Cleaning device

Abstract

The present invention includes: an attachment for connecting a cleaning device to a conveying device; a first adsorption / rotation body that is disposed facing a floor surface and that electrostatically adsorbs dust while rotating when traveling; a urethane blade that removes dust from the first adsorption / rotation body; and a dust box unit that stores the dust removed by the urethane blade.

Description

cleaning equipment

[0001] The present invention relates to a cleaning device, and more particularly to a cleaning device that is connected to a package transport device used in, for example, a manufacturing factory or a logistics warehouse, and that collects dust from a travel surface.

[0002] In recent years, manufacturing plants, logistics warehouses, and the like have been improving work efficiency by using conveying devices that travel along a predetermined track to transport cargo. For example, in manufacturing plants, conveying devices are used to transport parts between a stockyard where parts are stocked and an assembly area where products are assembled. It has long been known that the drive tires of the conveying devices carry dust from the stockyard floor to the assembly area, causing ruts on the floor and scattering the dust. For this reason, a common measure to remove dust from the drive tires is to place adhesive sheets on the tracks of the conveying devices. However, as the number of conveying devices passing through the tracks increases, the adhesive strength of the adhesive sheets rapidly decreases due to the increase in dust, making these measures ineffective. To address this issue, JP 2005-334836 A proposes a configuration for collecting dust from the travel path without scattering it. For example, in a clean room, an adhesive roller-type cleaning device is connected to the conveying device, allowing cleaning while transporting cargo.

[0003] However, when conventional adhesive rollers are used to clean the running surfaces of general manufacturing plants, the amount of dust is greater than when cleaning clean rooms, resulting in a rapid loss of adhesiveness. This poses challenges in terms of consumable costs and increased maintenance frequency. Furthermore, adding a mechanism for winding up the adhesive portion to the cleaning device increases the size of the device due to the large number of consumables. Furthermore, the running surface does not have a dedicated path, and there are irregularities such as track tape, floor scratches, and steps. Furthermore, dust particles vary in particle size. Therefore, adhesive rollers often leave dust behind and the tape peels off. Furthermore, cleaning with an adhesive roller requires the roller to be actively pressed against the running surface to rotate, which increases the driving torque and creates challenges in terms of power consumption.

[0004] The present invention was made under these circumstances, and aims to provide a cleaning device connected to a conveying device in a manufacturing factory, etc., that can stably collect dust, is small, requires low power consumption, and requires little maintenance.

[0005] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention has the following configuration.

[0006] A cleaning device that cleans dust from the running surface of a conveying device, comprising: a connection means that connects the cleaning device to the conveying device; an adsorption means that is arranged opposite the running surface and has a first rotating body that rotates during running to electrostatically adsorb the dust; a charging means that charges the adsorption means; a removal means that removes the dust from the first rotating body; and a storage section that stores the dust removed by the removal means.

[0007] According to the present invention, a cleaning device connected to a conveying device in a manufacturing factory or the like can stably collect dust, and can be made compact, low power consumption, and low maintenance.

[0008] FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view illustrating how a transport device connected to a cleaning device of the first embodiment transports luggage.

[0009] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of the rear surface of the conveying device of the first embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 3 is a schematic rear perspective view of the transport device to which the cleaning device of the first embodiment is connected.

[0011] FIG. 4 is a schematic front perspective view of the cleaning device of the first embodiment with the dust box unit removed.

[0012] FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the dust box unit of the first embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a dust box unit for explaining the electrostatic cleaning mechanism of the first embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 7 is a schematic top view illustrating the cleaning width when the cleaning device of the first embodiment cleans the floor surface.

[0015] FIG. 8 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the transport of a luggage rack by the transport device connected to the cleaning device of the first embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 9 is a schematic explanatory diagram illustrating a cleaning device according to a second embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 10 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the widthwise movement of the cleaning device of the second embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating a cleaning device according to a second embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 12 is a schematic top view illustrating the cleaning width when the cleaning device of the second embodiment cleans the floor surface.

[0020] FIG. 13 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the transport of a luggage rack by a transport device connected to a cleaning device of the second embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 14 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the transport of a luggage rack by a transport device connected to a cleaning device of the third embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 15 is a schematic top view illustrating the cleaning width when the cleaning device of the third embodiment cleans the floor surface.

[0023] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the transport device rotates under the luggage rack in the third embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 17 is a schematic perspective view of a transport device connected to a cleaning device of the fourth embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 18 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the attachment and detachment of the dust box of the cleaning device of the fourth embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 19 is a partial cross-sectional view of a conveying device connected to a cleaning device of the fourth embodiment.

[0027] 20 is a diagram illustrating the driving input of a transport device connected to a cleaning device according to a fourth embodiment.

[0028] The cleaning device of the first embodiment is connected to a transport device that transports luggage and cleans unwanted materials (hereinafter referred to as dust) from the traveling surface of the transport device. The first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 8. FIG. 1 shows a state in which a plurality of transport devices 1 are traveling along a predetermined track on a floor surface F, which is the traveling surface of a manufacturing factory. Some transport devices 1 (1A) are traveling while carrying luggage on luggage shelves 14, while other transport devices 1 (1B) are not carrying luggage shelves 14 depending on the situation. When transporting luggage using the luggage shelves 14, the transport devices 1 slide under the luggage shelves 14 and then lift up the lift-up plates 15, thereby lifting the legs 16 of the luggage shelves 14 above the floor surface F for transportation.

[0029] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the conveying device 1. The conveying device 1 is composed of a main frame 2, drive tires 3, a drive motor 4, casters 5, a reflective line sensor 6, and an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) sensor 7. The drive tires 3 correspond to at least one set of wheels arranged symmetrically with respect to the center of the width direction in a width direction perpendicular to the moving direction Dr. In FIG. 2, one set of drive tires 3 is arranged symmetrically with respect to a center imaginary line Cr (dashed line) in the width direction of the conveying device 1, and two sets of casters 5 are arranged symmetrically with respect to the center imaginary line Cr in the width direction of the conveying device 1. Furthermore, the drive tires 3 are arranged in the center of the conveying device 1 in the moving direction Dr, and one set of casters 5 is arranged in front of the conveying device 1 in the moving direction Dr and the other set is arranged in rear of the conveying device 1 in the moving direction Dr. Here, the width direction refers to a direction perpendicular to the moving direction Dr of the conveying device 1. Hereinafter, the width direction perpendicular to the movement direction Dr will also be referred to as the left-right direction.

