WO2023171944A1

WO2023171944A1 - Cleaner

Info

Publication number: WO2023171944A1
Application number: PCT/KR2023/002534
Authority: WO
Inventors: 황정배
Original assignee: 엘지전자 주식회사
Priority date: 2022-03-11
Filing date: 2023-02-22
Publication date: 2023-09-14
Also published as: KR20230133653A

Abstract

The present invention relates to a cleaner provided with a cleaning module, and the cleaning module according to the present invention comprises: an agitator inserted into an opening and rotatably coupled to a housing; an end cap covering the opening and separably coupled to the housing; a first shaft coupled to the end cap and extending to the inside of the agitator along a rotational shaft of the agitator; and a first bearing having at least a part disposed in the agitator and coupled to the first shaft, wherein the end cap is coupled to or separated from the housing together with the first shaft and the first bearing. Since the end cap is integrally coupled to or separated from the housing together with the first shaft and the first bearing, the agitator, which can be cleaned with water, can be easily separated from the first shaft or the first bearing which cannot be cleaned with water, and thus the agitator can be easily cleaned with water.

Description

vacuum cleaner

The present invention relates to a vacuum cleaner, and more specifically to a vacuum cleaner that can be easily operated.

In general, a vacuum cleaner is a home appliance that sucks in small trash or dust by sucking air using electricity and fills the dust bin inside the product, and is commonly called a vacuum cleaner.

These vacuum cleaners can be divided into manual vacuum cleaners, in which the user moves the vacuum cleaner while performing cleaning, and automatic vacuum cleaners, in which the vacuum cleaner performs cleaning while traveling on its own. Depending on the type of cleaner, manual cleaners can be classified into canister-type cleaners, upright cleaners, hand-held cleaners, and stick-type cleaners.

In the past, canister-type vacuum cleaners were widely used as household cleaners, but recently, hand-held vacuum cleaners and stick vacuum cleaners, which provide improved convenience of use by providing a dust bin and vacuum cleaner body, are increasingly being used.

A canisty-type vacuum cleaner has its main body and suction port connected by a rubber hose or pipe, and in some cases, it can be used by inserting a brush into the suction port.

The Hand Vacuum Cleaner is designed to maximize portability. Although it is light in weight, it is short in length, so the cleaning area you can sit on may be limited. Therefore, it is used to clean localized areas, such as on a desk or sofa, or inside a car. Handheld vacuum cleaners can be used while standing, allowing cleaning without bending down. Therefore, it is advantageous for cleaning a large area while moving.

Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2020-0117361 is presented as a prior document. Prior literature relates to vacuum cleaners and methods of manufacturing brush drums for vacuum cleaners.

The prior literature includes a main body, a brush head connected to the main body and having a suction port, and a brush drum rotatably mounted on the brush head. The brush drum includes a shaft unit rotatably mounted on the brush head, a cylindrical elastic member provided to surround the outer peripheral surface of the shaft unit, a brush provided in a cylindrical shape to surround the outer peripheral surface of the elastic member and formed of villi, and a shaft unit. It is assembled at both ends and includes a pair of brackets that allow the shaft unit to be rotatably mounted on the brush head, and a handle unit that is detachably mounted on the brush head and one of the pair of brackets is detachably mounted.

According to prior literature, a user can remove hair, etc. tangled on the outer circumferential surface of the shaft unit by separating the handle unit, the bracket, and the shaft unit. However, the shaft unit according to the prior literature has a problem in that the shaft and the pipe are difficult to separate, and water may penetrate into the space between the shaft and the pipe when washed with water, making it difficult to wash with water.

Additionally, according to prior literature, the handle unit is detachably mounted on the second bracket and is separated from the second bracket and the shaft unit. Therefore, the user has the inconvenience of having to separate the second bracket and shaft unit again after separating the handle unit.

The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a cleaner that can easily wash the parts that can be cleaned with water by separating parts that can be cleaned with water, such as mops, from parts that cannot be cleaned with water in the assembly.

Another problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a cleaner that can separate an agitator inserted into a housing with a single operation.

