Cleaning device, cleaning base station, cleaning system, descaling method for cleaning device, computer program product, and computer-readable storage medium

Abstract

A cleaning device (1000), comprising a cleaning component (100), a first clean water source (200), a first water treatment component (300), and a first descaling apparatus (400). The first water treatment component (300) is configured to treat water flowing through the first water treatment component (300). The first descaling apparatus (400) is connected to the first water treatment component (300). The cleaning device (1000) has a descaling mode. In the descaling mode, the first descaling apparatus (400) separates scale on the first water treatment component (300) from the first water treatment component (300); and water from the first clean water source (200) can flow into the first water treatment component (300) and discharge water containing scale from the first water treatment component (300).

Description

A cleaning device, a cleaning base station, a cleaning system, a method for descaling the cleaning device, a computer program product, and a computer-readable storage medium.

[0001] A cleaning device, a cleaning base station, a cleaning system, a method for descaling the cleaning device, a computer program product, and a computer-readable storage medium.

[0002] Cross-reference to related applications

[0003] This application claims priority to Chinese patent application No. 2024112153980, filed on August 30, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0004] This disclosure relates to the technical field of cleaning equipment, and more particularly to a cleaning device, a cleaning base station, a cleaning system, a descaling method for the cleaning device, a computer program product, and a computer-readable storage medium. Background Technology

[0005] Cleaning equipment contains internal water treatment components to process the water flowing through it. For example, a robotic vacuum cleaner has a heater to heat the water flowing through it. Because the water contains calcium and magnesium ions, these ions form limescale when heated. This limescale adheres to the inner surface of the heater, affecting heating efficiency. Over time, the limescale can detach and accumulate inside the heater, causing blockages; or the detached limescale can be ejected with hot water or steam, clogging the water or steam outlet pipes. If the cleaning equipment continues to generate steam in the event of a blockage, it may cause excessive internal pressure, leading to a risk of high-temperature steam leakage, posing a significant safety hazard. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This disclosure provides a cleaning device, a cleaning base station, a cleaning system, a method for descaling the cleaning device, a computer program product, and a computer-readable storage medium, which aims to at least partially solve the technical problem of internal blockage of cleaning devices caused by scale buildup.

[0007] The first aspect of this disclosure provides a cleaning device, comprising: a cleaning component; a first water treatment component adapted to treat water flowing through the first water treatment component; a first clean water source for containing water and in fluid communication with the cleaning component through the first water treatment component; and a first descaling device connected to the first water treatment component; the cleaning device has a descaling mode, wherein in the descaling mode: the first descaling device removes scale from the first water treatment component, water from the first clean water source flows into the first water treatment component and discharges water containing scale from the first water treatment component.

[0008] A second aspect of this disclosure provides a clean base station, comprising: a second clean water source for containing water; a second water treatment component adapted to treat water flowing through the second water treatment component; the second water treatment component being in fluid communication with the second clean water source; and a second descaling device connected to the second water treatment component; the clean base station having a descaling mode, wherein in the descaling mode: the second descaling device removes scale from the second water treatment component; water from the second clean water source flows into the second water treatment component and discharges water containing scale from the second water treatment component.

[0009] This disclosure provides a third aspect of a cleaning system, including the cleaning equipment described in any embodiment of the first aspect and / or the cleaning base station described in any embodiment of the second aspect.

[0010] This disclosure provides a fourth aspect of a method for descaling a water treatment component of a cleaning device, based on any embodiment of the first aspect described above. The cleaning device includes a first water treatment component, a first clean water source, and a first descaling device. The method includes: responding to a working command, controlling the first descaling device to detach scale from the first water treatment component; controlling the first clean water source to supply water to the first water treatment component, so that the detached scale dissolves into the water to form wastewater; and discharging the scale-containing wastewater from the first water treatment component.

[0011] The fifth aspect of this disclosure provides a computer program product including computer instructions stored in a computer-readable storage medium and adapted to be read and executed by a processor to cause a computer device having said processor to perform the method provided in any embodiment of the fourth aspect of this application.

[0012] The sixth aspect of this disclosure provides a computer-readable storage medium storing at least one piece of program code, which is loaded and executed by a processor to perform the operations performed by the method provided in any embodiment of the fourth aspect of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0013] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this disclosure, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are some embodiments of this disclosure. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0014] Figure 1 shows a perspective structural diagram of a cleaning device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0015] Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of the first internal structure of a cleaning device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0016] Figure 3 shows a schematic diagram of the second internal structure of a cleaning device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 4 illustrates a first workflow diagram of a cleaning device for removing scale according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0018] Figure 5 shows a schematic diagram of the third internal structure of a cleaning device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0019] Figure 6 illustrates a second workflow diagram of a cleaning device for removing scale according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0020] Figure 7 shows a flowchart of the process of cleaning base stations removing scale according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0021] Figure 8 illustrates a third workflow diagram of a cleaning device for removing scale according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0022] Figure 9 shows a schematic flowchart of a descaling method for a cleaning device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0023] The correspondence between the reference numerals and component names in the attached drawings is as follows:

[0024] 100. Cleaning components;

[0025] 200. First clean water source; 210. First water pump;

[0026] 300. First water treatment component;

[0027] 400. First descaling device; 410. First conveying component; 411. First storage container; 412. First conveying pump; 420. First transducer;

[0028] 500. First filter component;

[0029] 600. Housing; 610. Disassembly / removal hole;

[0030] 710. Flow pipe; 720. Suction pump; 730. Sewage tank; 740. First directional valve;

[0031] 800. Scale detection device;

[0032] 102. Fluid outlet; 2400. Second descaling device; 2410. Second conveying component; 2411. Second storage container; 2412. Second conveying pump;

[0033] 750. Conveying pipeline; 760. First inlet; 770. Second inlet; 780. First outlet; 790. Suction pipeline;

[0034] 12. Second clean water source; 14. Second water treatment component; 16. Second reversing valve; 18. Recycling tank; 22. Third inlet; 24. Fourth outlet; 26. Sewage pipe; 28. Second water pump; 32. Water delivery pipe;

[0035] 1000, Cleaning equipment; 2000, Base station; 3000, Cleaning system. Embodiments of the present invention

[0036] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this disclosure will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this disclosure, and not all of them. Based on the embodiments of this disclosure, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this disclosure.

