleaning is determined to be performed, the control unit (60) can control the lifting structure (100) to be switched to a lift-down position (101). As the lifting structure (100) is switched to the lift-down position (101), the wet pad (31) can operate in close contact with the surface to be cleaned (SF). The control unit (60) can control the driving unit (35) to cause the wet pad (31) to rotate in the forward direction while the lifting structure (100) is in the lift-down position (101).

[0122] Meanwhile, in the above-described embodiments, the cleaning device (1) includes a dry cleaning module (20) and a wet cleaning module (30) and has a structure that automatically moves the main body (10), but is not necessarily limited thereto. For example, as shown in FIG. 14, the cleaning device (1A) may be a robot cleaner including a wet cleaning module (30) without a dry cleaning module (20). For example, the cleaning device (1B) may be a stick-type cleaner including the above-described wet cleaning module (30) and having the main body (10A) moved by a user, as shown in FIG. 15.

[0123] For the purpose of understanding the invention, reference numerals have been given to preferred embodiments illustrated in the drawings, and specific terms have been used to describe the embodiments, but the invention is not limited by the specific terms, and the invention may include all components that can be commonly conceived by those skilled in the art.

[0124] The specific implementations described in the invention are merely examples and do not limit the scope of the invention in any way. For the sake of brevity, descriptions of conventional electronic components, control systems, software, and other functional aspects of the systems may be omitted. In addition, the lines connecting or connecting members between components depicted in the drawings are merely examples of functional connections and / or physical or circuit connections, and may be replaced or represented as various additional functional connections, physical connections, or circuit connections in an actual device. In addition, unless specifically stated as “essential,” “important,” etc., a component may not be absolutely necessary for the application of the invention. As used herein, expressions such as “comprising,” “having,” etc. are used to be understood as terms of the open-ended part of the technology.

[0125] The use of the term "above" and similar referential terms in the specification of the invention (especially in the claims) may refer to both the singular and the plural. Furthermore, if a range is described in the invention, it includes inventions that apply individual values ​​within the range (unless otherwise stated), and is equivalent to describing each individual value constituting the range in the detailed description of the invention. Finally, unless the order of the steps constituting the method according to the present invention is explicitly stated or otherwise stated to the contrary, the steps may be performed in any appropriate order. The invention is not necessarily limited by the order in which the steps are described. The use of all examples or exemplary terms (e.g., "for example," etc.) in the present invention is merely to further illustrate the invention, and the scope of the invention is not limited by the examples or exemplary terms unless otherwise defined by the claims. Furthermore, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be readily made without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention.

[0126] According to an embodiment, an object of the present invention is to provide a lifting structure and a cleaning device including the same capable of lifting a wet pad so that the wet pad is separated from a surface to be cleaned while minimizing shaking of the wet pad during rotation.

[0127] According to an embodiment, the purpose is to provide a lifting structure having a large height-adjustable range of a wet pad and advantageous for absorbing shock acting on the wet pad, and a cleaning device including the same.

[0128] A cleaning device according to an embodiment may include a main body and a wet cleaning module provided in the main body.

[0129] The above wet cleaning module may include at least one wet pad that is detachably arranged at the lower portion of the main body and rotatable around a rotation axis; a lifting structure that supports the wet pad so that the wet pad can rotate and move up and down; and a driving unit that provides a rotational driving force to the lifting structure so that the wet pad can rotate and move up and down.

[0130] The lifting structure may include a housing, a first bushing arranged to be fixedly positioned within the housing and configured to rotate by receiving a rotational driving force from the driving unit, a second bushing configured to transmit the rotational driving force of the first bushing to the wet pad so that the wet pad can move up and down and rotate when the first bushing rotates, and an intermediate bushing that connects between the first bushing and the second bushing and is configured to move up and down and rotate by the rotational driving force of the first bushing when the first bushing rotates.

[0131] The lifting structure can move up and down and rotate the intermediate bushing as the first bushing rotates, and the second bushing can move up and down and rotate as the intermediate bushing rotates.

[0132] When the driving unit provides a first rotational driving force to rotate in a first direction, the lifting structure can have a lift-down posture in which the first bushing and the second bushing do not overlap in a direction perpendicular to the rotational axis, and when the driving unit provides a second rotational driving force to rotate in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the lifting structure can have a lift-up posture in which the first bushing, the intermediate bushing, and the second bushing overlap each other in a direction perpendicular to the rotational axis.

[0133] The lifting structure may be configured such that while the driving unit provides the first rotational driving force, the first bushing rotates in a forward direction, the intermediate bushing rotates in a forward direction after moving downward, and the second bushing moves in a downward direction, and while the driving unit provides the second rotational driving force, the first bushing rotates in a reverse direction, the intermediate bushing rotates in a reverse direction after moving upward, and the second bushing moves upward.

