Cleaner station

Abstract

The present invention relates to a cleaner station comprising: a housing; a coupling part provided on the housing and to which a dust container of the cleaner is coupled; a dust collecting motor disposed in the housing and below the coupling part and providing a flow force for collecting dust in the dust container; a dust collecting part which is disposed below the dust collecting motor and into which dust in the dust container is collected; and a dust collection channel through which the inner space of the coupling part and the dust collecting part communicate with each other. Therefore, the present invention guides a flow for dust collection in the same direction as a cyclone flow direction of the cleaner so that an efficiency of dust separation can be increased.

Description

Vacuum station

[0001] The present invention relates to a vacuum cleaner station, and more particularly, to a vacuum cleaner station capable of collecting dust from a dust bin of a vacuum cleaner when the vacuum cleaner is placed thereon.

[0002]

[0003] In general, a vacuum cleaner is a home appliance that uses electricity to suck up air and fills a dust bin inside the product with small pieces of trash or dust. It is commonly called a vacuum cleaner.

[0004] These vacuum cleaners can be categorized into manual vacuum cleaners, which the user moves to clean, and automatic vacuum cleaners, which clean by moving around on their own. Manual vacuum cleaners can be categorized by type, including canister vacuum cleaners, upright vacuum cleaners, handheld vacuum cleaners, and stick vacuum cleaners.

[0005] In the past, canister-type vacuum cleaners were widely used in household vacuum cleaners, but recently, handheld vacuum cleaners and stick vacuum cleaners that provide the dust bin and vacuum cleaner body as an integrated unit, which improves ease of use, are being widely used.

[0006] The canister-type vacuum cleaner has a main body and suction inlet connected by a rubber hose or pipe, and in some cases, a brush can be inserted into the suction inlet for use.

[0007] Handheld vacuum cleaners maximize portability. They are lightweight, but their short length limits the cleaning area they can be used in while seated. Therefore, they are used for cleaning small areas, such as desks, sofas, or inside cars.

[0008] Stick vacuums can be used standing up, allowing for cleaning without bending down. This makes them ideal for moving around and cleaning large areas. While handheld vacuums are suitable for cleaning tight spaces, stick vacuums can clean wider areas and reach high, out-of-reach places. Recently, stick vacuums have been offered in modular configurations, allowing users to actively adapt the vacuum to suit a variety of applications.

[0009] However, conventional handheld vacuum cleaners and stick vacuum cleaners had a small dustbin capacity for storing collected dust, which was inconvenient for users to have to empty the dustbin every time.

[0010] Additionally, there was a problem that when the dustbin was emptied, dust would fly around, which had a harmful effect on the user's health.

[0011] Additionally, there was a problem that the suction power of the vacuum cleaner was reduced if the remaining dust in the dustbin was not removed.

[0012] Additionally, there was a problem of bad odor caused by residue if the remaining dust in the dustbin was not removed.

[0013] To solve this problem, international patent publication WO 2023 / 214166A1 discloses a docking station that collects dust stored in the dust bin of a vacuum cleaner.

[0014] The above docking station has an intermediate chamber for guiding dust stored in the dust bin to a dust bag, and a hole is formed on the intermediate chamber.

[0015] Accordingly, when the vacuum cleaner's dust bin is opened, dust can fall downwards due to gravity and be stored in the dust bag.

[0016] On the other hand, multiple holes are formed along the circumference on the outside of the dustbin, and when the suction motor is operated, outside air is drawn in and creates a cyclonic flow inside the dustbin.

[0017] Meanwhile, when the suction motor is operated while the dustbin is connected to the docking station, the docking station sucks in air from the outside of the dustbin through the hole in the middle chamber and sucks it into the dustbin of the vacuum cleaner.

[0018] However, in the case of the above-mentioned docking station, although dust can be emptied by gravity, the dust collection path through which dust is discharged from the dust bin to the docking station and the exhaust path through which air inside the docking station is discharged to the suction motor by the suction force of the suction motor exist in the same space. Therefore, there is a high possibility of vortices, etc. occurring inside the dust bin or chamber, and there is a limit to dust being scattered to the outside when the dust bin and docking station are separated.

[0019] Additionally, there is a limit to how much dust remaining inside the middle chamber of the dust bin and docking station can cause the suction motor to malfunction as it flows toward the suction motor.

[0020]

[0021] The present invention was created to improve the problems of the conventional vacuum cleaner, vacuum cleaner station, and vacuum cleaner system as described above, and its purpose is to provide a vacuum cleaner station that can collect dust from a dust bin of a vacuum cleaner using a suction motor provided in the vacuum cleaner.

[0022] Additionally, the purpose is to provide a vacuum cleaner station that can prevent dust from flying when the dust bin is emptied.

[0023] Additionally, the purpose is to provide a vacuum cleaner station that opens the dustbin cover of the vacuum cleaner when the vacuum cleaner is coupled to the vacuum cleaner station.

[0024] In addition, the purpose is to provide a vacuum cleaner station that can eliminate odor caused by residue by preventing residual dust from remaining in the dust bin.