[0037] Furthermore, reference numerals and / or reference letters may be repeated in different examples in this disclosure. Such repetition is for simplification and clarity purposes and does not in itself indicate a relationship between the various embodiments and / or settings discussed. In addition, this disclosure provides examples of various specific processes and materials, but those skilled in the art will recognize the application of other processes and / or the use of other materials.

[0038] Cleaning equipment typically includes a primary water treatment unit to process the water flowing through it. For example, a robotic vacuum cleaner has a heater inside, using heated water to clean the floor and improve cleaning efficiency. Because the water contains calcium and magnesium ions, these ions form limescale when heated. This limescale adheres to the inner surface of the heater, affecting heating efficiency. Over time, the limescale can detach and accumulate inside the heater, causing blockages. This detached limescale can also accumulate inside the cleaning equipment, potentially obstructing water flow and affecting its normal operation. In the event of a blockage, if the cleaning equipment continues to generate steam, it may cause excessive internal pressure, leading to a risk of high-temperature steam leakage and posing a significant safety hazard.

[0039] The technical solutions of this disclosure are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments.

[0040] A first aspect of this disclosure provides a cleaning device 1000. Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the cleaning device 1000 includes a cleaning component 100, a first clean water source 200, a first water treatment component 300, and a first descaling device 400. The first water treatment component 300 is adapted to treat water flowing through it. The first clean water source 200 is used to contain water and is in fluid communication with the cleaning component 100 through the first water treatment component 300. The first descaling device 400 is connected to the first water treatment component 300 and is adapted to remove scale from the first water treatment component 300. Water from the first clean water source 200 can flow into the first water treatment component 300 and water containing scale can be discharged from the first water treatment component 300.

[0041] Water from the first clean water source 200 flows to the first water treatment unit 300. The first water treatment unit 300 treats the water flowing through it and then flows to the cleaning unit 100. The cleaning unit 100 can clean the surface to be cleaned. In the descaling mode, after the first descaling device 400 separates the scale from the first water treatment unit 300, water from the first clean water source 200 flows to the first water treatment unit 300 to discharge the scale-containing water from the first water treatment unit 300.

[0042] In descaling mode, the first descaling device 400 can be used to treat the scale on the first water treatment component 300, so that the scale is removed from the first water treatment component 300, avoiding the scale from affecting the normal operation of the first water treatment component 300. Then, water is introduced into the first water treatment component 300, and the force of the water flow carries the treated scale away from the first water treatment component 300, thus achieving the purpose of cleaning the scale. In this embodiment of the present disclosure, the first descaling device 400 is used to treat the scale attached to the first water treatment component 300, so that the scale on the first water treatment component 300 is removed from the first water treatment component 300. Then, water is introduced into the first water treatment component 300 through the first clean water source 200, so that the water flow carries away the scale, avoiding the scale remaining inside the first water treatment component 300.

[0043] In normal operation, the cleaning equipment 1000 can use the cleaning component 100 to clean the surface to be cleaned, which is generally the ground, wall, glass, or building facade. The first clean water source 200 sends water to the first water treatment component 300, which treats the water before sending it to the cleaning component 100 to ensure cleaning effectiveness. The first clean water source 200 supplies water to the first water treatment component 300 to remove scale inside the first water treatment component 300. Without adding extra components, scale inside the first water treatment component 300 can be cleaned without excessively increasing the size of the cleaning equipment 1000, which is beneficial for the lightweight design of the cleaning equipment 1000 and makes it easy to move. In addition, the above settings can also improve the integration of the cleaning equipment 1000 and reduce production costs. By utilizing the original first clean water source 200 of the cleaning equipment 1000, the scale in the first water treatment component 300 is discharged from the first water treatment component 300, which helps to maintain the original structural layout of the cleaning equipment 1000 and reduces the workload of structural design.

[0044] In some embodiments, the first descaling device is suitable for dissolving or breaking down the scale in the first water treatment component. By dissolving or breaking down the scale, the scale in the first water treatment component is separated from the first water treatment component, which is beneficial for discharging the scale outside the first water treatment component. By dissolving or breaking down the scale, the structure of the scale can be destroyed so that the scale can be separated from the first water treatment component without damaging the first water treatment component.

[0045] This embodiment may include a first water pump 210, which is installed on the first clean water source 200. The power of the first water pump 210 is used to transport water from the first clean water source 200 to the first water treatment component 300.

[0046] In some embodiments, the first clean water source is at least one of a first clean water tank and an external water source. The first clean water tank can be installed on the cleaning equipment 1000 so as to descale the first water treatment component or supply water to the cleaning component anytime and anywhere. The external water source can be an external water supply system, etc.

[0047] Cleaning equipment 1000 can include sweeping robots, floor scrubbers, etc.

[0048] Referring to Figure 2, in some embodiments, the first descaling device 400 includes a first conveying component 410, which is in communication with the first water treatment component 300 and is adapted to deliver a descaling agent to the first water treatment component 300 to dissolve scale.

[0049] The first conveying component 410 delivers the descaling agent to the first water treatment component 300, where it reacts with the scale to dissolve it, thus achieving the effect of removing scale. The descaling agent can flow evenly across the surface of the first water treatment component 300, including hard-to-reach fine areas, ensuring thorough removal of scale and avoiding scale residue. The descaling agent dissolves scale through a chemical reaction, acting relatively gently on the equipment surface and avoiding surface damage or scratches caused by mechanical cleaning. Using the first conveying component 410 to deliver the descaling agent to dissolve scale eliminates the need to disassemble the equipment, allowing cleaning to be performed while the cleaning equipment 1000 is running, saving time and costs associated with disassembly and reassembly. The descaling agent can quickly dissolve scale, improving the efficiency of scale removal.

