CN116887738A

CN116887738A - Cleaning device

Info

Publication number: CN116887738A
Application number: CN202280016957.8A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 张宰源; 李荣宰; 李旻雨
Original assignee: LG Electronics Inc
Current assignee: LG Electronics Inc
Priority date: 2021-02-26
Filing date: 2022-02-25
Publication date: 2023-10-13
Also published as: CN116981386A; KR20220122473A; KR20220122472A; KR20220122474A

Abstract

The present invention relates to a wet wipe module of a cleaner, comprising a water supply nozzle for discharging water from a water tank to a wipe, wherein the water supply nozzle comprises a nozzle body, and a water discharge port for discharging water to the wipe is formed at one end of the nozzle body, thereby preventing water droplets from blocking and condensing at the discharge port by forming the water discharge port obliquely, and preventing foreign matters contained in the water droplets from blocking the discharge port as the condensed water droplets dry.

Description

Cleaning device

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a cleaner, and more particularly, to a cleaner capable of attaching and detaching a cleaning module that sucks or wipes dust or foreign matter in a cleaning target area by discharging water or steam to a wiper.

Background

The cleaner is a device that performs cleaning by sucking or wiping dust or foreign matter in a cleaning target area.

Such cleaners can be classified into a manual cleaner in which a user directly moves the cleaner and performs cleaning, and an automatic cleaner in which the user runs autonomously and performs cleaning.

In addition, the manual cleaners can be classified into canister cleaners, lift cleaners, hand cleaners, stick cleaners, etc., according to the form of the cleaner.

Among them, the wireless cleaner includes a rechargeable battery, and can freely move and clean without receiving current by wire, thereby having advantages in portability and cleaning range. Wireless cleaners include hand-held cleaners, stick-type cleaners, and the like.

The hand-held cleaner (Hand Vacuum Cleaner) is a cleaner that maximizes portability, but may be limited in cleaning area due to its short length, although it is lightweight. Therefore, the cleaning agent is used for cleaning local places such as the surface of a desk or a sofa or the interior of an automobile.

The stick type cleaner can be used standing up and can perform cleaning even without bending down. Thus, it is advantageous to move and clean in a wide area. If the hand-held cleaner cleans a narrow space, the wand can clean a wider space than it does, and can clean a higher place where the hand is not reachable. In recent years, a stick type cleaner has also been provided as a module type to be actively used by actively changing a cleaner type according to various objects.

The manner of cleaning the floor is largely classified into dry cleaning and wet cleaning. Dry cleaning is a cleaning process by sweeping or sucking in dust, and the existing vacuum cleaners correspond to this type. Wet cleaning is a method of cleaning by wiping dust with a wet wipe. In addition, there is also a method of sterilizing and cleaning by generating and spraying high-temperature steam in wet cleaning.

Conventionally, a dry-type exclusive cleaner is used for dry cleaning, and a wet-type exclusive cleaner is used for wet cleaning. However, it is inconvenient that two types of cleaners must be purchased in order to clean various types of floors. In order to solve the above-described problems, a method including a body, a dry cleaning module, and a wet cleaning module is being studied, the dry cleaning module being mounted on the body for dry cleaning, the wet cleaning module being mounted on the body for wet cleaning.

The wet cleaning module includes a water tub storing water, a heater generating steam by heating the water, a cloth wiping a floor by receiving the water or the steam, and the like. For ease of replacement, the various components described above are preferably constructed from one assembly. For example, in the case where the water tub or the heater is disposed at the body, there is a problem in that cleaning is inconvenient due to unnecessary components when the dry cleaning module is mounted to the body, and therefore, in view of ease of cleaning or ease of module replacement or space utilization, the water tub or the heater is preferably disposed at the wet cleaning module instead of the body.

Korean patent No. KR0489070Y1 discloses a wet wipe cleaner in which a main battery is provided in a cleaning module and an auxiliary battery is detachably coupled to an extension pipe.

However, the wet wipe cleaner is incapable of drawing in dust and most of the power is used for the rotation of the wipe, so the incorporation of auxiliary batteries simply increases the life of the cleaner.

In addition, in the case where the foreign matter is pressed against the floor, as described above, the cleaner that wipes the floor surface by rotating the cloth may remain even if the cloth that absorbs water is rotated to wipe the floor.

In addition, when microorganisms or the like are propagated on the floor, there is a limit that microorganisms cannot be completely sterilized even if the floor is wiped by rotating the cloth absorbing water.

In order to solve this problem, a method of heating water supplied to the wiper cloth may be considered, but in the case of additionally mounting a heater using large power for heating water to the cleaning module, a large power supply is required to be supplied to the cleaning module.

A cleaner capable of steam cleaning and sucking dust is shown in korean patent No. KR0738478B 1.

The cleaner may combine a steam cleaner with a vacuum cleaner, configured to supply power from the steam cleaner to the vacuum cleaner.

However, since the cleaner supplies power with reference to a steam cleaner using a large amount of power, it is necessary to receive power with a wire or use a large battery, and thus there is a limit in that it is difficult to apply to a wireless hand-held cleaner.

Therefore, in the case of heating water, it is necessary to supply large power to the cleaning module, and at the same time, it is necessary to maintain cleanability time of the entire cleaner.

In addition, in the case of increasing the capacity of a battery having a relatively heavy weight, it is necessary to distribute the weight so as not to feel inconvenience when the user uses the cleaner.

Disclosure of Invention

Problems to be solved by the invention

The present invention has been made to solve the problems of the conventional wireless cleaner in which a cleaning module having a steam generator is detachably coupled as described above, and an object of the present invention is to provide a cleaner that increases the total capacity of a battery.

Further, it is an object of the present invention to provide a cleaner capable of improving sterilizing and foreign matter removing effects by supplying high-temperature water or steam to a wiper.

In addition, it is an object to provide a cleaner capable of supplying additional power and being easily operated.

Further, it is an object of the present invention to provide a cleaner capable of stably supplying power when the cleaning module generates steam.

Further, it is an object of the present invention to provide a cleaner capable of minimizing an increase in the capacity of a cleaning module on the premise of mounting an auxiliary battery.

Technical proposal for solving the problems

To achieve the above object, the cleaner of the present invention may include: a cleaning module for cleaning the foreign matter on the floor surface; and a cleaner body having a battery to supply power to the cleaning module and a handle to be held by a user, the cleaning module comprising: a module cover body, the lower side of which is provided with a rag; a water tank coupled to the module housing for storing water; a steam generator for heating water flowing in from the water tank; and an auxiliary battery coupling part formed at the module cover, the auxiliary battery being detachably inserted into and coupled to the auxiliary battery coupling part.

At this time, at least a part of the auxiliary battery coupling portion may be disposed at the rear side of the module case.

The auxiliary battery may be inserted into the auxiliary battery coupling portion so as to be inclined downward.

The auxiliary battery may include: an auxiliary battery body; and a coupling button formed at the auxiliary battery body to be coupled with the auxiliary battery coupling part hook.

At least a portion of the coupling button may be exposed to the outside of the module housing.

At least a part of the coupling button may be disposed above the module cover.

The auxiliary battery may be connected in series with the battery.

The auxiliary battery may be connected in parallel with the battery.

The auxiliary battery may be selectively connected in series or in parallel with the battery.

The auxiliary battery may supply power to the steam generator.

The cleaning module may further include: a wiper drive motor disposed inside the module cover and configured to supply a rotational force to the wiper by rotating a motor shaft; and a flow path forming part formed in the module cover body and communicated with the suction inlet, so as to guide the air flowing in through the suction inlet to the cleaner body, wherein the virtual axial extension line of the motor shaft can pass through the flow path forming part.

The auxiliary battery coupling part may include an auxiliary battery coupling groove accommodating the auxiliary battery, and the auxiliary battery coupling groove may be formed from a rear side of the module housing toward a front of the module housing in a direction parallel to the floor surface in a state where the cleaning module is placed on the floor surface.

The auxiliary battery coupling groove may be formed to be inclined downward at a predetermined angle with respect to the floor surface in a state where the cleaning module is placed on the floor surface.

The cleaning module may further include a diffuser that spits the moisture passing through the steam generator to the cloth, and the diffuser may be formed in a ring shape.

The wiper drive motor may be disposed inside the annular diffuser.

Effects of the invention

As described above, according to the cleaner of the present invention, since the auxiliary battery is installed, the total capacity of the battery is increased.

In addition, the heater supplies high-temperature water or steam to the cleaning cloth, thereby improving the sterilization and foreign matter removal effects.

In addition, additional power can be supplied through the auxiliary battery and the user can easily operate.

In addition, when the auxiliary battery supplies additional power to the heater to cause the cleaning module to generate steam, power can be stably supplied.

In addition, the increase in the volume of the cleaning module can be minimized on the premise of installing the auxiliary battery.

