KR20230044377A - Robot cleaner - Google Patents

Abstract

A robot vacuum cleaner of the present invention includes: a vacuum cleaner body; and a suction unit connected to the vacuum cleaner body, formed to suck air and dust, and including a brush assembly coming into contact with a floor surface to be cleaned. The brush assembly includes: a rotating rod configured to rotate around one direction; and a cleaning unit that protrudes in a radial direction from the outer peripheral surface of the rotating rod to sweep the floor surface to be cleaned while rotating together with the rotating rod. The cleaning unit includes: a first cleaning unit including a brush and a type 1 blade disposed adjacent to the rear of the brush based on the rotation direction of the rotating rod; and a second cleaning unit disposed to be spaced apart from the first cleaning unit along the outer peripheral surface of the rotating rod and having a type 2 blade having a different thickness from the type 1 blade in the rotation direction of the rotating rod. The cleaning performance of the robot vacuum cleaner can be improved.

Description

Robot cleaner {ROBOT CLEANER}

The present invention relates to a robot cleaner that removes dust from a floor to be cleaned.

A vacuum cleaner refers to a device that performs a function of sucking air from an area to be cleaned, separating dust and foreign substances from the sucked air, and collecting dust. Vacuum cleaners are classified into canister vacuum cleaners, upright vacuum cleaners, stick vacuum cleaners, handheld vacuum cleaners, and robot vacuum cleaners according to their structures. Among them, the robot cleaner is configured to clean the floor to be cleaned by itself while traveling by itself through an autonomous driving system.

The robot cleaner includes a brush assembly to effectively suck dust from a floor to be cleaned. The brush assembly includes a brush composed of a plurality of bristles on the outer circumferential surface of the rotating body, and the brush sweeps dust on the floor to be cleaned toward the suction port to induce suction of the dust.

For example, a brush assembly disclosed in Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2018-0079072 (July 10, 2018), which is a patent document, includes a brush unit and a blade. Since the blade is erected adjacent to the rear of the brush unit, it serves to prevent foreign matter such as hair from being wound around the brush unit. Therefore, according to the structure disclosed in the patent document, the inconvenience of having to periodically remove foreign substances such as hair from the brush unit can be eliminated.

The above patent document only has a function of preventing foreign substances such as hair from being wound on the brush part, but does not have a structure and function helpful in improving cleaning performance.

On the other hand, the patent document discloses only a structure for preventing foreign matter such as hair from being wound around the brush part, but does not disclose a structure for foreign matter such as hair being wound around the portion where the blade is not formed. For example, foreign substances such as hair may be wound in the gap between the rotating rod and the end cover.

One object of the present invention is to provide a configuration of a blade capable of hitting a floor to be cleaned so as to improve the cleaning performance of a robot cleaner.

Another object of the present invention is to propose a robot cleaner having a structure capable of mitigating the generation of frictional force due to contact with a floor to be cleaned when a brush assembly rotates. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention is to provide a configuration capable of improving driving efficiency of a robot cleaner and suppressing wear of blades through frictional force generation mitigation. This task is a task that is not derived from the above patent literature, and corresponds to a new task that occurs in a structure introduced to improve the cleaning performance of a robot cleaner.

Another object of the present invention is to propose a configuration capable of preventing foreign substances such as hair from being wound around a portion where a blade is not formed during rotation of a brush assembly.

The robot cleaner of the present invention includes a brush assembly provided in a suction unit and rotatable to clean a floor to be cleaned. The brush assembly may include: a first cleaning unit having a brush and a type 1 blade disposed adjacent to the rear of the brush based on the rotational direction of the rotating bar; and a second cleaning unit disposed apart from the first cleaning unit along an outer circumferential surface of the rotating bar and including a second cleaning unit having a thickness different from that of the first class blade in a rotational direction of the rotating bar.

The robot cleaner includes a cleaner body; and the suction unit connected to the cleaner body to suck air and dust, wherein the brush assembly includes: a rotating rod rotatable around one direction; and a cleaner protruding in a radial direction from an outer circumferential surface of the rotating rod to sweep the floor to be cleaned while rotating together with the rotating rod.

The cleaning unit includes the first cleaning unit and the second cleaning unit.

In the direction of rotation of the rotating rod, the thickness of the second type blade is greater than the thickness of the first type blade.

The first cleaning unit is disposed between the two second cleaning units.

A ratio of the number of first cleaners to the number of second cleaners on the outer circumferential surface of the rotating rod is 3:3 or 2:4.

The sum of the thickness (a1) of the brush and the thickness (a2) of the type 1 blade in the rotational direction of the rotating rod (a = a1 + a2), and the thickness (b) of the type 2 blade in the rotational direction of the rotating rod The difference (a-b or b-a) is less than 0.1 mm.

The first type blade has a rectangular cross section,

The two-type blade has a trapezoidal cross-section that gradually becomes thicker as it approaches the outer circumferential surface of the rotating rod.

The thickness of the rectangle in the rotating direction of the rotating rod is 0.8 mm to 1.2 mm, the thickness of the upper end of the trapezoid in the rotating direction of the rotating rod is 0.8 mm to 1.2 mm, and the thickness of the lower end of the trapezoid in the rotating direction of the rotating rod is 1.3 mm. mm to 1.7 mm.

The difference (h1-h2 or h2-h1) between the protruding length h1 of the first type blade from the outer circumferential surface of the rotating rod and the protruding length h2 of the second type blade from the outer circumferential surface of the rotating rod is 0.1 mm or less.

The brush assembly further includes a guide groove formed on an outer circumferential surface of the rotating rod, and the guide groove extends between the first cleaning unit and the second cleaning unit in the extending direction of the first type blade and the second type blade. extends parallel to

The rotating rod is formed by a combination of a body extending along an axial direction of the rotating rod and a plurality of main covers coupled to an outer circumferential surface of the body, the guide groove is formed on an outer circumferential surface of the main cover, and the first cleaner and Each of the second cleaners protrudes in a radial direction of the rotating bar between the two main covers.

