JP7347630B2 - Cleaning systems and equipment - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a cleaning system and a device for generating airflow from an air outlet.

Patent Document 1 describes an air cleaner. In the air cleaner described in Patent Document 1, air blown out from the outlet forms a downward airflow on the opposite wall. The air that descends along the wall approaches the air cleaner along the floor and is sucked in through the suction port.

International Publication No. 2015/063868

The air cleaner described in Patent Document 1 is not compatible with use as a vacuum cleaner. Generally, when you vacuum, dust is thrown up. For this reason, even when the air cleaner described in Patent Document 1 is used, it takes a long time to clean the indoor air when cleaning with a vacuum cleaner is performed.

This invention was made to solve the above-mentioned problems. An object of the present invention is to provide a cleaning system that can efficiently clean indoor air when cleaning is performed with a vacuum cleaner, and a device that generates airflow from an air outlet.

A cleaning system according to the present invention includes a vacuum cleaner and a device in which a suction port and a blowout port are formed. The device consists of a blower that generates an airflow to draw in air from an inlet and blow it out from an outlet, a purifier that purifies the air sucked in from the inlet, and a purifier that purifies the air that is blown out from the outlet. A wind direction setting device for setting the direction and a control device are provided. The control device includes a detection means for detecting the direction of a person using the vacuum cleaner or the position of the person using the vacuum cleaner, and an operation control means for controlling the blower and the wind direction setting device in a first operation mode. , is provided. The operation control means generates an airflow from the outlet in accordance with the direction or position detected by the detection means in the first operation mode.

A cleaning system according to the present invention includes a vacuum cleaner and a device in which a suction port and a blowout port are formed. The device consists of a blower that generates an airflow to draw in air from an inlet and blow it out from an outlet, a purifier that purifies the air sucked in from the inlet, and a purifier that purifies the air that is blown out from the outlet. It includes a wind direction setting device for setting the direction, a sensor for detecting that the operation of the vacuum cleaner has started, and a control device. The control device includes a detection means for detecting the direction of the person using the vacuum cleaner or the position of the person using the vacuum cleaner, and a sensor that detects that the operation of the vacuum cleaner has started. Operation control means for controlling the blower and the wind direction setting device in a first operation mode. The operation control means generates an airflow from the outlet in accordance with the direction or position detected by the detection means in the first operation mode.

A cleaning system according to the present invention includes a vacuum cleaner and a device in which a suction port and a blowout port are formed. The device consists of a blower that generates an airflow to draw in air from an inlet and blow it out from an outlet, a purifier that purifies the air sucked in from the inlet, and a purifier that purifies the air that is blown out from the outlet. A wind direction setting device for setting the direction and a control device are provided. The control device includes a detection device that detects the direction in which the vacuum cleaner is present or the position of the vacuum cleaner, and an operation control device that controls the blower and the wind direction setting device in a first operation mode. The operation control means generates an airflow from the outlet in accordance with the direction or position detected by the detection means in the first operation mode.

A cleaning system according to the present invention includes a vacuum cleaner and a device in which a suction port and a blowout port are formed. The device consists of a blower that generates an airflow to draw in air from an inlet and blow it out from an outlet, a purifier that purifies the air sucked in from the inlet, and a purifier that purifies the air that is blown out from the outlet. It includes a wind direction setting device for setting the direction, a sensor for detecting that the operation of the vacuum cleaner has started, and a control device. The control device includes a detection means for detecting the direction in which the vacuum cleaner is present or the position of the vacuum cleaner, and a sensor that controls the blower and the wind direction setting device in a first operation mode when the sensor detects that the vacuum cleaner has started operating. and an operation control means for controlling. The operation control means generates an airflow from the outlet in accordance with the direction or position detected by the detection means in the first operation mode.

The device according to the present invention includes a main body case in which a suction port and a blowout port are formed, a blower that generates an airflow for sucking air from the suction port and blowing out air from the blowout port, and the air sucked from the suction port. A cleaning device that cleans the air, a wind direction setting device that sets the direction of air blown out from the air outlet, and a control device. The control device includes a detection means for detecting the direction of a person using the vacuum cleaner or the position of the person using the vacuum cleaner, and an operation control means for controlling the blower and the wind direction setting device in a first operation mode. , is provided. The operation control means generates an airflow from the outlet in accordance with the direction or position detected by the detection means in the first operation mode.

The device according to the present invention includes a main body case in which a suction port and a blowout port are formed, a blower that generates an airflow for sucking air from the suction port and blowing out air from the blowout port, and the air sucked from the suction port. A cleaning device that cleans the air, a wind direction setting device that sets the direction of air blown out from the air outlet, and a control device. The control device includes a detection device that detects the direction in which the vacuum cleaner is present or the position of the vacuum cleaner, and an operation control device that controls the blower and the wind direction setting device in a first operation mode. The operation control means generates an airflow from the outlet in accordance with the direction or position detected by the detection means in the first operation mode.