The problems of the present invention are not limited to the problems mentioned above, and other problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

In order to achieve the above object, a vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a cleaning module that suctions external air and a main body that provides suction force to the cleaning module. The cleaning module includes a housing that is coupled to the main body and has an opening on one side that communicates the external space and the internal space, an agitator that is inserted into the opening and rotatably coupled to the housing, and an end that covers the opening and is detachably coupled to the housing. It includes a cap, a first shaft coupled to the end cap and extending inside the agitator along the rotation axis of the agitator, and a first bearing at least partially disposed inside the agitator and coupled to the first shaft. The end cap is coupled to or separated from the housing along with the first shaft and first bearing.

The cleaning module may include a bearing holder disposed on the radial outer side of the first bearing, one side of which is coupled to the first bearing and the other side of which is coupled to the agitator, and rotates together with the agitator.

The bearing holder may surround at least a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the first bearing.

The cleaning module may include a gasket whose inner surface is in close contact with the bearing holder and whose outer surface is in close contact with the agitator.

The cleaning module may include a holder cover that surrounds at least a portion of the bearing holder on the radial outer side of the bearing holder, and has one side coupled to the bearing holder and the other side coupled to the agitator. At this time, the holder cover may further include a step formed on the inner peripheral surface and in close contact with the end of the bearing holder. Alternatively, the bearing holder may include a bearing holder coupling hook protruding from the outer peripheral surface toward the holder cover, and the holder cover may include a bearing holder coupling hole into which at least a portion of the bearing holder coupling hook is inserted and caught. Alternatively, the agitator may include an agitator guide engaging protrusion protruding toward the holder cover, and the holder cover may include an agitator guide engaging groove into which at least a portion of the agitator guide engaging protrusion is inserted and engaged.

The agitator may include an agitator bar forming a space therein and extending along a rotation axis, and an agitator guide disposed on the rotation axis and coupled to an end of the agitator bar. At this time, the agitator guide may include a left agitator guide on which one side is coupled to the left end of the agitator and the other side is coupled to the first bearing. Alternatively, the agitator guide includes a right agitator guide coupled to the right end of the agitator, and the cleaning module is disposed in the housing and at least a portion is inserted into the right agitator guide and includes a pulley that transmits power to the right agitator guide. It can be included.

In order to achieve the above object, a vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a cleaning module that suctions external air and a main body that provides suction force to the cleaning module. The cleaning module includes a housing coupled to the main body and having an opening on one side that communicates the external space and the internal space, an agitator inserted into the opening and rotatably coupled to the housing, and an agitator that covers at least a portion of the opening and is detachable from the housing. It includes an end cap assembly that is coupled but separates with the agitator when separated from the housing.

At least a portion of the end cap assembly may be inserted into the agitator to support the inner peripheral surface of the agitator.

The end cap assembly may include a first bearing disposed inside the agitator.

The end cap assembly includes an end cap that covers the opening and is removably coupled to the housing, a first shaft coupled to the end cap and extending inside the agitator along the rotation axis of the agitator, at least a portion of which is disposed inside the agitator, and It may include a first bearing coupled to the first shaft, a bearing holder surrounding at least a portion of the first bearing, and a holder cover surrounding at least a portion of the bearing holder, one side of which is coupled to the bearing holder, and the other side of which is coupled to the agitator. there is. At this time, the coupling force between the holder cover and the bearing holder may be stronger than the coupling force between the holder cover and the agitator.

Specific details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and drawings.

According to the vacuum cleaner of the present invention, one or more of the following effects are achieved.

First, the end cap is integrally coupled to or separated from the housing along with the first shaft and first bearing, so that the agitator, which can be cleaned with water, can be easily separated from the first shaft or first bearing, which cannot be cleaned with water, It has the advantage of being easy to clean with water.

Second, the parts of the cleaning module are divided into two assemblies, the agitator and the end cap assembly, and when the end cap assembly is separated from the housing, it is separated along with the agitator, so the agitator and the end cap assembly can be separated with just one operation. There is also the advantage that it can be easily separated.

The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the claims.

1 is a perspective view of a cleaning module of a vacuum cleaner according to the present invention;

Figure 2 is a front view of the cleaning module according to the present invention;

3 is a plan view of the cleaning module according to the present invention;

Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view taken at 4-4 in Figure 3;

Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view taken at 5-5 in Figure 3;

Figure 6 is an enlarged view of the left agitator portion in Figure 5;

Figure 7 is an enlarged view of the right agitator portion in Figure 5;

Figures 8 to 10 show the disassembly process of the cleaning module according to the present invention;

11 is an exploded view of an agitator according to the present invention;

Figure 12 is an exploded view of the end cap assembly according to the present invention.

