Vacuum cleaner nozzle

Abstract

A vacuum cleaner nozzle according to the present invention comprises: a nozzle housing; a suction port formed in the nozzle housing and into which air containing dust flows; a first agitator accommodated in the nozzle housing and coupled to be able to rotate with respect to the nozzle housing; a second agitator which rotates in conjunction with the first agitator; and an agitator motor for applying a rotational force to the first agitator, wherein the rotation speed of the first agitator is at least ten times the rotation speed of the second agitator, thus having the effect that even large foreign substances can be cleaned by being moved toward the suction port without becoming caught on the agitators.

Description

vacuum cleaner nozzle

[0001] The present invention relates to a vacuum cleaner nozzle, and more particularly, to a vacuum cleaner nozzle that sucks up dust from a floor surface by rotating two agitators in the same direction.

[0002]

[0003] A vacuum cleaner is a device that uses the suction power generated by a suction motor installed inside the body of the vacuum cleaner to suck in dust and air, separate the dust from the air, and collect it.

[0004] The suction nozzle refers to the part that touches the floor and directly sucks up dust and air. The suction power generated by the suction motor mounted inside the vacuum cleaner body is transmitted to the suction motor, which then draws dust and air into the suction nozzle.

[0005] An agitator is installed in the suction nozzle. The agitator rotates to scrape away dust from the floor or carpet, improving cleaning performance.

[0006] Meanwhile, U.S. Patent No. US7243393B2 discloses a vacuum cleaner nozzle equipped with a dual agitator.

[0007] The above vacuum cleaner nozzle enhances the suction power of dust through two agitators.

[0008] However, since the above-described cleaner nozzle has two agitators that rotate at a rotational speed ratio of 3:1, the agitator positioned at the front also has a high rotational speed. Therefore, there is a limitation in that it cannot generate surface pressure between the agitator positioned at the front and the surface to be cleaned.

[0009] Additionally, if the forward-positioned agitator encounters a large foreign object, it may become stuck, preventing the object from being pushed toward the suction port. In this case, the user must then raise the vacuum nozzle, bring the suction port close to the large foreign object, and then vacuum it, creating the inconvenience of cleaning.

[0010] Additionally, only the agitator placed in the front is detachable, so there are limitations in replacing and cleaning the agitator.

[0011]

[0012] The present invention was created to improve the problems of the conventional vacuum cleaner nozzles as described above, and its purpose is to provide a vacuum cleaner nozzle that can suck up even large foreign substances.

[0013] In addition, the purpose is to provide a vacuum cleaner nozzle that can improve suction power by forming surface pressure between the agitator in front and the surface to be cleaned.

[0014] In addition, the purpose is to provide a cleaner nozzle that allows both agitators to be separated so that the agitator can be replaced depending on the cleaning environment and the agitator can be cleaned when contamination occurs.

[0015]

[0016] In order to achieve the above-described purpose, a cleaner nozzle according to the present invention comprises: a nozzle housing; an intake port formed in the nozzle housing and through which air containing dust is introduced; a first agitator accommodated in the nozzle housing and rotatably coupled with the nozzle housing; a second agitator rotated in conjunction with the first agitator; and an agitator motor applying a rotational force to the first agitator; wherein a rotational speed of the first agitator is at least 10 times greater than a rotational speed of the second agitator.

[0017] To this end, the vacuum cleaner nozzle according to the present invention further includes a reducer that connects the first agitator and the second agitator and includes at least one gear.

[0018] At this time, the second agitator may be positioned further from the suction port than the first agitator.

[0019] The vacuum cleaner nozzle according to the present invention further includes a connecting pipe connected to the nozzle housing and having a flow path formed therein that communicates with the suction port to allow dust to flow to the vacuum cleaner body; and the second agitator may be positioned further from the connecting pipe than the first agitator.

[0020] That is, the second agitator can be placed in front of the first agitator.

[0021] Therefore, in the present invention, the cleaning performance can be improved by reducing the rotation speed of the second agitator positioned in the front.

[0022] Meanwhile, the diameter of the first agitator may be larger than the diameter of the second agitator.

[0023] And, the rotation direction of the first agitator may be the same as the rotation direction of the second agitator.

[0024] Meanwhile, the cleaner nozzle according to the present invention may further include an agitator cover detachably coupled to the nozzle housing and to which the first agitator and the second agitator are coupled.

[0025] At this time, the reducer can be accommodated within the agitator cover.

[0026] Additionally, the agitator motor may be housed within the first agitator. Through this, the vacuum cleaner nozzle according to the present invention can have a reduced overall volume.

[0027] Meanwhile, the agitator cover can be separated from the second agitator while being coupled to the first agitator.

[0028] At this time, the second agitator may include a second agitator body; and a locking part accommodated inside the second agitator body and coupled with the agitator cover.

[0029] At this time, the locking part may include a locking housing that is accommodated inside the second agitator and has at least one catch formed on the inner surface; a stopper that is provided to be movable along the axial direction of the locking housing and is inserted and coupled to the agitator cover; and a spring that applies a restoring force to the locking part.

[0030] Additionally, the agitator cover may include a push button that releases the engagement with the locking portion when an external force is applied.

[0031] Accordingly, the user can separate the second agitator and the agitator cover by pressing the push button.

[0032] The above agitator cover can be separated after being rotated by a predetermined angle about the first agitator with respect to the nozzle housing, based on a state in which it is coupled with the nozzle housing.

