Cleaner

Abstract

A cleaner is disclosed. The cleaner comprises: an exhaust filter for separating dust from air; and a filter frame for supporting the exhaust filter. The filter frame includes a branch pipe branching off from a flow path of air passing through the exhaust filter. Therefore, the branch pipe can have a slit. The filter frame has a slit structure added thereto, and can replace a conventional filter frame. Peak noise and flow noise of a cleaner motor can be reduced.

Description

vacuum cleaner

[0001] The present invention relates to a vacuum cleaner capable of reducing motor operation noise and flow noise.

[0002] Vacuum cleaners can be classified into manual and automatic types. Manual vacuum cleaners perform cleaning by the user directly moving the device. Automatic vacuum cleaners perform cleaning by driving themselves.

[0003] In addition, manual vacuum cleaners can be classified into canister-type vacuum cleaners, upright-type vacuum cleaners, handheld vacuum cleaners, stick-type vacuum cleaners, etc., depending on the form of the vacuum cleaner.

[0004] The vacuum cleaner includes an impeller and a suction motor that rotates the impeller to provide the driving force for sucking up dust.

[0005] The rotation of the above impeller generates noise from the vacuum cleaner. The noise of the vacuum cleaner includes noise of a uniform frequency depending on the rotation period of the impeller.

[0006] Vacuum cleaner noise is dominated by noise from motor operation and flow noise generated as air (flow) passes through the intake and exits through the exhaust. The main noise caused by the aforementioned motor operation appears as a peak component.

[0007] Flow noise caused by wind manifests in the form of base noise. In particular, in 'Turbo Mode,' the increase in noise due to the increase in rotational speed is pronounced.

[0008] The noise from such vacuum cleaners is generated through the exhaust port; however, since the exhaust port is a hole where air must be expelled, there are limitations to incorporating a soundproof structure. Furthermore, if a soundproof structure blocks the exhaust port due to noise, the increased flow resistance caused by the structure leads to a decrease in the vacuum cleaner's suction performance.

[0009] Korean Registered Patent 10-1088874 B1 (hereinafter referred to as Patent Document 1) discloses a noise reduction device for a vacuum cleaner.

[0010] According to Patent Document 1, a noise reduction device for a vacuum cleaner includes a dustproof cover to absorb vibrations of the fan motor, a soundproof pad to block noise caused by vibrations of the fan motor, and a grille that guides the discharge direction of air in an inclined direction at a preset angle.

[0011] Through this, consumer satisfaction with the product can be improved while minimizing noise generated during the operation of the vacuum cleaner.

[0012] However, while the above dustproof cover and soundproof pad can help reduce the noise of the vacuum cleaner, there is a problem in that the cleaning performance is degraded by reducing the suction power of the vacuum cleaner.

[0013] In addition, Patent Document 1 simply discharges air through an inclined grille, so it has a problem in that it does not have a significant noise reduction effect and fails to improve flow noise (base noise).

[0014] In addition, the noise reduction device of Patent Document 1 is difficult to standardize and make common use of.

[0015] Korean Registered Patent 10-2006-0062145 A (hereinafter referred to as 'Patent Document 2') discloses a noise reduction device for a vacuum cleaner fan motor.

[0016] According to Patent Document 2, the noise reduction device for the fan motor comprises: an internal sound-absorbing material provided on the outside of the fan motor to absorb noise generated from the fan motor; a noise reduction member provided on the outside of the internal sound-absorbing material to surround the fan motor; and an external sound-absorbing material provided on the outside of the noise reduction member to absorb noise generated from the fan motor. A plurality of ventilation holes through which air flows are formed through the outer surface of the noise reduction member.

[0017] However, Patent Document 2 has the problem of increased costs due to the use of internal sound-absorbing materials and external sound-absorbing materials.

[0018] In addition, the noise reduction device according to Patent Document 2 has a complex structure, and since the effect varies depending on the material of the sound-absorbing material, the quality may deteriorate depending on the type of material.

[0019] In addition, the noise reduction device according to Patent Document 2 requires redesign when applied to a handheld vacuum cleaner, and there is a problem in that standardization and commonization are impossible.

[0020] Korean Registered Patent 10-1309678 B1 (hereinafter referred to as 'Patent Document 3') discloses a noise and vibration reduction device for an impeller of a vacuum cleaner.

[0021] However, Patent Document 3 is limited to the impeller noise of a vacuum cleaner and does not improve flow noise (base noise).

[0022] In addition, there are limitations to standardizing various vacuum cleaner products depending on the application location.

[0023] In addition, it is difficult to improve noise in response to changes in peak noise according to the impeller's rotational speed.

[0024] WO 2011 / 111882 A1 (hereinafter referred to as 'Patent Document 4') discloses a suction nozzle of a vacuum cleaner.

[0025] According to Patent Document 4, the suction nozzle comprises: a case portion having a suction hole for dust suction and an inlet hole for air inflow formed therein; a rotating portion provided inside the case portion and rotating by the air flowing in through the suction hole and the inlet hole; a power transmission portion that converts the rotational motion of the rotating portion into linear reciprocating motion; and a punching portion connected to the power transmission portion.

[0026] The above power transmission unit is characterized by being configured to include a camshaft coupled to the above rotating unit and having a phase difference from each other, and a cam connected to the camshaft.

[0027] Through this, the vibration force and amount of vibration of the punching part are increased, and noise generation during cleaning is prevented.

[0028] However, Patent Document 4 reduces noise by reducing mechanical vibration through the phase difference of the camshaft, but it does not reduce the flow noise of the vacuum cleaner and does not have a significant impact when considering the contribution to the overall noise of the vacuum cleaner.

[0029] The objective of the present invention is to provide a vacuum cleaner with a structure capable of solving the aforementioned problems.

[0030] The first objective is to provide a vacuum cleaner with a structure that can reduce noise without reducing the suction power of the vacuum cleaner.

[0031] The second objective is to provide a vacuum cleaner with a structure capable of reducing not only motor operating noise but also flow noise.

[0032] The third objective is to provide a vacuum cleaner with a structure capable of reducing noise without using sound-absorbing materials.

[0033] The fourth objective is to provide a vacuum cleaner with a simple structure that can reduce noise regardless of the material.

[0034] The fifth objective is to provide a vacuum cleaner with a structure that is applicable to handheld vacuum cleaners and can be standardized and shared.

[0035] The sixth objective is to provide a vacuum cleaner with a structure capable of improving noise in response to changes in peak noise according to the impeller's rotational speed.

[0036] As a result of intensive research, the inventors have found that the problem of the present invention or the first to sixth objectives described above can be achieved by the following embodiments of the present invention.

[0037] To achieve the above-mentioned objective, a vacuum cleaner according to the present invention comprises: a main body having a suction portion formed therein; a dust separation portion provided inside the main body for separating dust from air sucked in through the suction portion; a fan module provided downstream of the dust separation portion with respect to the direction of air movement for sucking in the air; an exhaust filter for separating dust from air passing through the fan module; and a filter frame for supporting the exhaust filter.

[0038] The filter frame includes a branch pipe formed to branch out from the airflow path passing through the exhaust filter. Through this, the branch pipe may be provided with a slit. The filter frame is a frame with an added slit structure and can replace a conventional filter frame. This can improve the peak noise and airflow path noise of the vacuum cleaner motor.

[0039] According to one embodiment, one side of the branch pipe may be open and the other side of the branch pipe may be formed to be closed.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the filter frame may further include an exhaust flow guide that changes the flow direction of air passing through the exhaust filter.