[0030] The conveying device 1 is capable of turning (right and left turns) and moving forward and backward by setting a difference in rotation speed between the left and right drive tires 3. Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 2, the drive tires 3 are often configured to have a length in the width direction of the conveying device 1 that is approximately the same as the width of the main body frame 2 (at the very limit of the width). Furthermore, an RFID tag 9 is attached to the traveling surface as a storage member that stores information about the position on the traveling surface (information such as an address), and the conveying device 1 has an RFID sensor 7 as a reader that reads information from the RFID tag 9.

[0031] The floor F of the manufacturing plant in Figure 1 is typically an epoxy-coated conductive floor, often green. Aluminum tape 8 and an RFID tag 9 are attached to the floor F. The RFID tag 9 stores identification information, such as a number. For example, the RFID tag 9 stores information such as the stopping position of the conveying device 1, address information, and which way to turn at a Y-shaped intersection. The control board 12 (described later) reads the information stored in the RFID tag 9 using an RFID sensor 7 and controls the conveying device 1 based on the read information. The conveying device 1 also includes obstacle sensors 10 (only one of which is shown in Figure 2 ) on the front and rear of the main frame 2, a control board 12, a wireless communication unit (wireless communication means), and a small battery 13 for power supply. The wireless communication unit enables the exchange of control information with an external computer, remote operation, and control between conveying devices 1. The control board 12 controls the conveying device 1. Note that the control method for the conveying device 1 is not limited to this method; various methods are available, including camera recognition, GPS, track embedded in the floor, and trackless systems. However, this method allows for smooth operation with short downtime even when multiple conveying devices 1 are operated in a narrow and complicated manufacturing plant, and can be introduced easily and at low cost, including changes to the running layout.

[0032] The ruts 11 in Fig. 1 are traces of the driving tires 3 of the conveying device 1. The ruts 11 are generally formed by the dirt caused by minute dust particles brought in by the driving tires 3 from a parts stockyard. The cleaning device 20 of the first embodiment is connected to the rear of the conveying device 1. [Cleaning Device]

[0033] 3 is a rear perspective view illustrating the state in which the cleaning device 20 of the first embodiment is connected to the transport device 1. The cleaning device 20 is connected to the main body frame 2 of the transport device 1 via an attachment 21, with a connecting pin 22 serving as a pivot point. That is, the connecting pin 22 is provided between the attachment 21 and the tire 23 and functions as a rotation axis perpendicular to the traveling surface. A dust box unit 40, which will be described later, rotates around the connecting pin 22 as the rotation axis in response to the rotation of the transport device 1.

[0034] The cleaning device 20 is in contact with the floor surface F by a set of tires 23 supported by a frame 25 and a set of casters 24 provided rearward of the tires 23 in the direction of movement Dr. The tires 23 and casters 24 are provided in pairs on the left and right sides in the width direction. The cleaning device 20 also has a dust box unit 40, which is detachable from the frame 25.

[0035] The attachment 21 and the main frame 2 are connected by a magnet. That is, the conveying device 1 has the main frame 2 as a magnetically connected means at its rear end in the movement direction Dr. The cleaning device 20 also has the attachment 21 as a connecting means that magnetically connects to the main frame 2 at its front end in the movement direction Dr. This not only makes it possible to adjust the mounting position of the cleaning device 20 relative to the conveying device 1, but also makes it possible to releasably detach the attachment 21 (i.e., the cleaning device 20) from the conveying device 1 when an external force greater than a predetermined value is applied to the cleaning device 20. (Regarding driving force)

[0036] 4 is a front perspective view of the cleaning device 20 with the dust box unit 40 removed. The cleaning device 20 is equipped with a pair of wheels, or tires 23, which are provided forward of a first attracting rotor 60 and a second attracting rotor 61 (described later) in the direction of movement Dr. The tires 23 are provided symmetrically with respect to the center of the width direction perpendicular to the direction of movement Dr. The frame 25 has a surface 26a having a connecting hole 26 that connects with the connecting pin 22 of FIG. 3, an I-cut hole 27 that engages with an I-cut boss 41 (see FIG. 5) of the dust box unit 40, an abutment surface 28 against which an abutment boss 42 (see FIG. 5) is biased, and an urging lever 29.

[0037] In Example 1, the cleaning device 20 does not have a drive source such as a motor, and instead generates a driving force by being towed by the conveying device 1. Therefore, in Example 1, the conveying device 1 functions as a driving means. When the cleaning device 20 is connected to the conveying device 1 via the connecting hole 26 and towed by the conveying device 1, the tire 23 rotates on the floor surface F. The power generated by the rotation of the tire 23 is reduced and transmitted by drive transmission gears (not shown) provided inside the gear box units 30 and 31 and output to output shafts 32 located on both sides of the gear box units 30 and 31. The drive transmission gears in the gear box units 30 and 31 function as transmission means for transmitting the rotation of the tire 23 to the first attraction rotor 60. The output shaft 32 rotates in the direction of arrow 33 on the same axis (dashed line R1) as the I-cut hole 27. Note that an output shaft 32 (shown by a dashed line) is also provided on the back side in FIG. 4 . The first attracting rotor 60 (described later) receives the rotational force of the tire 23 moving in the moving direction Dr via drive transmission gears inside the gear box unit 30 and the gear box unit 31. (Dust Box Unit)

[0038] Next, the dust box unit 40 will be described with reference to Figures 5(a) to 5(d). The dust box unit 40 in Figure 5(a) is composed of a frame 45 of the dust box unit 40, a first adsorptive rotor 60 (first rotor), a second adsorptive rotor 61 (second rotor), a gear box section 49, a dust cover 55, and a urethane blade 62 (see Figure 5(c)).