[0025]

[0026] In order to achieve the above-described purpose, a cleaner station according to the present invention comprises: a housing; a coupling part provided in the housing and to which a dust bin of a cleaner is coupled; a dust collecting motor disposed within the housing, disposed lower than the coupling part, and providing a fluid force to collect dust within the dust bin; a dust collecting part disposed lower than the dust collecting motor, for collecting dust within the dust bin; and a dust collecting passage connecting an internal space of the coupling part and the dust collecting part.

[0027] At this time, the connecting portion may be connected to one end of the length of the dust bin, and a guide path may be formed to guide the flow of air discharged from the dust bin.

[0028] At this time, the above guide euro can be connected to the above dust collection euro.

[0029] Additionally, the guide euro may be formed along the inner circumferential surface of the joint.

[0030] Meanwhile, the dust collection path may be positioned radially outside the guide path.

[0031] Meanwhile, the vacuum cleaner station according to the present invention may further include a dust separation unit that is disposed within the dust collection unit and separates dust from the air flowing in from the dust bin.

[0032] Meanwhile, the cleaner station according to the present invention further includes a dust collecting motor housing that accommodates the dust collecting motor therein, and the dust collecting motor housing may be formed with an exhaust port that discharges air that has passed through the dust collecting unit.

[0033] At this time, the exhaust port may be positioned above the lower end of the dust collection path.

[0034] At this time, the upper end of the dust collecting path may be connected to the outer surface of the coupling portion, and the lower end of the dust collecting path may be connected to the outer surface of the dust collecting portion.

[0035] Meanwhile, the dust collecting motor may be placed between the upper end of the dust collecting path and the lower end of the dust collecting path.

[0036] Meanwhile, the rotation direction of the air flowing through the guide path may be the same as the rotation direction of the air flowing inside the dustbin.

[0037]

[0038] As described above, the vacuum cleaner station according to the present invention has the effect of eliminating the inconvenience of the user having to empty the dust bin every time.

[0039] Additionally, when the dust bin is emptied, the dust inside the dust bin is sucked into the vacuum cleaner station, which has the effect of preventing dust from flying around.

[0040] Additionally, when the vacuum cleaner is connected to the vacuum cleaner station, it has the effect of opening the dustbin's discharge cover.

[0041] Additionally, it has the effect of increasing the dust separation efficiency by guiding the flow for dust collection in the same direction as the cyclone flow direction of the vacuum cleaner.

[0042] Additionally, it has the effect of eliminating bad odors caused by residue by preventing residual dust from remaining in the dustbin.

[0043]

[0044] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cleaning system comprising a cleaning station and a cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a cleaning station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] FIG. 3 is a drawing for explaining the arrangement of a guide path and a dust collection path in a cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining the flow of air in a cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of Figure 5.

[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] When describing the present invention, terms such as "first" and "second" may be used to describe various components. However, these components may not be limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one component from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the present invention, the first component could be referred to as the "second component," and similarly, the second component could also be referred to as the "first component."

[0054] The term "and / or" may include any combination of multiple related listed items or any one of multiple related listed items.

[0055] When a component is referred to as being "connected" or "connected" to another component, it can be understood that it is directly connected or connected to that other component, but that there may be other components in between. Conversely, when a component is referred to as being "directly connected" or "connected" to another component, it can be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0056] The terminology used in this application is solely for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and is not intended to limit the present invention. Singular expressions may include plural expressions, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0057] In this application, terms such as “include” or “have” are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in the specification, and can be understood as not excluding in advance the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0058] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. Terms defined in commonly used dictionaries, such as those defined in the present application, may be interpreted to have a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and, unless explicitly defined herein, may not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense.

[0059] In addition, the following examples are provided to more completely explain to a person having average knowledge in the art, and the shapes and sizes of elements in the drawings may be exaggerated for clearer explanation.

[0060]

[0061] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cleaning system comprising a cleaning station and a cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] Referring to FIG. 1, a vacuum cleaner system (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention is described as follows.

[0063] A cleaner system (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a cleaner station (100) and a cleaner (200).

[0064] At this time, a cleaner (200) may be mounted on the cleaner station (100). Specifically, a dust bin (220) of the cleaner (200) may be coupled to the cleaner station (100). At this time, the internal space of the dust bin (220) may be communicated with a path formed in the cleaner station (100). In addition, the path formed in the cleaner station (100) may be communicated with the internal space of the main body housing (211) of the cleaner (200). Accordingly, when the suction motor (216) of the cleaner (200) is operated, the cleaner station (100) may collect dust in the dust bin (220).

[0065]

[0066] Meanwhile, FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 3 illustrates a drawing for explaining the arrangement of a guide path and a dust collection path in a cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 4 illustrates a drawing for explaining the flow of air in a cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] Referring to FIGS. 2 to 4, a cleaner station (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described as follows.

[0068] A vacuum cleaner (200) can be coupled to the vacuum cleaner station (100). Specifically, a dust bin (220) of the vacuum cleaner (200) can be coupled to the vacuum cleaner station (100).

[0069] The cleaner station (100) may include a housing (110). The housing (110) may form the exterior of the cleaner station (100). Specifically, the housing (110) may be arranged in an up-down direction.