[0134] One of the first bushing and the intermediate bushing may include a first screw groove provided at an angle with respect to the rotation axis and a stopper provided at least at one end in the longitudinal direction of the first screw groove, and the other of the first bushing and the intermediate bushing may include a first screw projection inserted into the first screw groove, and one of the intermediate bushing and the second bushing may include a second screw groove provided at an angle with respect to the rotation axis and a stopper provided at least at one end in the longitudinal direction of the second screw groove, and the other of the intermediate bushing and the second bushing may include a second screw projection inserted into the second screw groove.

[0135] The housing may be configured to cover at least a portion of the intermediate bushing and the second bushing so that the connecting portion of the intermediate bushing and the second bushing is not exposed to the outside.

[0136] The lifting structure may be configured such that a frictional force is applied between the housing and the second bushing so that the intermediate bushing and the second bushing can move up and down relative to the housing when a rotational driving force is provided from the driving unit.

[0137] The first diameter of the first bushing may be smaller than the middle diameter of the middle bushing, and the middle diameter may be smaller than the second diameter of the second bushing.

[0138] The height of the above housing may be greater than the height of the second bushing.

[0139] The lifting structure may further include a pad support portion that is fixed to the second bushing and configured to support the wet pad.

[0140] The above wet pad includes a pad member that can come into contact with a surface to be cleaned, and a frame member that detachably supports the pad member, and the pad support portion may include a protruding portion that protrudes to be inserted into the interior of the second bushing and is configured to allow the frame member to be detachably assembled.

[0141] The lifting structure may further include a center pin disposed inside the first bushing, the intermediate bushing, and the second bushing and extending along the rotation axis.

[0142] The upper end of the center pin may be supported by the first bushing, and the lower end of the center pin may be supported by the protruding portion.

[0143] The above protruding portion may have a through hole through which the lower end of the center pin passes.

[0144] The above pad support part,

[0145] It may include a friction portion arranged on the outside of the second bushing and configured to contact the housing so that a frictional force is applied between the housing and the second bushing.

[0146] According to one embodiment, a lifting structure used in a cleaning device and configured to support a wet pad so that the wet pad can rotate and move up and down, the lifting structure may include a housing, a first bushing arranged to be fixedly positioned inside the housing and configured to rotate with respect to the housing, a second bushing configured to transmit a rotational driving force of the first bushing to the wet pad so that the wet pad can move up and down and rotate when the first bushing rotates, and an intermediate bushing connected between the first bushing and the second bushing and configured to move up and down and rotate by the rotational driving force of the first bushing when the first bushing rotates.

[0147] The lifting structure can move up and down and rotate the intermediate bushing as the first bushing rotates, and the second bushing can move up and down and rotate as the intermediate bushing rotates.

[0148] A cleaning device according to an embodiment may include a main body and a wet cleaning module provided in the main body.

[0149] The above wet cleaning module may include at least one wet pad that is detachably arranged at the lower portion of the main body and rotatable around a rotation axis; a lifting structure that supports the wet pad so that the wet pad can rotate and move up and down; and a driving unit that provides a rotational driving force to the lifting structure so that the wet pad can rotate and move up and down.

[0150] The above lifting structure may include a housing, a first bushing arranged to be fixedly positioned inside the housing and configured to rotate by receiving a rotational driving force from the driving unit, an intermediate bushing configured to move up and down and rotate by receiving a rotational driving force from the first bushing, and a second bushing configured to move up and down and rotate by receiving a rotational driving force from the intermediate bushing and configured to transmit a rotational driving force to the wet pad.

[0151] The lifting module and the cleaning device including the same according to the embodiments described above can lift the wet pad so that the wet pad is separated from the surface to be cleaned, while minimizing shaking of the wet pad when it rotates.

[0152] In addition, the lifting module according to the embodiment and the cleaning device including the same may have a large height-adjustable range of the wet pad and may be advantageous in absorbing shock applied to the wet pad.

Claims

1. A cleaning device (1) including a main body (10) and a wet cleaning module (30) provided in the main body, The above wet cleaning module (30) is At least one wet pad (31) detachably arranged at the lower part of the main body and rotatable around a rotation axis (RX); A lifting structure (100) that supports the wet pad so that the wet pad can rotate and move up and down; and The above wet pad comprises a driving unit (35) that provides a rotational driving force to the lifting structure so that it can rotate and move up and down; The above lifting structure (100) is Housing (110) and, A first bushing (120) arranged so as to be fixedly positioned inside the housing and configured to be rotatable by receiving a rotational driving force from the driving unit; A second bushing (130) configured to transmit the rotational driving force of the first bushing to the wet pad so that the wet pad can move up and down and rotate when the first bushing rotates, It includes an intermediate bushing (140) that connects between the first bushing and the second bushing and is configured to move up and down and rotate by the rotational driving force of the first bushing when the first bushing rotates. A cleaning device in which the intermediate bushing (140) moves up and down and rotates as the first bushing (120) rotates, and the second bushing (130) moves up and down and rotates as the intermediate bushing (140) rotates.