[0041] According to one embodiment, the branch pipe comprises: an inner wall portion surrounding the exhaust filter; an outer wall portion disposed on the outside of the inner wall portion; a connecting wall connecting one end of each of the inner wall portion and the outer wall portion; and a slit formed between the inner wall portion and the outer wall portion. An incident wave of noise incident on the slit and a reflected wave of noise reflected by the connecting wall may have opposite phases and cancel each other out.

[0042] According to one embodiment, the inner wall portion surrounds a part of the exhaust filter and can change the flow direction of air passing through the exhaust filter.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the exhaust filter is formed in a cylindrical shape, and the filter frame may include a first filter frame supporting the upper part of the exhaust filter; and a second filter frame provided at the lower part of the first filter frame and supporting the lower part of the exhaust filter.

[0044] The above branch tube may include a first branch tube having a first slit and extending circumferentially along the outer circumference of the first filter frame; and a second branch tube having a second slit and extending circumferentially along the outer circumference of the second filter frame.

[0045] According to one embodiment, an outlet may be formed between the first filter frame and the second filter frame. Air passing through the exhaust filter may move in an upward and downward direction toward the outlet along the inner wall surfaces of the first filter frame and the second filter frame and be discharged through the outlet. Air passing through the first slit and the second slit may be discharged radially through the outlet.

[0046] According to another embodiment, the first filter frame and the second filter frame may be formed in a cylindrical shape. The first slit and the second slit may extend in the longitudinal direction of the first filter frame and the second filter frame.

[0047] The length of the first slit may be longer than the length of the second slit.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the filter frame may include: an upper wall formed to protrude radially from the upper end of the inner wall surface of the first filter frame to surround the upper surface of the exhaust filter; and a lower wall formed to protrude radially from the lower end of the inner wall surface of the second filter frame to surround the lower surface of the exhaust filter.

[0049] According to one embodiment, the filter frame may include an upper support rib protruding downward from the upper wall to surround the upper portion of the inner surface of the exhaust filter; and a lower support rib protruding upward from the lower wall to surround the lower portion of the inner surface of the exhaust filter.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the filter frame may include a plurality of connecting ribs that extend outwardly from one of the first filter frame and the second filter frame toward the other filter frame to connect the first filter frame and the second filter frame.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the fan module may include an impeller that forms the airflow; a suction motor that drives the impeller; and a motor housing disposed inside the exhaust filter and accommodating the suction motor.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the length h of the branch pipe is determined by the following equation, and

[0053]

[0054] The above f is the target frequency, the above c is the speed of sound, and the above N is a natural number.

[0055] The exhaust width t of the above filter frame is determined by the following equation, and

[0056]

[0057] D is the diameter of the filter frame, m is the number of through holes in the motor housing, and A is the cross-sectional area of ​​the through holes in the motor housing.

[0058] According to one embodiment, the filter frame may further include a mounting guide that protrudes radially inward from the upper wall and is mounted on the motor housing.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the main body may include a fan module housing that accommodates the fan module; and a dust collection unit coupled to the lower part of the fan module housing, accommodating the dust separation unit and collecting dust separated by the dust separation unit.

[0060] According to one embodiment, the main body may include an exhaust cover mounted to cover the upper portion of the fan module housing and having an exhaust port; and a dust cover mounted to cover the lower portion of the dust collection unit.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the dust separation unit may include a cyclone that is positioned in the path of air introduced through the suction unit and separates dust using centrifugal force.

[0062] A vacuum cleaner according to another embodiment comprises: a main body having a suction portion formed therein; a dust separation portion provided inside the main body for separating dust from air sucked in through the suction portion; a fan module provided downstream of the dust separation portion with respect to the direction of air movement for sucking in the air; an exhaust filter for separating dust from air passing through the fan module; and a filter frame for supporting the exhaust filter.

[0063] The filter frame may include an exhaust flow guide that changes the flow direction of air passing through the exhaust filter.

[0064] According to one embodiment, the exhaust flow guide may include a first exhaust flow guide surrounding a portion of the exhaust filter; and a second exhaust flow guide disposed outside the first exhaust flow guide and changing the direction of flow of air passing through another portion of the exhaust filter not surrounded by the first exhaust flow guide.

[0065] The first exhaust flow guide and the second exhaust flow guide may be formed to protrude in opposite directions along the longitudinal direction of the filter frame.

[0066] According to one embodiment, the filter frame may include: a lower wall supporting the lower surface of the exhaust filter; a first exhaust flow guide formed to protrude upward from the lower wall to surround the lower outer surface of the exhaust filter; an upper wall supporting the upper surface of the exhaust filter; a second exhaust flow guide spaced apart from the outside of the first exhaust flow guide and formed to protrude downward from the upper wall; and an exhaust flow path formed between the first exhaust flow guide and the second exhaust flow guide, and connected to an exhaust port through which air is finally exhausted to the outside of the main body.

[0067] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the following effects can be achieved.

[0068] First, a slit is provided inside the filter frame. The slit is formed in a cylindrical shape to surround the exhaust filter. The slit is formed between the inner wall and the outer wall. One end along the length of the slit is closed, while the other end along the length of the slit is open.

[0069] The outer wall section is positioned at a constant radial distance from the outer surface of the inner wall section. The outer wall section and the inner wall section are formed as cylindrical shapes with different diameters. One end of the outer wall section along the longitudinal direction and one end of the inner wall section along the longitudinal direction can be connected to each other by a connecting wall. The connecting wall is configured to block one end of the slit.

[0070] The exhaust filter is housed and supported within the filter frame. The exhaust filter is designed to remove foreign substances from the air passing through the intake motor. The exhaust filter is positioned adjacent to the intake motor.

[0071] The exhaust filter is designed to surround a portion of the intake motor based on the direction of airflow. The intake motor is housed inside the motor housing. The exhaust filter surrounds the downstream side of the motor housing.

[0072] The slit can reduce peak noise caused by motor operation by utilizing the principle of a side branch.

[0073] Second, the inner wall portion forming the inner surface of the slit can change the flow direction of air passing through the suction motor to one direction.

[0074] The inner wall section may be composed of a first inner wall section and a second inner wall section. The first inner wall section may be positioned above the second inner wall section at a constant interval in the vertical direction.

[0075] The outer wall section may be composed of a first outer wall section and a second outer wall section. The first outer wall section may be positioned on the upper part of the second outer wall section at a constant interval in the vertical direction.

[0076] The first outer wall section is arranged at a constant radial distance from the first inner wall section. A first slit is formed between the first inner wall section and the first outer wall section.

[0077] The second outer wall section is arranged at a constant radial distance from the second inner wall section. A second slit is formed between the second inner wall section and the second outer wall section.

[0078] The first slit and the second slit are spaced apart at a constant interval in the vertical direction. An outlet is formed between the first slit and the second slit.

[0079] The first inner wall portion of the first slit changes the direction of air flow to move the air passing through the upper part of the exhaust filter downward. The direction of air flow passing through the upper part of the exhaust filter is changed from the radial direction to the downward direction by the first inner wall portion. The direction of air flow passing through the lower part of the exhaust filter is changed from the radial direction to the upward direction by the second inner wall portion.

[0080] The second inner wall of the second slit changes the direction of air flow to move the air passing through the lower part of the exhaust filter upward.

[0081] Accordingly, air passing through the upper and lower parts of the exhaust filter moves along the first inner wall and the second inner wall, collects at the outlet, and can be discharged radially outward through the outlet.