A base portion thicker than the thickness of the first type blade and the second type blade is formed at the lower end of the first type blade and the lower end of the second type blade, respectively, and one of the main covers is one side of the first type blade or One side of the second type blade covers the base, and the other main cover covers the base on the other side of the first type blade or the second type blade.

The brush assembly further includes side covers coupled to both ends of the body, and the side covers include a circular plate; a rotational force transmission unit protruding from the center of the circular plate toward the outside of the brush assembly; an outward protruding portion protruding circularly toward the outside of the brush assembly along an edge of the circular plate to form a ring-shaped slot between the rotational force transmission portion; radial direction projections protruding from the edge of the circular plate toward the radial direction of the circular plate and inserted into side grooves formed at both ends of the main cover; and an inward protruding portion protruding toward an inside of the brush assembly at a position spaced apart from the radial protruding portion along an edge of the circular plate and inserted between the two main covers.

The suction unit may include an upper housing formed to cover the brush assembly and forming a mounting area of the brush assembly; And a lower support member disposed below the brush assembly to rotatably support both ends of the brush assembly, wherein the upper housing and the support member are coupled to each other so that the main cover and the inward protrusion are coupled. It is formed to cover the location.

The radial protrusions protrude in a direction inclined with respect to the radial direction of the circular plate, and the radial protrusions are inclined in an opposite direction to the rotational direction of the circular plate as the distance from the rim of the circular plate increases. lose

According to the present invention configured as described above, the sweeping function is provided from the first cleaning unit having a brush and the first type blade, and the hitting function is provided from the second cleaning unit including the second type blade. The practical cleaning performance of the robot cleaner can be improved by the combination of the first cleaner and the second cleaner, and in particular, the robot cleaner can efficiently clean not only hard floors but also special floors such as carpets.

If the second cleaning unit is composed of only the two-type blades without a brush, there is a concern that excessive frictional force may occur due to contact between the cleaning object floor and the two-type blades. However, since the type 2 blade of the present invention has a trapezoidal shape and a thicker thickness than the type 1 blade, it has resistance against bending due to contact with the floor to be cleaned. Therefore, the generation of frictional force between the two-type blades and the floor to be cleaned can be alleviated, and through this, abrasion of the two-type blades can be suppressed, and driving performance degradation of the robot cleaner can be prevented.

In addition, the present invention, since the inward protrusion of the side cover is inserted into the rotating rod along the direction crossing the direction in which foreign substances such as hair are wound, foreign substances are not wound in the part where the first type blade or the second type blade is not formed. It can be prevented. Furthermore, since the lower support member and the upper housing form a barrier to prevent hair from being wrapped around the rotational force transmission unit, and a ring-shaped slot is formed around the rotational force transmission unit, deterioration in rotational force transmission efficiency due to foreign substances such as hair is suppressed. can do.

1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a robot cleaner according to the present invention.
2 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which a brush assembly and a lower support member are separated from the suction unit of the robot cleaner shown in FIG. 1;
3 is a plan view of the brush assembly and lower support member separated from the suction unit.
4 is a perspective view showing a state in which the brush assembly is separated from the lower support member.
FIG. 5 is an enlarged partial perspective view of part A of FIG. 4 .
6 is a front view of the brush assembly.
7 is a cross-sectional view of a brush assembly.
8 is an exploded perspective view of a brush assembly.
9 is a cross-sectional view of a first cleaner and a second cleaner.
10A to 10C are operation states of the robot cleaner according to the rotation of the brush assembly.

Hereinafter, a robot cleaner related to the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings. In this specification, when an element is referred to as being "connected" or "connected" to another element, it may be directly connected or connected to the other element, but there may be other elements in the middle. It should be understood that it may be On the other hand, when an element is referred to as “directly connected” or “directly connected” to another element, it should be understood that no other element exists in the middle.

1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a robot cleaner 100 according to the present invention.

The robot cleaner 100 includes a cleaner body 110, a suction unit 120, and a dust collector 130.

The exterior of the robot cleaner 100 is formed together with the cleaner body 110, the suction unit 120, and the dust collector 130. The robot cleaner 100 includes a suction motor (not shown), a battery (not shown), a printed circuit board (not shown) constituting the control unit, a sensor unit 111, and a main wheel unit of the robot cleaner 100. ) 112, etc., various parts are embedded or mounted.

The suction unit 120 is configured to suck air and dust from an area to be cleaned. The suction unit 120 is coupled to one side of the cleaner body 110 . If the forward direction of the robot cleaner 100 is the front (F) of the robot cleaner 100, the suction unit 120 is coupled to the front part of the robot cleaner 100. The suction unit 120 may be disposed in a protruding form from the front portion of the cleaner body 110 . In addition, the suction unit 120 may have a protruding shape in both left and right directions. An auxiliary wheel 124 may be mounted on a lower portion of the suction unit 120 . The internal configuration of the suction unit 120 will be described later.

The dust collecting device 130 is configured to separate and collect dust from the air sucked through the suction unit 120 . The dust collector 130 may be detachably mounted on the cleaner body 110 . The dust collecting device 130 may be coupled to the rear part of the cleaner body 110 . When the dust collector 130 is mounted on the cleaner body 110, the cover 140 may cover the dust collector 130.

The dust collector 130 is disposed between the suction unit 120 and the suction motor in a passage connecting the suction unit 120 and the suction motor. Air and dust are sucked into the suction port of the suction unit 120 by the suction force provided by the suction motor, and the air and dust are separated from each other by the cyclone structure of the dust collector 130. Dust separated from the air is collected by the dust collecting device 130, and the air passes through the suction motor and is discharged to the outside of the robot cleaner 100.

The cleaning function of the robot cleaner 100 necessarily includes not only suctioning dust from the floor to be cleaned, but also wiping the floor to be cleaned.

Hereinafter, the internal structure of the suction unit 120 will be described.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a state in which the brush assembly 123 and the lower support member 122 are separated from the suction unit 120 of the robot cleaner 100 shown in FIG. 1 . 3 is a plan view of the brush assembly 123 and the lower support member 122 separated from the suction unit 120 .

The suction unit 120 includes an upper housing 121 , a lower support member 122 and a brush assembly 123 .