The advantages and features of the present invention and methods for achieving them will become clear by referring to the embodiments described in detail below along with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below and may be implemented in various different forms. The present embodiments are merely provided to ensure that the disclosure of the present invention is complete and to be understood by those skilled in the art. It is provided to fully inform those who have the scope of the invention, and the present invention is only defined by the scope of the claims. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the specification.

Figure 1 is a perspective view of a cleaning module of a vacuum cleaner according to the present invention, Figure 2 is a front view of the cleaning module according to the present invention, Figure 3 is a plan view of the cleaning module according to the present invention, and Figure 4 is a 4-4 in Figure 3. It is a cross-sectional view of, Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of 5-5 in Figure 3, Figure 6 is an enlarged view of the left agitator part in Figure 5, Figure 7 is an enlarged view of the right agitator part in Figure 5, and Figures 8 to Figure 10 is a diagram showing the disassembly process of the cleaning module according to the present invention, Figure 11 is an exploded view of the agitator according to the present invention, and Figure 12 is an exploded view of the end cap assembly according to the present invention.

Hereinafter, the present invention will be described with reference to drawings for explaining a vacuum cleaner according to embodiments of the present invention.

1 is a perspective view of a cleaning module according to the present invention.

The vacuum cleaner includes a main body (not shown), a cleaning module 100, and an extension pipe (not shown).

The main body (not shown) includes key components for operating the vacuum cleaner.

The main body provides suction power to the cleaning module 100.

The main body includes an intake portion (not shown) through which air containing dust can be sucked in. The suction part forms a flow path by connecting the cleaning module 100 or an extension pipe.

The main body includes a suction motor (not shown). The suction motor is a component that drives the air flow so that air containing dust can be introduced into the suction part.

The main body includes a handle (not shown). The handle is a component that allows the user to move the vacuum cleaner by holding it.

The main body includes an operating unit (not shown). The control unit is a component that allows the user to input commands to the vacuum cleaner.

The main body includes a dust bin (not shown). The dust bin is a component that stores dust separated from the air.

The main body includes a battery (not shown). The battery is a component that supplies power to the main body or cleaning module 100.

The cleaning module 100 is a component that intakes external air. The cleaning module 100 may be indirectly coupled to the main body through an extension pipe or directly coupled to the main body.

The detailed configuration of the cleaning module 100 will be described later.

The extension pipe (not shown) is a component that connects the cleaning module 100 and the main body. The front end of the extension tube is coupled to the cleaning module 100 and connected to the cleaning module 100. The rear end of the extension tube is connected to the suction part of the main body.

The direction is defined with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4. In Figure 3, the downward direction is the front of the cleaning module 100. In Figure 3, the upward direction is the rear of the cleaning module 100. In Figure 3, the left direction is the left side of the cleaning module 100. In Figure 3, the right direction is the right side of the cleaning module 100. In Figure 4, the upward direction is the upper side of the cleaning module 100. In Figure 4, the downward direction is the lower side of the cleaning module 100.

With reference to FIGS. 1 to 4 , the configuration of the cleaning module 100 will be described.

The cleaning module 100 includes a housing 110. The housing 110 is a component that forms the external shape of the cleaning module 100.

The housing 110 forms the outer shape of the cleaning module 100 and creates a space inside where other components can be placed.

The housing 110 is coupled to the main body and includes an opening 112 on one side that communicates the external space and the internal space.

The housing 110 is coupled to the main body (not shown). Referring to Figure 1, the rear end of the housing 110 is directly coupled to the main body or indirectly coupled to the main body through an extension pipe.

The housing 110 includes an opening 112 on one side that communicates the external space and the internal space. Referring to FIG. 1, the opening 112 is formed on the left side of the housing 110. Unlike shown in FIG. 1, the opening 112 may be formed on the right side of the housing 110.

The cleaning module 100 includes an intake port 111. The intake port 111 is a hole that sucks in dust along with air.

Referring to FIG. 4, the suction port 111 is formed on the lower surface of the housing 110. The intake port 111 may be formed at the rear of the agitator 120.