According to this invention, indoor air can be efficiently purified when cleaning is performed with a vacuum cleaner.

1 is a diagram showing an example of a cleaning system in Embodiment 1. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a cleaning system in Embodiment 1. FIG. It is a figure for explaining the function of a cleaning system. It is a figure for explaining the function of a control device. It is a flow chart which shows an example of operation of a support device. It is a figure for explaining the function of a cleaning system. It is a figure for explaining the function of a cleaning system. It is a figure for explaining other functions of a cleaning system. It is a figure for explaining other functions of a cleaning system. It is a figure showing other examples of a cleaning system. It is a flowchart which shows another example of operation of a support device. It is a figure for explaining other functions of a cleaning system. It is a figure for explaining other functions of a cleaning system. It is a figure for explaining the function of the cleaning system in an embodiment. It is a flow chart which shows an example of operation of a support device. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of hardware resources of a control device. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing another example of hardware resources of the control device.

The invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Duplicate explanations will be simplified or omitted as appropriate. In each figure, the same reference numerals indicate the same or corresponding parts.

Embodiment 1.
1 and 2 are diagrams showing an example of a cleaning system 1 in the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining the functions of the cleaning system 1.

The cleaning system 1 includes, for example, a vacuum cleaner 2 and a support device 3. 1 and 2 show an example in which the vacuum cleaner 2 is a so-called stick-type vacuum cleaner. The vacuum cleaner 2 does not have to be a stick type. The support device 3 is placed, for example, in a living room. The vacuum cleaner 2 is supported by a support device 3.

The vacuum cleaner 2 can be attached to and detached from the support device 3. FIG. 1 shows a state in which a vacuum cleaner 2 is supported by a support device 3. As shown in FIG. A user removes the vacuum cleaner 2 from the support device 3 when cleaning using the vacuum cleaner 2. FIG. 2 shows the state in which the vacuum cleaner 2 is removed from the support device 3. When the user finishes cleaning, the user attaches the vacuum cleaner 2 to the support device 3. The vacuum cleaner 2 is stored in a living room in the state shown in FIG. 1, for example.

The vacuum cleaner 2 includes, for example, a head 4, a suction pipe 5, a main body 6, and a handle 7. A suction port 4a is formed in the head 4. The head 4 may include a rotating brush. The head 4 is connected to one end of the suction pipe 5. The suction pipe 5 is connected to the main body 6. The main body 6 includes, for example, a blower 8, a control device 9, a secondary battery 10, and a dust collection unit 11.

The handle 7 is provided on the main body 6 or the suction pipe 5. In the example shown in this embodiment, the handle 7 is formed continuously with the suction pipe 5 in terms of appearance. The handle 7 includes an input device 12 . The input device 12 includes, for example, a power button and a button for switching operation modes. Information input from the input device 12 is input to the control device 9.

The control device 9 controls the blower 8 based on information input from the input device 12 . The blower 8 and the control device 9 are supplied with power from the secondary battery 10 . For example, when the user presses the power button on the input device 12, the blower 8 is activated. This generates an airflow for sucking in dust from the suction port 4a. Dust sucked in from the suction port 4a is sent to the main body 6 via the head 4 and suction pipe 5. The dust sent to the main body 6 is separated from the airflow and collected in the dust collection unit 11. The dust collecting unit 11 may use any method to separate dust from the airflow. The user cleans by holding the handle 7 and moving the head 4 back and forth.

The support device 3 includes, for example, a main body 13 and a support stand 14. The main body 13 is arranged above the support base 14. The support stand 14 supports the main body 13 so that the main body 13 can be displaced around the shaft 15. The shaft 15 is a vertical shaft extending vertically. For example, the shaft center of the shaft 15 is arranged vertically when the support device 3 is placed on a horizontal surface.

The main body 13 includes, for example, a main body case 20, a blower 21, a filter 22, a louver 23, a drive device 24, a drive device 25, a support 26, a sensor 27, an information acquisition device 28, an input device 29, a charging device 30, and a control device 31. Equipped with

The main body case 20 is formed with an inlet 20a and an outlet 20b. At least the blower 21 and filter 22 are arranged inside the main body case 20. In the example shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the suction port 20a is formed in the front of the main body case 20. The air outlet 20b is formed on the upper surface of the main body case 20. The formation position of the suction port 20a is not limited to the example shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. The formation position of the air outlet 20b is not limited to the example shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. For example, the suction port 20a may be formed on the side surface of the main body case 20.

The blower 21 generates an airflow for sucking air through an inlet 20a and blowing out air through an outlet 20b. The blower 21 is controlled by a control device 31.