[0070] The housing (110) includes a housing body (111). The housing body (111) is provided with a coupling portion (120), and at least a portion of the cleaner (200) can be mounted thereon. In addition, the housing body (111) can be positioned at a predetermined height from the floor. At this time, a dust collection portion (150) can be positioned between the housing body (111) and the floor.

[0071] For example, the housing body (111) may be in the shape of a cylinder or polygonal pillar formed along the overall vertical direction. At this time, at least a portion of the cleaner (200) may be mounted on the upper side of the housing body (111), and a dust collection unit (150) may be coupled to the lower side of the housing body (111).

[0072] The housing body (111) may have a space formed therein that can accommodate components of the cleaner station (100). Specifically, a coupling part (120), a dust collecting motor (180), and a dust collecting motor housing (170) may be arranged inside the housing body (111).

[0073] The housing (110) may further include a bottom support plate (112).

[0074] The floor support plate (112) is placed at the lowest part of the vacuum cleaner system (1) and can support the entire vacuum cleaner system (1).

[0075] At this time, the floor support plate (112) is placed to face the floor and can support the cleaner station (100) by making contact with the floor. Here, the floor can mean not only the outdoor ground but also the floor surface of each floor within the building.

[0076] Meanwhile, the floor support plate (112) can be positioned parallel to the floor, or it can be positioned at a predetermined angle relative to the floor. This configuration has the advantage of balancing the overall weight even when the vacuum cleaner (200) is coupled to the vacuum cleaner station (100).

[0077] The floor support plate (112) may be formed to have a wider area than the horizontal plane area of ​​the housing body (111). In addition, the floor support plate (112) may be formed to extend further forward than the housing body (111). Through this, the floor support plate (112) may be arranged vertically below the nozzle (260) of the cleaner when the cleaner (200) is placed. Accordingly, even if foreign substances such as dust fall from the nozzle (260) of the cleaner, they fall onto the floor support plate (112), thereby preventing the floor from being contaminated.

[0078] It is preferable that the floor support plate (112) be arranged symmetrically to maintain the left-right balance and front-back balance on which the vacuum cleaner (200) is mounted. For example, the floor support plate (112) may be a rectangular or oval plate.

[0079] Meanwhile, for the purpose of understanding this embodiment, the direction is defined as follows. In this embodiment, the direction can be defined while the cleaner (200) is mounted on the cleaner station (100).

[0080] At this time, the direction in which the suction unit (212) of the vacuum cleaner is positioned relative to the dustbin mounting portion (130) of the vacuum cleaner station (100) can be referred to as the front (see FIG. 1). In addition, the direction in which the support frame (113) is positioned relative to the dustbin mounting portion (130) can be referred to as the rear. In addition, the left and right can be defined based on a view looking forward from the rear.

[0081] The housing (110) further includes a support frame (113).

[0082] The support frame (113) is connected to the outer surface of the housing body (111) and may be formed in an up-down direction. For example, the support frame (113) may be formed in a polygonal column shape. In this case, at least one side of the support frame (113) may be formed in a curved shape.

[0083] The upper part of the support frame (113) can be connected to the dustbin mounting part (130), and the lower part can be combined with the floor support plate (112).

[0084] With this configuration, the support frame (113) is supported by the bottom support plate (112) and can support the housing body (111) and the dustbin mounting portion (130).

[0085]

[0086] The vacuum cleaner station (100) may include a coupling part (120) to which a vacuum cleaner (200) is coupled. Specifically, the coupling part (120) is placed inside the housing body (111), and a dust bin (220) of the vacuum cleaner (200) may be coupled.

[0087] For example, the upper part of the coupling part (120) may be formed in a cylindrical shape. At this time, the dust bin (220) of the vacuum cleaner may be inserted and coupled to the inner surface (121) of the coupling part (120). At this time, the inner diameter of the inner surface (121) may be the same as the outer diameter of the dust bin (220) or slightly larger than the outer diameter of the dust bin (220). Accordingly, the dust bin (220) may be inserted and supported in the inner surface (121).

[0088] At this time, the axial length (height) of the inner surface (121) may be formed differently depending on the location. For example, the height of the portion positioned forward among the inner surface (121) may be smaller than the height of the portion positioned rearward. Through this, sufficient rotational space can be provided when the discharge cover (222) is opened.

[0089] Meanwhile, a push portion (122) that is formed to be sunken radially outward on the rear surface of the inner surface (121) of the connecting portion (120) can be formed. Through this, when the dust bin (220) is inserted into the connecting portion (120), a cover opening lever (221b) for opening and closing the dust bin (220) can be accommodated.

[0090] At this time, the push part (122) can pressurize the cover opening lever (221b) when the dust bin (220) is inserted into the inner surface (121).

[0091] Therefore, according to the present invention, the discharge cover (222) of the dust bin (220) can be automatically opened simply by the user's action of connecting the dust bin (220) to the connecting portion (120).

[0092] In particular, there is an advantage in that the dustbin (220) can be automatically opened only by the physical force of the user combining the dustbin (220) without a special driving device.