[0050] In related technologies, scale easily forms in the first water treatment component during long-term operation. Water flowing out of the first water treatment component may carry the scale into other downstream pipes or downstream parts, causing blockages. In this embodiment, after dissolving the scale with a descaling agent, water from the first clean water source 200 is introduced into the first water treatment component 300, where it mixes with the scale and residual descaling agent to form wastewater. The wastewater is discharged into the downstream pipes or downstream parts. During this process, the residual descaling agent in the wastewater can react with the scale in the downstream pipes or downstream parts, which helps to clear the water passage.

[0051] Referring to Figure 2, in some embodiments, the first conveying component 410 includes a first storage container 411 and a first conveying pump 412. The first storage container 411 is suitable for storing descaling agent, eliminating the need for frequent addition of descaling agent by the user. The first conveying pump 412 conveys the descaling agent stored in the first storage container 411 to the first water treatment component 300. The first conveying pump 412 is suitable for conveying the descaling agent to the first water treatment component 300 and provides power for the transportation of the descaling agent.

[0052] In some embodiments, the descaling agent may be a weakly acidic solvent, such as at least one of acetic acid, citric acid, glycolic acid, formic acid, lactic acid, phosphoric acid, aminosulfonic acid, and hydrochloric acid.

[0053] Referring to Figure 3, in some embodiments, the first descaling device 400 includes a first transducer 420, which is capable of removing or inhibiting scale using sound waves.

[0054] The first transducer 420 can convert electrical energy into sound waves, which can be used to break down and remove scale. Alternatively, the energy generated by sound waves or vibrations can be used to prevent scale formation. The first transducer 420 can be an ultrasonic generator. The first transducer 420 acts on the first water treatment component 300, using the energy of ultrasonic waves to decompose and remove scale adhering to the first water treatment component 300, thereby achieving the effect of removing scale.

[0055] The first transducer 420 uses ultrasonic descaling, a non-chemical method that eliminates the need for chemical cleaners or corrosive solvents, thus reducing environmental impact. Ultrasonic waves can directly break down scale on or within the scale surface through vibration, weakening its structure and making it easier to remove. They can also reach areas difficult to access with traditional cleaning methods, such as bends in pipes or tiny pores in complex surfaces. Furthermore, ultrasonic waves are gentler than physical scraping or chemical cleaning, which can damage the surface of the first water treatment component 300. Descaling with ultrasound does not require shutdown or disassembly, saving maintenance time and costs.

[0056] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, in some embodiments, the first water treatment component 300 is a heater suitable for heating water. Using the heater to heat the water flowing through it to a set temperature, and using the higher-temperature water to clean the surface to be cleaned, improves the cleaning effect. Other components such as water pipes or pumps can be installed on the first water treatment component 300 to spray water from the first water treatment component 300 onto the cleaning component 100, thereby increasing the cleaning power of the cleaning component 100. The cleaning component 100 can be a rag or a cleaning brush, etc. In other embodiments, the cleaning device 1000 may also include a steam pipe, where the heater heats the water to form steam, and the steam acts on the surface to be cleaned through the steam pipe. Generally, the heater includes a heating chamber and a heating pipe, with the heating pipe installed in the heating chamber. Heating elements such as resistance wires are installed inside the heating pipe, which heats the water in the heating chamber.

[0057] In addition, the first water treatment component 300 can also be a water filter, which filters the water flowing through it to remove odors, colors and organic matter, making the water cleaner; the first water treatment component 300 can also be a mixing chamber, in which a cleaning agent can be introduced, and the water in the first clean water source 200 flows through the first water treatment component 300 and mixes with the cleaning agent to improve the cleaning effect of the cleaning equipment 1000.

[0058] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2. In some embodiments, the cleaning device 1000 further includes a first filter element 500, which is disposed at the outlet end of the first water treatment element 300 and is suitable for trapping undissolved scale.

[0059] After the first descaling device 400 dissolves or breaks down the scale inside the first water treatment component 300, the scale detaches from the surface of the first water treatment component 300 and is discharged from the outlet end of the first water treatment component 300 along with the water introduced by the first clean water source 200. Since some of the dissolved or broken scale is still solid, it is easy to accumulate in the water passage and cause blockage. A first filter component 500 is installed at the outlet end of the first water treatment component 300. When the incompletely dissolved scale passes through the first filter component 500, it is intercepted by the first filter component 500 to prevent solid scale from clogging the water passage. Figure 4 is a first working diagram of the cleaning device 1000 for removing scale according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0060] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2. In some embodiments, the first filter component 500 includes a filter body and a sludge collection box, which is detachably installed on the filter body. The filter body can filter the water discharged from the outlet of the first water treatment component 300 to intercept solid scale. The sludge collection box can collect the scale for centralized treatment. The sludge collection box is detachably installed on the filter body, which is convenient for disassembly and facilitates cleaning of the intercepted scale.

[0061] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2. In some embodiments, the first filter element 500 is detachably installed at the outlet end of the first water treatment component 300. The first filter element 500 can be cleaned or replaced by directly removing it, thus avoiding the accumulation of solid scale inside the cleaning device 1000.

[0062] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2. In one embodiment, the cleaning device 1000 includes a housing 600, and the cleaning component 100, the first clean water source 200, the first water treatment component 300, the first filter component 500, and the first descaling device 400 are all disposed inside the housing 600. The housing 600 has a disassembly hole 610, through which the first filter component 500 or the dirt collection box of the first filter component 500 can be removed or installed, and the user can clean or replace the first filter component 500 without disassembling the device.

[0063] Please refer to Figures 1 and 2. In some embodiments, the cleaning device 1000 includes a flow pipe 710, a water pump 720, and a wastewater tank 730. The flow pipe 710 is connected to a first water treatment component 300 and is adapted to discharge fluid in the first water treatment component 300 to the surface to be cleaned. The water pump 720 sucks dirt from the surface to be cleaned into the wastewater tank 730.