Filter 22 is arranged inside main case 20 . For example, air sucked in from the suction port 20a passes through the filter 22 immediately after passing through the suction port 20a. When air sucked in from the suction port 20a passes through the filter 22, dust contained in the air is captured by the filter 22. The filter 22 is an example of a cleaning device that cleans the air sucked in from the suction port 20a. The main body 13 may further include a device other than the filter 22 as a cleaning device. The main body 13 may be provided with another device instead of the filter 22 as a cleaning device.

The louver 23 is, for example, plate-shaped. The louver 23 is arranged at the air outlet 20b. For example, the louver 23 is provided on the main body case 20 via a shaft 23a. The louver 23 is movable around the shaft 23a. The shaft 23a is a horizontal shaft extending left and right. For example, the shaft center of the shaft 23a is arranged horizontally when the support device 3 is placed on a horizontal surface. In this embodiment, an example is shown in which a plurality of louvers 23 are arranged at the air outlet 20b.

The louver 23 is driven by a drive device 24. That is, when the drive device 24 operates, the louver 23 is displaced. The drive device 24 is controlled by a control device 31.

The main body 13 includes a louver 23 and a drive device 24 as a device for setting the direction of air blown out from the air outlet 20b. In the following description, this device will be referred to as a wind direction setting device. That is, by adjusting the inclination of the louver 23, the elevation and depression angle of the air blown out from the air outlet 20b can be set.

In the example shown in this embodiment, the main body 13 further includes a drive device 25 as a wind direction setting device. The drive device 25 generates a driving force for displacing the main body 13 with respect to the support base 14 . That is, when the drive device 25 operates, the main body 13 rotates around the shaft 15. The drive device 25 is controlled by a control device 31. By adjusting the angle of the main body 13 with respect to the support base 14, the direction of the air outlet 20b can be set in plan view. That is, the direction in which air is blown out from the air outlet 20b can be set. Note that the drive device 25 may be provided on the support base 14.

The support 26 is provided in the main body case 20. The support 26 supports the vacuum cleaner 2 in a detachable manner. The supporter 26 may support the vacuum cleaner 2 in any manner.

The sensor 27 detects that the vacuum cleaner 2 has come off the support 26. The method by which the sensor 27 performs the above detection may be any method. For example, sensor 27 may be a proximity sensor. The sensor 27 may include a switch that is pressed when the vacuum cleaner 2 is attached to the support 26. When the sensor 27 detects that the vacuum cleaner 2 has come off the support 26, it outputs a specific detection signal. The detection signal output from the sensor 27 is input to the control device 31.

The information acquisition device 28 acquires specific information. The information acquisition device 28 outputs the acquired information to the control device 31. 1 and 2 show an example in which the information acquisition device 28 is arranged in front of the main body case 20. The position of the information acquisition device 28 is not limited to the positions shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. The specific functions of the information acquisition device 28 will be described later.

The input device 29 is a device operated by a user to input information. The input device 29 includes, for example, a power button and a button for switching operation modes. The input device 29 may be a touch panel. The input device 29 outputs a signal according to a user's operation. The signal output from the input device 29 is input to the control device 31.

The charging device 30 is a device for charging the secondary battery 10 provided in the vacuum cleaner 2. In this embodiment, an example is shown in which the vacuum cleaner 2 is a cordless vacuum cleaner. That is, the main body 13 includes a charging terminal 30a. The terminal 30a is electrically connected to the secondary battery 10 of the vacuum cleaner 2 when the vacuum cleaner 2 is supported by the support 26. Charging device 30 charges secondary battery 10 via terminal 30a. In this embodiment, an example is shown in which the support device 3 has a function as a charging stand for the vacuum cleaner 2. The support device 3 does not need to have a charging function for the vacuum cleaner 2.

The control device 31 controls the operation of the support device 3. FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the functions of the control device 31. The control device 31 includes, for example, a storage section 40, a determination section 41, a specification section 42, a detection section 43, and an operation control section 44.

Information necessary for controlling the operation of the support device 3 is stored in the storage unit 40 . The determination unit 41 determines whether the vacuum cleaner 2 is attached or detached. The identifying unit 42 identifies the person using the vacuum cleaner 2. The detection unit 43 detects the direction in which the person using the vacuum cleaner 2 is located. That is, the detection unit 43 detects in which direction the person using the vacuum cleaner 2 is located when viewed from the support device 3. The operation control unit 44 controls the operation of the support device 3 in a plurality of operation modes. The operation of the support device 3 will be described below with reference to FIGS. 5 to 7 as well.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the support device 3. Specifically, FIG. 5 shows a processing flow of the control device 31. The determination unit 41 determines whether the vacuum cleaner 2 has come off the support 26 (S101). As described above, when the sensor 27 detects that the vacuum cleaner 2 has come off the support 26 , the sensor 27 outputs a detection signal to the control device 31 . If the detection signal from the sensor 27 is not input to the control device 31, the determination unit 41 determines No in S101.