[0093] Meanwhile, the coupling part (120) may include a guide passage (123). The guide passage (123) may guide the flow of air discharged from the dust bin (220).

[0094] The guide path (123) may be formed along the circumferential direction on the inner surface (121) of the joint part (120). The guide path (123) may be positioned lower than the dust bin (220) in the joint part (120).

[0095] The connecting portion (120) can be connected to the guide passage (123) of the dust bin (220) when the discharge cover (222) is opened. Therefore, when the discharge cover (222) is opened, dust inside the dust bin (220) can flow into the connecting portion (120). That is, the space formed on the radially inner side of the inner surface (121) can become a dust inlet.

[0096] Accordingly, when the dust collecting motor (180) is operated, the air inside the dust bin (220) can flow in a cyclonic manner along the circumferential direction within the dust bin (220) and can flow in a cyclonic manner along the guide passage (123). At this time, the direction of cyclone flow within the dust bin (220) and the direction of cyclone flow along the guide passage (123) can be the same.

[0097] Meanwhile, the guide passage (123) may be connected to the dust collection passage section (160). That is, the discharge port of the guide passage (123) may be the inlet port of the dust collection passage section (160).

[0098]

[0099] Meanwhile, the cleaner station (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention further includes a dustbin mounting portion (130). The dustbin mounting portion (130) may be formed to extend upward from the housing (110). Specifically, the dustbin mounting portion (130) may be formed to extend upward from a portion of the rear side of the housing body (111) and may be connected to the support frame (113). Accordingly, the dustbin mounting portion (130) may form the exterior of the cleaner station (100) together with the housing (110).

[0100] The dustbin mounting portion (130) includes a mounting surface. The mounting surface is formed to extend upward from the housing body (111) and can be positioned facing at least a portion of the outer surface of the dustbin (220) of the vacuum cleaner and / or the outer surface of the main body housing (211).

[0101] The mounting surface may be formed to correspond to the shape of the dustbin (220) and / or the main body housing (211). For example, when the dustbin (220) and / or the main body housing (211) are formed in a cylindrical shape, the mounting surface (131) may be formed to have the same curvature as the outer surface of the dustbin (220) and / or the main body housing (211). Through this, when the dustbin (220) is coupled to the coupling portion (120), the mounting surface may surround at least a portion of the dustbin (220) and / or the main body housing (211).

[0102] With this configuration, when the vacuum cleaner (200) is mounted on the joint (120), the dustbin mounting portion (130) can stably support the vacuum cleaner (200).

[0103]

[0104] The vacuum cleaner station (100) is placed within the housing (110) and includes a dust separation unit (140) that separates dust from the air flowing in from the dust bin (220).

[0105] The dust separation unit (140) may be placed on the lower side of the coupling unit (120). The dust separation unit (140) may be placed inside the dust collection unit (150).

[0106] The dust separation unit (140) can be connected to the dust collection path (161). The dust separation unit (140) can separate dust that flows into the dust collection unit (150) through the dust collection path (161). The dust separation unit (140) can be connected to the dust collection unit (150).

[0107] For example, the dust separation unit (140) may be a cyclone capable of separating dust by cyclonic flow. In addition, the dust separation unit (140) may be communicated with the dust collection path unit (160). Therefore, the air and dust introduced through the dust collection path unit (160) flow spirally along the inner surface of the dust collection unit (150) and are introduced into the dust separation unit (140). In addition, the air and dust introduced into the dust separation unit (140) may separate the dust again while spirally flowing within the dust separation unit (140). That is, the dust separation unit (140) may be a multi-cyclone.

[0108] Accordingly, the dust separated through the dust separation unit (140) moves downward by gravity and is stored in the dust collection unit (150), and the air from which the dust has been separated rises and can be introduced into the dust collection motor housing (170).

[0109]

[0110] The vacuum cleaner station (100) is placed within a housing (110) and includes a dust collection unit (150) in which dust from a dust bin (220) is collected.

[0111] The dust collector (150) is positioned at the lower side of the coupling part (120) and can collect dust from the dust bin (220). Specifically, the dust collector (150) can be detachably coupled to the lower side of the housing body (111). For example, the dust collector (150) can be inserted and coupled between the housing body (111) and the bottom support plate (112). In addition, the dust collector (150) can be separated from the housing (110) and empty the stored dust.

[0112] The dust collection unit (150) may be in the form of a cylinder with a closed bottom. That is, the dust collection unit (150) may be a dust bin. For example, the dust collection unit (150) may be in the form of a cylinder with a closed bottom. In this case, a dust separation unit (140) may be arranged inside the dust collection unit (150).

[0113] Meanwhile, the dust collecting unit (150) may be arranged in at least a portion of the dust collecting passage unit (160). For example, the dust collecting unit (150) may be connected to the lower portion of the dust collecting passage unit (160). Accordingly, the internal space of the dust collecting unit (150) may be communicated with the dust collecting passage unit (160).

[0114] Therefore, dust that is introduced together with air through the dust collection path (160) can be separated in the dust separation section (140) and captured in the dust collection section (150).