The upper housing 121 forms the exterior of the suction unit 120 . The upper housing 121 is formed to cover the brush assembly 123 to be described later. Upper housing 121 forms a mounting area for brush assembly 123 .

Looking at the suction unit 120 from the bottom of the robot cleaner 100, the brush assembly 123 is exposed through the lower support member 122 and the suction hole formed in the lower support member 122.

The lower support member 122 is disposed below the brush assembly 123 to rotatably support both ends of the brush assembly 123 . The lower support member 122 is hooked and hinged to the bottom of the upper housing 121 . When the hook coupling part 122a formed in the lower support member 122 is disengaged, the lower support member 122 and the brush assembly 123 rotate around the hinge 122b. Accordingly, the brush assembly 123 may be drawn out from the lower support member 122 .

When not only the hook coupling between the upper housing 121 and the lower support member 122 but also the hinge coupling is released, the lower support member 122 is separated from the upper housing 121 . The brush assembly 123 is detached from the brush assembly mounting area of the upper housing 121 along the lower support member 122 in a state of being mounted on the lower support member 122 . In order to separate the brush assembly 123 from the brush assembly mounting area, it may be necessary to disengage the brush assembly 123 and the counterpart, in which case the operation button 125 (see FIGS. 1 and 2) of the upper housing this can be used

4 is a perspective view showing a state in which the brush assembly 123 is separated from the lower support member 122 .

While the robot cleaner 100 is running, the brush assembly 123 is formed to sweep the floor surface to be cleaned while in contact with the surface to be cleaned. The brush assembly 123 includes a rotating rod 123a and cleaning parts 123b and 123c.

The rotating bar 123a is formed to be rotatable around one direction. Here, one direction refers to a direction that intersects or is orthogonal to the running direction of the robot cleaner 100 . For example, as shown in the drawing, the rotation rod 123a is rotated with the left and right directions orthogonal to the forward or backward directions of the robot cleaner 100 as a rotation axis.

The cleaning parts 123b and 123c protrude from the outer circumferential surface of the rotating rod 123a in the radial direction of the rotating rod 123a to sweep the floor to be cleaned while rotating together with the rotating rod 123a. The rotating rod 123a, which is the rotation of the brush assembly 123, is spaced apart from the floor to be cleaned, but the cleaners 123b and 123c come into contact with the floor to be cleaned and sweep dust from the floor to be cleaned.

The cleaners 123b and 123c include a first cleaner 123b and a second cleaner 123c. The first cleaner 123b and the second cleaner 123c will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5 together. FIG. 5 is an enlarged partial perspective view of part A of FIG. 4 .

The first cleaning unit 123b includes a brush 123b1 and a type 1 blade 123b2. The name added as type 1 is given in the sense that the structure and function are distinguished from the type 2 blade 123c1 to be described later.

The brush 123b1 extends from one side to the middle of the rotating rod 123a along a first direction inclined with respect to the rotation axis direction of the brush assembly 123 from the outer circumferential surface of the rotating rod 123a, and is inclined symmetrically to the first direction. It extends from the middle of the rotating rod 123a to the other side along the second direction of the picture. When viewing the brush assembly 123 from the front, the first direction and the second direction are symmetrical with respect to the vertical direction.

When the rotating rod 123a rotates, due to the structure of the brush 123b1, both ends of the brush 123b1 come into contact with the floor to be cleaned first, and the central part of the brush 123b1 is closest to the floor to be cleaned. contact you later Accordingly, the brush 123b1 sweeps dust from both ends toward the center, and the dust collected toward the center is sucked into the suction port.

The type 1 blade 123b2 is disposed behind the brush 123b1 based on the rotational direction of the brush assembly 123 . The type 1 blade 123b2 is disposed adjacent to the brush 123b1. The type 1 blade 123b2 may be in close contact with the brush 123b1 or may be spaced apart from the brush 123b1.

However, even if the type 1 blade 123b2 is spaced apart from the brush 123b1, it is not very far from the brush 123b1, and is disposed close to it. Therefore, the type 1 blade 123b2 can be flipped along with the brush 123b1 by contact with the floor to be cleaned when the rotating rod 123a rotates, and as a result, the type 1 blade 123b2 contacts the brush 123b1. It can be.

The type 1 blade 123b2 extends substantially parallel to the extending direction of the brush 123b1. Like the brush 123b1, the type 1 blade 123b2 extends along a first direction and a second direction symmetrical to each other with respect to the vertical direction.

It is preferable that the difference between the protruding length h1 of the type 1 blade 123b2 and the protruding length of the brush 123b1 from the outer circumferential surface of the rotating rod 123a is 0.1 mm or less. More preferably, the protruding length of the first type blade 123b2 and the protruding length of the brush 123b1 are the same. If the type 1 blade (123b2) has an excessively lower protruding length than the brush (123b1), the effect of preventing foreign matter such as hair from being wrapped is reduced. This is because foreign substances may be wound around the top of the brush 123b1. Conversely, if the type 1 blade 123b2 has an excessively higher protruding length than the brush 123b1, friction with the floor to be cleaned and noise caused by the friction may be caused.

Long and thin foreign substances such as hair may penetrate between the plurality of bristles forming the brush 123b1, and the foreign substances may not be removed even with the suction force of the robot cleaner 100. However, based on the rotational direction of the rotating bar 123a, since the first type blade 123b2 having the above structure protrudes from the rear of the brush 123b1, the first type blade 123b2 is inserted between the brush 123b1 and the like to remove hair. Thin and long foreign substances can be prevented from winding. In particular, when the type 1 blade 123b2 is placed in close contact with or as close to the brush 123b1 as possible, it is possible to prevent hair from being wrapped around the upper end of the brush 123b1.

The type 1 blade 123b2 may be made of a material having elasticity, and may be made of, for example, a thin film made of rubber. In particular, the type 1 blade 123b2 may be made of a material having a smaller modulus of elasticity than the brush 123b1. Accordingly, the type 1 blade 123b2 can prevent the penetration of foreign substances without interfering with the operation of the brush 123b1 to elastically sweep the floor to be cleaned.