[0064] The fluid (e.g., clean water) in the first clean water source 200 flows to the surface to be cleaned through the first water treatment component 300 and the flow pipe 710 to clean the surface. The suction pump 720 then collects the dirt on the surface to be cleaned into the wastewater tank 730, completing the cleaning work. During descaling, the first descaling device 400 breaks down or dissolves the scale inside the first water treatment component 300. Water is then introduced into the first water treatment component 300 from the first clean water source 200, causing the scale inside the first water treatment component 300 to dissolve into the water and form wastewater. The flow pipe 710 can carry the wastewater to the surface to be cleaned, and the dust on the surface to be cleaned is dissolved into the wastewater. The suction pump 720 then collects the wastewater on the surface to be cleaned into the wastewater tank 730. By using the flow pipe 710, the suction pump 720, and the wastewater tank 730, the wastewater after descaling can be recycled without hindering the normal operation of the cleaning equipment 1000, and the wastewater after descaling can be reused, improving the water utilization rate.

[0065] For example, the first descaling device 400 includes a first transducer 420, which is an ultrasonic generator. During the normal operation of the cleaning equipment 1000, the flow pipe 710 delivers water flowing through the first water treatment component 300 to the surface to be cleaned. The cleaning component 100 cleans the surface to be cleaned, and the suction pump 720 recovers the water on the surface to be cleaned into the wastewater tank 730. The ultrasonic generator acts on the first water treatment component 300 to break up the scale attached to the first water treatment component 300. The water flowing through the first water treatment component 300 carries the broken scale to the surface to be cleaned through the flow pipe 710 to participate in the cleaning work of the surface to be cleaned, and then flows back into the wastewater tank 730 through the suction pump 720.

[0066] Referring to Figures 3 and 5, in some embodiments, the cleaning device 1000 further includes a first reversing valve 740, a delivery pipe 750, and a wastewater tank 730. The first reversing valve 740 includes a first inlet 760 and at least two first outlets 780. The first inlet 760 is connected to the first water treatment component 300, one of the first outlets 780 is connected to the delivery pipe 750, and the other first outlet 780 is connected to the wastewater tank 730. The delivery pipe 750 is adapted to deliver gas or liquid generated by the first water treatment component 300 to the cleaning component 100.

[0067] In the normal operating mode of the cleaning equipment 1000, the first reversing valve 740 connects the first water treatment component 300 and the delivery pipe 750. Water from the first clean water source 200 is treated by the first water treatment component 300 to produce hot water or steam. The hot water or steam flows through the delivery pipe 750 to the surface to be cleaned. In the descaling mode of the cleaning equipment 1000, the first reversing valve 740 connects the first water treatment component 300 and the wastewater tank 730, allowing wastewater containing scale to be directly discharged into the wastewater tank 730. Alternatively, another first outlet 780 can directly guide the wastewater to a floor drain for discharge. This embodiment utilizes the first reversing valve 740 to allow the operating mode and descaling mode of the cleaning equipment 1000 to be relatively independent. In cases where scale buildup in the first water treatment component 300 is severe, it prevents scale-containing wastewater from carrying scale to the surface to be cleaned, causing secondary pollution. Generally, the first reversing valve 740 is a solenoid valve for convenient control. The cleaning device 1000 may include a suction pipe 790, and a wastewater tank 730 is connected to a first reversing valve 740 through the suction pipe 790. Wastewater in the first water treatment component 300 can flow to the wastewater tank 730 through the first reversing valve 740 and the suction pipe 790. Figure 6 is a second working diagram of the cleaning device 1000 removing scale according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0068] Referring to Figure 2, in some embodiments, the cleaning device 1000 further includes a scale detection device 800, which is suitable for detecting the scale content in the first water treatment component 300; if the scale content is greater than a set value, the first descaling device 400 dissolves or breaks down the scale in the first water treatment component 300.

[0069] The scale detection device 800 can detect the scale content inside the first water treatment component 300 and determine whether to activate the descaling mode based on the scale content. By installing the scale detection device 800, the scale content inside the first water treatment component 300 can be determined without disassembling and inspecting the cleaning equipment 1000, improving the user experience. The cleaning equipment 1000 can automatically activate the descaling mode based on the scale content, and users can also check the scale content inside the first water treatment component 300 through the scale detection device 800 and manually activate the descaling mode accordingly, offering flexible operation.

[0070] In some embodiments, the cleaning device 1000 includes a fluid outlet 102 located near the cleaning component 100, through which the first water treatment component 300 can transport fluid to the cleaning component 100; the scale detection device 800 includes a temperature sensor adapted to detect the fluid temperature at the fluid outlet 102.

[0071] The first water treatment component 300 is a heater that heats water. If too much scale adheres to the surface of the heater, it will affect the heating effect of the heater. In this embodiment, the scale content is determined by measuring the fluid temperature at the fluid outlet 102. If the scale content exceeds the set value, the descaling mode is activated.

[0072] In other embodiments, the user can manually add the descaling agent. The storage container is equipped with a cap for adding the descaling agent, which the user can simply open to add the descaling agent into the heater. Figure 8 is a third operational flowchart of the cleaning device 1000 according to some embodiments of this disclosure for removing scale. The storage container can be a pipe for adding the descaling agent.

[0073] A second aspect of this disclosure provides a clean base station 2000, including a second clean water source 12 and a second descaling device 2400. The second clean water source 12 is used to contain water; a second water treatment component 14 is adapted to treat the water flowing through the second water treatment component 14; the second water treatment component 14 is in fluid communication with the second clean water source 12; the second descaling device 2400 is connected to the second water treatment component 14 and is adapted to detach scale from the second water treatment component 14; water from the second clean water source 12 can flow into the second water treatment component 14, and water containing scale can be discharged from the second water treatment component 14. Figure 7 is a flowchart of the clean base station 2000's process for removing scale.

[0074] In some embodiments, the second descaling device 2400 includes a second conveying component 2410; the second conveying component 2410 is in communication with the second water treatment component 14 and is adapted to deliver a descaling agent to the second water treatment component 14 to dissolve scale; the second conveying component 2410 includes a second storage container 2411 and a second conveying pump 2412, and the descaling agent in the second storage container 2411 can be pumped to the second water treatment component 14 by the second conveying pump 2412.