Drawings

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 2 is a perspective view for explaining a cleaner body according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 3 is a sectional view for explaining a cleaner body according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 4 is a combined perspective view for explaining a cleaning module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 5 is an exploded perspective view of fig. 4.

Fig. 6 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which an upper cover is removed in the cleaning module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 7 is a bottom view of a cleaning module according to an embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a cleaning module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 9 is a view for observing the back surface of a cleaning module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 10 is a diagram for explaining a process of coupling an auxiliary battery to a cleaning module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 11 is a view for observing the rear surface of a state in which the cleaning module of an embodiment of the present invention incorporates an auxiliary battery.

Fig. 12 is a side view of fig. 11.

Fig. 13 is a view for explaining an internal configuration of a state in which a cleaning module according to an embodiment of the present invention incorporates an auxiliary battery.

Fig. 14 is a view of fig. 13 from the upper side.

Fig. 15 is a view for observing the back surface of a state in which an auxiliary battery is incorporated in a cleaning module according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 16 is a side view of fig. 15.

Fig. 17 is a combined perspective view for explaining a cleaning module according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 18 is a combined perspective view for explaining a cleaning module according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed Description

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

The present invention is capable of various modifications and various embodiments, and therefore, specific embodiments are shown in the drawings and will be described in detail below. It is not intended that the invention be limited to the specific embodiments but should be interpreted to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and technical scope of the invention.

In the description of the present invention, terms such as first, second, etc. may be used to describe various constituent elements, but the constituent elements are not limited by the terms. The terms are used only to distinguish one component from other components. For example, a first component may be termed a second component, and, similarly, a second component may be termed a first component, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

The term "and/or" includes a combination of plural content described or some item of plural content described.

When it is referred to that a certain element is "connected" or "coupled" to another element, it can be directly connected or coupled to the other element or other elements can be present therebetween. Conversely, when referring to a certain component as being "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another component, it is understood that there are no other components between them.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application. The expression in the singular may include the expression in the plural unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

In the present application, it should be understood that the terms "comprises" or "comprising," etc., are intended to specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, acts, components, elements, or groups thereof, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features or integers, steps, acts, components, elements, or groups thereof.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms including technical or scientific terms used herein may have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. Terms such as defined in a general dictionary may be interpreted as having meanings consistent with the meanings in the context of the related art, and may not be interpreted as ideal or excessively formal meanings unless explicitly defined otherwise in the present application.

In addition, the following embodiments are provided for more complete description to one of ordinary skill in the art, and the shapes, sizes, etc. of elements in the drawings may be exaggerated for more specific description.

A perspective view of a cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention is disclosed in fig. 1, a perspective view of a cleaner body for explaining an embodiment of the present invention is disclosed in fig. 2, and a sectional view of a cleaner body for explaining an embodiment of the present invention is disclosed in fig. 3.

In the present specification, it is understood that "floor surface" refers not only to the floor surface of a living room or room, but also to the cleaning surface of carpets or the like.

Referring to fig. 1 to 3, a cleaner 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include: a cleaner body 100 having a suction motor 140 for generating suction force; a cleaning module 300 connected to the cleaner body 100, sucking air and foreign matters from the floor surface, and wiping and cleaning the floor surface; and an extension pipe 200 connecting the cleaner body 100 and the cleaning module 300.

The structure of the cleaner body 100 will be described below.

On the other hand, in an embodiment of the present invention, the direction may be defined with reference to the bottom surface (lower side) of the dust tub 170 and the battery cover 180 placed on the ground.

At this time, the front may refer to a direction in which the suction unit 120 is disposed with reference to the suction motor 140, and the rear may refer to a direction in which the handle 160 is disposed. The direction in which the suction unit 120 is disposed on the right side may be referred to as the right side and the direction in which the suction unit is disposed on the left side may be referred to as the left side, based on the observation of the suction motor 140. In addition, in an embodiment of the present invention, the upper and lower sides may be defined in a direction perpendicular to the ground based on the bottom surface (lower side surface) of the dust tub 170 and the battery cover 180 placed on the ground.

The cleaner 1 may include a cleaner body 100. The cleaner body 100 may include a body cover 110, a suction part 120, a dust separating part 130, a suction motor 140, an air discharge cover 150, a handle 160, a dust tub 170, a battery cover 180, and a battery 190.

The body cover 110 may constitute an external appearance of the cleaner body 100. The body cover 110 may provide a space capable of accommodating the suction motor 140 and a filter (not shown) therein. The body cover 110 may be configured to resemble a cylinder.

The suction portion 120 may protrude outward from the body cover 110. As an example, the suction portion 120 may be formed in a cylindrical shape with an opening inside. The suction part 120 may be combined with the extension pipe 200. The suction portion 120 may provide a flow path (hereinafter, may be referred to as "suction flow path") through which air containing dust flows.

The dust separating part 130 is a structure which communicates with the suction part 120 and applies a principle of a dust collector using centrifugal force in order to separate dust sucked into the cleaner body 100 through the suction part 120. The space inside the dust separating part 130 may communicate with the space inside the dust tub 170.

For example, the dust separating part 130 may have at least one cyclone part capable of separating dust by cyclone flow. Further, the space inside the dust separating part 130 may communicate with the suction flow path. Accordingly, the air and dust sucked through the suction part 120 spirally flow along the inner circumferential surface of the dust separating part 130. Accordingly, a cyclone flow may occur in the inner space of the dust separating part 130.

The suction motor 140 may generate suction force to suck air. The suction motor 140 may be accommodated in the body cover 110. The suction motor 140 may generate suction by rotating. As an example, the suction motor 140 may be similar to a cylindrical shape.

The air discharge cover 150 may be disposed at one side of the body cover 110 in the axial direction. The air discharge cover 150 may accommodate a filter for filtering air. As an example, the air discharge cover 150 may accommodate a high efficiency air (HEPA) filter.

The handle 160 may be held by a user. The handle 160 may be disposed at the rear of the suction motor 140. As an example, the handle 160 may be formed like a cylindrical shape. Alternatively, the handle 160 may be formed in a curved cylindrical shape. The handle 160 may be disposed at a predetermined angle with respect to the main body cover 110, the suction motor 140, or the dust separating unit 130.

The handle 160 may include: a grip portion 161 formed in a column shape so as to be able to be gripped by a user; a first extension part connected to one end part of the grip part 161 in the longitudinal direction (axial direction) and formed to extend toward the suction motor 140; and a second extension part connected to the other end part of the grip part 161 in the length direction (axial direction) and formed to extend toward the dust tub 170.

The top surface of the handle 160 may form a part of the external appearance of the top surface of the cleaner 1.

The operation unit 165 may be disposed on the handle 160. The operation portion 165 may be disposed on an inclined surface formed in an upper region of the handle 160. The user can input an operation or a stop command of the cleaner 1 through the operation section 165.

The dust tub 170 may communicate with the dust separating part 130. The dust tub 170 may store dust separated from the dust separating part 130.

The dust tub 170 may include a dust tub body 171.

The dust tub body 171 may provide a space to store dust separated from the dust separating part 130. As an example, the dust tub body 171 may be formed like a cylindrical shape.

As an example, the dust bucket body 171 may be provided such that a lower side surface thereof can be opened. In this case, a discharge cover 172 is provided at the lower side of the dust tub body 171, so that the lower side of the dust tub body 171 can be selectively opened.

On the other hand, according to an embodiment, the dust bucket 170 may further include a dust bucket compression lever 173 and a compression member 174.

The dust barrel compression lever 173 may be disposed outside the dust barrel 170 or the dust separating part 130. The dust barrel compression lever 173 may be disposed to be movable up and down outside the dust barrel 170 or the dust separating part 130. The dust bucket compression lever 173 may be connected with the compression member 174. In case that the dust barrel compression lever 173 is moved downward by an external force, the compression member 174 may also be moved downward together. Thereby, convenience for the user can be provided. The compression member 174 and the dust bucket compression lever 173 may be returned to the home position by an elastic member (not shown). Specifically, in the case where the external force applied to the dust barrel compression lever 173 is removed, the elastic member may move the dust barrel compression lever 173 and the compression piece 174 upward.

The compression member 174 may be disposed inside the dust tub body 171. The compressing member 174 is movable in the inner space of the dust tub body 171. Specifically, the compression member 174 may move up and down within the dust barrel body 171. Thereby, the compressing tool can compress the dust in the dust tub body 171 downward. In addition, in a case where the discharge cover 172 is separated from the dust tub body 171 and the lower portion of the dust tub 170 is opened, the compressing piece 174 may move from the upper portion to the lower portion of the dust tub 170 and remove foreign materials such as remaining dust in the dust tub 170. Thus, by preventing the remaining dust from remaining in the dust tub 170, the suction force of the cleaner can be improved. Further, by preventing the remaining dust from remaining in the dust tub 170, odor caused by the remaining dust can be removed.