The second cleaner 123c is disposed to be spaced apart from the first cleaner 123b along the outer circumferential surface of the rotating rod 123a. The direction in which the second cleaner 123c is separated from the first cleaner 123b is the rotational direction of the rotating rod 123a. The second cleaner 123c includes a two-type blade 123c1.

The second-class blade 123c1 extends substantially parallel to the extending direction of the brush 123b1 or the first-class blade 123b2. Like the brush 123b1 or the first type blade 123b2, the second type blade 123c1 extends along a first direction and a second direction symmetrical to each other with respect to the vertical direction.

Unlike the brush 123b1 provided in the first cleaner 123b, the brush 123b1 is not provided in the second type blade 123c1. Instead, the second blade (123c1) has a different thickness from the first blade (123b2) in the direction of rotation of the rotation bar (123a). The thickness of the second type blades 123c1 may not be constant in the direction of rotation of the rotating rod 123a, but the average thickness of the second type blades 123c1 is greater than the average thickness of the first type blades 123b2.

The second type blade 123c1, which is thicker than the first type blade 123b2, hits the floor to be cleaned to help suck dust accumulated on the floor to be cleaned. Particularly, dust accumulated on the floor to be cleaned, such as the carpet, is separated from the carpet due to the impact of the two-type blade 123c1, and thus can be easily sucked into the suction port.

It may be considered that the first type blade 123b2 hits the floor to be cleaned to obtain the same effect as the second type blade 123c1. However, in order for the first type blade 123b2 to hit the floor to be cleaned, it must have a higher protruding length than the brush 123b1 and have a thickness as thick as the second type blade 123c1. In this case, the first-class blade 123b2 has an adverse effect of interfering with the sweeping function of the brush 123b1. Therefore, it is preferable that the sweeping function and the hitting function are separately implemented by the first cleaning unit 123b and the second cleaning unit 123c rather than being implemented in one cleaning unit.

The two-type blade 123c1 may be made of a material having elasticity, and may be made of, for example, a thin film made of rubber. However, since the type 2 blade 123c1 has a thicker thickness than the type 1 blade 123b2, there is a risk of causing greater friction than the type 1 blade 123b2 when in contact with the floor to be cleaned. Therefore, in order to prevent deterioration due to frictional heat, the second type blade 123c1 is preferably formed of a material having better heat resistance than the first type blade 123b2.

The first cleaning unit 123b and the second cleaning unit 123c serve to improve the cleaning performance of the robot cleaner 100 through complementary actions. The blow function lacking in the first cleaner 123b is provided by the second cleaner 123c, and the sweeping function insufficient in the second cleaner 123c is provided by the first cleaner 123b.

In addition, objects to be cleaned, such as strings or strings, other than hair may cause the first type blade 123b2 of the first cleaning unit 123b to be bent. However, since the type 2 blade 123c1 is thicker than the type 1 blade 123b2, resistance to objects to be cleaned, such as strings or strings, is stronger than that of the type 1 blade 123b2. Therefore, as long as the type 2 blade 123c1 maintains resistance to the object to be cleaned, such as a string or string, excessive bending of the type 1 blade 123b2 can be suppressed.

Meanwhile, the number of second cleaning units 123c of the first cleaning unit 123b and their arrangement on the outer circumferential surface of the rotating rod 123a are factors that determine the cleaning performance of the robot cleaner 100. For example, as the number of first cleaners 123b increases, the effect of sweeping dust on the floor to be cleaned increases, but since the first cleaners 123b lack a function to hit the floor, the robot cleaner 100 ) is difficult to apply to various cleaning targets.

Conversely, as the number of second cleaners 123c increases, the effect of hitting the floor to be cleaned increases, but since the brush 123b1 is not provided in the second cleaner 123c, the effect of dust on the floor to be cleaned is reduced. disappear Furthermore, when the brush assembly 123 rotates, the two-type blade 123c1 directly closes to the floor to be cleaned, so the driving motor drives the main wheel unit 112 of the robot cleaner 100 due to friction with the floor to be cleaned. increases the load applied to the robot cleaner 100, which lowers the driving efficiency of the robot cleaner 100.

From this point of view, the first cleaner 123b may be disposed between the two second cleaners 123c. For example, the ratio of the number of first cleaners 123b to the number of second cleaners 123c on the outer circumferential surface of the rotating rod 123a may be 3:3 or 2:4. When the ratio of the number of first cleaners 123b to the number of second cleaners 123c is 3:3, the first cleaners 123b and the second cleaners 123c are located at every 60° point on the outer circumferential surface of the rotating rod 123a. are placed alternately with each other. When the ratio of the number of first cleaners 123b to the number of second cleaners 123c is 2:4, two first cleaners 123b are disposed opposite to each other at an interval of 180° on the outer circumferential surface of the rotating rod 123a, , the second cleaner 123c is disposed at every remaining 60° point. In any case, the first cleaner 123b is disposed between the two second cleaners 123c.

When the first cleaner 123b and the second cleaner 123c are arranged in this way, the function of the first cleaner 123b to sweep the floor to be cleaned and the function of the second cleaner 123c to hit the floor to be cleaned are can be appropriately combined. According to the complementary action of the first cleaning unit 123b and the second cleaning unit 123c, the brush assembly 123 can efficiently clean both a special floor such as a carpet and a hard general floor excluding carpets. In addition, insufficient suction power of the suction motor may be supplemented by the second cleaner 123c.

On the other hand, a guide groove is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the rotation bar 123a. The guide groove is formed by being recessed from the outer circumferential surface of the rotating rod 123a toward the inside of the rotating rod 123a. The guide groove is formed between the first cleaning part 123b and the second cleaning part 123c. The guide groove extends parallel to the extension direction of the first type blade 123b2 and the second type blade 123c1. For example, the guide groove extends along a first direction and a second direction symmetrical to each other with respect to the vertical direction, similar to the first type blade 123b2 or the second type blade 123c1.