[0039] The first attraction rotor 60 is disposed opposite the travel surface and electrostatically attracts dust as it rotates during travel. The second attraction rotor 61 contacts the first attraction rotor 60 and rotates in response to the rotation of the first attraction rotor 60, collecting the dust attracted to the first attraction rotor 60. The first attraction rotor 60 and the second attraction rotor 61 function as an attraction unit. A urethane blade 62, which serves as a removal unit (blade), contacts the surface of the second attraction rotor 61 and removes the dust collected by the second attraction rotor 61. The first attraction rotor 60 and the second attraction rotor 61 clean dust from the trajectory of each drive tire 3 of the conveyance device 1 traveling on the travel surface. The first attraction rotor 60, the second attraction rotor 61, and the urethane blade 62 are each divided into at least two sections in the width direction at the center in the width direction perpendicular to the travel direction Dr. Furthermore, the first attracting rotor 60 is configured so that the outer diameter of the end portion is larger than the outer diameter of the central portion in the width direction perpendicular to the movement direction Dr.

[0040] These are integrally configured to be detachably attached to the frame 25 shown in Fig. 4. The gear box section 49 houses gears for driving the first adsorptive rotor 60 and the second adsorptive rotor 61. The cleaning device 20 of the first embodiment is not only capable of processing dust, but also allows the dust box unit 40 to be easily replaced as a consumable item.

[0041] The frame 45 also has a handle portion 46 and a groove portion 47, and the dust cover 55 can be attached and detached in the direction of arrow 56. The handle portion 46 has a grip formed thereon so that it can be pulled in the direction of arrow 56 when removing the dust box unit 40 from the frame 25. The handle portion 46 is positioned so that the first adsorptive rotator 60 and the second adsorptive rotator 61 face upward when the user holds the dust box unit 40, as shown in FIG. 5( b), and is disposed generally near the center of gravity of the dust box unit 40. Because the first adsorptive rotator 60 and the second adsorptive rotator 61 face upward when the handle portion 46 is held, the risk of dust inside the dust box unit 40 leaking from the first adsorptive rotator 60 and the second adsorptive rotator 61 is reduced.

[0042] The dust box unit 40 has a drop prevention part 58 on the surface opposite the handle part 46, which prevents the dust box unit 40 from dropping when the user grabs it in the direction of the arrow 57. In the first embodiment, the drop prevention part 58 is shaped to provide a non-slip surface. FIG. 5(c) shows the dust cover 55, to which the urethane blade 62 is attached. FIG. 5(d) is a rear perspective view of the dust box unit 40 with the dust cover 55 removed. The dust box area 69, which is a collection area for collecting dust removed by the urethane blade 62, is located in the position shown in the figure.

[0043] The frame 45 has an I-cut boss 41 and an abutment boss 42 on its end face as shown in FIG. 5(b). The drive input shaft 48 is coaxial with the I-cut boss 41. The gear box 49 has a drive transmission gear that transmits the drive force input from the drive input shaft 48 to the first adsorptive rotor 60 and the second adsorptive rotor 61. When the dust box unit 40 is attached to the frame 25 shown in FIG. 4, the drive input shaft 48 engages with the output shaft 32 and receives the drive force. The groove 47 shown in FIG. 5 is a recess in the gear box 31. By providing the drive input portion for the dust box unit 40 in the central groove 47, the cleaning width of the cleaning device 20 (hereinafter referred to as the cleaning width) can be expanded to the full width of the conveying device 1.

[0044] Furthermore, the first adsorptive rotor 60, the second adsorptive rotor 61, and the urethane blade 62 are divided into two parts in the longitudinal direction (width direction of the cleaning device 20). This not only makes it possible to clean the ruts 11 shown in Fig. 1 and reduces the risk of cleaning problems caused by bending of these components due to the long length of the components being made without dividing them into two, but also reduces the cost of the parts required for making them long. In addition, although the drive unit (drive input shaft 48, gearbox unit 49) is configured in the center in Example 1, it does not have to be completely in the center.

[0045] The frame 45 is provided with an air inlet window 50 as an air intake port at a position shown in Fig. 5(a) so that the airflow in the traveling direction of the conveying device 1 hits the surface of the second attracting rotor 61. An air outlet window 51 as an exhaust port for allowing the air that has flowed in through the air inlet window 50 to flow out is provided on the opposite side of the air inlet window 50 at a position shown in Fig. 5(d). (Electrostatic cleaning configuration)

[0046] Next, the electrostatic cleaning configuration of the cleaning device 20 will be described using FIG. 6 . The electrostatic cleaning method generally uses Coulomb force as the primary force for attracting dust. The electrostatic cleaning method is capable of selectively collecting fine dust particles of a size that tends to stir up dust, which is a challenge in manufacturing plants, with low torque and without stirring up the dust. Selective collection of dust particles allows for long periods of continuous cleaning even when the container size of the dust box unit 40 is reduced. Note that the term "dust" in Example 1 refers to dust particles, fine powder, small particle size dust, and other dust particles that can be electrostatically collected regardless of size, including light-weight dust particles.

[0047] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the dust box unit 40. The dust box unit 40 includes a first adsorptive rotor 60, a second adsorptive rotor 61, and a urethane blade 62. The first adsorptive rotor 60 has a brushed surface made of polyethylene (PET) material, while the second adsorptive rotor 61 has a smooth surface made of a fluororesin (PFA) material that is more negatively charged than PET in the triboelectric series. This configuration ensures that the potential difference between the dust and the second adsorptive rotor 61 is greater than the potential difference between the dust and the first adsorptive rotor 60. The first adsorptive rotor 60 is in contact with the floor surface F and the second adsorptive rotor 61. The charging mechanism is frictional charging, achieved by rotating the first adsorptive rotor 60 in the direction of arrow 64 and the second adsorptive rotor 61 in the direction of arrow 65.