[0033] Accordingly, the user can separate the second agitator and the agitator cover, and then rotate the agitator cover to separate the first agitator from the nozzle housing.

[0034]

[0035] As described above, according to the vacuum cleaner nozzle of the present invention, the agitator positioned in the front is also rotated by the driving force of the motor and rotates with great force by a high reduction ratio, so that even large foreign substances can be cleaned by moving them toward the suction port without being caught by the agitator.

[0036] In addition, by introducing a reducer with a high reduction ratio, the front agitator can be rotated at a lower speed compared to the rear agitator, thereby forming surface pressure between the surface to be cleaned and the agitator, thereby having the effect of improving suction performance.

[0037] Additionally, it has the effect of allowing the user to easily separate the front agitator by pressing the push button, and also allowing the rear agitator to be easily separated from the nozzle housing by rotating the cover.

[0038] Through this, the agitator can be replaced depending on the cleaning environment and the agitator can be cleaned when contamination occurs.

[0039]

[0040] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a vacuum cleaner nozzle according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 2 is a bottom view of Figure 1.

[0042] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of Figure 1.

[0043] Figure 4 is a side view of Figure 1.

[0044] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the coupling relationship between an agitator cover and a second agitator in a vacuum cleaner nozzle according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 6 is a side view illustrating a state in which the agitator cover is rotated while the second agitator is separated from the vacuum cleaner nozzle according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] FIG. 7 is a drawing for explaining a state in which an agitator cover is separated from a nozzle housing in a cleaner nozzle according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating an agitator cover in a vacuum cleaner nozzle according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] FIG. 9 is a drawing for explaining a reducer in a vacuum cleaner nozzle according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 10 is a graph showing the cleaning performance of a vacuum cleaner nozzle.

[0050]

[0051] Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0052] The present invention is susceptible to various modifications and embodiments. Specific embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and described in detail in the detailed description. This is not intended to limit the invention to specific embodiments, but rather to encompass all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and technical scope of the present invention.

[0053]

[0054] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a vacuum cleaner nozzle according to one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a bottom view of FIG. 1, FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 1, and FIG. 4 is a side view of FIG. 1.

[0055] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, the vacuum cleaner nozzle (1) of the present invention is described as follows.

[0056] The vacuum cleaner nozzle (1) of this embodiment can be used by being connected to, for example, a handheld vacuum cleaner or a canister-type vacuum cleaner.

[0057] Additionally, in this specification, “floor surface” or “surface to be cleaned” may be understood to mean not only the floor surface of a living room or room, but also a cleaning surface such as a carpet.

[0058] That is, the cleaner nozzle (1) can be detachably connected to the cleaner body (not shown) or an extension tube (not shown). As the cleaner nozzle (1) is connected to the cleaner body (not shown) or the extension tube (not shown), a user can clean the floor using the cleaner nozzle (1). At this time, the cleaner body (not shown) to which the cleaner nozzle (1) is connected can separate dust in the air using a multi-cyclone method.

[0059] The vacuum cleaner nozzle (1) can be operated by receiving power from the vacuum cleaner body (not shown). Specifically, the vacuum cleaner nozzle (1) can be operated by receiving power from a battery (not shown) provided in the vacuum cleaner body (not shown).

[0060] The vacuum cleaner body (not shown) to which the vacuum cleaner nozzle (1) is connected includes a suction motor (not shown), so that the suction force generated by the suction motor (not shown) can be applied to the vacuum cleaner nozzle (1).

[0061] Therefore, in this embodiment, the cleaner nozzle (1) can perform the role of sucking in foreign substances and air from the floor surface and guiding them to the cleaner body (not shown).

[0062] A vacuum cleaner nozzle (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a nozzle housing (100), a first agitator (200), a second agitator (300), an agitator cover (400), and a connecting pipe (500).

[0063] For reference, the direction used in the present invention is explained as follows.

[0064] In the present invention, the direction of the cleaner nozzle (1) can be defined based on the suction port (121). Specifically, the direction in which the first agitator (200) is arranged based on the suction port (121) can be referred to as the front of the cleaner nozzle (1), and the direction opposite to the front can be referred to as the rear. In addition, based on the state in which the cleaner nozzle (1) is placed on the floor (surface to be cleaned), the direction moving away from the floor can be referred to as upward (upper side), and the direction moving closer to the floor can be referred to as downward (lower side).

[0065] The nozzle housing (100) can be equipped with a first agitator (200) and a second agitator (300) and can form the outer shape of a cleaner nozzle (1). Specifically, the nozzle housing (100) can be equipped with a first agitator (200) and a second agitator (300) through an agitator cover (400). In addition, the nozzle housing (100) can be coupled with the agitator cover (400) to form the outer shape of a cleaner nozzle (1). In addition, a connecting pipe (500) can be coupled to the nozzle housing (100).

[0066] The nozzle housing (100) may include an upper housing (110).

[0067] Specifically, the upper housing (110) can be formed to include at least one curved surface of a predetermined curvature corresponding to the shape of the first agitator (200) and the shape of the second agitator (300).

[0068] The nozzle housing (100) may include a lower housing (120) coupled with an upper housing (110) and housing a first agitator (200) and a second agitator (300) therein.

[0069] At this time, the lower housing (120) can be placed to face the floor surface while the nozzle housing (100) is placed on the floor surface (surface to be cleaned).