[0115]

[0116] The vacuum cleaner station (100) includes a dust collection path (160). The dust collection path (160) can connect the internal space of the dust bin (220) and the dust collection unit (150). At this time, the upper end of the dust collection path (161) can be connected to the outer surface of the coupling unit (120), and the lower end of the dust collection path (161) can be connected to the outer surface of the dust collection unit (150).

[0117] The upper part of the dust collection path (160) may be placed inside the housing body (111). The lower part of the dust collection path (160) may be placed inside the dust collection unit (150). The dust collection path (160) may be placed to connect the outer surface of the coupling unit (120) and the outer surface of the dust collection unit (150).

[0118] For example, the dust collection path (160) may be formed in a tube shape, and a dust collection path (161) may be formed inside. For example, the upper end of the dust collection path (160) may be connected to the coupling part (120). Accordingly, the upper end of the dust collection path (161) may be in communication with the internal space of the coupling part (120). In addition, the lower end of the dust collection path (160) may be connected to the dust collection unit (150). Accordingly, the lower end of the dust collection path (161) may be in communication with the internal space of the dust collection unit (150).

[0119] Meanwhile, the dust collection path (161) may be formed in a form that is bent at least once. Specifically, the upper end of the dust collection path (161) may be formed in a form that is bent downward after being connected radially outward in the internal space of the joint (120).

[0120] Specifically, the dust collection path section (160) may be positioned radially outside the guide path (123) formed in the joint section (120). For example, at least a portion of the dust collection path section (160) may be connected along a tangential direction based on the guide path (123) formed along the circumferential direction.

[0121] Through this, air that was guided by the guide path (123) and flowing in the circumferential direction can be introduced into the dust collection path section (160) by receiving centrifugal force. In this case, there is an effect of minimizing the loss of the path that may occur in the process of introducing the air from the guide path (123) to the dust collection path (161).

[0122] In addition, the dust collection path (160) may be formed in a shape that is bent downward from the guide path (123). Through this, the flow velocity can be strengthened during the process of air descending by gravity, and the dust separation effect can be improved by the cyclone flow.

[0123] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, the dust collection path part (160) is illustrated as extending to the rear of the coupling part (120), but is not limited thereto, and may extend to the front of the coupling part (120) or to the left and right sides of the coupling part (120). That is, the dust collection path part (160) is not restricted in the extension direction as long as it extends radially outward based on the guide path (123) of the coupling part (120).

[0124] In addition, the lower end of the dust collection path (161) may be bent so that air is discharged along the circumferential direction on the inner surface of the dust collection unit (150) rather than being opened downward. Through this, there is an effect of preventing dust discharged from the dust bin (220) from flowing backward and generating a cyclone flow during the process of being introduced into the dust collection unit (150).

[0125]

[0126] The dust collecting motor (180) is placed within the housing (110) and can provide a fluid force to collect dust within the dust bin (220). The dust collecting motor (180) can generate a suction force in the dust collecting path (161). That is, the dust collecting motor (180) can provide a suction force to suck dust within the dust bin (220) into the dust collecting unit (150).

[0127] The dust collecting motor (180) can generate suction force by rotation. For example, although not shown, the dust collecting motor (180) may include a rotor and a stator that rotate relative to each other when power is applied, and an impeller that rotates around a rotation axis according to the rotation of the rotor. Accordingly, suction force can be generated by the rotation of the impeller.

[0128] At this time, the shaft of the dust collection motor (180) can be arranged along a direction perpendicular to the ground.

[0129] The dust collecting motor (180) may be positioned lower than the coupling part (120). Specifically, the dust collecting motor (180) may be positioned lower than the coupling part (120), but higher than the dust collecting part (150). In addition, the dust collecting motor (180) may be positioned between the upper end of the dust collecting passage (161) and the lower end of the dust collecting passage (161).

[0130] Therefore, when the dust collecting motor (180) is operated, the air discharged from the dust bin (220) can be drawn in from above the dust collecting motor (180), flow downward from the dust collecting motor (180), and then flow upward to the dust collecting motor (180).

[0131] Through this, the separation efficiency for separating dust from the air can be maximized.

[0132]

[0133] The dust collecting motor housing (170) can accommodate a dust collecting motor (180) therein. The dust collecting motor housing (170) can be placed inside the housing body (111). The dust collecting motor housing (170) can be placed lower than the coupling part (120), but higher than the dust collecting unit (150).

[0134] An exhaust port (190) may be formed in the dust collecting motor housing (170). The exhaust port (190) may discharge air that has passed through the dust collecting unit (150). In addition, an exhaust port may be formed in the housing body (111). The exhaust port of the housing body (111) may be communicated with the dust collecting motor housing (170). Specifically, the exhaust port may be communicated with the internal space of the dust collecting motor housing (170).

[0135] At this time, the exhaust port (190) may be positioned above the lower portion of the dust collection path (161). Through this, the separation efficiency for separating dust from the air can be maximized.

[0136]

[0137] Meanwhile, FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 6 shows a cross-sectional view of FIG. 5.

[0138] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, a cleaner (200) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described as follows.