[0048] The surface of the first adsorptive rotator 60 is not limited to PET, and may be any material capable of attracting dust by electrostatic force. The second adsorptive rotator 61 may be any material that has a potential difference with the dust that is greater than the potential difference between the dust and the first adsorptive rotator 60. For example, if it is desired to collect positively charged dust, the first adsorptive rotator 60 may be made of polystyrene or the like, and the second adsorptive rotator 61 may be made of a material that is more negatively charged than polystyrene in the triboelectric series, such as polypropylene.

[0049] The direction of movement (direction Dr) of cleaning device 20 is the direction of arrow 66, and dust D1 on floor surface F is attracted to first attraction rotor 60, which is electrostatically negatively charged, and then dust D2 is attracted to second attraction rotor 61, which is more strongly negatively charged, at transfer section 67. Then, at section D3, the dust is peeled off by urethane blade 62 and collected in dust box area 69, as shown by arrow 68.

[0050] Furthermore, some of the airborne dust particles D4 are stirred up by the conveying device 1 and its drive tires 3 and float in the air. Because the second attracting rotor 61 is strongly negatively charged due to frictional electrification in the triboelectric series, the conveying-direction airflow 70 flows in through the air inlet window 50 and is exhausted through the air outlet window 51. At least a portion of the second attracting rotor 61 corresponding to the air inlet window 50 is exposed, allowing the surface to electrostatically capture airborne dust particles D4 as the conveying-direction airflow 70 enters. Thus, the second attracting rotor 61 is partially exposed, allowing it to electrostatically collect airborne dust particles D4. To further stabilize the adsorption of dust particles D2 by the transfer unit 67, a portion of the frame 45 in front of the transfer unit 67 forms a windbreak structure 45a to block the conveying-direction airflow 70. Furthermore, proactive provision of an airflow guide (not shown) improves the collection efficiency of airborne dust particles D4.

[0051] In Example 1, the overlap amount 71 of the first attraction rotor 60 with the floor surface F varies in the longitudinal direction (width direction). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 5B , the outer diameter of the hatched area 73 of the first attraction rotor 60 is smaller than that of the hatched area 72. This is done to reduce torque by optimizing cleaning performance by changing the contact pressure with the floor surface F in the dusty rut 11 area and other areas. Note that torque reduction can be achieved by changing not only the diameter (outer diameter), but also the material, brush length, brush density, etc., as long as the contact pressure is reduced. Note that although the amount of frictional charge varies slightly depending on the overlap amount 71 of the first attraction rotor 60 with the floor surface F in FIG. 6 , the robustness of the attraction does not result in a significant difference in cleaning performance.

[0052] Furthermore, naturally occurring dust generally tends to be weakly positive on the triboelectric series. Furthermore, industrial materials such as the first and second adsorption rotors 60 and 61 generally tend to be negatively charged. Therefore, it is desirable that the material of each adsorption rotor be negatively charged, with the second adsorption rotor 61 being more negatively charged than the first adsorption rotor 60. However, in principle, when dust is used as the reference, the width of the triboelectric series difference contributes significantly to the adsorption force. Therefore, as long as the order of the width of the triboelectric series difference is not disrupted in the same direction, dust will reach the second adsorption rotor 61, so a material on the positive side of the triboelectric series may be used. For example, if the dust is negatively charged, nickel may be selected for the first adsorption rotor 60, and zinc, whose potential difference with the dust is greater than the potential difference between the dust and the first adsorption rotor 60, may be selected for the second adsorption rotor 61. Furthermore, the materials are not particularly limited to those in Example 1.

[0053] 6, frictional charging at the transfer section 67 may cause the first attraction rotor 60 to become positively charged in some cases. Because of concerns about increased torque, the charge may be controlled by rubbing the first attraction rotor 60 against a nylon material, which tends to be positively charged in the triboelectric series, in the hatched area 73 of FIG. 5(b). This allows for more stable collection of dust on the floor surface F. (Regarding the grounding means)

[0054] 6, providing a grounding means such as a charge removal brush 63 shown by a broken line behind the first attraction rotor 60 from the dust box unit 40 to the floor surface F is advantageous in terms of usability because it can suppress charging of the handle portion 46. The grounding means may be located, for example, behind the first attraction rotor 60 in the movement direction Dr so as to contact the aluminum tape 8. In this way, it is more effective to ground the grounding means on the aluminum tape 8 on the floor surface F. Furthermore, providing the grounding means on the dust box unit 40 allows it to be replaced periodically as a consumable item. [Operation of the cleaning device]

[0055] 7(a) and 7(b) are top views illustrating the movement of the cleaning device 20 connected to the conveying device 1. The luggage rack 14 is not shown for illustrative purposes. FIG. 7(a) shows the state when the conveying device 1 is traveling straight. The width of the cleaning device 20 is configured to be equal to or smaller than the width of the conveying device 1 and is wide enough to clean the ruts 11. This allows it to be used even if the width of the luggage rack 14 is close to the width of the conveying device 1, as it can pass under the luggage rack 14 in a straight line. FIG. 7(b) shows the state when the conveying device 1 is turning (right turn). The cleaning device 20 rotates around the connecting pin 22 due to friction with the floor surface F, and cleans dust by traveling over the ruts 11 and protruding beyond the width of the conveying device 1.

[0056] 8 is a diagram showing the transport device 1 transporting the luggage rack 14 in the state shown in FIG. 7(a). By connecting the cleaning device 20 having an electrostatic cleaning means to the transport device 1, it is possible to selectively collect only fine dust particles, so even if the device is operated for a long time, a small dust box can be used, and the cleaning device 20 can be made smaller. Furthermore, compared to adhesive rollers, the adsorptive rotating body cleans electrostatically, so it can be used repeatedly, requires fewer consumables, and requires less frequent maintenance.

[0057] Furthermore, because the dust is electrostatically attracted, dust can be collected stably even on uneven floors F, such as those in manufacturing factories, without the need to peel off the tape. Furthermore, because no exhaust gas is generated, stable cleaning is possible for long periods of time while transporting cargo without stirring up dust. Furthermore, since the attraction rotor has lower adhesion to the floor F than an adhesive roller and can be sufficiently charged even when the rotation speed of the attraction rotor is reduced, it can be driven with low torque, and as in Example 1, the driving means can be realized by the driven force generated by the traction of the conveying device 1.