[0082] Through this, the first inner wall section, the second inner wall section, and the outlet can reduce flow noise (base noise) by diverting the flow direction of air passing through the filter.

[0083] The slit and flow guide structure between the inner and outer walls can reduce motor peak noise and exhaust flow noise while minimizing the degradation of suction performance.

[0084] Third, the peak noise reduction structure of the slit and the exhaust flow guide structure of the inner wall have the advantage of being simple and straightforward. Furthermore, since the aforementioned peak noise reduction structure of the slit and the exhaust flow guide structure of the inner wall are applied to the interior of a vacuum cleaner, standardization and common use are facilitated. In addition, they can be applied to vacuum cleaners currently in mass production without major design changes, and can also be applied to new products.

[0085] Fourth, the filter material can be ABS, PC, or any material currently used in mass-produced products. This has the effect of increasing cost competitiveness and being advantageous for cost management.

[0086] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram showing a vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0087] Figure 2 is a conceptual diagram showing the main body of a vacuum cleaner with the nozzle module and connecting pipe separated from Figure 1.

[0088] Figure 3 is a conceptual diagram showing the internal cross-section of the noise reduction device of the vacuum cleaner in Figure 2.

[0089] Figure 4 is a conceptual diagram showing the appearance of the noise reduction unit in Figure 3.

[0090] Figure 5 is a conceptual diagram showing a frontal view of the noise reduction unit provided inside the fan module housing in Figure 3.

[0091] Figure 6 is a conceptual diagram showing the noise reduction unit and the fan module housing disassembled from Figure 5.

[0092] FIG. 7 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the principle of a side branch according to the present invention.

[0093] Figure 8 is a conceptual diagram showing the airflow path of the air passing through the filter in Figure 5.

[0094] Figure 9 is a conceptual diagram illustrating the relationship between the length of the slit, the exhaust cross-sectional area of ​​the filter frame, and the exhaust cross-sectional area of ​​the motor housing.

[0095] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a noise reduction device of a vacuum cleaner according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0096] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view showing the noise reduction device of the vacuum cleaner in Figure 10 as viewed from the front.

[0097] Figure 12 is a conceptual diagram showing the external appearance of the noise reduction device in Figure 11.

[0098] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing a noise reduction device for a vacuum cleaner according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0099] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing the noise reduction device of the vacuum cleaner in FIG. 13 as viewed from the front.

[0100] Fig. 15 is a conceptual diagram showing the external appearance of the noise reduction device in Fig. 14.

[0101] Figure 16 shows the noise (dBA) results according to the cleaning mode and is a graph to explain the noise improvement effect of a conventional vacuum cleaner and a vacuum cleaner according to the present invention (including a slit and a flow guide).

[0102] FIG. 17 shows the actual suction power (a) and maximum suction power according to the cleaning mode, and is a graph to explain the suction power of a conventional vacuum cleaner and a vacuum cleaner according to the present invention (including a slit and a flow guide).

[0103] Hereinafter, a vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0104] In the following description, descriptions of some components may be omitted to clarify the features of the present invention.

[0105] 1. Definition of Terms

[0106] Terms including ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but said components are not limited by said terms. These terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0107] When it is stated that one component is "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that while it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, there may also be other components in between. On the other hand, when it is stated that one component is "directly connected" or "directly connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0108] As used in this specification, singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0109] In the following description, the term “fan module” can be understood as a concept referring to a device that draws in or blows air by rotating a fan using power such as an electric motor.

[0110] In the following description, “radial” or “radial” refers to a shape extending outward from a central point like spokes of a wheel.

[0111] In the following description, “axial direction” refers to the longitudinal direction of the axis of rotation.

[0112] In the following description, the term “radial direction” refers to the longitudinal direction of a line segment extending from the center of a circle or cylinder to a point on the circumference.

[0113] In the following description, “circumferential direction” refers to the direction of the circumference.

[0114] 2. Description of the configuration of a vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention

[0115] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram showing a vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0116] FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram showing the main body (100) of a vacuum cleaner with the nozzle module (102) and extension tube (104) separated from FIG. 1.

[0117] Figure 3 is a conceptual diagram showing the internal cross-section of the noise reduction device of the vacuum cleaner in Figure 2.

[0118] Figure 4 is a conceptual diagram showing the appearance of the noise reduction unit in Figure 3.

[0119] FIG. 5 is a conceptual diagram showing a frontal view of the noise reduction unit provided inside the fan module housing (113) in FIG. 3.

[0120] FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram showing the noise reduction unit and the fan module housing (113) disassembled from FIG. 5.

[0121] FIG. 7 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the principle of a side branch according to the present invention.

[0122] Figure 8 is a conceptual diagram showing the airflow path of the air passing through the filter in Figure 5.

[0123] FIG. 9 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the relationship between the length of the slit (1381, 1481), the exhaust cross-sectional area of ​​the filter frame (130), and the exhaust cross-sectional area of ​​the motor housing (116).

[0124] The vacuum cleaner according to the present invention may be a manual vacuum cleaner or a robot vacuum cleaner. Hereinafter, the vacuum cleaner according to the present embodiment is described as being limited to a handheld manual vacuum cleaner, but the vacuum cleaner according to the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0125] The vacuum cleaner includes a main body (100) that forms a path guiding the sucked-in air to be discharged to the outside. The main body (100) forms the exterior of the vacuum cleaner. The main body (100) may be formed as a vertically elongated cylindrical shape overall.

[0126] The main body (100) includes an intake section (101) that guides the intake of air into the main body (100). The intake section (101) forms an intake path. The intake section (101) is provided on one side of the main body (100). The intake section (101) may protrude forward from one side of the main body (100). The intake section (101) may be formed in a cylindrical shape.

[0127] The above vacuum cleaner includes a nozzle module that is detachably connected to the suction part (101) of the main body (100).

[0128] The nozzle module includes a nozzle part (103) configured to suck in external air, and an extension tube (104) extending from the nozzle part (103). The extension tube (104) connects the nozzle part (103) and the suction part (101).

[0129] The extension tube (104) guides the air sucked in from the nozzle part (103) into the suction path. One end of the extension tube (104) can be detachably connected to the suction part (101) of the main body (100).

[0130] The above vacuum cleaner includes a dust separation unit (106) that is positioned on the above path and separates dust from the air.

[0131] A dust separation unit (106) is accommodated inside the main body (100). A fan module (105) is accommodated inside the main body (100). The fan module (105) can be placed on the upper part of the dust separation unit (106).

[0132] The dust separation unit (106) may include a first cyclone and a second cyclone capable of separating dust by cyclone flow. The flow path (P2) formed by the first cyclone may be connected to the flow path formed by the suction unit (101).

[0133] The air and dust sucked in through the above suction part (101) flow spirally along the inner surface of the first cyclone.

[0134] The second cyclone further separates dust from the air that has passed through the first cyclone. The second cyclone may be located inside the first cyclone.

[0135] The above-mentioned second cyclone may be provided in multiple numbers. Multiple second cyclone sections may be arranged in parallel.

[0136] The above vacuum cleaner includes a handle (107) coupled to the rear side of the main body (100). The vacuum cleaner includes a battery (108) that supplies power and a battery (108) housing in which the battery (108) is received.

[0137] The battery (108) is configured to supply electric energy to the fan module (105), etc.

[0138] The above vacuum cleaner includes a fan module (105) positioned on the above path to move air within the path. In addition to the dust separation unit (106), the vacuum cleaner includes filters positioned on the above path to separate dust from the air.