[0070] A suction port (121) may be formed in the nozzle housing (100). Specifically, a suction port (121) may be formed in the lower housing (120). The suction port (121) refers to a space through which air containing dust can be introduced. With this configuration, when the suction motor (not shown) of the cleaner body (not shown) is operated, dust and air existing around the floor surface can be sucked into the flow path of the cleaner nozzle (1) through the suction port (121).

[0071] Inside the nozzle housing (100), a printed circuit board (not shown) for controlling an agitator motor (not shown) may be installed.

[0072] Additionally, a path may be formed in the nozzle housing (100) that communicates with the suction port (121) and guides air flowing in from the suction port (121) to the main body of the cleaner (not shown).

[0073] The euro can be placed inside the nozzle housing (100), the lower end of the euro can be connected to the suction port (121), and the upper end of the euro can be connected to the inside of the connecting pipe (500).

[0074] The lower housing (120) may be equipped with at least one caster (123). For example, a pair of casters (123) may be symmetrically arranged in the lower housing (120). For example, a pair of casters (123) may be arranged on the left and right outer sides of the lower surface of the lower housing (120). With this configuration, even if the user's operating force is concentrated on one side of the left and right direction of the cleaner nozzle, the caster (123) may roll and move along the floor.

[0075] As a result, in the present invention, even if the user pushes and pulls the vacuum cleaner nozzle (1), the caster (123) can roll along the floor surface, thereby improving the user's operating power.

[0076] The caster (123) is rotatably connected to the lower housing (120) and can roll along the floor surface (surface to be cleaned).

[0077] At least a portion of the caster (123) may be exposed to the outside of the nozzle housing (100).

[0078] With this configuration, when the cleaner nozzle (1) is placed on the floor, the caster (123) can come into contact with the floor. Therefore, when the cleaner nozzle (1) is moved by the user's operation, the friction between the nozzle housing (100) and the floor can be reduced, and the mobility of the cleaner nozzle (1) can be improved.

[0079] The nozzle housing (100) can be rotatably coupled to a connecting pipe (500). For example, the nozzle housing (100) can be provided with a hinge axis coupled to a first steering part (510), and the first steering part (510) can be rotated (pivoted) around the hinge axis.

[0080] With this configuration, a sufficient angle for the connecting tube (500) to rotate can be secured. In addition, since the rear of the upper housing (110) is formed in a curved downward shape, the overall height of the vacuum cleaner nozzle (1) can be lowered, and there is an advantage in that it can clean low-height accessible spaces such as beds and sofas.

[0081]

[0082] Meanwhile, the vacuum cleaner nozzle (1) may be equipped with a damper (124) to improve the suction power of the vacuum cleaner nozzle (1) and may be equipped with a damper cover (125) to protect the damper (124).

[0083] A damper (124) may be provided to block the flow of air flowing from the rear to the front when suction power is generated from the cleaner nozzle (1). In addition, the damper (124) prevents dust from being sucked into the suction port (121) between the cleaner nozzle (1) and the surface to be cleaned from escaping to the rear, thereby enabling the cleaner nozzle (1) to effectively suck up dust on the surface to be cleaned.

[0084] This damper (124) is provided in the nozzle housing (100) so as to come into contact with the surface to be cleaned. In addition, the damper (124) can apply a supporting force to the surface to be cleaned so as to come into contact with the surface to be cleaned without a gap. In other words, the damper (124) can be provided so as to elastically support the surface to be cleaned.

[0085] In addition, the damper (124) may be provided at a position adjacent to the suction port (121) of the nozzle housing (100). The damper (124) is provided at the rear of the suction port (121) of the nozzle housing (100) and can block the flow of air flowing from the rear to the front when suction force is generated from the cleaner nozzle (1).

[0086] A damper (124) may be provided along the left and right directions of the nozzle housing (100) at the rear of the suction port (121) of the nozzle housing (100).

[0087] When the vacuum cleaner nozzle (1) is not placed on the surface to be cleaned, a part of the damper (124) is in a protruding form from the lower surface of the vacuum cleaner nozzle (1).

[0088] On the other hand, the damper (124) is elastically deformed by being supported (pressed) on the surface to be cleaned when the nozzle housing (100) is placed on the surface to be cleaned. That is, the damper (124) may first come into contact with the surface to be cleaned before at least one of the wheel (540) and the caster (123) of the nozzle housing (100) comes into contact with the surface to be cleaned. Then, when at least one of the wheel (540) and the caster (123) comes into contact with the surface to be cleaned, the damper (124) is elastically deformed by being pressed against the surface to be cleaned.

[0089] Here, the damper (124) can be elastically deformed by being extended in the forward and backward directions while being compressed in a direction perpendicular to the surface to be cleaned. Specifically, the damper (124) can be extended backward while being compressed in a direction perpendicular to the surface to be cleaned and come into contact with the damper cover (125) described later.

[0090] The damper (124) may be formed in a hollow shape and coupled to the lower housing (120), or may be coupled to the lower housing (120) and formed with an empty space on the inside.

[0091] The damper (124) can be formed with a thicker thickness at the part that collides with an obstacle to prevent the damper (124) from being excessively deformed when colliding with an obstacle.

[0092] A damper cover (125) is provided in the nozzle housing (100) to protect the damper (124). The damper cover (125) is formed along the left-right direction and is provided at the rear of the damper (124) of the nozzle housing (100), and is provided to cover at least a portion of the damper (124). This damper cover (125) is provided to cover the upper space of the damper (124) and prevents a portion of the rear end of the damper (124) from colliding with an obstacle. That is, when the cleaner nozzle (1) moves backward, it prevents an obstacle placed on the surface to be cleaned from colliding with the damper (124).