If the determination is No in S101, the operation control unit 44 controls the blower 21 and the wind direction setting device in the normal operation mode (S102). In the normal operation mode, the operation control unit 44 controls the blower 21 and the wind direction setting device based on information input from the input device 29, for example. The operation control unit 44 may control the blower 21 and the wind direction setting device based on the degree of air pollution. The operation control unit 44 may stop the blower 21 in S102.

As mentioned above, the user removes the vacuum cleaner 2 from the support device 3 when using the vacuum cleaner 2. When the user removes the vacuum cleaner 2 from the support device 3, the sensor 27 detects that the vacuum cleaner 2 is removed from the support 26. When the detection signal from the sensor 27 is input to the control device 31, the determination unit 41 determines Yes in S101. If it is determined Yes in S101, the operation control unit 44 controls the blower 21 and the wind direction setting device in the first operation mode (S103).

In the first operation mode, for example, a first airflow is formed to suck in dust kicked up by the vacuum cleaner 2 from the suction port 20a. 6 and 7 are diagrams for explaining the functions of the cleaning system 1. 6 and 7 show an example in which the support device 3 is placed in a room 50. FIG. 6 is a side view of the room 50. FIG. 7 is a diagram of the room 50 viewed from above.

As shown in FIG. 6, the air blown diagonally upward from the air outlet 20b of the support device 3 moves along the ceiling 51, wall 52, and floor 53 of the room 50 as shown by arrow A, and then It is sucked into the support device 3 from 20a. In this embodiment, such an air flow is referred to as a first air flow.

In order to form the first airflow, the angle of the louver 23 must be set depending on the shape of the room 50 and the direction in which the air outlet 20b is facing. The storage unit 40 stores data indicating the shape of the room 50. For example, data indicating the distance from the support device 3 to the wall 52 and data indicating the height of the ceiling 51 are stored in the storage unit 40. The data indicating the shape of the room 50 may be manually input by the user. The main body 13 may further include a device for automatically measuring data indicating the shape of the room 50.

In the first operation mode, the identification unit 42 identifies the person using the vacuum cleaner 2 (S104). For example, when the sensor 27 detects that the vacuum cleaner 2 has come off the support 26, the identification unit 42 identifies the person who is within a specific detection range as the person who is using the vacuum cleaner 2.

For example, the information acquisition device 28 is a camera. Information on images photographed by the information acquisition device 28 is input to the control device 31 . The identifying unit 42 identifies the person within the detection range by performing specific processing on the image taken by the information acquisition device 28. The detection range is set in advance based on, for example, a position where a person who wants to remove the vacuum cleaner 2 from the support 26 stands.

The detection unit 43 detects the direction in which the person identified by the identification unit 42 is located based on the information acquired by the information acquisition device 28 (S105). In order to realize the above-mentioned function by the detection unit 43, the information acquisition device 28 acquires information necessary for tracking the person specified by the identification unit 42. The information acquisition device 28 may be any device as long as it can acquire the above information. For example, the information acquisition device 28 may be a thermography camera. The information acquisition device 28 may be a distance sensor. The information acquisition device 28 may be a moving body sensor. The information acquisition device 28 may be composed of a plurality of devices.

In the example shown in this embodiment, the detection unit 43 does not need to detect the position of the person specified by the identification unit 42. The detection unit 43 only needs to be able to detect in which direction the person identified by the identification unit 42 is located, at least in plan view. Note that the detection unit 43 may be able to detect the position of the person specified by the identification unit 42.

As shown in FIG. 7, the operation control unit 44 generates an airflow from the outlet 20b according to the direction detected by the detection unit 43 (S106). For example, the operation control unit 44 generates an obliquely upward airflow from the outlet 20b as shown in FIG. 6 in the direction detected by the detection unit 43. As a result, a first airflow as shown in FIG. 6 is generated in the room 50 where the person using the vacuum cleaner 2 is present. FIG. 7 shows an example in which a user indicated by reference numeral B is identified by the identifying unit 42 in S104.

As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the operation control unit 44 generates a first airflow that passes above the user B in S106. That is, after the air blown out from the air outlet 20b passes above the user B, it forms a downward airflow at the opposite wall 52. The air that has descended along the wall 52 moves along the floor 53 towards the support device 3 . Therefore, the dust C thrown up when the user B uses the vacuum cleaner 2 moves closer to the support device 3 by the first airflow. In FIGS. 6 and 7, the dust moved by the first airflow is indicated by C'. The dust C approaching the support device 3 is sucked into the main body 13 through the suction port 20a.

When the first operation mode is started in S103, the determination unit 41 determines whether the vacuum cleaner 2 is attached to the support device 3 (S107). For example, the determination unit 41 performs the determination in S107 based on the signal from the sensor 27. If the determination in S107 is No, the processes shown in S105 and S106 are continued. If the determination in S107 is Yes, the operation control unit 44 ends the first operation mode. If it is determined Yes in S107, the operation control unit 44 controls the blower 21 and the wind direction setting device in the normal operation mode (S102).