A battery 190 may be accommodated in the battery case 180. The battery cover 180 may be disposed at the lower side of the handle 160.

As an example, the battery cover 180 may have a hexahedral shape with an open lower portion. The back of the battery cover 180 may be connected to the handle 160. In this case, the battery cover 180 may include a receiving portion that is opened downward. With this configuration, the battery 190 can be attached to and detached from the housing portion of the battery cover 180.

As another example, the battery cover 180 may be integrally formed in a state where the battery 190 is accommodated therein.

The battery 190 is a structure for supplying power to the cleaner 1. Specifically, the battery 190 may supply power to the suction motor 140, and may supply power to an electronic circuit, an electronic component, and the like through an electric wire built in the cleaner 1. In addition, the battery 190 may supply power to the cleaning module 300.

When the battery 190 is coupled to the battery cover 180, the bottom surface of the battery 190 may be exposed to the outside. When the cleaner 1 is placed on the floor, the battery 190 can be placed on the floor, and thus the battery 190 can be directly separated from the battery cover 180. In addition, the bottom surface of the battery 190 is exposed to the outside and is in direct contact with the outside air of the battery 190, so that the cooling performance of the battery 190 can be improved.

On the other hand, in the case where the battery 190 is integrally fixed with the battery cover 180, the structure for attaching and detaching the battery 190 and the battery cover 180 can be reduced, and therefore the overall size of the cleaner 1 can be reduced, and weight reduction can be achieved.

The cleaner 1 may include an extension pipe 200.

The extension pipe 200 may be combined with the cleaner body 100 and the cleaning module 300.

For example, the extension pipe 200 may be formed in a long cylindrical shape. Accordingly, the inner space of the extension pipe 200 may communicate with the inner space of the cleaning module 300. In addition, the extension pipe 200 may communicate with a suction flow path formed at the suction part 120 of the cleaner body 100.

If suction is generated by the suction motor 140, suction may be provided to the cleaning module 300 through the suction part 120 and the extension pipe 200. Accordingly, external dust and air may flow into the cleaner body 100 through the cleaning module 300 and the extension pipe 200. In addition, dust and air flowing through the cleaning module 300 may flow into the cleaner body 100 after passing through the extension pipe 200. Further, after the dust and air flowing into the cleaner body 100 and passing through the suction part 120 are separated in the dust separating part 130, the dust is stored in the dust tub 170, and the air can be discharged to the outside through the air discharge cover 150.

On the other hand, an electric wire may be built in the extension pipe 200. Accordingly, the cleaner body 100 and the cleaning module 300 may be electrically connected through the extension pipe 200.

Fig. 4 to 9 show diagrams for explaining a cleaning module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to fig. 4 to 9, the cleaning module 300 of the embodiment of the present invention may include a module housing 310 and a connection pipe 380 movably connected to the module housing 310.

As an example, the cleaning module 300 of the present embodiment may be used in connection with a hand-held cleaner.

That is, the cleaning module 300 may be detachably connected to the cleaner body 100 or the extension pipe 200. Accordingly, by being connected to the cleaner body 100 or the extension pipe 200, a user can clean a floor surface using the cleaning module 300. At this time, the cleaner body 100 to which the cleaning module 300 is connected may separate dust in the air using a multi cyclone manner.

The cleaning module 300 may be operated by receiving power from the cleaner body 100.

The cleaner body 100 to which the cleaning module 300 is connected includes the suction motor 140, and thus suction force generated by the suction motor 140 acts on the cleaning module 300, so that foreign materials and air of the floor surface can be sucked from the cleaning module 300.

Accordingly, in the present embodiment, the cleaning module 300 can perform the function of sucking foreign substances and air of the floor surface and guiding to the cleaner 1.

The connection pipe 380 is connected to the rear center portion of the module housing 310, and may guide the sucked air to the cleaner 1, but is not limited thereto.

To assist understanding, the portion of the cleaning module 300 to which the connection pipe 380 is connected may be referred to as a rear side (rear) of the cleaning module 300, and the opposite side portion of the connection pipe 380 may be referred to as a front side (front) of the cleaning module 300, defining the direction of the present embodiment.

The left side of the flow path forming portion 313 may be referred to as the left side of the cleaning module 300 and the right side of the flow path forming portion 313 may be referred to as the right side of the cleaning module 300, based on the suction port 313a viewed from the connection pipe 380. The direction connecting the left side and the right side may be referred to as a left-right direction. The right-left direction may refer to a direction perpendicular to the front-rear direction on the horizontal plane.

The direction toward the floor surface may be referred to as a lower side or a lower side, and the direction away from the floor surface may be referred to as an upper side or an upper side, based on the state in which the wet wipe module 300 is placed on the floor surface, that is, the state in which the wipe 350 is placed on the floor surface and is capable of wiping the floor surface.

The cleaning module 300 may further include a rotary cleaning part 340 rotatably provided at the lower side of the module housing 310.

As an example, the rotary cleaning unit 340 may have a pair and be arranged in the left-right direction. At this time, the pair of the rotary cleaning parts 340 may be independently rotated. As an example, the rotary cleaning part 340 may include a first rotary cleaning part 341 and a second rotary cleaning part 342.

The rotary cleaning portion 340 may be combined with a wipe 350. As an example, the wiper 350 may be formed in a disc shape. The wipes 350 may include a first wipe 351 and a second wipe 352.

In a state where the cloth 350 is placed on the floor surface, the cloth 350 is in close contact with the floor surface due to the load of the cleaning module 300, and thus the frictional force between the cloth 350 and the floor surface increases.

The module cover 310 forms the outer shape of the cleaning module 300, and may be formed with a suction port 313a for sucking air. As an example, the suction port 313a may be formed at the front end of the bottom surface of the module case 310. The suction port 313a may be formed to extend in the left-right direction in the module case 310.

The module housing 310 may include a lower housing 311 and an upper housing 312 coupled to an upper side of the lower housing 311.

The lower cover 311 is provided with a rotary cleaning part 340 at a lower side, and can form an outer shape of the cleaning module 300.

The lower cover 311 may be formed with a suction port 313a.

A substrate setting part, in which the printed circuit board 390 for controlling the cloth driving motor 370 is disposed, may be provided at the lower cover 311. As an example, the substrate mounting portion may be formed in a hook shape extending upward from the lower cover 311.

Although not limited, the substrate installation portion may be located at one side of the flow path formation portion 313 in the lower cover 311. As an example, the printed circuit board 390 may be disposed adjacent to the first and second operating portions 391 and 392. Accordingly, the switch provided to the printed circuit board 390 can sense the operations of the first and second operation portions 391 and 392.

A nozzle hole (not shown) for penetrating the diffuser 337 may be formed in the lower cover 311. Water or steam (water vapor) passing through the steam generator 336 and the diffuser 337 may be supplied to the wiper 350 through the nozzle holes (not shown).

The upper cover 312 covers the upper side of the lower cover 311, and may form the outer shape of the cleaning module 300 of the present invention.

The module cover 310 may further include a flow path forming portion 313, and the flow path forming portion 313 communicates with the suction port 313a to form a flow path for guiding the air flowing in from the suction port 313a to the cleaner body 100.

The flow path forming portion 313 may be coupled to an upper central portion of the lower cover 311, and an end portion thereof may be connected to the connection pipe 380.

Accordingly, by the arrangement of the flow path forming part 313, the suction port 313a can be extended in a substantially straight line in the front-rear direction, and thus the length of the suction port 313a can be minimized, and thus the flow path loss in the cleaning module 300 can be minimized.

A front side portion of the flow path forming portion 313 may cover an upper side of the suction port 313 a. The flow path forming portion 313 may be configured to be inclined upward as the front end portion approaches the rear side.

Accordingly, the flow path forming portion 313 may be formed such that the front side portion is lower in height than the rear side portion.

According to the present embodiment, since the height of the front side portion of the flow path forming part 313 is low, there is an advantage in that the height of the front side portion in the entire height of the cleaning module 300 can be reduced. The lower the height of the cleaning module 300 is, the higher the possibility that the cleaning module can be introduced into a narrow space at the lower side of furniture, chair, or the like to perform cleaning.

A stopper 314 is disposed on the lower surface of the lower cover 311. The stopper 314 may block the diffusion of the moisture released from the cloth 350 to the suction port 313a by shielding the front space where the suction port 313a is disposed and the rear space where the cloth 350 is disposed. For example, the stop 314 may include a central portion 314a and an extension portion 314b. In this case, the pair of extension portions 314b may be symmetrically connected at both end portions with respect to the central portion 314 a. The center portion 314a is disposed rearward of the suction port 313a, and thus can block the flow of moisture toward the suction port 313 a. Also, the extension 314b may be formed in an arc shape surrounding the circular cloth 350.