[0058] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the first adsorptive rotator 60 and the second adsorptive rotator 61 are cylindrical, but are not limited to a cylindrical shape as long as they fulfill the same functions. For example, an endless belt shape is also acceptable. Furthermore, in the first embodiment, a manufacturing factory is used as an example. However, the present invention can be applied to conveyance devices used to transport luggage in public areas, such as hospitals and restaurants, where stable cleaning without stirring up dust is required.

[0059] As described above, according to the first embodiment, a cleaning device connected to a conveying device in a manufacturing factory or the like can stably collect dust, and can be made compact, low power consumption, and low maintenance.

[0060] 9 to 13, the cleaning device 100 of the second embodiment will be described. The cleaning device 100 of the second embodiment maintains the cleaning performance of the first embodiment while being more compact in size, allowing for flexible adaptation to different package shapes, and facilitating connection to the front of the conveying device 1. Descriptions of the same parts as those of the first embodiment, such as the configuration of the electrostatic cleaning means, will be omitted.

[0061] The cleaning device 100 includes a motor 113 (see FIG. 11 ) as a first drive means (drive means) that drives the rotation of the first attracting rotor 60. The cleaning device 100 also includes a movable plate 130 as a movement means that moves the first attracting rotor 60 and the second attracting rotor 61 in the width direction perpendicular to the movement direction Dr, and a motor 132 as a second drive means that drives the movable plate 130 (see FIG. 10 ). The attachment 120 also functions as an adjustment means that adjusts the positions of the first attracting rotor 60 and the second attracting rotor 61 in the direction perpendicular to the traveling surface, i.e., in the up-down direction (see FIG. 9 ).

[0062] 9(a) is a rear perspective view of the conveying device 1, and the cleaning device 100 is connected via an attachment 120 so as to be movable in the direction of arrow 101 (width direction). The cleaning device 100 is configured to electrostatically collect dust and does not have strong adhesive force to the floor surface F like an adhesive tape method, so it is possible to move in the direction of arrow 101. Also, the dust box unit 40 is configured to be detachable from the frame 105 (see FIG. 11) as in the first embodiment. Note that the cleaning device 100 of the second embodiment does not have the tires 23 and casters 24 like the cleaning device 20 of the first embodiment.

[0063] FIG. 9B is a partial side view. Unlike the first embodiment, the cleaning device 100 has an attachment 120 that regulates the position of the first attracting rotator 60 relative to the floor surface F. Therefore, the attachment 120 is fixed to the conveying device 1 so that the position adjustment in the direction of arrow 102 shown in FIG. 9B can be adjusted by adjusting the attachment position. As a result, for example, if the floor surface F is very uneven, the downward movement in the direction of arrow 102 can be increased, so that the first attracting rotator 60 is inserted deeper into the floor surface F. Furthermore, for example, if the floor surface F is not very dirty, the downward movement in the direction of arrow 102 can be reduced, so that the first attracting rotator 60 is inserted shallower into the floor surface F. Note that the position adjustment in the direction of arrow 102 may be achieved by providing a height adjustment screw (not shown) or a means for automatically detecting the distance from the cleaning surface and operating the device. The cleaning device 100 has a control board 112 as a control means, and the control board 112 receives information read by the RFID sensor 7 of the conveying device 1 from the conveying device 1 and controls the operation of the cleaning device 100 based on the received information.

[0064] FIG. 10(a) is a diagram omitting the attachment cover 121, control board 112, wireless device, and other cables shown in FIG. 9(a). Inside are a movable plate 130, a motor 132, and a spiral shaft 131. The forward and reverse rotation of the motor 132 rotates the spiral shaft 131, thereby moving the movable plate 130 in the direction of arrow 101 (widthwise). FIG. 10(b) is a diagram of the attachment 120 viewed from below, showing the movable plate 130 described in FIG. 10(a) extending downward. Also shown are a magnet 133, an interlock switch 134, and a drawer connector 135. The movement in the direction of arrow 102 shown in FIG. 9(b) may be achieved by means of moving the movable plate 130 up and down.

[0065] FIG. 11( a ) is a perspective view of the cleaning device 100, and FIG. 11( b ) illustrates the state with the dust box unit 40 removed. The frame 105 includes a drawer connector 106 and a magnetic surface 107. Gearboxes 110 and 111 house a small motor 113, which receives and transmits power and control information from the drawer connector 106. The gearboxes 110 and 111 also incorporate a gear transmission mechanism (not shown) that transmits drive to the output shaft 32. The cleaning device 100 is connected to the conveying device 1 via an attachment 120 when the magnetic surface 107 attracts the magnet 133 shown in FIG. 11( b ). Furthermore, when an external force greater than a predetermined value is applied to the cleaning device 100, the magnet 133 disengages from the magnetic surface 107, allowing the device to be released. The control board 12 of the conveying device 1 is configured to detect whether the cleaning device 100 is connected using an interlock switch 134.

[0066] In the second embodiment, the frame 105 is configured to be releasable from the attachment 120. This is because the cleaning device 100 is operated continuously for a long period of time, and a release portion is determined so that when the motor 113 of the gear box 110 in FIG. 11(b) wears out, it can be easily replaced for service. The motor 113 drives the rotation of the first attraction rotor 60. The control board 112 also controls the motor 113, so in the second embodiment, the rotation speed and forward / reverse direction of the motor 113 can also be controlled by the control board 112. [Movement of the cleaning device]

[0067] 12(a) and 12(b) are top views illustrating the movement of the cleaning device 100 connected to the transport device 1. The luggage rack 14 is not shown for illustrative purposes. FIG. 12(a) shows the state when the transport device 1 is traveling straight. The width of the cleaning device 100 is configured to be equal to or smaller than the width of the transport device 1, and is wide enough to clean the ruts 11. This allows it to be used even if the width of the luggage rack 14 is close to the width of the transport device 1. FIG. 12(b) shows the state when the transport device 1 is turning. The cleaning device 100 can move in the direction of arrow 101 by using the attachment 120 described in FIG. 10(a) so that it extends beyond the width of the transport device 1 and travels on the ruts 11.