The type 1 blade 123b2 and the type 2 blade 123c1 may prevent foreign substances such as hair from being wound around the brush assembly 123, but foreign substances such as very long hair may be removed through the suction unit 120 to the vacuum cleaner. There is also a possibility that it is wound around the brush assembly 123 before being sucked into the body 110. In particular, it is cumbersome to remove foreign substances, such as very long hair, after they are wound around the brush assembly 123 .

However, when a guide groove is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the rotating rod 123a, hair wound around the brush assembly 123 may be cut by inserting a cutting tool such as a knife or scissors into the guide groove from the side. Cut hair and the like can be easily removed from the brush assembly 123 .

Meanwhile, the brush assembly 123 further includes a side cover 123d.

The side cover 123d is coupled to both ends of the brush assembly 123, respectively. The side cover 123d allows the brush assembly 123 to be seated on the lower support member 122. The side cover 123d is seated on the lower support member 122 while being coupled to the rotation bar 123a.

The side cover 123d includes a circular plate 123d1, a rotational force transmitter 123d2, an outward protrusion 123d3, a radial protrusion 123d4, and an inward protrusion 123d5.

The circular plate 123d1 is in close contact with both ends of the rotating bar 123a in the axial direction. The circular plate 123d1 blocks holes formed at both ends of the rotating rod 123a to prevent foreign substances such as dust from entering the rotating rod 123a.

The rotational force transmission unit 123d2 protrudes toward the outside of the brush assembly 123 from the center of the circular plate 123d1. The rotational force transmission unit 123d2 protrudes along the axial direction of the rotating bar 123a.

The rotational force transmission unit 123d2 is formed to be capable of being pushed into the brush assembly 123. An elastic member may be coupled to an inner end of the rotational force transmitter 123d2. In this case, when the pressing operation on the rotational force transmitting unit 123d2 is released, the rotational force transmitting unit 123d2 is restored to the position before the pressing operation.

In a state where the brush assembly 123 is seated on the lower support member 122, when the lower support member 122 rotates around the hinge of the lower support member 122, the rotational force transmission unit 123d2 moves the upper housing ( 121) is pressed by one side wall formed in the brush assembly mounting area and is inserted into the brush assembly 123. When the hook connection between the lower support member 122 and the upper housing 121 is completed, the rotational force transmitter 123d2 is inserted into the object while being restored to the position before the pressing operation.

The outer end of the rotational force transmission unit 123d2 is inserted into an object that transmits rotational force of a brush assembly driving motor (not shown). To transmit rotational force of the brush assembly driving motor, the counterpart has a shape corresponding to the outer end of the rotational force transmission unit 123d2. For example, if the outer end of the rotational force transmitter 123d2 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape, the counterpart has a shape surrounding the rectangular parallelepiped. The counterpart is formed in the brush assembly mounting area of the upper housing 121 and may be formed at a position facing the side cover 123d. When the counterpart rotates by the operation of the brush assembly driving motor, the rotational force transmitter 123d2 also rotates. Accordingly, the brush assembly 123 is also rotated by receiving rotational force.

The outward protruding portion 123d3 circularly protrudes toward the outside of the brush assembly 123 along the edge of the circular plate 123d1. The outward protruding portion 123d3 protrudes circularly while surrounding the rotational force transmission unit 123d2 at a position spaced apart from the rotational force transmission unit 123d2. Accordingly, an annular slot is formed between the rotational force transmission unit 123d2 and the outward protrusion 123d3.

The ring-shaped slot serves to temporarily store foreign substances such as hair wound around the rotational force transmission unit 123d2 so as not to interfere with transmission of the rotational force. If there is no slot, there is a possibility that foreign matter such as hair wrapped around the rotational force transmission unit 123d2 may enter between the rotational force transmission unit 123d2 and its counterpart, which acts as a resistance element for transmission of rotational force. The annular slot temporarily stores hair or the like wound around the rotational force transmission unit 123d2, and prevents foreign matter from being introduced between the rotational force transmission unit 123d2 and its counterpart. Foreign matter temporarily stored in the annular slot needs to be periodically removed when the brush assembly 123 is separated from the upper housing 121 or the lower support member 122 .

The rotational force transmitted through the rotational force transmitting unit 123d2 should be transmitted to the rotating rod 123a through the side cover 123d. The radial protrusions 123d4 and the inward protrusions 123d5 have a structure that transmits rotational force from the side cover 123d to the rotating bar 123a.

The radial direction protrusion 123d4 protrudes from the edge of the circular plate 123d1 toward the radial direction of the circular plate 123d1. A plurality of radial protrusions 123d4 are provided on the edge of the circular plate 123d1, and the plurality of radial protrusions 123d4 are spaced apart from each other.

Side grooves 123a23 (see FIG. 8) formed to accommodate the radial protrusions 123d4 are formed at both ends of the main cover 123a2 constituting the rotating rod 123a. The radial projections 123d4 are inserted into the side grooves 123a23. The protrusions formed on both sides of the side grooves 123a23 and the radial protrusions 123d4 are engaged with each other to form a kind of gear wheel.

In addition, the inward protruding portion 123d5 protrudes toward the inside of the brush assembly 123 from the edge of the circular plate 123d1. The inward protrusion 123d5 is formed at a position spaced apart from the radial protrusion 123d4 along the edge of the circular plate 123d1. The inwardly protruding portion 123d5 is inserted between the two main covers 123a2. A notch 123a24 (refer to FIG. 8) may be formed in the main cover 123a2 to accommodate the inward protrusion 123d5. The main cover 123a2 and the inward protrusion 123d5 are engaged with each other to form a kind of gear wheel.

Rotational force is transmitted from the side cover 123d to the rotating rod 123a by a structure in which the radial protrusion 123d4 and the inward protrusion 123d5 are coupled to the rotating rod 123a. Accordingly, when the side cover (123d) is rotated, the rotating rod (123a) is also rotated. Furthermore, the radial direction protrusion 123d4 and the inward protrusion 123d5 prevent the side cover 123d from being erroneously assembled to the rotating rod 123a.