The inlet 111 communicates with an extension pipe (not shown), and dust flows into the main body (not shown). In more detail, the suction port 111 is connected to one side of the corrugated pipe 160, and the other side of the corrugated pipe 160 is connected to an extension pipe (not shown).

Referring to FIG. 1, the cleaning module 100 includes an agitator 120. The agitator 120 is a component that separates dust from the floor by rubbing the dust adsorbed on the floor.

The agitator 120 is inserted into the opening 112 of the housing 110 and rotatably coupled to the housing 110.

The agitator 120 is formed in a cylindrical shape centered on a rotation axis. The rotation axis of the agitator 120 is arranged in the left and right directions.

A hollow may be formed inside the agitator 120. The hollow body extends along the axis of rotation. Agitator guides 123 and 124 may be inserted into the hollow.

The agitator 120 is disposed in front of the intake port 111. The agitator 120 sweeps away dust adsorbed on the floor in front of the intake port 111. Dust adsorbed to the floor by the agitator 120 can be separated from the floor and more easily sucked into the suction port 111.

The agitator 120 is rotatably coupled to the housing 110. Referring to FIG. 4, the agitator 120 rotates counterclockwise. Alternatively, the agitator 120 may rotate clockwise with respect to FIG. 4 .

The cleaning module 100 may further include a motor (not shown) for rotating the agitator 120. Although not shown, referring to FIG. 5, the motor may be placed on the right side of the internal space of the cleaning module 100.

The agitator 120 is inserted into the opening 112 of the housing 110. 8 to 10, the agitator 120 moves from left to right of the housing 110 and is inserted into the opening 112. Conversely, the agitator 120 moves to the left and separates from the opening 112.

The agitator 120 may be composed of an agitator bar 121, a mop 122, and agitator guides 123 and 124.

The agitator 120 includes an agitator bar 121. The agitator bar 121 is a component that supports the mop 122 so that the mop 122 can scrub the cleaning area with a certain shape.

The agitator bar 121 forms a space inside and extends along the rotation axis.

The agitator bar 121 is formed in a cylindrical shape. Referring to Figures 1 and 8 to 10, the agitator bar 121 may be formed in a cylindrical shape with the rotation axis disposed in the left and right directions and the left and right sides being open.

The agitator bar 121 may be formed of a hard material. For example, the agitator bar 121 may be made of a resin material.

The mop 122 is a component that scrubs and cleans the cleaning area or separates adsorbed dust from the floor.

The mop 122 may be made of a fabric material.

The mop 122 is disposed on the radial outer side of the agitator bar 121. The mop 122 surrounds the outer circumferential surface of the agitator bar 121.

The shape of the mop 122 is determined by the agitator bar 121. That is, since the agitator bar 121 is formed in a cylindrical shape, the mop 122 may also be formed in a cylindrical shape.

The agitator 120 includes agitator guides 123 and 124. The agitator guides 123 and 124 are components that couple the agitator bar 121 to the end cap assembly 130 or the housing 110.

The agitator guides 123 and 124 are disposed at the left and right ends of the agitator bar 121.

The agitator guides 123 and 124 can be divided into a left agitator guide 123 and a right agitator guide 124 depending on the coupling position.

Alternatively, the agitator guides 123 and 124 may be arbitrarily divided into a first agitator guide and a second agitator guide. At this time, the first agitator guide may point to the left agitator guide 123, and the second agitator guide may point to the right agitator guide 124.

The left agitator guide 123 is a component that couples the agitator 120 to the end cap assembly 130.

One side of the left agitator guide 123 is coupled to the left end of the agitator bar 121, and the other side is coupled to the first bearing 133.

The left agitator guide 123 is inserted into the agitator bar 121 through the open left side of the agitator bar 121. The left agitator guide 123 covers the open left side of the agitator bar 121.

Referring to FIG. 6, the left agitator guide 123 and the agitator bar 121 can be fixed by a coupling hook 1237 and a coupling hole 1217.

The left agitator guide coupling hook 1237 is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the left agitator guide 123. The left agitator guide coupling hook 1237 protrudes toward the agitator 120.