[0075] Water from the second clean water source 12 flows to the second water treatment component 14. The second water treatment component 14 treats the water flowing through it and then flows to the cleaning equipment 1000 to clean the cleaning components of the cleaning equipment 1000. In descaling mode, after the second descaling device 2400 separates the scale from the second water treatment component 14, water from the second clean water source 12 flows to the second water treatment component 14 to discharge the scale-containing water from the second water treatment component 14.

[0076] In descaling mode, the second descaling device 2400 can be used to treat the scale on the second water treatment component 14, so that the scale is removed from the second water treatment component 14 and the scale is prevented from affecting the normal operation of the second water treatment component 14. Then, water is introduced into the second water treatment component 14, and the force of the water flow carries away the treated scale from the second water treatment component 14, thereby achieving the purpose of cleaning the scale. In this embodiment of the present disclosure, the second descaling device 2400 is used to treat the scale attached to the second water treatment component 14, so that the scale on the second water treatment component 14 is removed from the second water treatment component 14. Then, water is introduced into the second water treatment component 14 through the second clean water source 12, so that the water flow carries away the scale and prevents the removed scale from remaining inside the second water treatment component 14.

[0077] In the normal operating mode of the cleaning equipment 1000, the second water treatment component 14 supplies water to the cleaning equipment 1000 to clean the cleaning components of the cleaning equipment 1000; the second clean water source 12 sends water to the second water treatment component 14, the second water treatment component 14 processes the water and then sends the water to the cleaning equipment 1000; the second clean water source 12 supplies water to the second water treatment component 14 to remove the scale inside the second water treatment component 14. Without adding extra components, the scale inside the second water treatment component 14 can be cleaned without excessively increasing the volume of the cleaning equipment 1000, thereby improving the integration of the cleaning base station 2000 and reducing production costs.

[0078] In some embodiments, the cleaning base station 2000 further includes a second reversing valve 16 and a recycling bin 18. The second reversing valve 16 includes a third inlet 22 and at least two fourth outlets 24. The third inlet 22 is connected to a second water treatment component 14, one of the fourth outlets 24 is connected to a cleaning device 1000, and the other fourth outlet 24 is connected to the recycling bin 18.

[0079] Understandably, in the normal operating mode of the cleaning base station 2000, the second reversing valve 16 connects the second water treatment component 14 and the cleaning equipment 1000, allowing water treated by the second water treatment component 14 to enter the cleaning equipment 1000 or to clean the cleaning components of the cleaning equipment 1000; in the descaling mode of the cleaning base station 2000, the second descaling device 2400 causes the scale in the second water treatment component 14 to detach from the second water treatment component 14, and the clean water in the second clean water tank flows to the second water treatment component 14. The second reversing valve 16 connects the second water treatment component 14 and the recycling tank 18, allowing the wastewater containing scale to flow into the recycling tank 18.

[0080] In some embodiments, the clean base station 2000 includes a sewage pipe 26, which is connected to the second water treatment component 14. The sewage pipe 26 discharges water containing scale from the second water treatment component 14 to the outside. The sewage pipe 26 plays a diversion role and can discharge the sewage in the second water treatment component 14 to an external drainage system such as a floor drain.

[0081] In some embodiments, the second clean water source 12 is at least one of a second clean water tank and an external water source. The second clean water tank can be installed on the cleaning base station 2000 to descale the second water treatment component 14 or to supply water to the cleaning equipment 1000. The external water source can be an external water supply system, etc. The cleaning base station 2000 may include a second water pump 28 to transport water from the second clean water source 12 to the second water treatment component 14.

[0082] In some embodiments, the cleaning base station 2000 further includes a water supply pipe 32, one end of which is connected to the second reversing valve 16 and the cleaning device 1000, so that water treated by the second water treatment component 14 enters the cleaning device 1000 or cleans the cleaning components of the cleaning device 1000.

[0083] A third aspect of this disclosure provides a cleaning system 3000, including a cleaning device 1000 according to any embodiment of the first aspect and / or a cleaning base station 2000 according to any embodiment of the second aspect.

[0084] It is understood that since the cleaning equipment 1000 has the beneficial effects of the above embodiments, the cleaning system 3000 also has the beneficial effects of the above embodiments. The specific implementation method can be referred to the above embodiments, and will not be repeated in this application.

[0085] A fourth aspect of this disclosure provides a descaling method for a cleaning device 1000, based on any embodiment of the first aspect of the cleaning device 1000, the method comprising:

[0086] Step 20: In response to the working command, control the descaling device 400 to remove the scale in the first water treatment component 300 from the first water treatment component 300;

[0087] Step 30: Control the first clean water source 200 to supply water to the first water treatment unit 300, so that the detached scale dissolves into the water to form wastewater;

[0088] Step 40: Discharge the wastewater containing scale from the first water treatment unit 300.

[0089] The descaling device 400 breaks down the structure of the scale on the surface of the first water treatment component 300, causing the scale to detach from the surface of the first water treatment component 300. Then, the first clean water source 200 is controlled to flow water into the first water treatment component 300, so that the detached scale dissolves into the water, which is more conducive to the scale detaching from the first water treatment component 300. The wastewater containing scale is discharged from the first water treatment component 300, and the force of the water flow carries the scale out of the first water treatment component 300, thereby achieving the purpose of removing scale.

[0090] Based on the above embodiments, the first clean water source 200 can flow directly to the first water treatment component 300 by gravity, or the water from the first clean water source 200 can flow to the first water treatment component 300 by the water pump 210.

[0091] In some embodiments, the method further includes steps 11-13.

[0092] In step 11, the user's target input is received.

[0093] In this step, the target input can be the user's input to the descaling switch of the cleaning equipment 1000 or the display screen with control function, or it can be the user's input to the terminal, which is connected to the cleaning equipment 1000 and can be controlled through the terminal.