[0068] The cleaning device 100 can also receive information from the transport device 1, such as the presence or absence of a luggage rack 14, whether the transport device 1 is turning, and the location of the ruts 11 associated with the turning radius, via wireless communication provided on the attachment 120 of the cleaning device 100. This allows for precise control of the cleaning position in the direction of arrow 101. For example, as shown in FIG. 13 , the cleaning device 100 can stop moving in the direction of arrow 101 even when the transport device 1 is turning to prevent the cleaning device 100 from hitting the legs 16 while transporting the luggage rack 14. Furthermore, multiple transport devices 1 can work together to flexibly share and control the cleaning area. Because multiple transport devices 1 travel along a predetermined track, their travel routes may overlap. Therefore, the floor surface F can be efficiently cleaned without connecting the cleaning device to every transport device. To more easily connect the cleaning device to the transport device 1, it is desirable for the cleaning device 100 to have complete control functions, including control, within itself. For example, the cleaning device 100 may be provided with its own detection sensors to detect information such as the presence or absence of the luggage rack 14, the transport speed, and the turning radius.

[0069] In addition, in Example 2, a small motor 113 is mounted on the gearbox 110 shown in FIG. 11B , so the rotation speed can be arbitrarily varied depending on the degree of dirt on the floor surface F and the traveling state of the conveying device 1, thereby optimizing power consumption. In Example 2, the cleaning device 100 is further miniaturized by supplying power from a small battery 13 (see FIG. 2 ) of the conveying device 1 via an attachment 120. The cleaning device 100 can also reverse the rotation of the first attraction rotor 60 using the motor 113. Therefore, for large dust particles that cannot be electrostatically collected, the first attraction rotor 60 can be reversed at a predetermined timing during transport to release the large dust particles rearward. The reason for the rearward release is that if dust particles that cannot be collected or electrostatically collected due to their large size become trapped between the first attraction rotor 60 and the floor surface F, the cleaning efficiency of the cleaning device 100 may decrease.

[0070] As a method for releasing dust of a size that cannot be collected, for example, in Figure 12(a), an angle may be provided between the axle line 160 of the drive tire 3 (not shown in Figure 12) and the axis line 161 of the first adsorptive rotor 60 (not shown in Figure 12). By tilting the axis line 161 with respect to the axle line 160, dust that could not be collected moves rearward along the tilted first adsorptive rotor 60, making it easier to release the dust. Furthermore, a mesh-like dust drop area may be provided in part of the floor surface F on which the conveying device 1 travels, and the dust may fall during conveyance.

[0071] In addition, in the second embodiment, the tires 23 and casters 24 do not come into contact with the floor surface F, so the floor is not soiled with debris adhering to the tires. The conveyance device 1 of the second embodiment can turn with a smaller radius without increasing the size of the device. The cleaning device 20 can be attached to the front and / or rear of the conveyance device 1 in the moving direction Dr.

[0072] As described above, according to the second embodiment, a cleaning device connected to a conveying device in a manufacturing factory or the like can stably collect dust, and can be made compact, low power consumption, and low maintenance.

[0073] Next, a third embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 14 to 16. As shown in Figure 14(a), cleaning device 200 is divided into two cleaning devices, cleaning device 201 and cleaning device 202, located behind conveying device 1, and each is configured to be independently movable in the direction of arrow 203, thereby achieving further miniaturization, torque reduction, and optimization of cleaning position. Explanations of the same parts as in the other embodiments, such as the configuration of the electrostatic cleaning means, will be omitted.

[0074] The cleaning device 201 has a rotor similar to the first adsorptive rotor 60 and a rotor similar to the second adsorptive rotor 61 (corresponding to the first adsorptive means), and a blade similar to the urethane blade 62, but these are not separated into two at the center as in Example 1. The cleaning device 202 also has a rotor similar to the first adsorptive rotor 60 and a rotor similar to the second adsorptive rotor 61 (corresponding to the second adsorptive means), and a blade similar to the urethane blade 62, but these are not separated into two at the center as in Example 1. The cleaning device 201 is provided closer to one end than the center in the width direction, and the cleaning device 202 is provided closer to the other end than the center in the width direction. In other words, the two cleaning devices 201 and 202 are arranged side by side in a direction perpendicular to the movement direction Dr.

[0075] The attachment 220 of the third embodiment also includes a movable plate (first moving means) corresponding to the movable plate 130 that moves the cleaning device 201 in the width direction, and a motor (first driving means) corresponding to the motor 132. The attachment 220 of the third embodiment also includes a movable plate (second moving means) corresponding to the movable plate 130 that moves the cleaning device 202 in the width direction, and a motor (second driving means) corresponding to the motor 132. The sum of the widthwise lengths of the cleaning device 201 and the cleaning device 202 is equal to or less than the widthwise length of the conveying device 1. The cleaning devices 201 and 202 are attached to the front and / or rear of the conveying device 1 in the movement direction Dr. Furthermore, a control board similar to the control board 112 of the second embodiment is also provided in the third embodiment, and the operation of the cleaning devices 201 and 202 is controlled based on information read by the RFID sensor 7 of the conveying device 1. [Movement of the Cleaning Devices]

[0076] Figures 15(a) and 15(b) are top views illustrating the movement of the cleaning device 200 connected to the transport device 1. The luggage rack 14 has been removed for illustrative purposes. Figure 15(a) shows the state in which the transport device 1 is traveling straight ahead. The width of the cleaning devices 201 and 202 is configured to be equal to or smaller than the width of the transport device 1, and the cleaning width of each cleaning device 201 and 202 is optimized to be narrow enough to clean the minimum amount of ruts 11. This allows for further torque reduction by the two motors described above, thereby enabling further power savings. Figure 15(b) shows an example of the state during turning. The attachment 220 has two independent sets of movement mechanism members built in for the direction of arrow 101, as described in Figure 10(a) of the second embodiment. Therefore, compared to the second embodiment, as shown in Figure 15(b), the cleaning devices 201 and 202 can each independently move in the direction of arrow 203. This allows for more optimized movement, and as shown in the figure, the first attraction rotors (not shown) of the cleaning devices 201 and 202 can be moved to positions where they can properly clean the two ruts 11 when rotating.