[0139] The user can clean by holding the handle (107) while the nozzle part (103) is placed on the floor and moving the nozzle part (103).

[0140] A handle (107) is attached to the rear side of the main body (100). A battery housing (109) is attached to the rear side of the main body (100).

[0141] The main body (100) includes an exhaust cover (111) that forms an exhaust port (110). The exhaust cover (111) may form an upper surface of the main body (100). The exhaust cover (111) covers the upper part of the main body (100).

[0142] The main body (100) includes a dust collection unit (112) for storing dust separated from the dust separation unit (106). At least a portion of the dust separation unit (106) may be disposed within the dust collection unit (112).

[0143] The inner surface of the upper part of the dust collection unit (112) can perform the function of a first cyclone. (In this case, the upper part of the dust collection unit (112) may be referred to as a first cyclone.) A second cyclone and a dust flow guide are disposed inside the dust collection unit (112).

[0144] The dust collection unit (112) may be formed in a cylindrical shape. The dust collection unit (112) is positioned on the lower side of the fan module housing (113). A dust storage space is formed inside the dust collection unit (112). A first storage space is formed between the dust collection unit (112) and the dust flow guide. A second storage space is formed inside the dust flow guide.

[0145] The main body (100) includes a fan module housing (113) that accommodates a fan module (105) inside. The fan module housing (113) may be formed by extending upward from the dust collection section (112). The fan module housing (113) is formed in a cylindrical shape. An extension (125) of the handle (107) is positioned at the rear of the fan module housing (113).

[0146] The main body (100) includes a dust cover (114) provided to open and close the dust collection unit (112). The dust cover (114) can be rotatably coupled to the lower side of the dust collection unit (112).

[0147] The dust cover (114) can open and close the lower side of the dust collection unit (112) by rotational movement. The dust cover (114) may include a hinge (not shown) for rotation.

[0148] The hinge can be coupled to the dust collection unit (112). The dust cover (114) can open and close the first storage space and the second storage space together.

[0149] The fan module (105) generates suction force to allow external air to flow into the above flow path. The fan module (105) is placed inside the main body (100). The fan module (105) is placed above the dust separation unit (106).

[0150] The fan module (105) includes an impeller that generates air suction force by rotation.

[0151] The impeller can be mounted to rotate around a rotation axis.

[0152] The fan module (105) includes a suction motor that rotates an impeller. The suction motor may be located above the dust separation unit (106).

[0153] Noise and vibration are generated when the suction motor operates, and this noise can be mainly emitted through the exhaust port (110).

[0154] The vacuum cleaner is equipped with an exhaust filter (115) to purify the air to be discharged through the exhaust port (110). The exhaust filter (115) may be placed inside the exhaust cover (111). The exhaust filter (115) may be placed below the exhaust port (110). The exhaust filter (115) may be placed upstream of the exhaust port (110) with respect to the direction of air movement.

[0155] The exhaust filter (115) can be formed in a cylindrical shape. The exhaust filter (115) can be implemented as a HEPA filter.

[0156] A receiving space capable of accommodating a part of the motor housing (116), which will be described later, may be formed inside the exhaust filter (115). The exhaust filter (115) may surround a part of the motor housing (116). Here, the part of the motor housing (116) may be the upper part of the motor housing (116).

[0157] The direction of air movement is from bottom to top. A part of the motor housing (116) may be on the downstream side of the motor housing (116) with respect to the direction of air movement.

[0158] The motor housing (116) is configured to accommodate a suction motor. The motor housing (116) can be coupled to the inner surface of the fan module housing (113). The motor housing (116) can be formed in a cylindrical shape. The motor housing (116) can be provided inside the fan module housing (113).

[0159] The motor housing (116) can be extended in the vertical direction.

[0160] The motor housing (116) may be composed of an upper housing (117) and a lower housing (123). The upper housing (117) may accommodate a suction motor. The lower housing (123) may accommodate an impeller.

[0161] The lower housing (123) may be extended or connected to the inner side of the fan module housing (113). In this embodiment, the lower housing (123) may be connected to the inner side of the fan module housing (113) by an extension part (125). The extension part (125) may protrude radially inward from the inner side of the fan module housing (113).

[0162] The upper housing (117) can be positioned on the upper part of the lower housing (123) and coupled thereto. A coupling portion (121) can be formed to protrude radially outward from the outer surface of the upper housing (117). An extension portion (125) can protrude radially from the outer surface of the lower housing (123) toward the inner surface of the fan module housing (113).

[0163] The connecting part (121) and the extension part (125) may each be provided in multiple numbers. The connecting part (121) and the extension part (125) may be arranged to overlap in the vertical direction. Multiple connecting parts (121) and extension parts (125) may be arranged spaced apart in the circumferential direction.

[0164] The connecting part (121) and the extension part (125) can be connected by a fastening member such as a screw. Through this, the upper housing (117) and the lower housing (123) can be connected.

[0165] A support member (126) can be extended downward from the lower surface of the extension member (125). The lower end of the support member (126) can be connected to the upper end of the dust collection member (112). Through this, the support member (126) can support the extension member (125).

[0166] A plurality of through holes (118) may be formed on the outer surface of the upper housing (117) so as to penetrate in the radial direction of the rotation axis. Air passing through the suction motor can pass through the upper housing (117) via the through holes (118) and move toward the inner surface of the filter.

[0167] The upper surface of the motor housing (116) is closed. An upper cover (119) is provided on the upper part of the motor housing (116). The upper cover (119) can form the upper surface of the motor housing (116). As a result, air passing through the suction motor is blocked by the upper cover (119) and does not move upward, but can only move radially through the through hole (118).

[0168] The exhaust filter (115) can be coupled to the motor housing (116) by the filter frame (130) to be described later.

[0169] The filter frame (130) may include a first filter frame (131) and a second filter frame (139).

[0170] The first filter frame (131) is formed to surround the upper part of the exhaust filter (115). The second filter frame (139) is formed to surround the lower part of the exhaust filter (115). The first filter frame (131) is positioned on the upper part of the second filter frame (139).

[0171] The first filter frame (131) may be configured to include a first inner wall portion (132), a first outer wall portion (133), and a first connecting wall (134). The first inner wall portion (132) may be formed in a cylindrical shape having a first diameter. The first inner wall portion (132) is formed to surround the upper outer surface of the exhaust filter (115).

[0172] Through this, the first inner wall portion (132) can support the upper outer surface of the exhaust filter (115). The first inner wall portion (132) can restrict the upper portion of the exhaust filter (115) from moving radially outward.

[0173] The first outer wall portion (133) may be formed in a cylindrical shape having a second diameter larger than the first diameter. The first outer wall portion (133) is spaced apart from the first inner wall portion (132) at a predetermined radial distance.

[0174] The first connecting wall (134) may extend radially between one end of the first outer wall section (133) and one end of the first inner wall section (132). The first connecting wall (134) may extend along the circumferential direction. The first connecting wall (134) may connect one end of the first outer wall section (133) and one end of the first inner wall section (132).

[0175] Here, one end of the first outer wall section (133) refers to the top of the first outer wall section (133). One end of the first inner wall section (132) refers to the top of the first inner wall section (132).

[0176] The first connecting wall (134) can be connected and supported in surface contact with the inner surface of the exhaust cover (111). A protrusion (1331) can be formed to protrude radially outward from the first outer wall portion (133). The upper surface and outer circumference of the protrusion (1331) can be connected and supported in surface contact with the upper surface and the radial side, respectively, of the inner surface of the exhaust cover (111).