2. In paragraph 1, When the driving part provides a first rotational driving force that rotates in the first direction, the lifting structure has a lift-down posture (101) in which the first bushing and the second bushing do not overlap in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis, A cleaning device, wherein when the driving unit provides a second rotational driving force that rotates in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the lifting structure has a lift-up posture (102) in which the first bushing, the intermediate bushing, and the second bushing overlap each other in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis.

3. In paragraph 2, The above lifting structure, While the above driving unit provides the first rotational driving force, the first bushing rotates in the forward direction, the middle bushing rotates in the forward direction after moving downward, and the second bushing moves in the downward direction. A cleaning device, wherein, while the driving unit provides the second rotational driving force, the first bushing rotates in the reverse direction, the intermediate bushing rotates in the reverse direction after moving upward, and the second bushing is configured to move upward.

4. In paragraph 3, One of the first bushing and the intermediate bushing includes a first screw groove (141) provided at an angle with respect to the rotation axis and a stopper (143) provided at least at one end in the longitudinal direction of the first screw groove, and the other of the first bushing and the intermediate bushing includes a first screw projection (121) inserted into the first screw groove. A cleaning device, wherein one of the intermediate bushing and the second bushing includes a second screw groove (132) provided at an angle with respect to the rotation axis and a stopper (133) provided at least at one end in the longitudinal direction of the second screw groove, and the other of the intermediate bushing and the second bushing includes a second screw projection (142) inserted into the second screw groove.

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, A cleaning device, wherein the housing is configured to cover at least a portion of the intermediate bushing and the second bushing so that the connecting portion of the intermediate bushing and the second bushing is not exposed to the outside.

6. In paragraph 4, A cleaning device wherein the lifting structure is configured such that a frictional force is applied between the housing and the second bushing so that the intermediate bushing and the second bushing can move up and down with respect to the housing when a rotational driving force is provided from the driving unit.

7. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 6, A cleaning device, wherein the first diameter (D1) of the first bushing is smaller than the middle diameter (D3) of the middle bushing, and the middle diameter is smaller than the second diameter (D2) of the second bushing.

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, A cleaning device wherein the height of the above housing is greater than the height of the second bushing.

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, The above lifting structure, A cleaning device further comprising a pad support member (150) fixed to the second bushing and configured to support the wet pad.

10. In paragraph 9, The above wet pad (31) includes a pad member (32) that can come into contact with the surface to be cleaned, and a frame member (33) that detachably supports the pad member. A cleaning device, wherein the pad support member includes a protruding portion (151) configured to be inserted into the interior of the second bushing and to allow the frame member to be detachably assembled.

11. In paragraph 10, The above lifting structure, A cleaning device further comprising a center pin (160) disposed inside the first bushing, the middle bushing and the second bushing and extending along the rotation axis.

12. In paragraph 11, A cleaning device, wherein the upper end of the center pin is supported by the first bushing, and the lower end of the center pin is supported by the protruding portion.

13. In paragraph 12, A cleaning device, wherein the protruding portion has a through hole (1511) through which the lower end of the center pin penetrates.

14. In any one of paragraphs 9 to 13, The above pad support part, A cleaning device comprising a friction portion (152) arranged on the outside of the second bushing and configured to contact the housing so that a frictional force is applied between the housing and the second bushing.

15. A cleaning device (1) including a main body (10) and a wet cleaning module (30) provided in the main body, The above wet cleaning module (30) is At least one wet pad (31) detachably arranged at the lower part of the main body and rotatable around a rotation axis (RX); A lifting structure (100) that supports the wet pad so that the wet pad can rotate and move up and down; and The above wet pad comprises a driving unit (35) that provides a rotational driving force to the lifting structure so that it can rotate and move up and down; The above lifting structure (100) is Housing (110) and, A first bushing (120) arranged so as to be fixedly positioned inside the housing and configured to be rotatable by receiving a rotational driving force from the driving unit; An intermediate bushing (140) configured to receive rotational driving force from the first bushing and to be able to move up and down and rotate, A cleaning device comprising a second bushing (130) configured to transmit rotational driving force to the wet pad and configured to move up and down and rotate by receiving rotational driving force from the intermediate bushing.

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