[0093] The damper cover (125) can be placed spaced apart from the damper (124) in the front-rear direction.

[0094]

[0095] Meanwhile, in the cleaner nozzle (1) of the present invention, two agitators (200, 300) can be coupled to the nozzle housing (100) by an agitator cover (400). Specifically, in the cleaner nozzle (1) of the present invention, a first agitator (200) and a second agitator (300) can be coupled to the agitator cover (400), and the agitator cover (400) can be detachably coupled to the nozzle housing (100).

[0096] The relationship between the first agitator (200), the second agitator (300), and the agitator cover (400) will be described later.

[0097]

[0098] The agitator cover (400) is detachably coupled to the nozzle housing (100), and the first agitator (200) and the second agitator (300) are coupled thereto. In addition, a reducer (460) can be accommodated inside the agitator cover (400).

[0099] The specific structure of the agitator cover (400) will be described later.

[0100]

[0101] The connecting pipe (500) forms a path that communicates with the suction port (121) and connects the nozzle housing (100) and an extension pipe (not shown) or the nozzle housing (100) and the main body of the cleaner (not shown).

[0102] The connecting pipe (500) is connected to the nozzle housing (100), and a flow path is formed inside that communicates with the suction port (121) to allow dust to flow to the main body of the vacuum cleaner (not shown).

[0103] The connecting pipe (500) includes a pipe (505), a first steering part (510), a second steering part (520), and a third steering part (530).

[0104] The pipe (505) may have a flow path formed therein that communicates with the suction port (121). The pipe (505) may be coupled to the nozzle housing (100) and communicate with the flow path inside the nozzle housing (100).

[0105] The pipe (505) may be formed of a deformable material. Specifically, the pipe (505) may be formed of a bendable material. Accordingly, the pipe (505) may be bent and deformed according to the rotation of each of the first steering section (510), the second steering section (520), and the third steering section (530) of the connecting pipe (500).

[0106] The first steering member (510) accommodates at least a portion of the pipe (505) therein and is hingedly connected to the nozzle housing (100).

[0107] The first steering part (510) is formed in a hollow shape so that a pipe (505) passes through the inside, and has a hinge part provided on one side to be hinge-connected to the nozzle housing (100), and the other side can be connected to the second steering part (520) so as to be relatively rotatable.

[0108] With this configuration, when a user places the cleaner nozzle (1) on the floor and lifts or lowers the cleaner body (not shown), the cleaner body (not shown) and the connecting pipe (500) can rotate around the rotation axis.

[0109] With this configuration, the user can easily move the cleaner nozzle (1) forward or backward.

[0110] The second steering unit (520) is rotatably coupled to the first steering unit (510) and can be hinge-coupled to the third steering unit (530).

[0111] Specifically, the second steering unit (520) is formed hollow so that a pipe (505) passes through the inside, and one side is swivel-rotatably coupled to the first steering unit (510), and the other side is hinge-coupled to the third steering unit (530).

[0112] One inner surface of the second steering part (520) can be coupled to receive the other end of the first steering part (510). At this time, a protrusion is formed on the other end of the first steering part (510) to prevent separation of the first steering part (510) and the second steering part (520).

[0113] The second steering unit (520) is formed in a cylindrical shape and can be coupled to be swivelable along the circumferential direction with respect to a central axis penetrating the interior of the second steering unit (520). That is, the second steering unit (520) can be rotated relative to the first steering unit (510) along the circumferential direction of the pipe.

[0114] With this configuration, when a user places the cleaner nozzle (1) on the floor and turns the cleaner body (not shown), the second steering unit (520) can rotate. This allows the user to clean the floor by lying down on the cleaner body (not shown) while lying down, when cleaning a place where the space for the cleaner nozzle to enter is narrow, such as the bottom of a bed or furniture.

[0115] With this configuration, the user can operate the cleaner nozzle (1) by pushing or pulling the cleaner body while laying the cleaner body (not shown) on the surface to be cleaned, thereby moving it back and forth.

[0116] Meanwhile, the direction in which the first steering unit (510) rotates (pivots) with respect to the nozzle housing (100) may intersect with the direction in which the second steering unit (520) rotates (swivels) with respect to the first steering unit (510).

[0117] Therefore, in the vacuum cleaner nozzle (1) of the present invention, the connecting pipe (500) has the advantage of being able to be bent at various angles by combining the rotation direction of the first steering part (510) and the rotation direction of the second steering part (520).

[0118] The wheel (540) may include a cylindrical or disc-shaped wheel body and a tire surrounding the outer surface of the wheel body. With this configuration, the wheel (540) can increase the contact force with the surface to be cleaned, thereby improving the driving performance of the cleaner nozzle (1).

[0119] Even if the user's operating force is applied momentarily, the wheel (540) can absorb the shock.

[0120] The wheel (540) can roll along the floor surface (surface to be cleaned) by the user's operation. Even when the vacuum cleaner nozzle (1) is attracted to the surface to be cleaned by the operation of the suction motor (not shown), if the user's operating force is applied, the wheel (540) can roll along the surface to be cleaned and assist the forward and backward movement of the vacuum cleaner nozzle (1). Therefore, the user's operating convenience can be increased by the wheel (540).

[0121] Therefore, the user can easily operate the cleaner nozzle (1) without being affected by the material of the surface to be cleaned.