A plurality of rollers for smoothly moving the cleaning module 300 may be provided at the lower side of the lower cover 311.

As an example, the lower cover 311 may be provided with a front roller 315 in front of the wiper 315. The front roller 315 may include a first roller 315a and a second roller 315b. The first roller 315a and the second roller 315b may be disposed to be spaced apart in the left-right direction.

The first roller 315a and the second roller 315b may be rotatably coupled to shafts, respectively. The shaft may be fixed to the lower side of the lower cover 311 in a state of being arranged to extend in the left-right direction.

The distance between the shaft and the front end of the lower housing 311 is longer than the minimum distance between the wiper 350 and the front end of the lower housing 311.

As an example, at least a portion of the rotary cleaning portion 340 may be provided between the axis of the first roller 315a and the axis of the second roller 315 b.

According to this configuration, the rotary cleaning part 340 can be brought into close proximity to the suction port 313a to the maximum, and the area cleaned by the rotary cleaning part 340 in the floor surface where the cleaning module 300 is located can be increased, so that the floor cleaning performance can be improved.

In the case of the present embodiment, since the first roller 315a and the second roller 315b are coupled to the lower side of the lower cover 311, the mobility of the cleaning module 300 can be improved.

A third roller 316 may also be provided on the underside of the lower housing 311. Thus, the first roller 315a and the second roller 315b may support the cleaning module 300 together with the third roller 316 at three points. At this time, the third roller 316 may be located at the rear of the wipe 350 so as not to interfere with the wipe 350.

A cooling air inlet (not shown) and a cooling air outlet (not shown) may be formed in the module case 310.

For example, a cooling air inlet (not shown) may be formed in the lower cover 311. The outside air may flow into the inside of the module case 310 through a cooling air inlet (not shown). A cooling air inlet (not shown) may be formed in the front side wall of the lower cover 311. With this configuration, the inflow amount of air can be increased as the cleaning module 300 is advanced by the user's operation.

A cooling air discharge port (not shown) may be formed in the upper cover 312. The air inside the module case 310 can be discharged to the outside through a cooling air discharge port (not shown). Further, cooling air discharge ports (not shown) may be formed in both side walls of the upper cover 312. With this configuration, the air flowing in through the cooling air inlet (not shown) can be guided to pass through the wipe drive motor 370 while flowing to the cooling air outlet (not shown), and overheat of the wipe drive motor 370 can be prevented.

The cooling air outlet may be further away from the floor surface than the cooling air inlet, with the lower cover 311 being placed on the floor surface. With this configuration, the air heated in the module case 310 rises, and can be efficiently discharged through the cooling air discharge port.

On the other hand, in the cleaner 1 of an embodiment of the present invention, the auxiliary battery coupling part 400 may be formed at the module housing 310. For example, the auxiliary battery coupling part 400 may be formed at the rear side of the module case 310. The auxiliary battery 500 may be detachably coupled to the auxiliary battery coupling part 400.

The specific structure of the auxiliary battery coupling part 400 will be described later.

The cleaning module 300 may also include a water tank 320 to enable water to be supplied to the wipes 350.

The water tank 320 may be detachably connected to the module housing 310. Specifically, the water tank 320 is mounted to a water tub seating part formed at the upper cover 312.

In addition, the water tank 320 may be disposed at an upper portion of the steam generator 336. Specifically, the water tank 320 is disposed at an upper portion of the steam generator 336 to be spaced apart from the steam generator 336. That is, the water tank 320 may be disposed at an upper portion of the steam generator 336 through the upper cover 112.

The water tank 320 may form an external appearance of the cleaning module 300 in a state where the module housing 310 mounts the water tank 320.

In fact, the entire upper sidewall of the water tank 320 may form the top surface appearance of the cleaning module 300. Thus, the user can visually confirm whether the water tank 320 is mounted to the module housing 310.

The module housing 310 may further include a tank separation button that is operated to separate the water tank 320 in a state where the water tank 320 is mounted to the module housing 310. For example, the tank separation button may be located at the central portion of the cleaning module 300. Therefore, there is an advantage in that the user easily recognizes the water tank separation button and can operate the water tank separation button.

In a state where the water tank 320 is mounted to the module housing 310, water of the water tank 320 may be supplied to the cloth 350.

Specifically, a space capable of storing water is formed inside the water tank 320. The water stored in the water tank 320 may be supplied to the steam generator 336 through at least one pipe (hose). The water flowing into the steam generator 336 may be heated, or may be phase-changed into steam (water vapor) according to a user's selection. The water heated in the steam generator 336 may be supplied to the wiper 350 through the diffuser 337.

The water tank 320 includes a water supply port. The water supply port is a hole through which water flows into the inside of the water tank 320. For example, the water supply port may be formed at a side of the water tank 320.

The water tank 320 includes a drain opening. The drain port is a hole for draining water stored in the water tank 320. The water discharged from the drain port may flow toward the steam generator 336. The drain opening may be formed at a lower face of the water tank 320.

The water tank 320 includes an air hole. The air holes are holes through which air can flow into the inside of the water tank 320. When the water stored in the inside of the water tank 320 is discharged to the outside, the pressure in the inside of the water tank 320 is reduced, and in order to compensate for the reduced pressure, air may flow into the inside of the water tank 320 through the air hole. For example, an air hole may be formed at an upper end of the water tank 320.

The cleaning module 300 of the present invention may further include a moisture supply part 330, the moisture supply part 330 being formed with a flow path for supplying water flowing in from the water tank 320 to the cloth 350.

Specifically, the moisture supply part 330 may include: a water tank connection part 331 for allowing water of the water tank 320 to flow into the module housing 310; a water inflow pipe 332 for supplying water flowing into the water tank connection part 331 to the water pump 333; a guide pipe 334 for supplying water of the water pump 333 to the T-shaped connector; and a water supply pipe 335 for supplying water flowing into the connector to the steam generator 336 (see fig. 14).

The water tank connection portion 331 may operate a valve (not shown) in the water tank 320, and water may flow.

The water tank connection part 331 may be coupled to the lower side of the upper housing 312, and a portion thereof may protrude upward through the upper housing 312.

If the water tank 320 is disposed at the upper cover 312, the water tank connection part 331 protruding to the upper side may penetrate the discharge port of the water tank 320 and be introduced into the inside of the water tank 320.

The upper housing 312 may be provided with a seal for preventing water discharged from the water tank 320 from leaking from the periphery of the water tank connection part 331. As an example, the seal may be formed of a rubber material, and may be coupled to the upper cover 312 on the upper side of the upper cover 312.

A water pump 333 may be provided at the upper housing 312, the water pump 333 for controlling the discharge of water from the water tank 320.

The water pump 333 may provide a flow force of water. The water pump 333 may include a first connection port to which the water inflow pipe 332 is connected and a second connection port to which the guide pipe 334 is connected. In this case, the first connection port may be an inlet and the second connection port may be an outlet with respect to the water pump 333.

The water pump 333 is a pump that operates so that the internal valve body expands or contracts while operating to communicate the first connection port and the second connection port, and may be implemented by a known structure, and thus a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

A water supply pipe 335 may connect the connector and the water inlet 336b of the steam generator 336. For example, the water supply pipe 335 may be a pair of pipes branched from the connector.

Accordingly, the water supplied to the water inflow pipe 332 flows toward the guide pipe 334 after being introduced into the inside of the water pump 333. The water flowing to the guide pipe 334 may flow to the water supply pipe 335 by the connector. And, the water flowing to the water supply pipe 335 is supplied to the steam generator 336.

The steam generator 336 is a device for heating water. The steam generator 336 is disposed inside the module housing 310. Specifically, the steam generator 336 is provided on the upper surface of the lower cover 311.

The steam generator 336 includes a heating chamber 336a, a water inlet 336b, and a water outlet 336c.

A flow path through which water flowing from the water tank 320 flows is formed inside the heating chamber 336 a. The heating chamber 336a may heat water by receiving power from the battery 190 and/or the auxiliary battery 500. The heating chamber 336a may adjust the temperature of the water according to a user's control. In addition, the heating chamber 336a may change the water phase into steam (water vapor) according to the user's control.

The water inlet 336b may be a hole formed at an inlet end of the heating chamber 336 a. Through the water inlet 336b, the water stored in the water tank 320 may flow into the steam generator 336.

The moisture discharge port 336c may be a hole formed at an outlet end of the heating chamber 336 a. Water or steam can be discharged from the steam generator 336 through the water discharge port 336c. The water discharge port 336c may be connected to the diffuser 337.

On the other hand, in the present invention, the steam generator 336 is obliquely disposed. Specifically, the heating chamber 336a is disposed obliquely to the ground (floor surface) at a predetermined angle.