In the example shown in Embodiment 1, when the sensor 27 detects that the vacuum cleaner 2 has come off the support 26, the first operation mode is started in the support device 3. In the first operation mode, the support device 3 generates an airflow from the outlet 20b in accordance with the direction detected by the detection unit 43. Therefore, the cleaning system 1 can efficiently purify indoor air when cleaning is performed by the vacuum cleaner 2.

Other functions that can be adopted by the cleaning system 1 will be explained below.

In this embodiment, an example in which the first airflow is formed in the first operation mode has been described. As another example, the second airflow may be formed in the first operating mode. The second airflow is an airflow for suppressing dust from flying up when the vacuum cleaner 2 is applied.

FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining other functions of the cleaning system 1. FIG. 8 shows an example in which the support device 3 is placed in a room 50, similar to FIG. FIG. 8 is a side view of the room 50.

As shown in FIG. 8, the air blown out laterally from the air outlet 20b of the support device 3 travels in a straight line in the room 50 as shown by arrow D and reaches the wall 52. This forms an air curtain at the height of the outlet 20b to suppress dust from flying up. In this embodiment, such an air flow is referred to as a second air flow.

In S106, the operation control unit 44 generates an airflow from the outlet 20b according to the direction detected by the detection unit 43, as shown in FIG. For example, the operation control unit 44 generates a horizontal airflow from the outlet 20b as shown in FIG. 8 in the direction detected by the detection unit 43. As a result, a second airflow as shown in FIG. 8 is generated in the room 50 where the person using the vacuum cleaner 2 is present. With the examples shown in FIGS. 8 and 7, it is possible to suppress dust C from flying up when user B hangs up the vacuum cleaner 2. Therefore, when the vacuum cleaner 2 performs cleaning, indoor air can be efficiently purified.

As another example, both the first airflow and the second airflow may be formed in the first operation mode. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining other functions of the cleaning system 1. Similar to FIG. 6, FIG. 9 shows an example in which the support device 3 is placed in a room 50. FIG. 9 is a side view of the room 50.

As shown in FIG. 9, the air blown diagonally upward from the air outlet 20b of the support device 3 moves along the ceiling 51, wall 52, and floor 53 of the room 50 as shown by arrow A, and then It is sucked into the support device 3 from 20a. Further, the air blown out laterally from the air outlet 20b of the support device 3 travels in a straight line in the room 50 as shown by arrow D.

In S106, the operation control unit 44 generates an airflow from the outlet 20b according to the direction detected by the detection unit 43, as shown in FIG. For example, the operation control unit 44 simultaneously generates an obliquely upward airflow and a sideways airflow as shown in FIG. 9 from the outlet 20b in the direction detected by the detection unit 43. In the example shown in FIGS. 9 and 7, the dust C generated when the user B uses the vacuum cleaner 2 can be efficiently sucked in through the suction port 20a. Furthermore, when the user B hangs up the vacuum cleaner 2, it is possible to suppress the dust C from flying up.

In the present embodiment, an example has been described in which both the suction port 20a and the blowout port 20b are formed in the main body case 20 which is rotatable with respect to the support base 14. This is an example. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another example of the cleaning system 1.

In the example shown in FIG. 10, the support device 3 includes, for example, a main body 13 and a movable body 16. The movable body 16 is arranged above the main body 13. The main body 13 supports the movable body 16 so that the movable body 16 can be displaced about the axis 17 . The shaft 17 is a vertical shaft extending vertically. For example, the shaft center of the shaft 17 is arranged vertically when the support device 3 is placed on a horizontal surface.

In the example shown in FIG. 10, a suction port 20a is formed in the main body case 20. The air outlet 20b is formed in the movable body 16. For example, the air outlet 20b is formed on the upper surface of the movable body 16. The louver 23 is arranged at the air outlet 20b. For example, the louver 23 is provided on the movable body 16 via a horizontal shaft 23a. The drive device 24 may be provided in the main body case 20 or may be provided in the movable body 16.

In the example shown in FIG. 10, the drive device 25 generates a driving force for displacing the movable body 16 with respect to the main body 13. That is, when the drive device 25 operates, the movable body 16 rotates around the shaft 17. By adjusting the angle of the movable body 16 with respect to the main body 13, the direction of the air outlet 20b can be set in plan view. That is, the direction in which air is blown out from the air outlet 20b can be set.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing another example of the operation of the support device 3. The process flow shown in FIG. 11 is the process flow shown in FIG. 5 plus a series of processes shown from S108 to S110. FIG. 11 shows an example in which the operation control unit 44 controls the blower 21 and the wind direction setting device in the second operation mode when a specific condition is satisfied.