[0122]

[0123] The third steering part (530) is rotatably coupled to the second steering part (520). For example, the third steering part (530) may be formed in a similar shape to a tube, and one longitudinal side of the third steering part (530) may be provided with a hinge part that is hinge-coupled to the second steering part (520).

[0124] A second steering unit (520) capable of swivel rotation may be provided between the rotation axis of the first steering unit (510) and the rotation axis of the third steering unit (530) which are arranged in parallel with each other.

[0125] With this configuration, the user can operate the cleaner nozzle by pushing or pulling the cleaner body even when the cleaner body is laid down on the surface to be cleaned.

[0126] As a result, the connecting tube (500) of the present invention has the advantage of being able to rotate through three rotation axes and be bent at various angles, thereby facilitating user operation.

[0127] The other side of the third steering unit (530) is detachably connected to an extension pipe (not shown) or a vacuum cleaner body (not shown).

[0128]

[0129] Meanwhile, FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a coupling relationship between an agitator cover and a second agitator in a cleaner nozzle according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 6 is a side view illustrating a state in which the agitator cover is rotated while the second agitator is separated, FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating a state in which the agitator cover is separated from the nozzle housing in a cleaner nozzle according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 8 is a perspective view illustrating an agitator cover in a cleaner nozzle according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 9 is a drawing illustrating a reducer in a cleaner nozzle according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0130] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 9, the first agitator (200), the second agitator (300), and the agitator cover (400) are described as follows.

[0131] The first agitator (200) is installed in the nozzle housing (100) and serves to separate foreign substances from the cleaning target. The first agitator (200) can be rotatably coupled to the nozzle housing (100). The first agitator (200) can be positioned forward of the connecting pipe (500).

[0132] The first agitator (200) is formed in a cylindrical shape and can be arranged along the left-right direction of the nozzle housing (100). That is, the longitudinal direction (axial direction) of the first agitator (200) can be arranged in a direction intersecting the front-back direction of the cleaner nozzle (1).

[0133] The outer surface of the first agitator (200) may be provided with a brush or a member capable of increasing friction.

[0134] The first agitator (200) may receive rotational power from an agitator motor (not shown). At this time, the agitator motor (not shown) may be accommodated inside the first agitator (200). For example, the agitator motor (not shown) and the first agitator (200) may be connected to transmit power through a clutch structure, a spline connection, or at least one gear.

[0135] The first agitator (200) can guide external dust and air to the suction port (121) by rotation. The first agitator (200) can be rotated in a direction in which the outer surface facing the floor moves toward the suction port (121). In other words, when looking at the vacuum cleaner nozzle (1) from the left side of the vacuum cleaner nozzle (1), the first agitator (200) can be rotated counterclockwise. With this configuration, external dust and air can be guided toward the suction port (121) by friction with the first agitator (200).

[0136] Meanwhile, the first agitator (200) can be removably coupled to the nozzle housing (100). Specifically, the first agitator (200) is coupled to the agitator cover (400), and the agitator cover (400) can be removably coupled to the nozzle housing (100).

[0137] Therefore, the first agitator (200) can be replaced and cleaned depending on the cleaning environment.

[0138]

[0139] The second agitator (300) is installed in the nozzle housing (100) and, together with the first agitator (200), serves to separate foreign substances from the object to be cleaned. The second agitator (300) can be rotatably coupled to the nozzle housing (100).

[0140] The second agitator (300) may be positioned forward of the first agitator (200). That is, the second agitator (300) may be positioned further from the suction port (121) than the first agitator (200). In addition, the second agitator (300) may be positioned further from the connecting pipe (500) than the first agitator (200).

[0141] The second agitator (300) is formed in a cylindrical shape and can be arranged along the left and right directions of the nozzle housing (100). That is, the longitudinal direction (axial direction) of the second agitator (300) can be arranged along a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction (axial direction) of the first agitator (200).

[0142] In this embodiment, the diameter of the second agitator (300) is smaller than the diameter of the first agitator (200), but is not limited thereto.

[0143] The outer surface of the second agitator (300) may be provided with a material capable of increasing frictional force.

[0144] The second agitator (300) can receive rotational power from the first agitator (200). Specifically, the second agitator (300) can receive the rotational power of the first agitator (200) through a reducer (460) provided inside the agitator cover (400). Therefore, the second agitator (300) can rotate in conjunction with the first agitator (200).

[0145] At this time, the ratio of the rotation speed of the first agitator (200) and the rotation speed of the second agitator (300) can be determined according to the gear ratio of the reducer (460). Specifically, the rotation speed of the first agitator (200) can be 10 times or more greater than the rotation speed of the second agitator (300). For example, when the rotation speed of the first agitator (200) is 3500 rpm, the rotation speed of the second agitator (300) can be 350 rpm or less. In addition, preferably, when the rotation speed of the first agitator (200) is 3500 rpm, the rotation speed of the second agitator (300) can be 50 rpm or more and 150 rpm or less.

[0146] With this configuration, the second agitator (300) is rotated by driving the agitator motor (not shown), but the difference in rotation speed between the first agitator (200) and the second agitator (300) can be made large.

[0147] As a result, the second agitator (300) has the advantage of being able to maintain a high suction power for foreign substances by applying a high surface pressure.

[0148]

[0149] That is, when the agitator placed in the front rotates at a high speed as in the past, the agitator cannot rotate while sufficiently pressing the surface to be cleaned to sweep out foreign substances, and only has the effect of sweeping out foreign substances twice through the two agitators.