In particular, the radial protrusion 123d4 may protrude toward the radial direction of the circular plate 123d1, but may also protrude toward an inclined direction at a predetermined angle θ with respect to the radial direction of the circular plate 123d1. . In this case, the radial protrusion 123d4 may be inclined toward a direction opposite to the rotational direction of the circular plate 123d1 as it moves away from the edge of the circular plate 123d1. When the radial protrusions 123d4 protrude in an inclined direction rather than a radial direction, frictional resistance due to rotation is reduced.

In addition, the inward protruding portion 123d5 has an effect of preventing hair or the like from being wound between the rotating rod 121 and the circular plate 123d1.

Meanwhile, the lower support member 122 further includes a front extension part 122c, a rear extension part 122d, and a brush assembly support part 122e in addition to the hook coupling part 122a and the hinge 122b.

The front extension portion 122c extends in a direction parallel to the axial direction of the brush assembly 123 at the lower front of the brush assembly 123 . Two hook coupling parts 122a may be formed at positions spaced apart from each other in the front extension part 122c.

The rear extension portion 122d extends in a direction parallel to the axial direction of the brush assembly 123 at the lower rear of the brush assembly 123 . The rear extension portion 122d may have a curved surface to surround a rotation area of the brush assembly 123 at a position spaced apart from the brush assembly 123 . Two hinges may be formed at positions spaced apart from each other in the rear extension part 122d.

The brush assembly support portion 122e connects the front extension portion 122c and the rear extension portion 122d at both ends of the front extension portion 122c and both ends of the rear extension portion 122d. Accordingly, the brush assembly support portion 122e extends in a direction crossing the axial direction of the brush assembly 123 .

It is preferable that the remaining area except for both ends of the front extension part 122c and both ends of the rear extension part 122d is open to form a suction port. For example, the middle portion of the front extension portion 122c and the middle portion of the rear extension portion 122d are preferably not connected to each other to form the intake port. In particular, when the inlet is completely open, since there is no element that acts as a physical resistance to the rotation of the brush assembly 123, the cleaning performance of the brush assembly 123 can be improved.

The brush assembly support portion 122e is formed to support both ends of the brush assembly 123. The brush assembly support portion 122e has a semicircular shape to rotatably support the brush assembly 123 . The remaining semicircles may be formed on the upper housing 121 . Effects of this structure will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6 .

6 is a front view of the brush assembly 123.

The brush assembly support portion 121a of the upper housing 121 and the brush assembly support portion 122e of the lower support member 122 are coupled to each other to form a ring. The ring is formed to surround the coupling position of the main cover 123a2 and the inward protrusion 123d5.

When the ring surrounds the coupling position of the main cover 123a2 and the inward protrusion 123d5, a barrier is formed at the end of the brush assembly 123. Even if foreign matter such as hair is wrapped around the first cleaning part 123b and the second cleaning part 123c, the foreign matter wrapped around the first cleaning part 123b and the second cleaning part 123c can be removed relatively easily. However, foreign matter wrapped around the side cover 123d is relatively difficult to remove.

When the ring forms a barrier at the end of the brush assembly 123, it is possible to prevent hair wound around the first cleaning unit 123b and the second cleaning unit 123c from being additionally wound around the side cover 123d. Difficulties can be radically resolved.

Subsequently, a coupling structure of each component constituting the brush assembly 123 will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8 .

7 is a cross-sectional view of the brush assembly 123. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the brush assembly 123.

The rotating rod 123a is formed by a body 123a1 and a main cover 123a2.

The body 123a1 is formed in the shape of a hollow cylinder. The body 123a1 extends along the axial direction of the rotating bar 123a. A structure for coupling the main cover 123a2 is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the body 123a1, and a structure for coupling the side cover 123d is formed at the end of the body 123a1.

A hook coupling hole 123a11 is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the body 123a1 to insert and hook the hook coupling portion 123a22 of the main cover 123a2. A plurality of hook coupling portions 123a22 are formed in the axial direction of the main cover 123a2 at a portion facing the body 123a1. A plurality of hook coupling portions 123a22 of the main cover 123a2 are provided, and the plurality of hook coupling portions 123a22 are spaced apart from each other. The hook coupling hole 123a11 is formed at a position corresponding to the hook coupling portion 123a22 of the main body 123a1.

When the main cover 123a2 approaches the body 123a1 along the radial direction of the body 123a1, the hook coupling part 123a22 of the main cover 123a2 is inserted into the hook coupling groove 123a11 of the body 123a1 , The main cover 123a2 is hook-coupled to the body 123a1. Six main covers 123a2 may be provided along the outer circumferential surface of the body 123a1, but are not necessarily limited thereto.

The guide groove 123a21 described above is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the main cover 123a2.

When the plurality of main covers 123a2 are coupled to the outer circumferential surface of the body 123a1, a gap is formed between the two main covers 123a2. If the number of main covers 123a2 is 6, 6 gaps are also formed. The gap is a space for inserting the first cleaner 123b or the second cleaner 123c. The first cleaner 123b and the second cleaner 123c are inserted into the gap from one end or the other end of the body 123a1. When the first cleaner 123b or the second cleaner 123c is inserted into the gap, respectively, the brush 123b1 and the first blade 123b2 are inserted in the radial direction of the rotating rod 123a between the two main covers 123a2. ) protrudes, and the second type blade 123c1 protrudes between the other two main covers 123a2.

The gap formed between the main covers 123a2 extends along a first direction and a second direction symmetrical to each other with respect to the vertical direction. Accordingly, when the first cleaning portion 123b and the second cleaning portion 123c having elasticity are inserted into the gap, respectively, they naturally extend along the first and second directions. The first direction and the second direction are directions in which the first cleaner 123b and the second cleaner 123c come into contact with the floor to be cleaned from both ends.

Base portions 123b3 and 123c2 are formed at the lower end of the first type blade 123b2 and at the lower end of the second type blade 123c1, respectively. The base portions 123b3 and 123c2 are thicker than the first type blade 123b2 and thicker than the second type blade 123c1. The main cover 123a2 covers the base portion 123b3 of the first type blade 123b2 or the base portion 123c2 of the second type blade 123c1.