[0139] The vacuum cleaner (200) may refer to a vacuum cleaner that is manually operated by a user. For example, the vacuum cleaner (200) may refer to a handheld vacuum cleaner or a stick vacuum cleaner.

[0140] Meanwhile, in the embodiment of the present invention, the direction of the vacuum cleaner (200) can be defined based on the time when the bottom surface (lower surface) of the battery (240) is placed on the ground.

[0141] At this time, the front refers to the direction in which the dustbin (220) is placed based on the suction motor (216), and the rear may refer to the opposite direction of the front. In addition, when looking at the dustbin (220) from the suction motor (216), the direction in which it is placed on the right may be referred to as the right, and the direction in which it is placed on the left may be referred to as the left. In addition, in the embodiment of the present invention, the upper and lower sides may be defined along the direction perpendicular to the ground when the bottom surface (lower surface) of the battery (240) is placed on the ground.

[0142] The vacuum cleaner (200) may include a vacuum cleaner body (210). The vacuum cleaner body (210) may include a body housing (211), a suction unit (212), a dust separation unit (213), a connection path (214), a filter (215), a suction motor (216), and a handle (217).

[0143] The main body housing (211) may form the exterior of the vacuum cleaner (200). The main body housing (211) may provide a space capable of accommodating a suction motor (216) and a filter therein. The main body housing (211) may be configured in a shape similar to a cylinder.

[0144] Specifically, a suction motor (216) may be placed inside the main body housing (211). For example, a motor housing may be placed inside the main body housing (211), and a suction motor (216) may be placed inside the motor housing.

[0145] An air intake port (211a) may be formed in the main body housing (211). External air may be introduced into the main body housing (211) through the air intake port (211a). Air introduced through the air intake port (211a) may flow within the main body housing (211) and be introduced into the suction motor (216).

[0146] When the cleaner (200) is coupled to the cleaner station (100), the air intake port (211a) can be positioned facing the exhaust port (132). In addition, when the cleaner (200) is coupled to the cleaner station (100), the air intake port (211a) can be positioned inside the sealer (135).

[0147] An exhaust port (211b) may be formed in the main body housing (211). An exhaust port (211b) may be formed on the outer circumferential surface of the main body housing (211). Air discharged from the suction motor (216) may be discharged to the outside of the main body housing (211) through the exhaust port (211b).

[0148] A control unit (211c) may be arranged in the main body housing (211). The control unit (211c) may be arranged on the outer surface of the main body housing (211). The control unit (211c) may be composed of a plurality of buttons, and when a user presses a corresponding button, a corresponding command may be executed. The user may input an operation or stop command for the vacuum cleaner (200) through the control unit (211c).

[0149]

[0150] The suction unit (212) is arranged on the lower side of the main body housing (211) and the dust bin (220), and may protrude outward from the dust bin (220). For example, the suction unit (212) may be formed in a cylindrical shape with an open interior. The suction unit (212) may be coupled to an extension pipe (250). The suction unit (212) may provide a suction path through which air containing dust may flow.

[0151] Meanwhile, in the vacuum cleaner (200) according to the embodiment of the present invention, the suction part (212) may be formed along a direction parallel to the rotation axis of the suction motor (216). Accordingly, the flow path inside the suction part (212) may be formed along a direction parallel to the longitudinal direction of the dust bin (220), and then bent to be connected to the dust bin (220).

[0152] The dust separation unit (213) may be equipped with one or more cyclones capable of separating dust by cyclone flow.

[0153] The dust separation unit (213) is a configuration that applies the principle of a dust collector that uses centrifugal force to separate dust sucked into the interior of the vacuum cleaner body (210) through the suction unit (212). That is, the dust separation unit (213) refers to a space where a cyclone flow that rotates along the inner surface of the dust bin (220) occurs, and the dust separation unit (213) may refer to a portion of the space inside the dust bin (220).

[0154] The dust separation unit (213) can be communicated with the suction unit (212). The dust separation unit (213) can separate dust sucked into the interior through the suction unit (212). The space inside the dust separation unit (213) can be communicated with the space inside the dust bin (220).

[0155] The cyclone flow generated in the dust separation unit (213) may be due to the suction power of the suction motor (216).

[0156] The cyclone flow generated in the dust separation unit (213) can be formed in a spiral shape along the inner circumference of the dust bin (220). That is, the air sucked in through the suction unit (212) flows in a spiral shape along the inner circumference of the dust bin (220), thereby allowing a cyclone flow to occur in the internal space of the dust separation unit (213).

[0157] The dust separation unit (213) may include a second cyclone unit that separates dust again from the air that flows around the inner circumference of the dust bin (220). That is, the second cyclone unit can filter out small dust.

[0158] At this time, the dust separation unit (213) may be positioned inside the dust bin (220). The dust separation unit (213) may be positioned in front of the suction motor (216).

[0159] The second cyclone section may include a plurality of cyclone bodies arranged in parallel. Therefore, the cyclone flow generated in the second cyclone section may be formed inside the cyclone bodies.

[0160] The axis of the cyclone flow generated in the dust separation unit (213) can be arranged parallel to the rotation axis of the suction motor (216).