For example, the rear end of the heating chamber 336a is disposed above the front end of the heating chamber 336 a. That is, the steam generator 336 has a tilt in the rear direction. Thereby, the water may be heated while flowing from the rear upper portion to the front lower portion of the steam generator 336.

On the other hand, the water inlet 336b may be disposed at the rear end of the heating chamber 336a, and the water outlet 336c may be disposed at the front end of the heating chamber 336 a. That is, the water inlet 336b may be further away from the floor surface (ground surface) than the water outlet 336c, based on a state where the lower cover 311 is placed on the floor surface (ground surface). As a result, the water flows from the upper part to the lower part by gravity and is heated, and even if the water changes phase to steam and rises, the water can be discharged to the water discharge port 336c by the flowing force of the water.

The diffuser 337 is configured to discharge water from the water tank 320 to the wiper 350.

The diffuser 337 may be accommodated in a space formed inside the module casing 310. The diffuser 337 is connected to the steam generator 336, so that the moisture heated in the steam generator 336 can be discharged to the wiper 350.

The diffusers 337 may be arranged in a pair mounted to the module housing 310 in the left-right direction. In addition, the pair of diffusers 337 arranged in the left-right direction may be formed in a symmetrical form (mirror image) to each other.

In this embodiment, the diffuser 337 internally forms a diffusion flow path through which moisture can flow and includes a nozzle that discharges the moisture flowing through the diffusion flow path to the wiper.

As an example, the diffuser 337 is formed in a ring shape, and a plurality of nozzles may be provided at predetermined intervals in the circumferential direction. In this case, the cloth driving motor 370 may be disposed inside the ring-shaped diffuser. With this configuration, the diffuser 337 can rapidly supply moisture to the entire cloth 350 in the shape of a disk. In addition, the thickness of the pipe can be reduced as compared with other types of diffusers that flow an equal amount of moisture, and therefore it is advantageous to ensure a space in the up-down direction. Further, by disposing the cloth driving motor 370 at the center of the annular diffuser 337, the space utilization can be improved. As a result, the space for inserting the auxiliary battery 500 into the module case 310 can be ensured.

As another example, the diffuser 337 may be formed in a circular arc shape, and the nozzle may have a plurality of nozzles at predetermined intervals. With this configuration, the diffuser 337 can stably supply moisture to the disc-shaped wiper 350.

The water sprayed from the diffuser 337 is supplied to the cloth 350 after passing through the water passing holes formed at the rotary cleaning part 340. The cloth 350 rotates in a state of absorbing water supplied through the diffuser 337 and wipes the floor.

The rotary cleaning part 340 may receive power from the cloth driving motor 370 to rotate. For example, the rotary cleaning part 340 may be a rotary disk. The rotary cleaning part 340 may be formed in a disc shape, and the cloth 350 may be attached to the bottom surface.

As an example, the rotary cleaning portion 340 may be located behind the suction port 313a at the lower side of the module cover 310.

Therefore, when the cleaning module 300 is advanced and cleaned, the floor surface can be wiped by the wiping cloth 350 after the foreign matter and air on the floor surface are sucked through the suction port 313 a.

As an example, the rotary cleaning part 340 may include: a first rotary cleaning part 341 connected to the first cloth driving motor 371, to which a first cloth 351 is attached; and a second rotary cleaning part 342 connected to a second cloth driving motor 372, to which a second cloth 352 is attached.

Specifically, the rotary cleaning part 340 may include: an outer body in the shape of a circular ring; an inner body located at a central region of the outer body, spaced apart from an inner circumferential surface of the outer body; and a plurality of connection ribs connecting the outer peripheral surface of the inner body and the inner peripheral surface of the outer body.

In addition, in order to supply the water discharged through the diffuser 337 to the wiper 350, the rotary cleaning part 340 may include a plurality of water passing holes formed in the circumferential direction.

On the other hand, the rotary cleaning part 340 may include an attachment means to attach the wiper 350. As an example, the attachment means may be Velcro (Velcro).

The rotary cleaning part 340 may be disposed at the lower side of the lower cover 311. That is, the rotary cleaning part 340 may be disposed outside the module case 310.

In addition, the rotary cleaning part 340 may be connected to the cloth driving motor 370 to receive power. For example, the rotary cleaning part 340 may be connected to the cloth driving motor 370 through at least one gear, and may be rotated by the operation of the cloth driving motor 370.

The rotary cleaning part 340 may include a first rotary cleaning part 341 and a second rotary cleaning part 342.

In the present embodiment, the rotation center of the first rotary cleaning portion 341 and the rotation center of the second rotary cleaning portion 342 are arranged apart in the left-right direction.

The rotation center of the rotary cleaning part 340 may be further away from the front end of the module housing 310 than a central axis that bisects the front-rear length of the module housing 310. This is to prevent the rotary cleaning part 340 from blocking the suction port 313a.

The distance between the rotation center of the first rotary cleaning part 341 and the rotation center of the second rotary cleaning part 342 may be formed to be greater than the diameter of the cloth 350. This is to reduce mutual friction caused by interference with each other during rotation of the first and second wipes 351 and 352, and prevent the cleanable area from being reduced by a portion corresponding to the interference.

The wipe 350 may wipe the floor surface with a rotational motion.

The cloth 350 may be coupled to the underside of the rotary cleaning part 340 in such a manner as to face the floor surface.

The wiper 350 is formed to have a predetermined area toward the bottom surface of the floor, and the wiper 350 is formed in a flat shape. The width (or diameter) of the wiper 350 in the horizontal direction is sufficiently larger than the height in the vertical direction. The cloth 350 is combined with the side of the lower cover 311, and the bottom surface of the cloth 350 may be parallel to the floor surface.

The bottom surface of the wipe 350 may be formed in a substantially circular shape, and the wipe 350 may be formed in a rotationally symmetrical configuration as a whole. The wiper 350 is attachable to and detachable from the bottom surface of the rotary cleaning unit 340, and is rotatable together with the rotary cleaning unit 340 by being coupled to the rotary cleaning unit 340.

In a state where the rotary cleaning part 340 is coupled to the lower side of the module housing 310, a portion of the cloth 350 protrudes to the outside of the cleaning module 300, so that not only the floor surface located under the cleaning module 300 but also the floor surface located outside the cleaning module 300 can be cleaned.

As an example, the cloth 350 may protrude not only to both sides of the cleaning module 300, but also to the rear.

The wipes 350 may include a first wipe 351 bonded to the first rotary cleaning portion 341 and a second wipe 352 bonded to the second rotary cleaning portion 342. Therefore, if the first rotary cleaning portion 341 receives the power of the first cloth driving motor 371 and rotates, the first cloth 351 may also rotate together, and if the second rotary cleaning portion 342 receives the power of the second cloth driving motor 372 and rotates, the second cloth 352 may also rotate together.

On the other hand, although not shown, the cleaning module 300 of the present embodiment may further include a light emitting module.

The light emitting module may confirm foreign substances or microorganisms existing in front of the cleaning module 300 by radiating light to the front of the cleaning module 300.

The light emitting module may be disposed in front of the module housing 310. For example, the light emitting modules may be disposed on the front surface of the lower cover 311, and may be disposed in plural numbers in the left-right direction.

The light emitting module may radiate light to the front or the lower portion. As an example, the light emitting module may be constituted by a plurality of LEDs. At this time, the light irradiated by the light emitting module may be visible rays, and according to an embodiment, may be Infrared (IR) rays or Ultraviolet (UV) rays. With this configuration, the following effects are obtained: when the light emitting module is operated, not only foreign matter or microorganisms existing in front of the cleaning module 300 can be confirmed, but also sanitation can be improved by sterilizing the foreign matter or microorganisms existing in front of the cleaning module 300.

On the other hand, the cleaning module 300 may further include a cloth drive motor 370, the cloth drive motor 370 providing power to rotate the cloth 350 and the rotary cleaning part 340.

Specifically, the cloth drive motor 370 may include a first cloth drive motor 371 that rotates the first rotary cleaning portion 341 and a second cloth drive motor 372 that rotates the second rotary cleaning portion 342.

As described above, since the first and second cloth driving motors 371 and 372 are independently operated, there is an advantage in that even if one of the first and second cloth driving motors 371 and 372 fails, the cleaning portion 340 can be rotated by the other cloth driving motor.

On the other hand, the first and second cloth driving motors 371 and 372 may be arranged to be spaced apart in the left-right direction in the module housing 310. Also, the first and second cloth driving motors 371 and 372 may be located at the rear of the suction port 313 a.

The wipe drive motor 370 may be disposed within the module housing 310. As an example, the wiper drive motor 370 is disposed above the lower cover 311 and may be covered by the upper cover 312. That is, the cloth drive motor 370 may be located between the lower housing 311 and the upper housing 312.

The wipe drive motor 370 may include a motor shaft 371. The wipe drive motor 370 may generate a rotational force to the wipe 350 by rotating the motor shaft 371.