[0177] An upper wall (135) is provided at the upper end of the first inner wall portion (132). The upper wall (135) is formed to surround the upper surface of the exhaust filter (115). By doing so, the upper wall (135) can support the upper end of the exhaust filter (115). The upper wall (135) can restrict the exhaust filter (115) from moving upward.

[0178] The upper wall (135) may be positioned lower than the first connecting wall (134). An inclined wall (1351) may be formed at an angle between the inner end of the first connecting wall (134) and the outer end of the upper wall (135). The upper end of the inclined wall (1351) is connected to the inner end of the first connecting wall (134). The lower end of the inclined wall (1351) is connected to the outer end of the upper wall (135).

[0179] An upper support rib (136) may be formed to protrude downward from the inner end of the upper wall (135). The upper support rib (136) may extend circumferentially along the inner circumference of the exhaust filter (115). By doing so, the upper support rib (136) may restrict the upper side of the exhaust filter (115) from moving radially inward.

[0180] A coupling projection (1361) may be formed on the inner surface of the upper support rib (136) to protrude radially inward. A plurality of coupling projections (1361) may be provided. A plurality of coupling projections (1361) may be arranged circumferentially spaced apart along the inner circumference of the upper support rib (136).

[0181] The connecting projection (1361) is configured to connect the first filter frame (131) and the second filter frame (139) to be described later.

[0182] A mounting guide (137) may be provided on the upper end of the upper support rib (136). The mounting guide (137) may be formed to protrude radially inward from the upper end of the upper support rib (136). The mounting guide (137) may form the same plane as the upper wall (135). The mounting guide (137) may extend circumferentially along the inner circumference of the upper support rib (136).

[0183] A mounting groove (120) may be formed along the outer circumference of the upper cover (119) of the motor housing (116). The mounting groove (120) may extend circumferentially along the outer circumference of the upper cover (119). A mounting guide (137) may be inserted and coupled into the mounting groove (120).

[0184] Through this, the mounting guide (137) is mounted in the mounting groove (120) so that the exhaust filter (115) can be mounted on the motor housing (116) so that it surrounds the upper housing (117) of the motor housing (116).

[0185] The second filter frame (139) is positioned below the first filter frame (131). The second filter frame (139) may be configured to include a second inner wall portion (140), a second outer wall portion (141), and a second connecting wall (142). The second inner wall portion (140) may be formed in a cylindrical shape having a first diameter equal to that of the first inner wall portion (132).

[0186] The second inner wall portion (140) is formed to surround the lower outer surface of the exhaust filter (115). By doing so, the second inner wall portion (140) can support the lower outer surface of the exhaust filter (115). The second inner wall portion (140) can restrict the lower portion of the exhaust filter (115) from moving radially outward.

[0187] The first inner wall section (132) and the second inner wall section (140) may be spaced apart at a predetermined interval in the vertical direction. An outlet (144) is formed between the first inner wall section (132) and the second inner wall section (140) so as to penetrate in the radial direction of the rotation axis. The outlet (144) may extend in the circumferential direction.

[0188] The bottom of the first inner wall section (132) and the top of the second inner wall section (140) can define the vertical height of the outlet (144). The first inner wall section (132) and the second inner wall section (140) can be arranged to overlap in the vertical direction. The first inner wall section (132) and the second inner wall section (140) can be arranged in the same straight line in the vertical direction.

[0189] The second outer wall portion (141) may be formed in a cylindrical shape having a second diameter larger than the first diameter. The second outer wall portion (141) is arranged to be spaced radially apart from the second inner wall portion (140) at a predetermined distance.

[0190] The second connecting wall (142) may extend radially between one end of the second outer wall section (141) and one end of the second inner wall section (140). The second connecting wall (142) may extend along the circumferential direction. The second connecting wall (142) may connect one end of the second outer wall section (141) and one end of the second inner wall section (140).

[0191] Here, one end of the second outer wall section (141) refers to the lower end of the second outer wall section (141). One end of the second inner wall section (140) refers to the lower end of the second inner wall section (140).

[0192] The second connecting wall (142) can be supported by being coupled to the coupling portion (121) of the upper housing (117) in surface contact. A seating portion (122) can be formed concavely on the upper surface of the coupling portion (121). The seating portion (122) can be extended in the circumferential direction. The radial width of the seating portion (122) can be formed to correspond to the radial width of the second connecting wall (142). The seating portion (122) can be positioned to face the second connecting wall (142) in the vertical direction. The second connecting wall (142) can be inserted and coupled to the seating portion (122).

[0193] A lower wall (143) is provided at the bottom of the second inner wall portion (140). The lower wall (143) is formed to surround the lower surface of the exhaust filter (115). By doing so, the lower wall (143) can support the lower portion of the exhaust filter (115). The lower wall (143) can restrict the exhaust filter (115) from moving downward.

[0194] The lower wall (143) may be positioned at the same height as the second connecting wall (142). The lower wall (143) may form the same plane as the second connecting wall (142).

[0195] A first lower support rib (145) may be formed to protrude upward from the inner end of the lower wall (143). A second lower support rib (146) may be formed to protrude upward from the outer end of the lower wall (143). The second lower support rib (146) may be formed integrally on the lower inner surface of the second inner wall portion (140).

[0196] The first lower support rib (145) and the second lower support rib (146) may extend circumferentially along the inner circumference of the exhaust filter (115). By doing so, the first lower support rib (145) and the second lower support rib (146) may restrict the lower side of the exhaust filter (115) from moving radially.

[0197] A connecting rib (147) may be formed to protrude upward from the top of the first lower support rib (145) toward the connecting projection (1361) of the upper support rib (136). A plurality of connecting ribs (147) may be provided. A plurality of connecting ribs (147) may be spaced apart in the circumferential direction of the first lower support rib (145).

[0198] The upper portion of the connecting rib (147) may be arranged to overlap radially with the inner surface of the upper support rib (136). A protrusion receiving portion (1471) may be formed to penetrate radially through the upper portion of the connecting rib (147). The protrusion receiving portion (1471) may be formed to be recessed downward from the upper portion of the connecting rib (147).

[0199] The connecting projection (1361) can be connected through the projection receiving portion (1471). Through this, the first filter frame (131) and the second filter frame (139) can be connected and supported by the connecting rib (147).

[0200] However, as another example, the connecting projection may be provided on the connecting rib (147), and the projection receiving portion may be formed on the upper support rib (136).

[0201] The first filter frame (131) may include a first slit (1381). The first slit (1381) is provided between the first inner wall portion (132) and the first outer wall portion (133). The first inner wall portion (132) and the first outer wall portion (133) may form the first slit (1381). One side of the first slit (1381) may be closed, and the other side of the first slit (1381) may be open.

[0202] One side of the first slit (1381) can be closed by the first connecting wall (134). Here, one side of the first slit (1381) may refer to the upper part of the first slit (1381). The other side of the first slit (1381) may refer to the lower part of the first slit (1381).

[0203] A first opening may be formed on the other side of the first slit (1381). Air may flow into the interior of the first slit (1381) or noise (waves) may be incident through the first opening. Additionally, the first connecting wall (134) may reflect the flow of air and the waves of noise. Air may flow out or noise may be emitted from the interior of the first slit (1381) through the first opening.

[0204] The first inner wall (132), the first outer wall (133), the first connecting wall (134), and the first slit (1381) can form a first noise reduction section. Here, the first noise reduction section may be named a first branch pipe (138) in that it is formed by branching from the exhaust flow path that flows out through the outlet (144).