[0150] In contrast, the second agitator (300) according to the present invention rotates at a slow speed, so it can rotate while sufficiently pressing the surface to be cleaned, and sweep out foreign substances with great force.

[0151] Therefore, the second agitator (300) first sweeps away foreign substances that are difficult to clean with high-speed rotation, making cleaning easier, and the first agitator (200) additionally cleans the surface to be cleaned.

[0152] In addition, when cleaning relatively large foreign substances, the conventional vacuum cleaner nozzle equipped only with a high-speed rotating agitator may get caught between the agitator and the ground, preventing the agitator from sweeping them away, or the agitator may stop rotating, requiring the user to perform additional cleaning operations to clean them.

[0153] In contrast, in the present invention, the second agitator (300) can be rotated with great force even at a slow rotation speed, and has the effect of moving a relatively large foreign substance caught between the second agitator (300) and the ground toward the suction port (121).

[0154] The second agitator (300) can guide external dust and air to the suction port (121) by rotation. The second agitator (300) can be rotated in the same direction as the first agitator (200). That is, the second agitator (300) can be rotated in a direction in which the outer surface facing the floor moves toward the suction port (121). With this configuration, external dust and air can be guided toward the first agitator (200) and the suction port (121) by friction with the second agitator (300).

[0155]

[0156] Meanwhile, FIG. 10 shows a graph to explain the relationship between the rotation speed of the second agitator (300) and the cleaning performance.

[0157] Referring to Fig. 10, as the rotation speed of the second agitator (300) increases, the cleaning performance for foreign substances increases. Furthermore, when the rotation speed exceeds a predetermined speed, the cleaning performance can be maintained. For example, as illustrated in Fig. 10, the cleaning performance of the vacuum cleaner nozzle (1) can be maintained at a rotation speed of 350 rpm or higher. This can be seen as a result of the foreign substances being quickly swept away as the second agitator (300) rotates faster.

[0158] Meanwhile, referring to FIG. 10, it can be seen that the pickup performance for carpet deteriorates as the rotation speed of the second agitator (300) increases. In the case where the surface to be cleaned, such as a carpet, has bristles, friction may increase in the relationship with the second agitator (300), and as the rotation speed of the second agitator (300) increases, the second agitator (300) and the carpet may be attracted to each other, thereby reducing the flow of air toward the suction port (121). Consequently, in the case of a surface to be cleaned made of a material such as a carpet, the foreign substance suction performance of the cleaner nozzle (1) may deteriorate as the rotation speed of the second agitator (300) increases.

[0159] Therefore, when the second agitator (300) is rotated at 350 rpm or less as in the present invention (preferably 50 rpm or more and 150 rpm or less), there is an effect of minimizing the deterioration of the pickup performance for the carpet while maintaining the cleaning performance for foreign substances.

[0160]

[0161] Meanwhile, the second agitator (300) can be removably coupled to the nozzle housing (100). Specifically, the second agitator (300) can be removably coupled to the agitator cover (400) and the nozzle housing (100).

[0162] Specifically, the second agitator (300) may include a second agitator body (310) and a locking part (320).

[0163] The second agitator body (310) can be formed in a hollow cylindrical shape. With this configuration, the weight of the cleaner nozzle (1) can be minimized.

[0164] The locking part (320) is accommodated inside the second agitator body (310) and can be coupled with the agitator cover (400). Specifically, the locking part (320) is spline-coupled to the second agitator connecting part (440) of the agitator cover (400) and can receive power applied through the reducer (460).

[0165] The locking part (320) includes a locking housing (321), a stopper (322), a spring (323), and a locking part cover (324).

[0166] The locking housing (321) is accommodated inside the second agitator body (310). For example, the locking housing (321) may be formed in a cylindrical shape and may be fitted into and coupled to a groove formed on the inner surface of the second agitator body (310).

[0167] The stopper (322) is provided to be movable along the axial direction of the locking housing (321) and can be inserted and connected to the agitator cover.

[0168] Specifically, the stopper (322) includes an insertion portion (322a) formed so that one axial end is splined into a coupling groove (441) formed in the second agitator connecting portion (440). At this time, one axial end of the stopper (322) can be formed so as to be inserted according to the shape of the coupling groove (441).

[0169] In addition, the stopper (322) may be provided with a stopper body (322b) formed to extend in a cylindrical shape from the insertion portion (322a) along the axial direction, and may include a support portion (322c) formed to protrude radially outward from the outer surface of the stopper body (322b) so as to receive elastic force by a spring (323) on the other axial side of the stopper body (322b).

[0170] The spring (323) can apply a restoring force to the stopper (322). Specifically, the spring (323) can return the stopper (322) to its original position when the force applied to the stopper (322) is released.

[0171] The locking unit cover (324) is coupled with the locking housing (321) and can prevent the stopper (322) from coming off. Specifically, the locking unit cover (324) is hook-coupled with the locking housing (321) and can accommodate the stopper (322) therein. Therefore, even if the stopper (322) is moved toward the agitator cover (400) by the spring (323), the movement range of the stopper (322) can be limited.

[0172] With this configuration, when the push button (450) described later is pressed by the user, the stopper (322) moves, and the connection between the second agitator (300) and the agitator cover (400) can be released.

[0173] Therefore, with the agitator cover (400) and the nozzle housing (100) separated from each other, the second agitator (300) can be separated from the nozzle housing (100).