On the other hand, in the present embodiment, the motor shaft 371 may be arranged in a direction crossing the front-rear direction of the cleaning module 300. For example, a virtual extension line of the rotation shaft of the motor shaft 371 may pass through the flow path forming portion 313. In addition, virtual extension lines of the rotation shafts of the pair of motor shafts 371 may intersect each other. For example, the virtual extension line of the first motor shaft 371a may intersect with the virtual extension line of the second motor shaft 372 a. At this time, the position where the virtual extension line of the first motor shaft 371a and the virtual extension line of the second motor shaft 372a intersect may be inside the module housing 310, preferably, inside the flow path forming part 313.

With this configuration, the space in the front-rear direction occupied by the wiper drive motor 370 in the module housing 310 can be reduced, and the space in the rear side of the module housing 310 can be ensured. Therefore, the present invention has an effect of not increasing the entire volume of the module case 310 even if the auxiliary battery 500 is coupled.

On the other hand, the cleaning module 300 includes a connection pipe 380 coupled with the cleaner body 100 or the extension pipe 200.

The connection pipe 380 may include: a first connection pipe 381 connected to an end of the flow path forming portion 313; a second connection pipe 382 rotatably connected to the first connection pipe 381; and a guide pipe communicating the interiors of the first connection pipe 381 and the second connection pipe 382.

The first connection pipe 381 is formed in a pipe shape, one axial end portion is connected to an end portion of the flow path forming portion 313, and the other axial end portion may be rotatably coupled with the second connection pipe 382. At this time, the first connection pipe 381 is formed in a form of being cut out at a portion of the outer circumferential surface, and the cut-out portion may be disposed toward the second connection pipe 382 and the upper side. With this configuration, the angle formed by the second connection pipe 382 and the floor surface may be changed as the arm of the user moves in a state where the cleaning module 300 is placed on the floor surface. That is, the first connection pipe 381 and the second connection pipe 382 may perform the function of one kind of joint capable of adjusting the angles of the cleaning module 300 and the cleaner body 100.

The second connection pipe 382 is formed in a pipe shape, one axial side end portion is rotatably coupled with the first connection pipe 313, and the other axial side end portion is inserted into and detachably coupled with the cleaner body 100 or the extension pipe 200.

On the other hand, wires may be built in the first connection pipe 381 and the second connection pipe 382, and the wires built in the first connection pipe 381 and the second connection pipe 382 may be electrically connected to each other. With this configuration, the current applied from the battery 190 of the cleaner body 100 can be transmitted to the cleaning module 300.

On the other hand, the guide pipe may connect the inner space of the first connection pipe 381 and the inner space of the second connection pipe 382. The guide pipe may internally form a flow path to allow air sucked from the cleaning module 300 to flow toward the extension pipe 200 and/or the cleaner body 100. At this time, the guide pipe may be deformed together with the rotation of the first connection pipe 381 and the second connection pipe 382. As an example, the guide tube may be formed as a bellows (bellows).

On the other hand, an extension tube separation button 384 may be provided at the second connection tube 382. The extension pipe separation button 384 may be disposed in front of the second connection pipe 382, based on the case where the second connection pipe 382 stands vertically from the ground. Alternatively, the extension pipe separation button 384 may be disposed on the upper side of the second connection pipe 382 in a state where the second connection pipe 382 is parallel to the ground or inclined at a predetermined angle to the ground.

The extension tube separation button 384 is hooked to the extension tube 200, and if an external force is applied, the coupling with the extension tube 200 can be released. For example, the extension tube separation button 384 may be formed in a long plate (board) shape, and a hook may be formed at one side end (front side end). Further, a hinge portion is provided at a central portion of the extension pipe separation button 384, and can be hinge-coupled with the second connection pipe 382. At this time, a torsion spring is provided at the hinge portion so that the coupling of the extension tube separation button 384 and the extension tube 200 can be elastically supported. A button portion for guiding the position pressed by the user may be provided at the other end (rear end) of the extension tube separation button 384. With this configuration, the hook of the extension pipe separation button 384 is engaged with the hook of the extension pipe 200, and when the user presses the button portion, the engagement with the extension pipe 200 can be released by rotating about the hinge portion.

In addition, a supporting protrusion 385 may be provided at the second connection pipe 382. The support protrusion 385 may be disposed at the rear of the second connection pipe 382 based on the case where the second connection pipe 382 stands vertically from the ground. Alternatively, the support protrusion 385 may be disposed at a lower side of the second connection pipe 382 in a state where the second connection pipe 382 is parallel to the ground or inclined at a prescribed angle to the ground.

The support protrusion 385 includes a protruding portion and a support portion. The protruding portion may be formed protruding from the outer circumferential surface of the second connection pipe 382, and the supporting portion may be formed in a vertical plate shape from the protruding portion.

The supporting portion may contact the floor to support the connection pipe 380 when the cleaner body 100 is placed on the floor (floor surface). With this configuration, the connection pipe 380 and/or the extension pipe 200 can be stably supported when the cleaner 1 is placed, and damage to the connection pipe 380 and/or the extension pipe 200 can be prevented.

On the other hand, the cleaning module 300 may include a printed circuit board 390 configured with a module control part (not shown) controlling the cleaning module 300. The printed circuit board 390 may be applied with current and may be configured with communication lines. At this time, the printed circuit board 390 may be cooled by the air flowing in through the cooling air inflow port 317 and discharged through the cooling air discharge port 318.

On the other hand, the module housing 310 may further include a first operating part 391 for adjusting the amount of water discharged from the water tank 320. As an example, the first operating portion 391 may be located at the rear side of the module housing 310.

The user can operate the first operation part 391, and can discharge water from the water tank 320 or prevent water from being discharged by the operation of the first operation part 391.

Alternatively, the amount of water discharged from the water tank 320 may be adjusted by the first operating part 391. For example, as the user operates the first operation part 391, a first amount of water may be discharged from the water tank 320 per unit time, or a second amount of water, which is greater than the first amount, may be discharged per unit time.

The first operation portion 391 is pivotable in the left-right direction in the module housing 310, and is pivotable in the up-down direction according to the embodiment.

For example, when the water discharge amount is 0 in a state where the first operation portion 391 is located at the neutral position and the first operation portion 391 is pivoted to the left by pressing the left side of the first operation portion 391, the first amount of water can be discharged from the water tank 320 per unit time. Further, if the first operation portion 391 is pivoted to the right by pressing the right side of the first operation portion 391, the second amount of water can be discharged from the water tank 320 per unit time.

On the other hand, the module cover 310 may further include a second operation portion 392 for adjusting the phase of the moisture discharged from the steam generator 336. As an example, the second operation portion 392 may be located at the rear side of the module housing 310.

The user can operate the second operation unit 392, and can discharge water or steam (water vapor) from the steam generator 336 to the wiper 350 by operating the second operation unit 392.

The second operating portion 392 may be rotatably provided to the module housing 310. For example, the second operation portion 392 may be a rotary handle (dial).

For example, when the second operation unit 392 is rotated to be directed to the first position, normal-temperature water can be discharged to the wiper 350 without heating the water in the steam generator 336. In addition, when the second operation unit 392 is rotated to be directed to the second position different from the first position, the water can be heated in the steam generator 336 and discharged to the wiper 350. In a state where the second operation unit 392 is rotated to be directed to a third position different from the first position and the second position, the water is heated in the steam generator 336, and the water is changed into steam (water vapor) and then discharged to the wiper 350.

On the other hand, fig. 10 shows a diagram for explaining a process of coupling an auxiliary battery to a cleaning module according to an embodiment of the present invention, fig. 11 shows a diagram for observing the back surface of a state in which the auxiliary battery is coupled to the cleaning module according to an embodiment of the present invention, fig. 12 shows a diagram for observing fig. 11 from the side, fig. 13 shows a diagram for explaining an internal configuration of a state in which the auxiliary battery is coupled to the cleaning module according to an embodiment of the present invention, and fig. 14 shows a diagram for observing fig. 13 from the upper side.

Hereinafter, referring to fig. 10 to 14, a cleaning module 300 and an auxiliary battery coupling part 400 formed at the cleaning module 300 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

The auxiliary battery coupling part 400 is provided to the cleaning module 300, and the auxiliary battery 500 may be detachably coupled to the auxiliary battery coupling part 400. Specifically, the auxiliary battery coupling part 400 is formed at the module case 310 of the cleaning module 300, and can internally accommodate the auxiliary battery 500.

The auxiliary battery coupling part 400 may include an auxiliary battery receiving groove 410, a terminal 420, a coupling table 430, and a power supply connection part (not shown).

The auxiliary battery receiving groove 410 may be concavely formed at the rear side of the module case 310. The auxiliary battery 500 can be detachably accommodated in the auxiliary battery accommodation groove 410.