[0205] The second filter frame (139) may include a second slit (1481). The second slit (1481) is provided between the second inner wall portion (140) and the second outer wall portion (141). The second inner wall portion (140) and the second outer wall portion (141) may form the second slit (1481). One side of the second slit (1481) may be closed, and the other side of the second slit (1481) may be open.

[0206] One side of the second slit (1481) can be closed by the second connecting wall (142). Here, one side of the second slit (1481) may refer to the lower end of the second slit (1481). The other side of the second slit (1481) may refer to the upper end of the second slit (1481).

[0207] A second opening may be formed on the other side of the second slit (1481). Air may flow into the interior of the second slit (1481) or noise may be incident through the second opening. Additionally, the second connecting wall (142) may reflect the flow of air and the waves of noise. Furthermore, air may flow out or noise may be reflected from the interior of the second slit (1481) through the second opening.

[0208] The second inner wall (140), the second outer wall (141), the second connecting wall (142), and the second slit (1481) can form a second noise reduction section. The second noise reduction section may be named a second branch pipe (148).

[0209] The noise reduction section (branch pipe (138, 148)) may be an acoustic metamaterial that operates based on the principle of the side branch (2). The side branch (2) is a pipe formed by branching from the duct (1) through which air flows.

[0210] Acoustic metamaterials are materials implemented to enable noise and vibration control at specific frequencies by artificially creating periodic shapes using materials such as metals or plastics to possess properties not found in nature.

[0211] The operating principle of the side branch (2) is as follows.

[0212] When a 1 / 4 wavelength of the incident wave (noise) is applied to the side branch (2), the wave is reflected at the end (closed part) of the side branch resonator, and the wave (noise) reflected from the slit (1381, 1481) has a phase difference of 1 / 2 wavelength with the incident wave.

[0213] In this case, the principle is that the incident and reflected waves have opposite phases and cancel each other out. Through this, noise can be reduced.

[0214] The formula for surface impedance (resistance) Z at the opening of the side branch (2) is as follows.

[0215] Z=-jcot(kL)

[0216] k=2π / λ

[0217] Z: Acoustic impedance, L: Side branch length, λ: Wavelength

[0218] If the length of the side branch (2) is set to λ / 4 in terms of impedance, the impedance value becomes infinite, which theoretically means that waves (noise) cannot propagate.

[0219] The formula for the frequency f of the side branch (2) is as follows.

[0220] f = c / 4h

[0221] f: target frequency, c: speed of sound, h: length of side branch

[0222] The motor operating noise can be reduced as air passes through the slits (1381, 1481) through the opening and outlet (144).

[0223] The exhaust path of the air passing through the exhaust filter (115) can be guided in one direction. The flow direction of the exhaust path can be radial through the outlet (144). The first inner wall portion (132) and the second inner wall portion (140) can be guided in one direction in the flow direction of the air passing through the exhaust filter (115).

[0224] The upper outer surface of the exhaust filter (115) is surrounded by the first inner wall (132), so that air passing through the upper part of the exhaust filter (115) moves downward toward the outlet (144). The lower outer surface of the exhaust filter (115) is surrounded by the second inner wall (140), so that air passing through the lower part of the exhaust filter (115) moves upward toward the outlet (144).

[0225] Through this, there is an effect of improving the flow base noise.

[0226] To improve vacuum cleaner noise, the following two factors must be considered. The first is the amount of noise reduction. The second is the amount of suction power loss.

[0227] The variable determining the motor's peak noise is the length (h) of the resonance structure that determines the target frequency.

[0228] The length h of the resonance structure, i.e., the branch tube (138, 148), is a key factor for target frequency tuning and can be determined by the following equation.

[0229]

[0230] f : Target frequency [Hz], c : Speed ​​of sound [m / s], h : Branch tube (138, 148) length, N : 1, 2, 3… (natural numbers)

[0231] c is a value determined by the speed of sound, and when the length (h) of the resonance structure is determined, the target frequency is not a single value, but can target all harmonic components. Here, in the field of noise and vibration, "harmonic" refers to vibrations or noise of a specific frequency occurring as integer multiples of the fundamental frequency.

[0232] For example, it refers to frequency components consisting of the fundamental frequency (first harmonic) and its multiples (second, third harmonics, etc.).

[0233] At this time, the harmonic components can be all frequencies corresponding to odd numbers of the first target frequency.

[0234] Conversely, the length (h) to be designed can be estimated from the target frequency, and design variables are determined through the above relationship. Through this, a noise reduction effect at the target frequency can be obtained (noise reduction effect based on resonant absorption and acoustic metering principles).

[0235] The exhaust cross-sectional area (2πDt) of the frame resulting from the change in the Euro structure must be greater than or equal to the sum of the exhaust cross-sectional areas (A*n) of the motor housing (116).

[0236] The exhaust width (width of the outlet (144)) t of the filter frame (130) that changes the Euro structure can be determined by the following equation.

[0237]

[0238]

[0239] D: Diameter of the filter frame (130), m: Number of through holes (118) in the motor housing, A: Cross-sectional area of ​​the through holes (118) in the motor housing (116)

[0240] Since the values ​​of D, n, and A above are fixed, the value of t that satisfies the above formula can be determined.

[0241] The first inner wall portion (132) and the second inner wall portion (140) of the above branch pipe (138, 148) can reduce flow noise by changing the flow flow.

[0242] The frequency can be designed as a multi-target by applying different lengths to the first slit (1381) and the second slit (1481).

[0243] Noise can be improved by changing the Euro structure without the structure of the slit (1381, 1481).

[0244] Accordingly, according to the present invention, a slit (1381, 1481) is provided inside the filter frame (130). The slit (1381, 1481) is formed in a cylindrical shape to surround the exhaust filter (115). The slit (1381, 1481) is formed between the inner wall and the outer wall. One end along the longitudinal direction of the slit (1381, 1481) is closed, and the other end along the longitudinal direction of the slit (1381, 1481) is open.

[0245] The outer wall section is spaced apart from the outer surface of the inner wall section in the radial direction at a constant distance. The outer wall section and the inner wall section are formed as cylindrical shapes with different diameters. One end of the outer wall section in the longitudinal direction and one end of the inner wall section in the longitudinal direction can be connected to each other by a connecting wall. The connecting wall is formed to block one end of the slit (1381, 1481).

[0246] The exhaust filter (115) is received and supported inside the filter frame (130). The exhaust filter (115) is configured to remove foreign matter from the air passing through the intake motor. The exhaust filter (115) is positioned adjacent to the intake motor.

[0247] The exhaust filter (115) is configured to surround a portion of the intake motor based on the direction of air movement. The intake motor is housed inside the motor housing (116). The exhaust filter (115) surrounds the downstream side of the motor housing (116).

[0248] The slits (1381, 1481) can reduce peak noise caused by motor operation by utilizing the principle of the side branch (2). The inner wall portion forming the inner surface of the slits (1381, 1481) can be changed in one direction to the direction of air flow passing through the suction motor.

[0249] The inner wall section may be composed of a first inner wall section (132) and a second inner wall section (140). The first inner wall section (132) may be positioned above the second inner wall section (140) at a constant distance in the vertical direction.

[0250] The outer wall section may be composed of a first outer wall section (133) and a second outer wall section (141). The first outer wall section (133) may be positioned above the second outer wall section (141) at a constant interval in the vertical direction.