The left agitator guide coupling hook 1237 is formed in a wedge shape in which the outer end protrudes more than the inner end in the longitudinal direction. Accordingly, the coupling force between the left agitator guide coupling hook 1237 and the left agitator guide coupling hole 1217 is stronger than the coupling force between the agitator guide coupling protrusion and the agitator guide coupling groove 1355. Accordingly, when the end cap assembly 130 is separated, the agitator bar 121 along with the left agitator guide 123 can also be separated at the same time.

The left agitator guide coupling hole 1217 is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the agitator 120. Referring to FIG. 6, the left agitator guide coupling hole 1217 is a hole that penetrates the agitator bar 121. However, unlike what is shown in FIG. 6, the left agitator guide coupling hole 1217 may be a groove rather than a hole.

A plurality of left agitator guide coupling hooks 1237 and left agitator guide coupling holes 1217 may be formed along the circumferential direction.

An agitator guide coupling protrusion 1235 may be formed on one side of the left agitator guide 123 to be coupled to the holder cover 135.

The right agitator guide 124 is a component that couples the agitator 120 to the housing 110.

One side of the right agitator guide 124 is coupled to the right end of the agitator bar 121, and the other side is coupled to the pulley 144.

The right agitator guide 124 is inserted into the agitator bar 121 through the open right side of the agitator bar 121. The right agitator guide 124 covers the open right side of the agitator bar 121.

Referring to FIG. 7, the right agitator guide 124 and the agitator bar 121 can be fixed by a coupling hook 1248 and a coupling hole 1218.

The right agitator guide coupling hook 1248 is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the right agitator guide 124. The right agitator guide coupling hook 1248 protrudes toward the agitator 120.

The right agitator guide coupling hook 1248 is formed in a wedge shape with the outer end protruding more than the inner end. Accordingly, the coupling force between the right agitator guide coupling hook 1248 and the right agitator guide coupling hole 1218 is stronger than the coupling force between the agitator guide coupling protrusion 1235 and the agitator guide coupling groove 1355. Accordingly, when the end cap assembly 130 is separated, the right agitator guide 124 along with the agitator bar 121 can also be separated at the same time.

The right agitator guide coupling hole 1218 is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the agitator 120. Referring to FIG. 7, the right agitator guide coupling hole 1218 is a hole that penetrates the agitator bar 121. However, unlike what is shown in FIG. 6, the right agitator guide coupling hole 1218 may be a groove rather than a hole.

A plurality of right agitator guide coupling hooks 1248 and right agitator guide coupling holes 1218 may be formed along the circumferential direction.

The cleaning module 100 includes an end cap assembly 130. The end cap assembly 130 is a component that covers the opening 112 of the housing 110 to shield the agitator 120 and supports one side of the agitator 120.

The end cap assembly 130 covers at least a portion of the opening 112 and is detachably coupled to the housing 110, but is separated together with the agitator 120 when separated from the housing 110.

When the end cap assembly 130 is separated from the housing 110, it is separated together with the agitator 120. Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9 , when the end cap assembly 130 is separated to the left side of the housing 110, the agitator 120 is also separated. Therefore, the prior art had the inconvenience of having to perform at least two steps: separating the end cap assembly 130 and separating the agitator 120. Unlike the prior art, in the case of the present invention, the agitator 120 is separated along with the end cap assembly in only one step, which has the effect of allowing the cleaning module 100 to be easily disassembled.

At least a portion of the end cap assembly 130 is inserted into the agitator 120 to support the inner peripheral surface of the agitator 120. Referring to FIG. 6, the portion of the end cap assembly 130 inserted into the agitator 120 is in close contact with the inner peripheral surface of the agitator 120. In the case of the prior art, the shaft protrudes in the longitudinal direction of the agitator 120 and the end cap 131 supports the protruding shaft. For this reason, in the case of the prior art, the distance between the support point at the left end of the agitator 120 and the support point at the right end of the agitator 120 is long, and a large bending stress is generated at the center of the agitator 120. Unlike the prior art, in the case of the present invention, the distance between the support point at the left end of the agitator 120 and the support point at the right end of the agitator 120 is short, so a small bending stress occurs at the center of the agitator 120. There is an effect.

The end cap assembly 130 includes an end cap 131, a first shaft 132, a first bearing 133, a bearing holder 134, a holder cover 135, a retaining ring 136, and a gasket 137. It can be configured.