In the second operation mode, a third airflow is formed to discharge the dust kicked up by the vacuum cleaner 2 to the outside. 12 and 13 are diagrams for explaining other functions of the cleaning system 1. 12 and 13 show an example in which the support device 3 is placed in a room 50. FIG. 12 is a side view of the room 50. FIG. 13 is a diagram of the room 50 viewed from above. In the example shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, a window 54 is provided in the wall 52 of the room 50. In the example shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, the control device 31 further includes a determination unit 45. The determination unit 45 makes a determination regarding the second driving mode.

As shown in FIG. 12, the air blown out sideways from the air outlet 20b of the support device 3 travels in a straight line inside the room 50 as shown by arrow E, and is exhausted out of the room 50 through the window 54. . In this embodiment, such an air flow is referred to as a third air flow.

As described above, when the first operation mode is started in S103, the determination unit 41 determines whether the vacuum cleaner 2 is attached to the support device 3 (S107). If the determination is No in S107, the determination unit 45 determines whether the second operation mode is valid (S108). For example, the input device 29 is provided with a button for validating the second operation mode. If this button is not pressed by the user, the determination unit 45 does not determine that the second driving mode is valid (No in S108). If the determination in S108 is No, the first operation mode is continued. If the button is pressed by the user, the determination unit 45 determines that the second driving mode is valid (Yes in S108).

If the second driving mode is set to be valid, the determining unit 45 determines whether the direction detected by the detecting unit 43 is within a specific setting range (S109). For example, the setting range is preset according to the direction in which the window 54 exists. FIG. 13 shows an example in which the determination in S109 is Yes when the direction detected by the detection unit 43 is within the setting range α in plan view. Note that if the determination in S109 is No, the first operation mode is continued.

If it is determined Yes in S109, the operation control unit 44 controls the blower 21 and the wind direction setting device in the second operation mode (S110). As described above, in the second operation mode, the third airflow is formed to exhaust the dust kicked up by the vacuum cleaner 2 to the outside. In the second operation mode, the operation control unit 44 generates a downward airflow from the outlet 20b at a higher speed than the airflow generated from the outlet 20b in the first operation mode. After that, when the direction detected by the detection unit 43 deviates from the setting range α, the operation control unit 44 ends the second operation mode. The operation control unit 44 restarts the first operation mode.

In the example shown in FIG. 11, the process of S108 may not be performed. In such a case, if the determination in S107 is No, the determination in S109 is performed.

Embodiment 2.
In the first embodiment, an example has been described in which the detection unit 43 of the control device 31 detects the direction in which the person using the vacuum cleaner 2 is located. In this embodiment, an example will be described in which the detection unit 43 detects the direction in which the vacuum cleaner 2 is present.

FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining the functions of the cleaning system 1 in the second embodiment. In the example shown in FIG. 14, the vacuum cleaner 2 further includes a transmitter 18. The transmitter 18 emits radio waves at a constant cycle, for example. The transmitter 18 may emit radio waves only when the vacuum cleaner 2 is removed from the support 26. The main body 13 of the support device 3 further includes a receiver 32 . The receiver 32 receives the radio waves emitted by the transmitter 18. In the example shown in FIG. 14, the main body 13 does not need to include the information acquisition device 28.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the support device 3. The processes shown in S201 to S203 in FIG. 15 are similar to the processes shown in S101 to S103 in FIG. If it is determined Yes in S201, the operation control unit 44 controls the blower 21 and the wind direction setting device in the first operation mode (S203).

In the first operation mode, the detection unit 43 detects the direction in which the cleaner 2 is present (S204). As described above, the receiver 32 receives the radio waves emitted by the transmitter 18. The detection unit 43 detects the direction in which the vacuum cleaner 2 is present in S204 based on the radio waves received by the receiver 32. Also in the example shown in this embodiment, the detection unit 43 does not need to detect the position of the vacuum cleaner 2. The detection unit 43 only needs to be able to detect in which direction the cleaner 2 is present, at least in plan view. Note that the detection unit 43 may be able to detect the position of the vacuum cleaner 2.

The processes shown in S205 and S206 in FIG. 15 are similar to the processes shown in S106 and S107 in FIG. That is, as shown in FIG. 7, the operation control unit 44 generates an airflow from the outlet 20b according to the direction detected by the detection unit 43 (S205). For example, the operation control unit 44 generates an obliquely upward airflow from the outlet 20b as shown in FIG. 6 in the direction detected by the detection unit 43. As a result, a first airflow as shown in FIG. 6 is generated in the room 50 where the vacuum cleaner 2 is used.

When the first operation mode is started in S203, the determination unit 41 determines whether the vacuum cleaner 2 is attached to the support device 3 (S206). If it is determined Yes in S206, the operation control unit 44 controls the blower 21 and the wind direction setting device in the normal operation mode (S202).