[0174] Therefore, the second agitator (300) can be replaced and cleaned depending on the cleaning environment. In addition, there is an advantage in that the second agitator (300) can be separated and cleaned.

[0175]

[0176] The agitator cover (400) can be detachably coupled to the nozzle housing (100). Specifically, the agitator cover (400) can be coupled to one left-right side of the nozzle housing (100). That is, one left-right side of the nozzle housing (100) can be formed in an open shape and coupled to the agitator cover (400), and the other left-right side of the nozzle housing (100) can be formed in a closed shape.

[0177] Accordingly, the agitator cover (400) forms the exterior of the cleaner nozzle (1) together with the nozzle housing (100), and the first agitator (200) and the second agitator (300) can be accommodated in the internal space where the agitator cover (400) and the nozzle housing (100) are combined.

[0178] The agitator cover (400) includes a cover body (410), a first agitator connection part (420), a gear box (430), a second agitator connection part (440), and a push button (450).

[0179] The cover body (410) covers one side in the left and right direction of the nozzle housing (100). For example, the cover body (410) may be formed in the shape of a flat plate that covers one side in the left and right direction of the nozzle housing (100). In this case, the shape of the cover body (410) may be formed in a shape that is symmetrical (mirror image) with a part of the other side in the left and right direction of the nozzle housing (100) that faces the cover body (410).

[0180] The first agitator connecting portion (420) is inserted and connected to the inside of the first agitator (200) and is connected to an agitator motor (not shown) to receive power from the agitator motor (not shown).

[0181] Specifically, the first agitator connecting portion (420) is coupled to the inner surface of the first agitator (200), and includes an agitator insert portion (421) coupled with the first agitator (200) and a shaft coupling portion (422) spline-coupled with a shaft of an agitator motor (not shown) and rotated together with the shaft of the agitator motor (not shown).

[0182] Accordingly, the first agitator connection (420) is coupled to an agitator motor (not shown) to receive power from the agitator motor (not shown) and can rotate together with the first agitator (200).

[0183] A reducer (460) can be accommodated inside the agitator cover (400). Specifically, a reducer (460) composed of at least one gear can be accommodated inside the gear box (430) of the agitator cover (400).

[0184] That is, the gear box (430) can be combined with the cover body (410) to form a space capable of accommodating a reducer (460) therein.

[0185] The gear box (430) may be formed in a protruding shape toward the inside of the nozzle housing (100). That is, the gear box (430) may be formed to protrude toward the first agitator (200) and the second agitator (300).

[0186] The gear box (430) may include an input gear box (431) that accommodates a gear that is provided coaxially with the first agitator connection (420) and rotates together, an output gear box (432) that accommodates at least a portion of the second agitator connection (440), and a connecting gear box (433) that connects the input gear box (431) and the output gear box (432).

[0187] Accordingly, as the gear housed inside the gear box (430) rotates, power applied from the agitator motor (not shown) can be transmitted to the second agitator (300), and interference with other parts can be prevented from occurring during this process.

[0188] Meanwhile, at least one guide rib (434) may be formed on the outer surface of the gear box (430) to guide the coupling with the nozzle housing (100). Specifically, the guide rib (434) may be formed on the outer surface of the input gear box (431), and may be formed to protrude along the circumferential direction with the shaft coupling portion (422) as the origin.

[0189] The guide rib (434) may be supported by a guide rib (not shown) formed in the nozzle housing (100). Specifically, when the agitator cover (400) is coupled to the nozzle housing (100), the guide rib of the nozzle housing (100) may be arranged between the cover body (410) and the guide rib (434). In addition, when two or more guide ribs (434) are formed, the interval between the guide ribs (434) is at least larger than the guide ribs of the nozzle housing (100). Therefore, when the agitator cover (400) is coupled to or separated from the nozzle housing (100), the user may rotate the agitator cover (400) to cause the guide rib of the nozzle housing (100) to move through the space between the guide ribs (434). On the other hand, when the agitator cover (400) and the nozzle housing (100) are combined, the guide rib (434) of the agitator cover (400) and the guide rib of the nozzle housing (100) support each other, thereby preventing the agitator cover (400) from being detached.

[0190] Accordingly, the agitator cover (400) can be separated after being rotated by a predetermined angle about the first agitator (200) with respect to the nozzle housing (100) based on the state in which it is coupled with the nozzle housing (100).

[0191]

[0192] The second agitator connecting portion (440) can be coupled with the second agitator (300) and transmit the rotational power applied from the agitator motor and transmitted through the reducer (460) to the second agitator (300). Specifically, the second agitator connecting portion (440) can be accommodated in the gear box (430) and spline-coupled with the second agitator (300). For example, the second agitator connecting portion (440) can have gear teeth formed on the outer surface to transmit rotational power, and a coupling groove (441) to which the second agitator (300) is spline-coupled can be formed at the center of rotation. For example, the coupling groove (441) can be formed in a square groove shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0193]

[0194] The push button (450) can release the coupling between the second agitator (300) and the second agitator connecting portion (440) when an external force is applied. Specifically, the push button (450) can release the coupling between the second agitator (300) and the second agitator connecting portion (440) by pushing the locking portion (320) accommodated in the coupling groove (441) by an external force.

[0195] Meanwhile, one axial end of the push button (450) is formed in a plate shape and forms the outer shape of the cleaner nozzle (1) together with the cover body (410), and includes a button portion (451) that is pressed by the user. For example, the button portion (451) may be circular or oval.