On the other hand, in an embodiment of the present invention, the auxiliary battery receiving groove 410 may be formed in a groove shape recessed from the rear side 312a of the module housing 310 toward the inside of the module housing 310. At this time, the direction in which the auxiliary battery receiving groove 410 is formed may be a direction parallel to the floor surface (ground surface).

That is, the auxiliary battery receiving groove 410 may be concavely formed from the rear side 312a of the module housing 310 toward the front of the cleaning module 300 in a direction parallel to the floor surface (ground). In addition, it can be said that the auxiliary battery accommodating groove 410 is formed in a direction parallel to the forming direction of the bottom surface of the lower cover 311. In addition, it can be said that the auxiliary battery accommodating groove 410 is formed in a direction parallel to the virtual extension surface of the disk-shaped rotary cleaning portion 340.

The auxiliary battery 500 is inserted into the auxiliary battery coupling portion 400 in a direction parallel to the floor surface based on a state where the cleaning module 300 is placed on the floor surface (floor surface), so that the auxiliary battery 500 and the auxiliary battery coupling portion 400 can be coupled (refer to fig. 10).

With this configuration, the volume of the auxiliary battery 500 accommodated inside the cleaning module 300 can be maximized. In addition, the capacity of the cleaning module 300 in a state in which the auxiliary battery 500 is coupled to the cleaning module 300 can be minimized. In addition, in the cleaning module 300 incorporating the auxiliary battery 500, the exposure of the auxiliary battery 500 can be minimized.

The auxiliary battery 500 may be accommodated in the auxiliary battery accommodating groove 410. The auxiliary battery receiving groove 410 may be formed in a form corresponding to that of the auxiliary battery body 510 such that the auxiliary battery body 510 can be inserted. For example, the front-rear direction diameter of the auxiliary battery receiving groove 410 may be equal to or greater than the front-rear direction diameter of the battery body 510. In addition, the lateral diameter of the auxiliary battery receiving groove 410 may be equal to or greater than the lateral diameter of the battery body 510. In addition, the curvature of the side wall of the auxiliary battery receiving groove 410 may be the same as the curvature of the outer side surface of the battery body 510 facing thereto.

A terminal 420 may be provided at the auxiliary battery receiving groove 410. The terminal 420 may be disposed in the auxiliary battery receiving groove 410 at a position farthest from an entrance into which the auxiliary battery 500 is inserted. With this configuration, when the auxiliary battery 500 is coupled to the auxiliary battery accommodating groove 410, the terminal 420 can be brought into contact with the terminal provided in the electrical connection portion 540 of the auxiliary battery 500.

The locking stand 430 may be hooked with the auxiliary battery 500. The locking stand 430 may be formed at a side wall of the auxiliary battery receiving groove 410. For example, the locking stands 430 may be formed at both sides in the left-right direction in the side wall of the auxiliary battery receiving groove 410, respectively. The engaging button 520 of the auxiliary battery 500 may be engaged with the locking base 430. At this time, the locking base 430 may lock the button portion 521 supporting the coupling button 520 and may be hooked with the hook 522 of the coupling button 520.

The power connection part (not shown) may electrically connect the auxiliary battery 500 and the cleaning module 300. With this configuration, the auxiliary battery 500 can supply power to the cleaning module 300.

The auxiliary battery 500 and the battery 190 may be electrically connected by a power supply connection unit (not shown). In this case, the power supply connection portion (not shown) may be a separate circuit provided in the module case 310, and may be provided on the printed circuit board 390.

As an example, the auxiliary battery 500 and the battery 190 may be connected in series by a power supply connection unit (not shown). With this configuration, the auxiliary battery 500 is connected in series with the battery 190, so that power can be supplied to the cleaning module 300.

Therefore, in case that a large-voltage power source is required, the cleaner 1 of the present invention connects the auxiliary battery 500 and the battery 190 in series, so that the large-voltage power source can be supplied to the cleaning module 300.

As another example, the power supply connection unit (not shown) may connect the auxiliary battery 500 and the battery 190 in parallel. With this configuration, the auxiliary battery 500 is connected in parallel with the battery 190, so that power can be supplied to the cleaning module 300.

Therefore, in case that a large-capacity power source is required, the cleaner 1 of the present invention connects the auxiliary battery 500 and the battery 190 in parallel, so that the large-capacity power source can be supplied to the cleaning module 300.

On the other hand, in the present invention, the power supply connection part (not shown) may switch the series connection and the parallel connection of the auxiliary battery 500 and the battery 190. Specifically, the power connection part (not shown) may change the electrical connection of the auxiliary battery 500 with the battery 500 and the cleaning module 300.

On the other hand, according to an embodiment, a power connection part (not shown) may connect the auxiliary battery 500 and the steam generator 336. At this time, the battery 190 may supply power to components of the cleaner 1 including the suction motor 140 other than the steam generator 336, and the auxiliary battery 500 may supply power only to the steam generator 336. With this configuration, the auxiliary battery 500 can directly supply power to the steam generator 336.

Accordingly, the auxiliary battery 500 can stably supply power to the steam generator 336 requiring a relatively large amount of power.

On the other hand, in a state where the auxiliary battery 500 is coupled to the auxiliary battery coupling part 400, at least a portion of the coupling button 520 of the auxiliary battery 500 may be exposed to the outside of the module case 310. For example, in a state in which the auxiliary battery 500 is coupled to the auxiliary battery coupling part 400, the coupling button 520 of the auxiliary battery 500 may be configured to protrude at least a portion more than the rear side 312a of the module case 310. With this configuration, in a state where the auxiliary battery 500 is coupled to the auxiliary battery coupling part 400, the user can visually recognize the coupling button 520, so that the fact that the auxiliary battery 500 is coupled can be recognized, the user can hold the coupling button 520, and the user can separate the auxiliary battery 500 from the cleaning module 300 by pressing the coupling button 520.

Thus, according to the present embodiment, the user may incorporate the auxiliary battery 500 at the rear side 312a of the cleaning module 300, and may supply additional power to the cleaning module 300.

The auxiliary battery 500 may supply power to the cleaning module 300. The auxiliary battery 500 may include an auxiliary battery body 510, a coupling button 520, and an electrical connection part 530.

The auxiliary battery body 510 may supply power to the cleaner body 100 or the cleaning module 300. The auxiliary battery body 510 may form an outer shape of the auxiliary battery 500, and may store electric energy therein. For example, the auxiliary battery body 510 may be a secondary battery.

The coupling button 520 may be disposed at a side of the auxiliary battery body 510. For example, the coupling button 520 has a pair and may be disposed on both sides of the auxiliary battery body 510.

The coupling button 520 may be engaged with the locking stand 430 hook of the auxiliary battery coupling part 400. For example, the combination button 520 may include a button portion 521 and a hook 522. One side end of the button part 521 may be connected to one side of the auxiliary battery body 510. At this time, the button part 521 may be formed of a material having elasticity. The hook 522 may be connected to the other end of the button 521, and may be formed to protrude in a direction away from the auxiliary battery body 510. The hooks 522 may be engaged with the catch base 430 hooks.

With this configuration, when the auxiliary battery 500 is coupled to the auxiliary battery coupling portion 400, the hooks 522 can be coupled with the locking stand 430 hooks. Further, when the user presses the button portion 521 and pulls the auxiliary battery 500, the auxiliary battery 500 can be separated from the auxiliary battery coupling portion 400.

The electrical connection part 530 may be disposed at the lower side of the auxiliary battery body 510. In the case where the auxiliary battery 500 is coupled to the auxiliary battery coupling part 400, the electrical connection part 530 may be electrically connected to the terminal 420 of the auxiliary battery coupling part 400. With this configuration, in the case where the auxiliary battery 500 is coupled to the auxiliary battery coupling part 400, the power charged in the auxiliary battery 500 can be supplied to the cleaner body 100 or the cleaning module 300.

Fig. 15 and 16 show a cleaning module of a cleaner according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

Hereinafter, a cleaning module 1300 according to a second embodiment of the present invention is described with reference to fig. 15 and 16.

On the other hand, in order to avoid repetitive description, in the present embodiment, the same configuration and effects as those of the cleaning module 300 according to the embodiment of the present invention are applicable except for the content of the specific description.

In the present embodiment, the auxiliary battery receiving groove 1410 may be formed obliquely downward from at least a portion of the rear side 1312a of the module case 1310 toward the inside of the module case 1310.