In the example shown in the second embodiment, when the sensor 27 detects that the vacuum cleaner 2 has come off the support 26, the first operation mode is started in the support device 3. In the first operation mode, the support device 3 generates an airflow from the outlet 20b in accordance with the direction detected by the detection unit 43. Therefore, the cleaning system 1 can efficiently purify indoor air when cleaning is performed by the vacuum cleaner 2.

Regarding the functions of the cleaning system 1 that are not explained in this embodiment, any of the functions explained in the first embodiment may be adopted. For example, as in the example shown in FIG. 10, the support device 3 may include a main body 13 and a movable body 16. When the control device 31 determines No in S206, the control device 31 may perform processing similar to the processing shown in S108 to S110 in FIG. 11.

In the first and second embodiments, when the sensor 27 detects that the vacuum cleaner 2 has come off the support 26, the operation control unit 44 controls the blower 21 and the wind direction setting device in the first operation mode. explained. This is an example.

For example, the main body 13 of the support device 3 may further include a sensor for detecting that the vacuum cleaner 2 has started operating. For example, when the power button of the input device 12 is pressed and the blower 8 is activated, the vacuum cleaner 2 wirelessly transmits a specific signal. When the sensor provided in the main body 13 of the support device 3 receives this signal wirelessly transmitted from the vacuum cleaner 2, it detects that the vacuum cleaner 2 has started operating.

In this case, another determination function of the control device 31 determines in S101 of FIG. 5 whether or not the operation of the vacuum cleaner 2 has started. When the sensor detects that the vacuum cleaner 2 has started operating (S101: Yes), the operation control unit 44 controls the blower 21 and the wind direction setting device in the first operation mode (S102).

Note that when the user uses the vacuum cleaner 2, it is expected that the user will press the power button of the input device 12 after removing the vacuum cleaner 2 from the support device 3. Therefore, in parallel with the determination process in S101 above, a process to determine whether the vacuum cleaner 2 has come off the support 26 may be performed. When the sensor 27 detects that the vacuum cleaner 2 has come off the support 26, the processes shown in S105 and S106 are performed. In the first operation mode, the operation control unit 44 generates an airflow from the outlet 20b according to the direction detected by the detection unit 43 (S106).

In the example shown in FIG. 15, the other determination function of the control device 31 determines whether or not the operation of the vacuum cleaner 2 has started in S201. When the sensor detects that the vacuum cleaner 2 has started operating (S201: Yes), the operation control unit 44 controls the blower 21 and the wind direction setting device in the first operation mode (S203). Note that the process shown in S204 in FIG. 15 may be started when the sensor detects that the vacuum cleaner 2 has started operating, or when the sensor detects that the vacuum cleaner 2 has come off the support 26. It may also be started when detected by 27.

In the first and second embodiments, each section indicated by reference numerals 40 to 45 indicates a function that the control device 31 has. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of hardware resources of the control device 31. As shown in FIG. The control device 31 includes a processing circuit 60 including, for example, a processor 61 and a memory 62 as hardware resources. The functions of the storage unit 40 are realized by, for example, the memory 62. The control device 31 realizes the functions of each section indicated by reference numerals 41 to 45 by having the processor 61 execute a program stored in the memory 62.

The processor 61 is also called a CPU (Central Processing Unit), central processing unit, processing unit, arithmetic unit, microprocessor, microcomputer, or DSP. As the memory 62, a semiconductor memory, a magnetic disk, a flexible disk, an optical disk, a compact disk, a mini disk, or a DVD may be used. Semiconductor memories that can be employed include RAM, ROM, flash memory, EPROM, EEPROM, and the like.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing another example of the hardware resources of the control device 31. In the example shown in FIG. 17, the control device 31 includes a processing circuit 60 including, for example, a processor 61, a memory 62, and dedicated hardware 63. FIG. 17 shows an example in which part of the functions of the control device 31 are realized by dedicated hardware 63. All of the functions of the control device 31 may be realized by dedicated hardware 63. The dedicated hardware 63 can be a single circuit, a composite circuit, a programmed processor, a parallel programmed processor, an ASIC, an FPGA, or a combination thereof.

1 cleaning system, 2 vacuum cleaner, 3 support device, 4 head, 4a suction port, 5 suction pipe, 6 main body, 7 handle, 8 blower, 9 control device, 10 secondary battery, 11 dust collection unit, 12 input device, 13 main body, 14 support stand, 15 axis, 16 movable body, 17 axis, 18 transmitter, 20 main body case, 20a suction port, 20b outlet, 21 blower, 22 filter, 23 louver, 23a axis, 24 drive device, 25 drive device, 26 support, 27 sensor, 28 information acquisition device, 29 input device, 30 charging device, 30a terminal, 31 control device, 32 receiver, 40 storage section, 41 determination section, 42 identification section, 43 detection section, 44 operation control unit, 45 determination unit, 50 room, 51 ceiling, 52 wall, 53 floor, 60 processing circuit, 61 processor, 62 memory, 63 dedicated hardware