For example, one main cover 123a2 covers the base portion 123b3 of the first type blade 123b2 on one side of the first type blade 123b2, and the other main cover 123a2 covers the first type blade 123b2. ) covers the base portion 123b3 of the first type blade 123b2 on the other side. Similarly, one main cover 123a2 covers the base portion 123c2 of the two-type blade 123c1 at one side of the two-type blade 123c1, and the other main cover 123a2 covers the two-type blade 123c1. ) covers the base portion 123c2 of the second type blade 123c1 on the other side.

Since the main cover 123a2 covers the base part 123b3 of the type 1 blade 123b2 and the base part 123c2 of the type 2 blade 123c1, the radiation of the first cleaning part 123b and the second cleaning part 123c Directional deviation is suppressed by the main cover 123a2. Further, the axial separation of the first cleaner 123b and the second cleaner 123c is suppressed by the side cover 123d. Here, the radial direction and the axial direction refer to the radial direction of the body 123a1 and the axial direction of the body 123a1, respectively.

Side grooves 123a23 described above are formed at both ends of the main cover 123a2. The side groove 123a23 is a configuration for inserting the radial direction protrusion 123d4 of the side cover 123d. Forming the radial protrusions 123d4 and the side grooves 123a23 in a direction inclined with respect to the radial direction of the circular plate 123d1 has been described above.

In addition, notches 123a24 for accommodating the side grooves 123a23 and the inward protrusions 123d5 of the side cover 123d may be formed at both ends of the main cover 123a2. The notch 123a24 is formed at a position facing the other main cover 123a2. When the notch 123a24 is formed at both ends of the main cover 123a2, a gap larger than the gap into which the first cleaner 123b and the second cleaner 123c are inserted is formed. Here, the inward projection 123d5 is inserted into the larger gap.

The side groove 123a23 and the notch 123a24 are formed in a portion covering the base 123b3 of the first type blade 123b2 or the base portion 123c2 of the second type blade 123c1. Meanwhile, the main cover 123a2 has an inner portion covered by a portion covering the base portions 123b3 and 123c2, and the hook coupling portion 123a22 described above is formed on this inner portion.

Protrusions 123a25 inserted into the position fixing grooves 123d9 of the side cover 123d are formed at both ends of the inner portion. The protrusions 123a25 protrude from both ends of the main cover 123a2 toward the side cover 123d.

The side cover 123d further includes a hook coupling part 123d6, a circumferential position fixing protrusion 123d7, a radial position fixing protrusion 123d8, and a position fixing groove 123d9.

The hook engaging portion 123d6 protrudes from the circular plate 123d1 toward the inside of the body 123a1. Two hook coupling parts 123d6 may be formed at positions facing each other on the circular plate 123d1. Hook coupling grooves 123a12 and hook coupling holes 123a14 are formed at both ends of the body 123a1. The hook coupling groove 123a12 is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the body 123a1 along the axial direction of the body 123a1, and the hook coupling hole 123a14 is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the body 123a1. When the side cover 123d is brought into close contact with the body 123a1, the hook coupling portion 123d6 of the side cover 123d is inserted into the body 123a1 along the hook coupling groove 123a12 of the body 123a1. When the side cover 123d is in close contact with the body 123a1, the hook coupling portion 123d6 is hooked into the hook coupling hole 123a14.

Also, protrusions 123a15 protruding in the axial direction are formed at both ends of the body 123a1. When the hook coupling part 123d6 is hooked to the body 123a1, the protrusions 123a15 of the body 123a1 It is inserted into the groove 123d6' formed next to the hook coupling part 123d6.

The circumferential position fixing protrusion 123d7 protrudes from the circular plate 123d1 toward the inside of the body 123a1 like the hook coupling part 123d6. Two circumferential position fixing protrusions 123d7 may be formed at positions facing each other on the circular plate 123d1. If the hook coupling part 123d6 is formed on the two opposing sides of the square, the position fixing protrusion 123d7 in the circumferential direction is formed on the other two sides.

The circumferential position fixing groove 123a13 is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the body 123a1 along the axial direction of the body 123a1. When the side cover 123d is coupled to the body 123a1, the circumferential position fixing protrusion 123d7 of the side cover 123d is inserted into the circumferential position fixing groove 123a13 of the body 123a1. When the circumferential position fixing protrusion 123d7 is inserted into the circumferential position fixing groove 123a13, the circumferential movement of the side cover 123d coupled to the body 123a1 is suppressed.

A plurality of radial position fixing protrusions 123d8 are formed around the hook coupling part 123d6 or the circumferential position fixing protrusion 123d7 of the side cover 123d. The plurality of radial position fixing protrusions 123d8 are spaced apart from each other and are equally spaced from the center of the circular plate 123d1. The radial position fixing protrusion 123d8 protrudes toward the body 123a1 at a position in contact with the outer circumferential surface of the body 123a1. When the side cover 123d is coupled to the body 123a1, the radial position fixing protrusion 123d8 contacts the outer circumferential surface of the body 123a1. Since the plurality of radial position fixing protrusions 123d8 are provided, radial movement of the side cover 123d coupled to the body 123a1 is suppressed. Here, the radial direction refers to the radial direction of the body 123a1.

The position fixing groove 123d9 into which the protrusion 123a25 of the main cover 123a2 is inserted may be formed between each radial position fixing protrusion 123d8. The position fixing groove 123d9 may have a D-cut shape with a D-shaped cross section, and the protrusion 123a25 may also have a corresponding D-cut shape.

By the hook engaging portion 123d6 and its counterpart, the side cover 123d is suppressed from coming off in the axial direction. Further, movement of the side cover 123d in the circumferential direction is suppressed by the circumferential direction position fixing protrusion 123d7 and its counterpart. Movement in the circumferential direction means rotation of the side cover 123d in place. Finally, radial movement of the side cover 123d is suppressed by the radial position fixing protrusion 123d8 and its counterpart.

Next, the configuration of the first type blade 123b2 and the second type blade 123c1 will be described in more detail.

9 is a cross-sectional view of the first cleaner 123b and the second cleaner 123c.