Specifically, the auxiliary battery receiving groove 1410 may be formed in a groove shape that is recessed obliquely downward from the upper end of the rear side 1312a of the module case 1310 and the rear end of the upper side of the module case 1310. At this time, the direction in which the auxiliary battery receiving groove 1410 is formed may be inclined at a predetermined angle θ with respect to the floor surface (floor surface) with the cleaning module 1300 being placed on the floor surface (floor surface). The direction in which the auxiliary battery accommodation groove 1410 is formed may be inclined at a predetermined angle θ with respect to the direction in which the bottom surface of the lower cover 1311 is formed. The direction in which the auxiliary battery accommodation groove 1410 is formed may be inclined at a predetermined angle θ with respect to the flow path formation direction inside the first connection pipe 1381. The direction in which the auxiliary battery accommodation groove 1410 is formed may be inclined at a predetermined angle θ with respect to the virtual extension surface of the disk-shaped rotary cleaning portion 340.

That is, the auxiliary battery receiving groove 1410 may be recessed from the upper end of the rear side 1312a of the module case 1310 and the rear end of the upper side of the module case 1310 in a direction inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to the floor surface (ground surface).

With this configuration, the auxiliary battery 500 can be inserted into the auxiliary battery coupling portion 1400 obliquely downward at a predetermined angle θ with respect to the floor surface (ground surface). Therefore, interference by the connection pipe 1380 can be avoided when the auxiliary battery 500 is inserted into the auxiliary battery coupling portion 1400. In addition, when the auxiliary battery 500 is separated from the auxiliary battery coupling part 1400, the coupling button 520 may be easily accessed by a user's finger, and the user may separate the auxiliary battery 1500 by comfortably pressing the coupling button 520.

On the other hand, in a state where the auxiliary battery 500 is coupled to the auxiliary battery coupling portion 1400, at least a portion of the coupling button 520 of the auxiliary battery 500 may be exposed to the outside of the module case 1310. For example, in a state where the auxiliary battery 500 is coupled to the auxiliary battery coupling portion 1400, at least a part of the coupling button 520 may be disposed above the module cover. With this configuration, in a state where the auxiliary battery 500 is coupled to the auxiliary battery coupling part 1400, the user can visually recognize the coupling button 520, so that the fact that the auxiliary battery 500 is coupled can be recognized, the user can easily hold the coupling button 520, and the user can separate the auxiliary battery 500 from the cleaning module 1300 by pressing the coupling button 520.

Thus, according to the present embodiment, a user may incorporate the auxiliary battery 500 at least a portion of the rear side 1312a of the cleaning module 1300, and may supply additional power to the cleaning module 1300.

Fig. 17 is a combined perspective view showing a cleaning module for explaining a third embodiment of the present invention.

Hereinafter, a cleaning module 2300 according to a third embodiment of the invention is illustrated with reference to fig. 17.

In this embodiment, an auxiliary battery receiving groove may be formed at an upper side of the module case 2310. That is, in the present embodiment, the auxiliary battery 2500 may be insertedly coupled to the upper side of the module case 2310. For example, a water tank 2320 may be provided at an upper side of the module cover 2310, and an auxiliary battery 2500 may be coupled at an upper side of the water tank 2320.

With this configuration, the auxiliary battery 2500 can be inserted in a direction perpendicular to the floor surface and coupled to the module case 2310, based on the state where the cleaning module 2300 is placed on the floor surface.

On the other hand, in the present embodiment, the front-rear direction length and the left-right direction length of the auxiliary battery 2500 may be greater than the up-down direction height, based on the state in which the auxiliary battery 2500 is coupled to the cleaning module 2300 and the cleaning module 2300 is placed on the floor. That is, in the present embodiment, the auxiliary battery 2500 may be formed in an approximately flat hexahedral shape.

With this configuration, in the present embodiment, even if the auxiliary battery 2500 is coupled to the upper side of the cleaning module 2300, an increase in the overall height of the cleaning module 2300 can be prevented.

Therefore, according to the present embodiment, in a state where the cleaning module 2300 is placed on the floor, the user can push the auxiliary battery 2500 downward vertically, and thus it is possible to provide convenience for the combination of the auxiliary battery 2500.

Fig. 18 shows a combined perspective view for explaining a cleaning module according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

Hereinafter, a cleaning module 2300 of a fourth embodiment of the invention is illustrated with reference to FIG. 18.

In the present embodiment, the auxiliary battery receiving groove may be formed at the upper side of the module case 3310. That is, in the present embodiment, the auxiliary battery 3500 may be insertedly coupled to the upper side of the module housing 3310. For example, a water tank 3320 may be disposed at an upper side of the module housing 3310, a steam generator 3336 may be disposed at an upper side of the water tank 3320, and an auxiliary battery 3500 may be coupled at an upper side of the steam generator 3336.

With this configuration, the auxiliary battery 3500 can be inserted and coupled in a direction perpendicular to the floor surface, based on a state in which the cleaning module 3300 is placed on the floor surface.

On the other hand, in the present embodiment, the front-rear direction length and the left-right direction length of the auxiliary battery 3500 may be greater than the vertical direction height, based on the state in which the auxiliary battery 3500 is coupled to the cleaning module 3300 and the cleaning module 3300 is placed on the floor. That is, in the present embodiment, the auxiliary battery 3500 may be formed in an approximately flat hexahedral shape.

With this configuration, in the present embodiment, even if the auxiliary battery 3500 is coupled to the upper side of the cleaning module 3300, an increase in the overall height of the cleaning module 3300 can be prevented.

On the other hand, in the present embodiment, the auxiliary battery 3500 may be directly electrically connected to the steam generator 3336. At this time, the auxiliary battery 3500 may be coupled to the directly upper side of the steam generator 3336, and thus there is an advantage in that the power of the auxiliary battery 3500 can be easily supplied to the steam generator 3336.

The present invention has been described in detail by way of specific examples, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is obvious that modifications and improvements can be made by those skilled in the art within the technical spirit of the present invention.

Simple variants and modifications of the invention belong to the field of the invention, the specific scope of which is clear from the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A cleaner, comprising:

a cleaning module for cleaning the foreign matter on the floor surface; and

a cleaner body having a battery for supplying power to the cleaning module and a handle for a user to hold,

the cleaning module includes:

a module cover body, the lower side of which is provided with a rag;

a water tank coupled to the module housing for storing water;

a steam generator for heating water flowing in from the water tank; and

and an auxiliary battery coupling part formed at the module cover body, to which the auxiliary battery is inserted and coupled.

2. The cleaner of claim 1, wherein the cleaning fluid is,

at least a part of the auxiliary battery coupling portion is disposed on the rear side surface of the module case.

3. The cleaner of claim 2, wherein the cleaning device comprises a cleaning blade,

the auxiliary battery is inserted into the auxiliary battery coupling part to be inclined downward.

4. The cleaner of claim 1, wherein the cleaning fluid is,

the auxiliary battery includes:

an auxiliary battery body; and

A combination button formed on the auxiliary battery body and combined with the auxiliary battery combination part hook,

at least a portion of the coupling button is exposed to the outside of the module housing.

5. The cleaner of claim 4 wherein the cleaning fluid is,

at least a part of the coupling button is disposed above the module cover.

6. The cleaner of claim 1, wherein the cleaning fluid is,

the auxiliary battery is connected in series with the battery.

7. The cleaner of claim 1, wherein the cleaning fluid is,

the auxiliary battery is connected in parallel with the battery.

8. The cleaner of claim 1, wherein the cleaning fluid is,

the auxiliary battery is selectively connected in series or parallel with the battery.

9. The cleaner of claim 1, wherein the cleaning fluid is,

the auxiliary battery supplies power to the steam generator.

10. The cleaner of claim 1, wherein the cleaning fluid is,

the cleaning module further includes:

a wiper drive motor disposed inside the module cover and configured to supply a rotational force to the wiper by rotating a motor shaft; and

a flow path forming part formed in the module cover body and communicated with the suction inlet so as to guide the air flowing in through the suction inlet to the cleaner body,

A virtual axial extension of the motor shaft passes through the flow path forming portion.

11. The cleaner of claim 1, wherein the cleaning fluid is,

the auxiliary battery coupling part includes an auxiliary battery coupling groove accommodating the auxiliary battery,

the auxiliary battery coupling groove is formed from the rear side of the module housing toward the front of the module housing in a direction parallel to the floor surface in a state where the cleaning module is placed on the floor surface.

12. The cleaner of claim 1, wherein the cleaning fluid is,

the auxiliary battery coupling part includes an auxiliary battery coupling groove formed from the module housing toward the inside of the module housing and accommodating the auxiliary battery,

the auxiliary battery coupling groove is formed to be inclined downward at a predetermined angle with respect to the floor surface in a state where the cleaning module is placed on the floor surface.

13. The cleaner of claim 1, wherein the cleaning fluid is,

the cleaning module further includes a diffuser that spits the moisture passing through the steam generator to the cloth,

the diffuser is formed in a ring shape.

14. The cleaner of claim 13 wherein the cleaning fluid is,

The cleaning module further includes a cloth driving motor disposed inside the module housing, the cloth driving motor providing a rotational force to the cloth by rotating a motor shaft,

the wiper drive motor is disposed inside the annular diffuser.