Claims (8)

vacuum cleaner and
A device formed with an inlet and an outlet;
Equipped with
The device includes:
a blower that generates an airflow for sucking air through the suction port and blowing out air from the blowout port;
a cleaning device that cleans the air sucked in from the suction port;
a wind direction setting device for setting the direction of air blown out from the air outlet;
a control device;
Equipped with
The control device includes:
detection means for detecting the direction in which the person using the vacuum cleaner is or the position of the person using the vacuum cleaner;
Operation control means for controlling the blower and the wind direction setting device in a first operation mode;
Equipped with
The operation control means is a cleaning system that generates an airflow from the outlet in accordance with the direction or position detected by the detection means in the first operation mode. vacuum cleaner and
A device formed with an inlet and an outlet;
Equipped with
The device includes:
a blower that generates an airflow for sucking air through the suction port and blowing out air from the blowout port;
a cleaning device that cleans the air sucked in from the suction port;
a wind direction setting device for setting the direction of air blown out from the air outlet;
a sensor that detects that the vacuum cleaner has started operating;
a control device;
Equipped with
The control device includes:
detection means for detecting the direction in which the person using the vacuum cleaner is or the position of the person using the vacuum cleaner;
an operation control means for controlling the blower and the wind direction setting device in a first operation mode when the sensor detects that the vacuum cleaner has started operating;
Equipped with
The operation control means is a cleaning system that generates an airflow from the outlet in accordance with the direction or position detected by the detection means in the first operation mode. Further equipped with an information acquisition device,
The control device further includes identification means for identifying a person in a specific detection range as a person using the vacuum cleaner,
The information acquisition device acquires information necessary for tracking the person identified by the identification means,
The detection means detects the direction in which the person using the vacuum cleaner is located or the position of the person using the vacuum cleaner based on the information acquired by the information acquisition device. The cleaning system according to item 2. vacuum cleaner and
A device formed with an inlet and an outlet;
Equipped with
The device includes:
a blower that generates an airflow for sucking air through the suction port and blowing out air from the blowout port;
a cleaning device that cleans the air sucked in from the suction port;
a wind direction setting device for setting the direction of air blown out from the air outlet;
a control device;
Equipped with
The control device includes:
detection means for detecting the direction in which the vacuum cleaner exists or the position of the vacuum cleaner;
Operation control means for controlling the blower and the wind direction setting device in a first operation mode;
Equipped with
The operation control means is a cleaning system that generates an airflow from the outlet in accordance with the direction or position detected by the detection means in the first operation mode. vacuum cleaner and
A device formed with an inlet and an outlet;
Equipped with
The device includes:
a blower that generates an airflow for sucking air through the suction port and blowing out air from the blowout port;
a cleaning device that cleans the air sucked in from the suction port;
a wind direction setting device for setting the direction of air blown out from the air outlet;
a sensor that detects that the vacuum cleaner has started operating;
a control device;
Equipped with
The control device includes:
detection means for detecting the direction in which the vacuum cleaner exists or the position of the vacuum cleaner;
an operation control means for controlling the blower and the wind direction setting device in a first operation mode when the sensor detects that the vacuum cleaner has started operating;
Equipped with
The operation control means is a cleaning system that generates an airflow from the outlet in accordance with the direction or position detected by the detection means in the first operation mode. The vacuum cleaner includes a transmitter that emits radio waves,
The device includes a receiver that receives radio waves from the transmitter,
6. The cleaning system according to claim 4, wherein the detection means detects the direction in which the vacuum cleaner exists or the position of the vacuum cleaner based on radio waves received by the receiver. A main body case in which an inlet and an outlet are formed;
a blower that generates an airflow for sucking air through the suction port and blowing out air from the blowout port;
a cleaning device that cleans the air sucked in from the suction port;
a wind direction setting device for setting the direction of air blown out from the air outlet;
a control device;
Equipped with
The control device includes:
Detection means for detecting the direction of the person using the vacuum cleaner or the position of the person using the vacuum cleaner;
Operation control means for controlling the blower and the wind direction setting device in a first operation mode;
Equipped with
The operation control means is a device for generating airflow from the outlet in accordance with the direction or position detected by the detection means in the first operation mode. A main body case in which an inlet and an outlet are formed;
a blower that generates an airflow for sucking air through the suction port and blowing out air from the blowout port;
a cleaning device that cleans the air sucked in from the suction port;
a wind direction setting device for setting the direction of air blown out from the air outlet;
a control device;
Equipped with
The control device includes:
Detection means for detecting the direction in which the vacuum cleaner exists or the position of the vacuum cleaner;
Operation control means for controlling the blower and the wind direction setting device in a first operation mode;
Equipped with
The operation control means is a device for generating airflow from the outlet in accordance with the direction or position detected by the detection means in the first operation mode.

Images