[0196] At this time, the button portion (451) can be accommodated in the button accommodation hole (411) formed in the cover body (410). At this time, the button accommodation hole (411) is formed at a position facing the second agitator connection portion (440), and a spring (454) is provided between the button portion (451) and the second agitator connection portion (440), so that when the push button (450) is pressed, the push button can be returned to its original position.

[0197] In addition, a catch portion (452) that is formed along the circumferential direction and is bent and extended in the inner direction of the cleaner nozzle (1) at the radially outer end of the button portion (451) may be formed. At this time, the catch portion (452) may be formed in a shape in which the diameter gradually increases as it moves away from the button portion (451). Meanwhile, the button receiving hole (411) may be formed in a shape in which the diameter gradually decreases as it moves toward the outer side of the cleaner nozzle (1).

[0198] With this configuration, when the button portion (451) is pressed and then moved to the outside of the cleaner nozzle (1) by the restoring force of the spring (454), the button portion (451) can be prevented from being separated from the cover body (410).

[0199] In addition, the push button (450) may include a push portion (453) that moves in a stroke to press the locking portion (320) when an external force is applied. Specifically, the push portion (453) is formed to protrude from the inner side (in the inner direction of the vacuum cleaner nozzle (1)) of the button portion (451), and when an external force is applied and the button portion (451) is pressed, the push portion (453) moves together with the button portion (451) to press the locking portion (320) by penetrating the second agitator connecting portion (440).

[0200] With this configuration, when the push part (453) presses the locking part (320), the coupling between the agitator cover (400) and the second agitator (300) is released, so that the agitator cover (400) and the second agitator (300) can be separated.

[0201] Therefore, according to the present invention, the user can separate the second agitator (300) and the agitator cover (400) with just a simple action of pressing the push button (450).

[0202] Additionally, after the second agitator (300) and the agitator cover (400) are separated, it is also possible to separate only the second agitator (300) from the nozzle housing (100) by rotating the agitator cover (400).

[0203] That is, the agitator cover (400) can be separated from the second agitator (300) while being combined with the first agitator (200).

[0204] Therefore, according to the present invention, the user can easily separate the second agitator (300) from the nozzle housing (100), so there is an advantage in that the second agitator (300) can be replaced according to the cleaning environment and a contaminated second agitator (300) can be cleaned.

[0205]

[0206] The reducer (460) may include at least one gear to connect the rotational power between the first agitator (200) and the second agitator (300). Specifically, the reducer (460) may include an input gear (461) that is directly connected to the shaft of the agitator motor (not shown) or is connected through the first agitator (200) to rotate, and a connecting gear (462) that connects the input gear (461) and the second agitator connecting portion (440).

[0207] At this time, the rotation speed ratio of the first agitator (200) and the second agitator (300) can be set by the gear ratio between the input gear (461) and / or the connection gear (462) and the second agitator connection part (440). In particular, in the present invention, it is preferable to set the gear ratio so that the rotation speed of the first agitator (200) is at least 10 times faster than the rotation speed of the second agitator (300).

[0208] Meanwhile, in this embodiment, the connecting gear (462) is configured with three gears, but this is not limited to this, and the gear ratio can be set by configuring a combination of various gears.

[0209]

[0210]

[0211] Although the present invention has been described in detail through specific examples, this is for the purpose of specifically explaining the present invention, and the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is clear that the present invention can be modified or improved by a person having ordinary knowledge in the relevant field within the technical spirit of the present invention.

[0212] All simple modifications or changes of the present invention fall within the scope of the present invention, and the specific scope of protection of the present invention will be made clear by the appended claims.

Claims

1. Nozzle housing; An intake port formed in the above nozzle housing and through which air containing dust is introduced; A first agitator housed within the nozzle housing and rotatably coupled to the nozzle housing; and A second agitator that rotates in conjunction with the first agitator; Including, A vacuum cleaner nozzle characterized in that the rotation speed of the first agitator is at least 10 times greater than the rotation speed of the second agitator.

2. In paragraph 1, A reducer connecting the first agitator and the second agitator and including at least one gear; A cleaner nozzle that further includes:

3. In paragraph 1, An agitator motor that applies rotational force to the first agitator; A cleaner nozzle that further includes:

4. In paragraph 1, The above second agitator is, A vacuum cleaner nozzle characterized in that it is positioned further from the suction port than the first agitator.

5. In paragraph 1, A connecting pipe connected to the nozzle housing and having a flow path formed therein that communicates with the suction port to move dust to the main body of the cleaner; Including more, The above second agitator is, A vacuum cleaner nozzle characterized in that it is positioned further from the connecting pipe than the first agitator.

6. In paragraph 1, The diameter of the above first agitator is A vacuum cleaner nozzle characterized by having a diameter larger than that of the second agitator.

7. In paragraph 1, The rotation direction of the above first agitator is: A vacuum cleaner nozzle characterized by the same rotation direction as the second agitator.

8. In paragraph 1, An agitator cover detachably coupled to the nozzle housing and having the first agitator and the second agitator coupled thereto; A cleaner nozzle that further includes:

9. In paragraph 8, A reducer connecting the first agitator and the second agitator and including at least one gear; Including more, The above reducer is, A vacuum cleaner nozzle characterized in that it is accommodated within the agitator cover.

10. In paragraph 8, An agitator motor that applies rotational force to the first agitator; Including more, The above agitator motor, A vacuum cleaner nozzle characterized in that it is accommodated inside the first agitator.

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