[0161] The connecting passage (214) is arranged between the dust separation unit (213) and the suction motor (216), and can guide air passing through the dust separation unit (213) to the suction motor (216).

[0162] Meanwhile, a filter (215) may be placed on the connecting passage (214). The filter (215) may filter the air that passes through the dust separation unit (213) and flows into the suction motor (216). For example, the filter (215) may be a pre-filter. This may prevent foreign substances from flowing into the suction motor (216) and causing damage to the suction motor (216).

[0163] The suction motor (216) can generate a suction force to suck in air. The suction motor (216) can be accommodated within the main body housing (211). The suction motor (216) can generate a suction force by rotation. For example, the suction motor (216) can be provided in a shape similar to a cylinder.

[0164] At this time, cyclone flow may be generated by the suction force of the suction motor (216).

[0165] Specifically, when the suction motor (216) is operated, the air sucked through the suction unit (212) by the suction force of the suction motor (216) can generate a cyclone flow in the dust separation unit (213).

[0166] Meanwhile, a filter may be placed radially outside the suction motor (216). The filter may be a HEPA filter. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent foreign substances from being included in the air discharged from the suction motor (216).

[0167] The handle (217) can be gripped by the user. For example, the handle (217) may be formed in a cylindrical shape. Alternatively, the handle (217) may be formed in a curved cylindrical shape. The handle (217) may be positioned at a predetermined angle with respect to the main body housing (211), the suction motor (216), or the dust separation unit (213).

[0168] The handle (217) is formed in a pillar shape so that the user can hold it, the upper part of the handle (217) can be connected to the main body housing (211), and the lower part of the handle (217) can be connected to the battery coupling part to which the battery (240) is coupled.

[0169]

[0170] The vacuum cleaner (200) may include a dust bin (220). The dust bin (220) may be connected to a suction unit (212). A dust separation unit (213) may be arranged inside the dust bin (220). The dust bin (220) may store dust separated from the dust separation unit (213).

[0171] The dustbin (220) may include a dustbin body (221), a discharge cover (222), a dustbin compression lever, and a compressor.

[0172] The dustbin body (221) can provide a space for storing dust separated from the dust separation unit (213). For example, the dustbin body (221) can be formed in a shape similar to a cylinder.

[0173] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, the longitudinal direction of the dustbin body (221) may be arranged parallel to the rotation axis of the suction motor (216). In addition, the longitudinal direction of the dustbin body (221) may be arranged parallel to the longitudinal direction of the suction unit (212).

[0174] The front surface of the dustbin body (221) can be opened. A hinge part (221a) and a cover opening lever (221b) can be arranged on the dustbin body (221). The hinge part (221a) can be arranged on the front lower side of the dustbin body (221). The dustbin body (221) and the discharge cover (222) can be rotatably coupled through the hinge part (221a). The hinge part (221a) can provide a rotation axis of the discharge cover (222) with respect to the dustbin body (221).

[0175] The dustbin (220) may include a discharge cover (222). The discharge cover (222) may be positioned at the front end of the dustbin (220).

[0176] The discharge cover (222) may be provided to open and close one longitudinal end of the dustbin body (221). Specifically, the discharge cover (222) may selectively open and close the front end of the dustbin (220) that opens forward.

[0177] The discharge cover (222) can be formed to block the front surface of the dustbin body (221). The discharge cover (222) can rotate forward based on the hinge portion (221a).

[0178] The discharge cover (222) can be connected to the dustbin body (221) through a hook connection. Meanwhile, the discharge cover (222) can be separated from the dustbin body (221) through a cover opening lever (221b). The cover opening lever (221b) can be positioned at the front upper side of the dustbin body (221). When an external force is applied, the cover opening lever (221b) can release the hook connection between the discharge cover (222) and the dustbin body (221).

[0179] The dustbin (220) may include a dustbin compression lever. The dustbin compression lever may be disposed outside the dustbin (220). The dustbin compression lever may be disposed outside the dustbin (220) to move forward and backward. The dustbin compression lever may be connected to a compressor. When the dustbin compression lever moves forward due to an external force, the compressor may also move forward. This may provide convenience to the user. The compressor and the dustbin compression lever may return to their original positions by an elastic member (not shown). Specifically, when the external force applied to the dustbin compression lever is removed, the elastic member may move the dustbin compression lever and the compressor backward.

[0180] The compressor can be placed inside the dustbin body (221). The compressor can move in the internal space of the dustbin body (221). Specifically, the compressor can move back and forth inside the dustbin body (221). Through this, the compressor can compress dust inside the dustbin body (221) forward. In addition, when the discharge cover (222) is separated from the dustbin body (221) and the front of the dustbin (220) is opened, the compressor can move from the rear to the front of the dustbin (220) to remove foreign substances such as residual dust inside the dustbin (220). Through this, the suction power of the vacuum cleaner can be improved by preventing residual dust from remaining inside the dustbin (220). In addition, by preventing residual dust from remaining inside the dustbin (220), an unpleasant odor caused by the residual matter can be eliminated.