[0094] The user's target input for the cleaning equipment 1000 can be expressed in at least one of the following ways:

[0095] Firstly, the target input can be in the form of touch input, including but not limited to click input, swipe input, and press input. In this embodiment, receiving the user's target input can be manifested as receiving the user's touch operation on the display area of ​​the screen of the cleaning device 1000.

[0096] Secondly, target input can be represented by physical button input.

[0097] In this embodiment, the cleaning device 1000 is equipped with a physical button for a descaling switch, which receives the user's target input, which can be expressed as receiving the user's input of pressing the corresponding physical button.

[0098] Third, the target input can be expressed as voice input.

[0099] Of course, in other embodiments, the target input received from the user may also take other forms, including but not limited to the user's character input to the terminal, etc. The specific form can be determined according to actual needs, and this disclosure does not limit it.

[0100] For example, when a user presses the descaling switch, the cleaning device 1000 will activate its descaling function after confirming that the descaling switch control signal is turned on.

[0101] In step 12, a work instruction is triggered in response to the target input.

[0102] Upon receiving the user's target input, a working instruction is triggered, causing the descaling device 400 to start working.

[0103] In some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0104] In step 13, the scale content in the first water treatment component 300 is obtained. If the scale content is higher than the set value, a working command is triggered.

[0105] In practice, the set value can be the factory default value or it can be set by the user according to their work requirements.

[0106] Based on the scale content inside the first water treatment component 300, determine whether descaling work needs to be performed.

[0107] Based on this embodiment, a temperature sensor can be installed at the fluid outlet 102 of the cleaning device 1000 or the fluid outlet 102 of the first water treatment component 300. The temperature sensor can be used to obtain the temperature of the fluid inside the first water treatment component 300 to confirm the scale content and determine whether the scale content exceeds a set value. If the temperature of the first water treatment component 300 is low, it indicates that the scale content on the surface of the water treatment component is high. When the scale content exceeds the set value, the descaling device 400 is controlled to start working to break or dissolve the water inside the first water treatment component 300.

[0108] It should be noted that in step 13, the temperature of the fluid inside the first water treatment component 300 is obtained. At this time, the first water treatment component 300 has entered the working state and heats the water flowing through the first water treatment component 300.

[0109] In some embodiments, "controlling the descaling device 400 to remove scale from the first water treatment component 300 in response to an operating command" includes:

[0110] Step 21: Control the descaling device 400 to add descaling agent to the first water treatment component 300 to dissolve the scale.

[0111] The scale inside the water treatment component can be dissolved by the descaling agent, so that the scale adhering to the first water treatment component 300 can be removed from the surface of the first water treatment component 300.

[0112] In some embodiments, "controlling the descaling device 400 to remove scale from the first water treatment component 300 in response to an operating command" includes:

[0113] Step 22: Control the descaling device 400 to break up the scale in the first water treatment component 300 using ultrasonic waves.

[0114] The descaling device 400 is controlled to act on the first water treatment component 300, and the scale structure is broken down by ultrasonic waves, so that the scale is removed from the surface of the first water treatment component 300.

[0115] The inner surface of the first water treatment component 300, which discharges scale-containing wastewater from the first water treatment component 300, also includes:

[0116] Step 41: The cleaning equipment 1000 further includes a first reversing valve 740, a conveying pipe 750, and a wastewater tank 730. The first reversing valve 740 includes a first inlet 760 and at least two first outlets 780. The first inlet 760 is connected to the first water treatment component 300, one of the first outlets 780 is connected to the conveying pipe 750, and the other first outlet 780 is connected to the wastewater tank 730. The conveying pipe 750 is adapted to convey gas or liquid generated by the first water treatment component 300 to the cleaning component 100. The method further includes controlling the first reversing valve 740 to open the wastewater tank 730 and the first water treatment component 300.

[0117] Wastewater in the first water treatment unit 300 can flow to the wastewater tank 730 through the first reversing valve 740, thereby realizing wastewater recycling.

[0118] This disclosure provides a cleaning device, a cleaning base station, a cleaning system, a method for descaling the cleaning device, a computer program product, and a computer-readable storage medium; it aims to at least partially solve the technical problem of internal blockage of cleaning devices caused by scale.

[0119] The first aspect of this disclosure provides a cleaning device, comprising: a cleaning component; a first water treatment component adapted to treat water flowing through the first water treatment component; a first clean water source for containing water and in fluid communication with the cleaning component through the first water treatment component; and a first descaling device connected to the first water treatment component; the cleaning device has a descaling mode, wherein in the descaling mode: the first descaling device removes scale from the first water treatment component, water from the first clean water source flows into the first water treatment component and discharges water containing scale from the first water treatment component.

[0120] In some embodiments, the first descaling device is suitable for dissolving or breaking down the scale on the first water treatment component.

[0121] In some embodiments, the first descaling device includes a first conveying component, which is in communication with the first water treatment component and is adapted to deliver a descaling agent to the first water treatment component to dissolve scale.

[0122] In some embodiments, the first conveying component includes a first storage container and a first conveying pump, the first storage container being adapted to store the descaling agent and the first conveying pump being adapted to deliver the descaling agent to the first water treatment component.

[0123] In some embodiments, the descaling agent includes at least one selected from acetic acid, citric acid, glycolic acid, formic acid, lactic acid, phosphoric acid, aminosulfonic acid, and hydrochloric acid.

[0124] In some embodiments, the first descaling device includes a first transducer capable of using sound waves to break up or suppress scale.

[0125] In some implementations, the first clean water source is a first clean water tank and / or an external water source.

[0126] In some embodiments, the first water treatment component is a heater adapted to heat water.

[0127] In some embodiments, the cleaning device further includes a first filter element disposed at the outlet end of the first water treatment element and adapted to trap undissolved scale.

[0128] In some embodiments, the first filter element includes a filter body and a sludge collection box, the sludge collection box being detachably mounted on the filter body.

[0129] In some embodiments, the first filter element is detachably installed at the outlet end of the first water treatment element.