As shown in FIG. 9, the sum of the thickness a1 of the brush 123b1 and the thickness a2 of the first type blade 123b2 (a=a1+a2) and the thickness b of the second type blade 123c1 The difference (a-b or b-a) of is preferably 0.1 mm or less. More preferably, the difference (a-b or b-a) is zero. At this time, each thickness is measured in the direction of rotation of the rotating rod (123a). And the thickness (b) of the second type blade (123c1) refers to the average thickness of the second type blade (123c1). The thickness (b) of the second-class blade 123c1 refers to the average {(b1+b2)/2} of the minimum thickness b1 and maximum thickness b2 of the second-class blade 123c1.

When the brush assembly 123 rotates, as the difference increases, the brush assembly 123 cannot rotate in place due to contact with the floor to be cleaned and may cause pulsation. The pulsation of the brush assembly 123 causes the cleaning performance of the robot cleaner 100 to deteriorate. Therefore, the smaller the difference is, the better.

Meanwhile, the first type blade 123b2 may have a rectangular cross section, whereas the second type blade 123c1 may have a trapezoidal cross section. Here, the trapezoid refers to a shape in which the thickness gradually increases as it approaches the outer circumferential surface of the rotating rod 123a.

When the brush assembly 123 rotates, the part of the first cleaning unit 123b that comes into contact with the floor to be cleaned is the brush 123b1. In order for the brush 123b1 to sweep dust, the first type blade 123b2 may be naturally bent along with the brush 123b1 while the brush assembly 123 rotates.

On the other hand, while the brush assembly 123 rotates, the part of the second cleaning unit 123c that touches the floor to be cleaned is the second type blade 123c1. When the second blade 123c1 is bent by the floor to be cleaned, the second blade 123c1 made of rubber may cause excessive friction with the floor to be cleaned. Therefore, it is preferable that the two-type blade 123c1 has resistance to bending.

If the two-type blade 123c1 has a trapezoidal shape, a part farthest from the outer circumferential surface of the rotating rod 123a may be partially bent due to contact with the floor to be cleaned. However, since the thickness of the two-type blade 123c1 gradually increases as it approaches the outer circumferential surface of the rotation rod 123a, the thick portion has resistance to bending.

Expressing this as a numerical range, the rectangular thickness (a2) of the type 1 blade (123b2) is preferably 0.8mm to 1.2mm. And, the trapezoidal upper thickness (b1) of the two-type blade (123c1) is 0.8mm to 1.2mm, and the trapezoidal lower thickness (b2) is preferably 1.3mm to 1.7mm.

Meanwhile, the second cleaning unit 123c may optionally further include a support unit. The support part is disposed behind the first type blade 123b2 based on the rotational direction of the brush assembly 123 . In FIG. 9 , the support portion is indicated by a dotted line. The support portion is formed to support the type 1 blade 123b2 when the brush assembly 123 rotates. When the support portion is formed at the rear of the first type blade 123b2 , when the brush assembly 123 rotates, the first type blade 123b2 is tilted to prevent the brush assembly 123 from being lowered in height. In addition, the possibility of penetration of hair or the like into the brush 123b1 may be lowered by the support part.

In some cases, the support may be composed of a plurality of bristles like the brush 123b1. This may be understood as being provided with brushes 123b1 at the front and rear of the type 1 blade 123b2, respectively. When the brushes 123b1 are provided on the front and rear sides of the type 1 blade 123b2, there is an advantage in that a separate member or additional process for configuring the support portion with bristles is unnecessary. In addition, since the support portion may have a higher modulus of elasticity than the type 1 blade 123b2 , it may sufficiently perform a role of supporting the type 1 blade 123b2 .

Meanwhile, the protruding length h1 of the first type blade 123b2 and the protruding length h2 of the second type blade 123c1 are preferably 0.1 mm or less. More preferably, the protruding length h1 of the first type blade 123b2 and the protruding length h2 of the second type blade 123c1 are the same. In this way, generation of pulsation of the brush assembly 123 due to different protruding lengths while the brush assembly 123 rotates can be suppressed.

The support part may also have the same protrusion length h1 as that of the first type blade 123b2. In this case, even if the brush assembly 123 rotates in the opposite direction, the type 1 blade 123b2 can prevent foreign matter such as hair from penetrating into the support portion composed of bristles.

Next, the operation of the robot cleaner 100 will be described.

10A to 10C are operation states of the robot cleaner 100 according to the rotation of the brush assembly 123.

Referring to FIG. 10A , when the robot cleaner 100 cleans a floor surface to be cleaned, such as a carpet, the two-type blade 123c1 of the brush assembly 123 hits the carpet while rotating. Foreign substances such as dust are separated from the carpet hit by the two-type blades 123c1.

Referring to FIG. 10B, the brush assembly 123 additionally rotates, and the carpet is sequentially hit by the two two-type blades 123c1. Accordingly, more foreign substances such as dust are separated from the carpet.

Referring to FIG. 10C , the brush assembly 123 additionally rotates, and the first cleaner 123b sweeps the dust separated from the carpet and guides it to be sucked into the suction port. Meanwhile, foreign substances such as hair may be sucked into the cleaner body 110 without penetrating into the brush 123b1 by the type 1 blade 123b2.

The robot cleaner described above is not limited to the configuration and method of the above-described embodiments, but the above embodiments may be configured by selectively combining all or part of each embodiment so that various modifications can be made.

Claims (1)

cleaner body; and
a suction unit connected to the cleaner body to suck air and dust, and having a brush assembly in contact with a floor to be cleaned;
The brush assembly,
A rotating rod formed to be rotatable around one direction; and
A cleaning unit protruding in a radial direction from an outer circumferential surface of the rotating rod to sweep the floor to be cleaned while rotating together with the rotating rod,
the cleaner,
a first cleaning unit having a brush and a type 1 blade disposed adjacent to a rear side of the brush based on a rotational direction of the rotating rod; and
and a second cleaning unit disposed along an outer circumferential surface of the rotation rod and spaced apart from the first cleaning unit and having a second type blade having a thickness different from that of the first type blade in a rotational direction of the rotation bar.

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