[0077] Next, FIGS. 16(a) and 16(b) are diagrams illustrating a situation in which only the conveying device 1 rotates under the luggage rack 14. FIG. 16(a) shows a state in which the widthwise positions of the cleaning devices 201 and 202 have been moved inward, as indicated by the arrow 203, compared to FIG. 14(a). FIG. 16(b) is a view of the cleaning device 200 from the bottom. The cleaning devices 201 and 202 are moved to the position shown in FIG. 16(a) to make them more compact. As a result, when the conveying device 1 rotates as indicated by the arrow 205 in FIG. 16(b), the cleaning devices 201 and 202 are located inside the imaginary circle 204 connecting the legs 16 of the luggage rack 14, preventing contact with the legs 16. The configuration of the third embodiment makes it possible to accommodate even smaller luggage racks 14.

[0078] Furthermore, since cleaning device 201 and cleaning device 202 can move independently, the cleaning range can be optimized. Note that, as in Example 2, in Example 3, cleaning device 201 and cleaning device 202 are illustrated as being parallel to the line (not shown) connecting the axles, but this parallelism is not essential, and they may be, for example, in a V-shape as shown in Figure 14(b) or an inverted V-shape as shown in Figure 14(c).

[0079] Here, when the cleaning device 201 and the cleaning device 202 are arranged in a V-shape or an inverted V-shape with respect to the conveying device 1, the rotation axis of the rotor corresponding to the first attracting rotor 60 is inclined with respect to the width direction of the conveying device 1. Therefore, the dust that cannot be collected by the cleaning device 201 or the cleaning device 202 due to electrostatic force does not remain in the cleaning device 201 or the cleaning device 202, but can be released by the diagonal movement.

[0080] As described above, according to the third embodiment, a cleaning device connected to a conveying device in a manufacturing factory or the like can stably collect dust, and can be made compact, consume less power, and require less maintenance. [Cleaning Device]

[0081] Next, a fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 17 to 19. Descriptions of the same parts as in the other embodiments, such as the configuration of the electrostatic cleaning means, will be omitted. The conveying device 1 has at least one pair of drive tires 3, which are arranged symmetrically with respect to the center in the width direction. In the third embodiment, the first attraction rotor 60 and the second attraction rotor 61 are incorporated into the conveying device 1 so as to face the drive tires 3, either forward or backward in the direction of travel Dr.

[0082] FIG. 17( a ) shows the cleaning device 300 positioned within the conveying device 1, behind the drive tires 3 of the conveying device 1. FIG. 17( b ) is a bottom perspective view of the cleaning device 300 attached to the conveying device 1. As in the third embodiment, the cleaning device 300 is independently positioned across the drive tires 3, with a minimum width. By positioning the cleaning device 300 in this position, the ruts 11 on the floor surface F can be reliably cleaned regardless of the turning radius of the conveying device 1. Therefore, control of the widthwise movement of the cleaning device 300 is not required, resulting in a simple configuration. Furthermore, by specializing in cleaning only the ruts 11, the proximity of the drive tires 3 allows for a more precise and narrower cleaning width, thereby enabling lower torque and greater power savings.

[0083] As shown in Fig. 17A, when dust is removed, the dust box unit 310 is attached or detached by moving the cleaning device 300 in the directions of arrows 305 and 306. Fig. 18A shows one side of the dust box unit 310 of the cleaning device 300 moved in the direction of arrow 305, and a handle 315 is present.

[0084] FIG. 18( b ) is a view of the cleaning device 300. A motor 323 is built into a gear box 308 of a frame 307, and drive is output to an output shaft 309 via a gear transmission means. As in the other embodiments, a drive input shaft (not shown) is provided in the dust box unit 310, and drive is transmitted to the first attraction rotor 320 and the second attraction rotor 321 via a drive transmission gear (not shown) in the gear box 302. The frame 307 is provided with positioning bosses 313 and 314 and a rail 316. The dust box unit 310 is inserted and removed along the rail 316, and when attached, is fixed in place by a magnet on a surface 322. For maintenance purposes, the cleaning device 300 is easily detachably connected to the transport device 1 using an attachment (not shown). As in the other embodiments, the cleaning device 300 includes a control board and wireless communication means (not shown), and is powered by a small battery 13 of the transport device 1.

[0085] Next, Figure 19 shows a partial cross-sectional view in the direction of arrow 325 in Figure 17(b). By positioning the air inlet hole 311 of the dust box unit 310 close to the surface of the drive tire 3 and bringing the second adsorptive rotor 321 close to the drive tire 3, it is possible to adsorb dust adhering to the surface of the drive tire 3 and dust kicked up by the drive tire 3. The proximity distance varies depending on the device configuration, but is preferably approximately 10 mm or less. The air inlet hole 311 is also shown in perspective Figure 18 and is the hole exposing the second adsorptive rotor 321. This reduces the amount of dust kicked up by the drive tire 3 of the conveying device 1. Alternatively, the brush surface of the first adsorptive rotor 320 may be brought into contact with the surface of the drive tire 3. By bringing the brush surface of the first adsorptive rotor 320 into contact with the surface of the drive tire 3, the surface of the drive tire 3 can be more easily cleaned.