[0130] In some embodiments, the cleaning device includes a flow pipe, a suction pump, and a wastewater tank; the flow pipe is connected to the first water treatment component and is adapted to discharge fluid from the first water treatment component to the surface to be cleaned; the suction pump sucks dirt from the surface to be cleaned into the wastewater tank.

[0131] In some embodiments, the cleaning device further includes a first reversing valve, a delivery pipeline, and a wastewater tank. The first reversing valve includes a first inlet and at least two first outlets. The first inlet is connected to the first water treatment component, one of the first outlets is connected to the delivery pipeline, and the other first outlet is connected to the wastewater tank. The delivery pipeline is adapted to deliver gas or liquid generated by the first water treatment component to the cleaning component.

[0132] In some embodiments, the cleaning equipment further includes a scale detection device adapted to detect the scale content in the first water treatment component; if the scale content is greater than a set value, the first descaling device dissolves or breaks down the scale in the first water treatment component.

[0133] In some embodiments, the cleaning device further includes a scale detection device and a fluid outlet located near the cleaning component, the first water treatment component being a heater adapted to heat water; the scale detection device includes a temperature sensor adapted to detect the fluid temperature at the fluid outlet.

[0134] A second aspect of this disclosure provides a clean base station, comprising: a second clean water source for containing water; a second water treatment component adapted to treat water flowing through the second water treatment component; the second water treatment component being in fluid communication with the second clean water source; and a second descaling device connected to the second water treatment component; the clean base station having a descaling mode, wherein in the descaling mode: the second descaling device removes scale from the second water treatment component; water from the second clean water source flows into the second water treatment component and discharges water containing scale from the second water treatment component.

[0135] In some embodiments, the cleaning base station further includes a second reversing valve and a recycling bin, the second reversing valve including a third inlet and at least two fourth outlets, the third inlet being connected to the second water treatment component, one of the fourth outlets being connected to a cleaning device, and the other of the fourth outlets being connected to the recycling bin.

[0136] In some embodiments, the cleaning base station includes a drain pipe connected to the second water treatment component, the drain pipe discharging scale-containing water from the second water treatment component to the outside.

[0137] In some implementations, the second clean water source is a second clean water tank and / or an external water source.

[0138] This disclosure provides a third aspect of a cleaning system, including the cleaning equipment described in any embodiment of the first aspect and / or the cleaning base station described in any embodiment of the second aspect.

[0139] This disclosure provides a fourth aspect of a method for descaling a water treatment component of a cleaning device, based on any embodiment of the first aspect described above. The cleaning device includes a first water treatment component, a first clean water source, and a first descaling device. The method includes: responding to a working command, controlling the first descaling device to detach scale from the first water treatment component; controlling the first clean water source to supply water to the first water treatment component, so that the detached scale dissolves into the water to form wastewater; and discharging the scale-containing wastewater from the first water treatment component.

[0140] In some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0141] Receive the user's target input;

[0142] In response to the target input, a working instruction is triggered.

[0143] In some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0144] The scale content in the first water treatment component is obtained. If the scale content is greater than a set value, a working command is triggered.

[0145] In some embodiments, the phrase "in response to a working command, controlling the first descaling device to remove scale from the first water treatment component" includes:

[0146] The first descaling device is controlled to add descaling agent to the first water treatment component, so that the scale dissolves.

[0147] In some embodiments, the phrase "in response to an operating command, controlling the descaling device to remove scale from the first water treatment component" includes:

[0148] The first descaling device is controlled to break up the scale in the first water treatment component using ultrasonic waves.

[0149] In some embodiments, the cleaning equipment further includes a first reversing valve, a delivery pipeline, and a wastewater tank. The first reversing valve includes a first inlet and at least two first outlets. The first inlet is connected to the first water treatment component, one of the first outlets is connected to the delivery pipeline, and the other first outlet is connected to the wastewater tank. The delivery pipeline is adapted to deliver gas or liquid generated by the first water treatment component to the cleaning component. The "discharging scale-containing wastewater from the first water treatment component" further includes:

[0150] Control the first reversing valve to connect the sewage tank and the first water treatment component.

[0151] The fifth aspect of this disclosure provides a computer program product including computer instructions stored in a computer-readable storage medium and adapted to be read and executed by a processor to cause a computer device having said processor to perform the method provided in any embodiment of the fourth aspect of this application.

[0152] The sixth aspect of this disclosure provides a computer-readable storage medium storing at least one piece of program code, which is loaded and executed by a processor to perform the operations performed by the method provided in any embodiment of the fourth aspect of this application.

[0153] The embodiments of the present invention have at least the following beneficial effects:

[0154] Water from the first clean water source flows to the first water treatment unit. The first water treatment unit processes the water flowing through it and then flows to the cleaning unit. The cleaning unit can clean the surface to be cleaned. In descaling mode, the descaling device separates the scale from the first water treatment unit. Water from the first clean water source flows to the first water treatment unit to discharge the scale-containing water from the first water treatment unit.

[0155] In this disclosure, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can include direct contact between the first and second features, or contact between the first and second features through another feature between them. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature includes the first feature directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature includes the first feature directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0156] It should be noted that all directional indications in this embodiment are only used to explain the relative positional relationship and movement of the components in a specific posture. If the specific posture changes, the directional indications will also change accordingly.

[0157] In this disclosure, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "connection," "fixed," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, "fixed" can mean a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; it can mean a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can mean a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it can mean the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise expressly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this disclosure according to the specific circumstances.

[0158] Furthermore, the use of terms such as "first" and "second" in this disclosure is for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying their relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of the stated features. In the description of this disclosure, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0159] Although embodiments of the present disclosure have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the present disclosure, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A cleaning device, comprising: Cleaning components; The first water treatment component is adapted to treat water flowing through the first water treatment component; The first clean water source is used to hold water and is in fluid communication with the cleaning component through the first water treatment component; as well as The first descaling device is connected to the first water treatment component; The cleaning equipment has a descaling mode, in which: the first descaling device separates the scale from the first water treatment component, water from the first clean water source flows into the first water treatment component and discharges the water containing scale from the first water treatment component.