[0251] The first outer wall portion (133) is spaced apart from the first inner wall portion (132) at a constant radial distance. A first slit (1381) is formed between the first inner wall portion (132) and the first outer wall portion (133).

[0252] The second outer wall portion (141) is spaced apart from the second inner wall portion (140) at a constant radial distance. A second slit (1481) is formed between the second inner wall portion (140) and the second outer wall portion (141).

[0253] The first slit (1381) and the second slit (1481) are spaced apart at a constant interval in the vertical direction. An outlet (144) is formed between the first slit (1381) and the second slit (1481).

[0254] The first inner wall portion (132) of the first slit (1381) changes the direction of air flow so that air passing through the upper part of the exhaust filter (115) moves downward. The direction of air flow passing through the upper part of the exhaust filter (115) is changed from the radial direction to the downward direction by the first inner wall portion (132). The direction of air flow passing through the lower part of the exhaust filter (115) is changed from the radial direction to the upward direction by the second inner wall portion (140).

[0255] The second inner wall portion (140) of the second slit (1481) changes the direction of air flow to move air passing through the lower part of the exhaust filter (115) upward.

[0256] Accordingly, air passing through the upper and lower parts of the exhaust filter (115) respectively moves along the first inner wall part (132) and the second inner wall part (140) and is collected at the outlet (144), and can be discharged radially outward through the outlet (144).

[0257] Through this, the first inner wall section (132), the second inner wall section (140), and the outlet (144) can reduce flow noise (base noise) by changing the flow direction of the air passing through the filter.

[0258] The slit (1381, 1481) and flow guide structure between the inner wall and the outer wall can reduce peak noise of the motor and flow noise of the exhaust path while minimizing the degradation of suction performance.

[0259] The peak noise reduction structure of the slits (1381, 1481) and the exhaust flow guide structure of the inner wall are simple and have the advantage of being simple. In addition, the peak noise reduction structure of the slits (1381, 1481) and the exhaust flow guide structure of the inner wall are applied to the interior of a vacuum cleaner, making standardization and common use easy. Furthermore, they can be applied to vacuum cleaners currently in mass production without major design changes, and can also be applied to new products.

[0260] Since the filter material can be ABS, PC, or any material currently used in mass-produced products, it has the effect of increasing cost competitiveness.

[0261] 3. Description of the configuration of a vacuum cleaner according to another embodiment of the present invention

[0262] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a noise reduction device of a vacuum cleaner according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0263] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view showing the noise reduction device of the vacuum cleaner in Figure 10 as viewed from the front.

[0264] Figure 12 is a conceptual diagram showing the external appearance of the noise reduction device in Figure 11.

[0265] This embodiment differs from the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 9 described above in that it is not equipped with a slit and the structure of the exhaust passage is changed.

[0266] The noise reduction device according to the present embodiment includes an exhaust flow guide (249) that guides the air flow of the exhaust passage. The exhaust flow guide (249) forms the exhaust passage. The exhaust flow guide (249) includes a first exhaust flow guide (250) and a second exhaust flow guide (251).

[0267] The first exhaust flow guide (250) may be provided in the second filter frame (239). The first exhaust flow guide (250) is formed to protrude upward from the lower wall (243) of the second filter frame (239) toward the first connecting wall (234) of the first filter frame (231). With respect to the lower wall (243), the height or axial length of the first exhaust flow guide (250) is smaller than the height or axial length of the exhaust filter (115).

[0268] The first exhaust flow guide (250) is formed to surround the outer surface of the exhaust filter (115). The first exhaust flow guide (250) is formed in a cylindrical shape. The first exhaust flow guide (250) may be extended in a circumferential direction.

[0269] Based on the lower wall (243), the upper height of the first exhaust flow guide (250) is positioned lower than the upper wall (135).

[0270] The second exhaust flow guide (251) may be provided on the first filter frame (231). The second exhaust flow guide (251) is formed to protrude downward from the first connecting wall (234). The lower end of the second exhaust flow guide (251) is positioned lower than the upper end of the first exhaust flow guide (250). The second exhaust flow guide (251) is positioned on the outside of the first exhaust flow guide (250).

[0271] The second exhaust flow guide (251) is arranged to be spaced apart radially from the first exhaust flow guide (250). A first exhaust flow path (252) may be formed between the first exhaust flow guide (250) and the second exhaust flow guide (251). The first exhaust flow path (252) may be connected to communicate with the exhaust port (110). The first exhaust flow path (252) may be formed in a cylindrical shape.

[0272] Based on the direction of air movement, the upstream end of the first exhaust passage (252) can be connected to the upper part of the exhaust filter (115). An inlet (253) is formed at the upstream end of the first exhaust passage (252). Air that has passed through the exhaust filter (115) can be introduced into the first exhaust passage (252) through the inlet (253).

[0273] An outlet (254) is formed at the downstream end of the first exhaust passage (252). Air passing through the first exhaust passage (252) can move to the second exhaust passage (255), which will be described later, through the outlet (254).

[0274] The second exhaust passage (255) may be formed between the inner surface of the fan module housing (113) and the outer surface of the second exhaust flow guide (251). The second exhaust passage (255) may be formed in a cylindrical shape. Based on the direction of air movement, the upstream end of the second exhaust passage (255) is connected to the first exhaust passage (252). The downstream end of the second exhaust passage (255) is connected to the exhaust port (110).

[0275] Here, the upstream end of the second exhaust channel (255) refers to the lower end of the second exhaust channel (255). The downstream end of the second exhaust channel (255) refers to the upper end of the second exhaust channel (255).

[0276] According to the exhaust flow guide (249) structure described above, air can move along the following path.

[0277] A portion of the air passing through the exhaust filter (115) rises along the inner surface of the first exhaust flow guide (250). This portion of the air meets another portion of the air passing through the exhaust filter (115), moves radially outward through the inlet (253), and enters the first exhaust flow path (252).

[0278] The upper part of the first exhaust passage (252) is blocked by the first connecting wall (234), so that air moves downward along the first exhaust passage (252) from the upper part of the first exhaust passage (252) and is discharged into the second exhaust passage (255) through the outlet (254) formed at the lower part of the first exhaust passage (252).

[0279] The air flowing into the second exhaust passage (255) moves upward from the lower part to the upper part of the second exhaust passage (255) and is discharged to the outside through the exhaust port (110).

[0280] The first exhaust passage (252) and the second exhaust passage (255) can be formed in a zigzag shape relative to each other. Through this, the length of the air passage passing through the exhaust filter (115) can be increased. Additionally, according to the passage change structure of the exhaust flow guide (249), flow noise (base noise) can be improved.

[0281] Other components are identical or similar to those described in FIGS. 1 to 9 above, so a redundant description will be omitted.

[0282] 4. Description of the configuration of a vacuum cleaner according to another embodiment of the present invention

[0283] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing a noise reduction device for a vacuum cleaner according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0284] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing the noise reduction device of the vacuum cleaner in FIG. 13 as viewed from the front.

[0285] Fig. 15 is a conceptual diagram showing the external appearance of the noise reduction device in Fig. 14.

[0286] This embodiment differs from the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 9 described above in that the first slit (3381) and the second slit (3481) have different lengths from each other.

[0287] In this embodiment, a first slit (3381) may be formed between the first outer wall portion (333) and the first inner wall portion (332). The upper and lower lengths of the first outer wall portion (333) and the first inner wall portion (332) may be the same. The upper end of the first slit (3381) is blocked by the first connecting wall (234). The lower end of the first slit (3381) is open.