[0086] In Example 4, the gear box 308 is provided with a motor 323 as a driving means. To simplify the configuration of the cleaning device 300, for example, as shown in FIG. 20 , the output shaft 410 of the drive motor 4 of the transport device 1 may be connected to the gear box 308 by a flexible shaft 400, thereby transmitting the driving force of the transport device 1 to the cleaning device 300. That is, the drive motor 4 of the transport device 1 may serve as a driving means for rotating the first adsorptive rotator 60. In this case, although the rotation of the first adsorptive rotator 60 cannot be controlled, the cleaning device 300 can be operated without receiving power from the small battery 13 (see FIG. 2 ) of the transport device 1, thereby further simplifying the configuration. The term "flexible shaft" refers to a method in which a wire is passed through a grease-filled tube to transmit rotational force from one end to the other end, allowing for flexible transmission even if the transmission path is bent. In addition, in Example 4, the cleaning device 300 is mounted behind the drive tire 3, but it can also be mounted in front of the drive tire 3 if there is enough space. In this case, the components inside the cleaning device 300 should be arranged symmetrically with respect to the drive tire 3 as shown in Fig. 19, and the cleaning device 300 should be provided forward in the direction of movement Dr.

[0087] As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, a cleaning device connected to a conveying device in a manufacturing factory or the like can stably collect dust, and can be made compact, low power consumption, and low maintenance.

[0088] In the above-described embodiment, the rotors are charged by friction between the first attractive rotor 60 and the second attractive rotor 61, but this is not limiting. As a charging means, a charging voltage may be applied to the cleaning device from a power source (small battery 13) included in the conveying device 1 via the drawer connector 135, thereby charging the first attractive rotor 60.

[0089] According to the present invention, there is provided a cleaning device that is connected to a package transport device used in a manufacturing factory, a logistics warehouse, etc., and that collects dust from the travel surface.

[0090] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, the following claims are appended to apprise the public of the scope of the present invention.

[0091] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-147994, filed on September 12, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. A cleaning device for cleaning dust on the running surface of a conveying device, comprising: a connection means for connecting the cleaning device to the conveying device; an adsorption means provided opposite the running surface and having a first rotating body that electrostatically attracts the dust as it rotates during travel; a charging means for charging the adsorption means; a removal means for removing the dust from the first rotating body; and a storage section for storing the dust removed by the removal means.

2. A cleaning device as described in claim 1, wherein the suction means has a second rotating body that contacts the first rotating body and rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the first rotating body to collect the dust adsorbed to the first rotating body.

3. The cleaning device according to claim 1, wherein said suction means is inclined with respect to the direction of travel of said cleaning device.

4. The cleaning device according to claim 2, wherein the potential difference between the dust and the second rotating body is greater than the potential difference between the dust and the first rotating body.

5. The cleaning device according to claim 2, wherein said charging means charges said attracting means by friction between said first rotating body and said second rotating body.

6. A cleaning apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said transport device has a power source, and said charging means charges said attracting means by applying a voltage from said power source to said attracting means.

7. The cleaning device according to claim 2, wherein the second rotating body electrostatically collects dust in the air.

8. A cleaning device as described in claim 1, wherein the conveying device has at least one set of wheels arranged in a width direction perpendicular to the direction of movement, and the adsorption means electrostatically adsorbs dust on a path traveled by each of the wheels on the traveling surface.

9. A cleaning device as described in claim 1, comprising: a set of wheels arranged forward of the suction means in the direction of movement, the set of wheels arranged in a width direction perpendicular to the direction of movement; and a transmission means for transmitting the rotation of the set of wheels to the first rotating body, wherein the first rotating body rotates by the transmission of the rotational force of the set of wheels moving in the direction of movement via the transmission means.

10. A cleaning device as described in claim 9, wherein the conveying device has a magnetized connecting means at a rear end in the moving direction, and the connecting means magnetically connects to the connecting means at a front end in the moving direction.

11. A cleaning device as described in claim 10, further comprising: a rotation axis between said connecting means and said set of wheels, said rotation axis being perpendicular to said running surface; and a surface intersecting said rotation axis, said suction means rotating about said rotation axis in accordance with the turning motion of said conveying device.

12. The cleaning device according to claim 1, wherein at least two of said suction means are provided in the width direction perpendicular to the moving direction.

13. The cleaning device according to claim 12, further comprising two suction means, the two suction means being disposed so as to be inclined in opposite directions with respect to the width direction perpendicular to the moving direction.

14. The cleaning device according to claim 1, comprising: an intake port through which air flows in to collect dust in the air; and an exhaust port through which the air flowing in from the intake port flows out.

15. The cleaning device according to claim 1, wherein the suction means has an outer diameter at its ends greater than that at its central portion in the width direction perpendicular to the moving means.

16. The cleaning device according to claim 1, further comprising a drive means for driving the rotation of said first rotating body.

17. The cleaning device according to claim 16, comprising: when the driving means is a first driving means, a moving means for moving the suction means in a width direction perpendicular to the moving direction of the conveying device; and a second driving means for driving the moving means.

18. The cleaning device according to claim 16, further comprising an adjustment means for adjusting the position of said suction means in a direction perpendicular to said traveling surface.

19. The cleaning device described in claim 1, wherein the suction means has a first suction means provided at one end side of the center in a width direction perpendicular to the movement direction, and a second suction means provided at the other end side of the center, and the cleaning device further comprises a first moving means for moving the first suction means in the width direction, a first driving means for driving the first moving means, a second moving means for moving the second suction means in the width direction, and a second driving means for driving the second moving means, wherein the sum of the length of the first suction means in the width direction and the length of the second suction means in the width direction is less than or equal to the length of the conveying device in the width direction.

20. A cleaning device according to any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein the cleaning device is mounted in front of and / or behind the transport device in the direction of movement.

21. A cleaning device as described in claim 2, wherein the conveying device has at least one set of wheels arranged in a width direction perpendicular to the direction of movement, and the suction means is incorporated into the conveying device in front of or behind the set of wheels in the direction of movement, so that the second rotating body faces the wheels.

22. The cleaning device according to claim 21, further comprising a drive means for rotating said first rotor.

23. The cleaning device according to claim 21, wherein the transport device has a drive means for rotating the first rotating body.

24. A cleaning device as described in claim 17 or claim 19, wherein a memory member storing position-related information is attached to the traveling surface, the transport device has a reading unit that reads the information from the memory member, and the cleaning device is equipped with a control means that controls the operation of the cleaning device based on the information read by the reading unit.

25. The cleaning device according to claim 2, wherein the removing means is a blade abutting against the surface of the second rotating body.

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