2. The cleaning equipment according to claim 1, wherein, The first descaling device is suitable for dissolving or breaking down the scale in the first water treatment component.

3. The cleaning equipment according to claim 2, wherein, The first descaling device includes a first conveying component, which is connected to the first water treatment component and is adapted to deliver a descaling agent to the first water treatment component to dissolve scale.

4. The cleaning equipment according to claim 3, wherein, The first conveying component includes a first storage container and a first conveying pump. The first storage container is adapted to store the descaling agent, and the first conveying pump is adapted to deliver the descaling agent to the first water treatment component.

5. The cleaning equipment according to claim 4, wherein, The descaling agent includes at least one of acetic acid, citric acid, glycolic acid, formic acid, lactic acid, phosphoric acid, aminosulfonic acid, and hydrochloric acid.

6. The cleaning equipment according to claim 1, wherein, The first descaling device includes a first transducer that can use sound waves to break up or suppress scale.

7. The cleaning equipment according to claim 1, wherein, The first clean water source is the first clean water tank and / or an external water source.

8. The cleaning equipment according to claim 1, wherein, The first water treatment component is a heater, which is suitable for heating water.

9. The cleaning equipment according to claim 1, wherein, The cleaning device further includes a first filter element, which is disposed at the outlet end of the first water treatment element and is suitable for trapping undissolved scale.

10. The cleaning equipment according to claim 9, wherein, The first filter component includes a filter body and a sludge collection box, which is detachably installed on the filter body.

11. The cleaning equipment according to claim 9, wherein, The first filter element is detachably installed at the outlet end of the first water treatment element.

12. The cleaning device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, comprising a flow pipe, a water pump, and a wastewater tank; the flow pipe is connected to the first water treatment component and is adapted to discharge fluid from the first water treatment component to the surface to be cleaned; the water pump draws dirt from the surface to be cleaned into the wastewater tank.

13. The cleaning device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising a first reversing valve, a delivery pipeline, and a wastewater tank, the first reversing valve comprising a first inlet and at least two first outlets, the first inlet being connected to the first water treatment component, one of the first outlets being connected to the delivery pipeline, and the other first outlet being connected to the wastewater tank; the delivery pipeline being adapted to deliver gas or liquid generated by the first water treatment component to the cleaning component.

14. The cleaning equipment according to any one of claims 1 to 11 further includes a scale detection device, the scale detection device being adapted to detect the scale content in the first water treatment component; when the scale content is greater than a set value, the first descaling device dissolves or breaks down the scale in the first water treatment component.

15. The cleaning device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising a scale detection device and a fluid outlet located near the cleaning component, wherein the first water treatment component is a heater adapted to heat water; the scale detection device includes a temperature sensor adapted to detect the fluid temperature at the fluid outlet.

16. A clean base station, comprising: The second clean water source is used to hold water; The second water treatment component is suitable for treating the water flowing through it. The second water treatment component is in fluid communication with the second clean water source; The second descaling device is connected to the second water treatment component; The cleaning base station has a descaling mode, in which the second descaling device removes scale from the second water treatment component. Water from the second clean water source flows into the second water treatment unit and water containing scale is discharged from the second water treatment unit.

17. The cleaning base station according to claim 16, further comprising a second reversing valve and a recycling bin, the second reversing valve comprising a third inlet and at least two fourth outlets, the third inlet being connected to the second water treatment component, one of the fourth outlets being connected to a cleaning device, and the other of the fourth outlets being connected to the recycling bin.

18. The clean base station according to claim 16, comprising a sewage pipe connected to the second water treatment component, the sewage pipe discharging scale-containing water from the second water treatment component to the outside.

19. The clean base station according to claim 16, wherein, The second clean water source is a second clean water tank and / or an external water source.

20. A cleaning system, wherein, It includes the cleaning equipment according to any one of claims 1 to 15 and / or the cleaning base station according to any one of claims 16 to 19.

21. A method for descaling a water treatment component of a cleaning device, the cleaning device comprising a first water treatment component, a first clean water source, and a first descaling device, the method comprising: In response to a working command, the descaling device is controlled to remove scale from the first water treatment component. Control the first clean water source to supply water to the first water treatment component, so that the detached scale dissolves into the water to form wastewater; Wastewater containing scale is discharged from the first water treatment unit.

22. The descaling method for the cleaning equipment according to claim 21 further includes: Receive the user's target input; In response to the target input, a working instruction is triggered.

23. The descaling method for the cleaning equipment according to claim 21 further includes: The scale content in the first water treatment component is obtained. If the scale content is greater than a set value, a working command is triggered.

24. The descaling method for the cleaning equipment according to claim 21, wherein, The phrase "responding to a working command, controlling the first descaling device to remove scale from the first water treatment component" includes: The first descaling device is controlled to add descaling agent to the first water treatment component, so that the scale dissolves.

25. The descaling method for the cleaning equipment according to claim 21, wherein, The phrase "responding to a working command, controlling the first descaling device to remove scale from the first water treatment component" includes: The first descaling device is controlled to break up the scale in the first water treatment component using ultrasonic waves.

26. The descaling method for the cleaning equipment according to claim 21, wherein, The cleaning equipment further includes a first reversing valve, a delivery pipeline, and a wastewater tank. The first reversing valve includes a first inlet and at least two first outlets. The first inlet is connected to the first water treatment component, one of the first outlets is connected to the delivery pipeline, and the other first outlet is connected to the wastewater tank. The delivery pipeline is adapted to deliver gas or liquid generated by the first water treatment component to the cleaning component. The phrase "discharging scale-containing wastewater from the first water treatment component" also includes: Control the first reversing valve to connect the sewage tank and the first water treatment component.

27. A computer program product comprising computer instructions stored in a computer-readable storage medium and adapted to be read and executed by a processor to cause a computer device having said processor to perform the method as claimed in any one of claims 21 to 26.

28. A computer-readable storage medium storing at least one piece of program code, said at least one piece of program code being loaded and executed by a processor to perform the operations performed by the method as described in any one of claims 21 to 26.

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