[0288] A second slit (3481) may be formed between the second outer wall (341) and the second inner wall (340). The upper and lower lengths of the second outer wall (341) and the second inner wall (340) may be the same. The lower end of the second slit (3481) is blocked by the second connecting wall (142). The upper end of the second slit (3481) is open.

[0289] The length of the first slit (3381) is smaller than the length of the second slit (3481).

[0290] Other components are identical or similar to those described in FIGS. 1 to 9 above, so a redundant description will be omitted.

[0291] Figure 16 shows the noise (dBA) results according to the cleaning mode and is a graph to explain the noise improvement effect of a conventional vacuum cleaner and a vacuum cleaner according to the present invention (including a slit and a flow guide).

[0292] FIG. 17 shows the actual suction power (a) and maximum suction power according to the cleaning mode, and is a graph to explain the suction power of a conventional vacuum cleaner and a vacuum cleaner according to the present invention (including a slit and a flow guide).

[0293] A noise reduction device for a vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment of the present invention (an embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 9) can achieve a noise improvement effect of 5.5 dBA or more compared to a conventional vacuum cleaner, regardless of the cleaning mode. The noise reduction device for a vacuum cleaner according to the above embodiment also exhibits a suction power loss rate of within 3% based on the maximum suction power compared to a conventional vacuum cleaner. However, since the actual suction power itself is small, the suction power loss can also be said to be very small.

[0294] Other additional embodiments of the present invention may also obtain results similar to those above.

[0295] Therefore, it can be said that the noise reduction device of the vacuum cleaner according to the present invention demonstrates significant noise improvement performance without a decrease in cleaning performance (minimal loss of suction power).

Claims

1. A main body with a suction part formed therein; A dust separation unit provided inside the main body above, which separates dust from the air sucked in through the suction part; A fan module provided on the downstream side of the dust separation unit based on the direction of air movement, for sucking in the air; An exhaust filter for separating dust from the air passing through the above fan module; and It includes a filter frame that supports the above exhaust filter, and The above filter frame is, It includes a branch pipe formed to branch out from the air passage passing through the exhaust filter, and A vacuum cleaner in which one side of the branch pipe is open and the other side of the branch pipe is blocked.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above filter frame is, A vacuum cleaner further comprising an exhaust flow guide that changes the flow direction of air passing through the exhaust filter.

3. In Paragraph 1, The above branch pipe is, An inner wall portion surrounding the above exhaust filter; An outer wall portion disposed on the outer side of the inner wall portion above; A connecting wall connecting one end of each of the inner wall and the outer wall; and It includes a slit formed between the inner wall portion and the outer wall portion, The incident wave of noise entering the above slit and the reflected wave of noise reflected by the above connecting wall have opposite phases and cancel each other out, and The above inner wall portion surrounds a part of the exhaust filter and is a vacuum cleaner that changes the flow direction of air passing through the exhaust filter.

4. In Paragraph 1, The above exhaust filter is formed in a cylindrical shape, and The above filter frame is, A first filter frame supporting the upper part of the exhaust filter; and It includes a second filter frame provided at the lower part of the first filter frame and supporting the lower part of the exhaust filter, and The above branch pipe is, A first branch tube having a first slit and extending circumferentially along the outer periphery of the first filter frame; and A vacuum cleaner having a second slit and a second branch tube extending circumferentially along the outer circumference of the second filter frame.

5. In Paragraph 4, An outlet is formed between the first filter frame and the second filter frame, and A vacuum cleaner in which air passing through the exhaust filter moves in an up-and-down direction toward the outlet along the inner wall surfaces of the first filter frame and the second filter frame and is discharged through the outlet, and air passing through the first slit and the second slit is discharged radially through the outlet.

6. In Paragraph 4, The first filter frame and the second filter frame are formed in a cylindrical shape, and The first slit and the second slit extend in the longitudinal direction of the first filter frame and the second filter frame, and A vacuum cleaner in which the length of the first slit is longer than the length of the second slit.

7. In Paragraph 4, The above filter frame is, An upper wall formed to protrude radially from the upper end of the inner wall surface of the first filter frame to surround the upper surface of the exhaust filter; A lower wall formed to protrude radially from the lower end of the inner wall surface of the second filter frame to surround the lower surface of the exhaust filter; An upper support rib protruding downward from the upper wall to surround the upper portion of the inner surface of the exhaust filter; and A vacuum cleaner comprising a lower support rib protruding upward from the lower wall to surround the lower portion of the inner surface of the exhaust filter.

8. In Paragraph 4, The above filter frame is, A vacuum cleaner comprising a plurality of connecting ribs extending outward from one of the first filter frame and the second filter frame toward the other filter frame to connect the first filter frame and the second filter frame.

9. In Paragraph 4, The above fan module is, An impeller that forms the above air flow; A suction motor for driving the above impeller; and A motor housing disposed on the inner side of the exhaust filter and accommodating the intake motor; A vacuum cleaner comprising a mounting guide that protrudes radially inward from the upper wall of the filter frame and is mounted on the motor housing.

10. In Paragraph 9, The length h of the above branch pipe is determined by the following equation, and The above f is the target frequency, the above c is the speed of sound, and the above N is a natural number, and The exhaust width t of the above filter frame is determined by the following equation, and A vacuum cleaner in which D is the diameter of the filter frame, m is the number of through holes in the motor housing, and A is the cross-sectional area of ​​the through holes in the motor housing.

11. In Paragraph 9, A vacuum cleaner further comprising a mounting guide that protrudes radially inward from the upper wall of the filter frame and is mounted on the motor housing.

12. In Paragraph 1, The above main body is, A fan module housing that accommodates the above fan module; A dust collection unit coupled to the lower part of the fan module housing, accommodating the dust separation unit, and collecting dust separated by the dust separation unit; An exhaust cover having an exhaust port and mounted to cover the upper portion of the fan module housing; and It includes a dust cover mounted to cover the lower part of the dust collection unit, and The dust separation unit above is, A vacuum cleaner comprising a cyclone that is positioned in the path of air entering through the above-mentioned suction part and separates dust using centrifugal force.

13. Main body with a suction part formed therein; A dust separation unit provided inside the main body above, which separates dust from the air sucked in through the suction part; A fan module provided on the downstream side of the dust separation unit based on the direction of air movement, for sucking in the air; An exhaust filter for separating dust from the air passing through the above fan module; and It includes a filter frame that supports the above exhaust filter, and The above filter frame is, A vacuum cleaner including an exhaust flow guide that changes the direction of air flow passing through the exhaust filter.

14. In Paragraph 13, The above exhaust flow guide is, A first exhaust flow guide surrounding a portion of the above exhaust filter; It includes a second exhaust flow guide disposed on the outer side of the first exhaust flow guide and changing the flow direction of air passing through another part of the exhaust filter not surrounded by the first exhaust flow guide, A vacuum cleaner in which the first exhaust flow guide and the second exhaust flow guide are formed to protrude in opposite directions along the longitudinal direction of the filter frame.

15. In Paragraph 13, The above filter frame is, A lower wall supporting the lower surface of the above exhaust filter; A first exhaust flow guide formed to protrude upward from the lower wall so as to surround the lower outer surface of the exhaust filter; An upper wall supporting the upper surface of the above exhaust filter; A second exhaust flow guide spaced apart from the outer side of the first exhaust flow guide and formed to protrude downward from the upper wall; and A vacuum cleaner comprising an exhaust passage formed between the first exhaust flow guide and the second exhaust flow guide, and connected to an exhaust port through which air is finally exhausted to the outside of the main body.

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