[0181] The vacuum cleaner (200) may include a battery coupling portion. A battery (240) may be coupled to the battery coupling portion. The battery coupling portion may be positioned on the lower side of the handle (217).

[0182] The battery (240) can be removed through the battery connector.

[0183] The vacuum cleaner (200) may include a battery (240).

[0184] For example, the battery (240) can be detachably coupled to the vacuum cleaner coupling part.

[0185] The battery (240) stores electric energy and can supply power to each component including the suction motor (216) of the vacuum cleaner (200). The battery (240) can be placed at the bottom of the handle (217).

[0186] The vacuum cleaner (200) may include an extension pipe (250). The extension pipe (250) may be connected to a vacuum cleaner nozzle (260). The extension pipe (250) may be connected to a vacuum cleaner body (210). The extension pipe (250) may be connected to a suction part (212) of the vacuum cleaner body (210). The extension pipe (250) may be formed in a cylindrical shape.

[0187] The vacuum cleaner body (210) can generate suction force through a suction motor (216) and provide suction force to the vacuum cleaner nozzle (260) through an extension tube (250). External dust can enter the vacuum cleaner body (210) through the vacuum cleaner nozzle (260) and the extension tube (250).

[0188] The vacuum cleaner (200) may include a vacuum cleaner nozzle (260). The vacuum cleaner nozzle (260) may be connected to an extension tube (250). Accordingly, external air may be drawn into the vacuum cleaner body (210) through the vacuum cleaner nozzle (260) and the extension tube (250) by the suction force generated in the vacuum cleaner body (210).

[0189]

[0190] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the flow of air flowing through the vacuum cleaner system (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0191] When the vacuum cleaner (200) is connected to the vacuum cleaner station (100), the dust bin (220) is inserted into the inner surface (121) of the connection part (120). At this time, the cover opening lever (221b) is pressed by the push part (122), and the discharge cover (222) is opened.

[0192] In addition, the main body housing (211) can be positioned to face the mounting surface.

[0193] When the dust collecting motor (180) is operated, external air can be introduced into the dust bin (220) through the cleaner nozzle (260), the extension pipe (250), and the suction unit (212). The air introduced into the dust bin (220) can flow inside the dust bin (220) and clean the inside of the dust bin (220). Thereafter, the air containing dust can be introduced into the internal space of the coupling unit (120) and flow along the guide path (123) and the dust collecting path (161) to flow through the dust separation unit (140) of the cleaner station (100). In this process, the dust contained in the air is separated, the dust is stored in the dust collecting unit (150), and the air can flow upward to the dust collecting motor housing (170). The air passing through the dust collecting motor housing (170) can be discharged to the outside through the exhaust port (190).

[0194]

[0195] 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.

[0196] 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. Housing; A coupling part provided in the above housing and to which the dust bin of the vacuum cleaner is coupled; A dust collecting motor disposed within the housing, positioned lower than the coupling portion, and providing a fluid force to collect dust within the dust bin; A dust collecting unit positioned below the dust collecting motor and capturing dust from the dust bin; and A dust collection path connecting the internal space of the above-mentioned joint and the above-mentioned dust collection unit; A cleaning station including:

2. In paragraph 1, The above joint is, A vacuum cleaner station characterized in that one longitudinal end of the dust bin is connected and a guide path is formed to guide the flow of air discharged from the dust bin.

3. In paragraph 2, The above guide euro is, A vacuum cleaner station characterized in that it is connected to the above dust collection path.

4. In paragraph 2, The above guide euro is, A cleaner station characterized by being formed along the inner surface of the above-mentioned joint.

5. In paragraph 2, The above dust collection path is, A cleaner station characterized in that it is positioned radially outside the above guide euro.

6. In paragraph 1, A dust separation unit disposed within the above dust collection unit and separating dust from the air flowing in from the dust bin; A cleaner station that includes more.

7. In paragraph 1, A dust collecting motor housing that accommodates the dust collecting motor inside; Including more, The above dust collection motor housing, A vacuum cleaner station characterized in that an exhaust port is formed to discharge air that has passed through the dust collecting unit.

8. In paragraph 7, The above exhaust port is, A cleaner station characterized in that it is positioned above the lower side of the above dust collection path.

9. In paragraph 1, A cleaner station characterized in that the upper end of the dust collection path is connected to the outer surface of the coupling portion, and the lower end of the dust collection path is connected to the outer surface of the dust collection unit.

10. In paragraph 1, The above dust collecting motor, A cleaner station characterized in that it is positioned between the upper part of the dust collection path and the lower part of the dust collection path.

11. In paragraph 2, The rotation direction of the air flowing through the above guide euro is: A vacuum cleaner station characterized by the same rotational direction as that of air flowing inside the dustbin.

12. Housing; A coupling part provided in the above housing and to which the dust bin of the vacuum cleaner is coupled; A dust collecting unit positioned below the above-mentioned connecting portion and in which dust from the dust bin is collected; A guide path formed inside the above-mentioned joint to guide the flow of air along the circumferential direction; and A dust collecting passage connected radially outward from the above guide passage and connecting the coupling portion and the dust collecting portion; A cleaning station including:

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