The end cap assembly 130 covers the opening 112 of the housing 110 and is detachably coupled to the housing 110. The end cap 131 is coupled to or separated from the housing 110 along with the first shaft 132 and the first bearing 133. Specifically, the end cap 131, the first shaft 132, the first bearing 133, the bearing holder 134, the holder cover 135, the retaining ring 136, and the gasket 137 form one assembly. It is configured to be integrally coupled to the housing 110 or to be integrally separated from the housing 110.

The end cap 131 is a component that covers the opening 112 and shields the agitator 120.

The end cap 131 covers the open portion 112 of the housing 110 and is detachably coupled to the housing 110. The end cap 131 is coupled to or separated from the housing 110 along with the first shaft 132 and the first bearing 133.

The first shaft 132 is a component that supports the agitator 120 and allows the agitator 120 to rotate around the rotation axis.

The first shaft 132 is coupled to the end cap 131 and extends inside the agitator 120 along the rotation axis of the agitator 120. Taking FIG. 6 as an example, the first shaft 132 extends inside the agitator 120 through the right side of the agitator 120.

The first shaft 132 is coupled to the end cap 131. Specifically, the first shaft 132 may be non-rotatably fixed to the end cap 131.

The first shaft 132 may be disposed on the rotation axis of the agitator 120. Accordingly, the first shaft 132 becomes the center of rotation when the agitator 120 rotates.

The first bearing 133 is a component that reduces friction between the agitator 120 and the end cap 131.

At least a portion of the first bearing 133 is disposed inside the agitator 120 and is coupled to the first shaft 132.

The first bearing 133 is disposed inside the agitator 120. Accordingly, the length of the cleaning module 100 in the left and right directions can be designed to be shorter than that of the prior art.

The first bearing 133 is coupled to the first shaft 132. Specifically, the inner circumferential surface of the first bearing 133 is in close contact with the outer circumferential surface of the first shaft 132.

The first bearing 133 may be a radial bearing. That is, the first bearing 133 supports the load applied from the agitator 120 in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis.

The first shaft 132 is in close contact with the outer end of the first bearing 133 and includes a flange that protrudes outward in the radial direction. A retaining ring 136 is installed at the inner end of the first bearing 133. The first bearing 133 is coupled to the first shaft 132 by the flange and the retaining ring 136.

The cleaning module 100 includes a bearing holder 134. The bearing holder 134 is a component that surrounds the first bearing 133 and transmits the load of the agitator 120 to the bearing.

The bearing holder 134 is disposed on the radial outer side of the first bearing 133, and one side is coupled to the first bearing 133 and the other side is coupled to the agitator 120. rotate together.

The bearing holder 134 may be formed in a cylindrical shape with open left and right sides. The bearing holder 134 is disposed on the radial outer side of the first shaft 132 and coupled to the end cap 131.

The bearing holder 134 surrounds at least a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the first bearing 133. At least a portion of the inner peripheral surface of the bearing holder 134 is in close contact with the outer peripheral surface of the first bearing 133. By having this arrangement, the bearing holder 134 can be stably coupled to the first bearing 133 and/or the end cap 131 even if there is no separate coupling element.

The bearing holder 134 may include a flange that is in close contact with the outer end of the first bearing 133 and protrudes inward in the radial direction. The flange may face the flange of the first shaft 132.

The bearing holder 134 includes a bearing holder coupling hook 1343 to be coupled to the holder cover 135.

The cleaning module 100 includes a holder cover 135. The holder cover 135 is a component that surrounds the bearing holder 134 and secures the agitator 120 and the end cap assembly 130.

The holder cover 135 surrounds at least a portion of the bearing holder 134 on the radial outer side of the bearing holder 134, and one side is coupled to the bearing holder 134 and the other side is coupled to the agitator 120.

The holder cover 135 may be formed in a cylindrical shape with open left and right sides. The holder cover 135 is disposed on the radial outer side of the bearing holder 134 and is coupled to the bearing holder 134.

The holder cover 135 may extend further inside the bearing holder 134 in the longitudinal direction.

The holder cover 135 includes a step 1351. The step 1351 is a component that supports the bearing holder 134.

The step 1351 is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the holder cover 135 and is in close contact with the end of the bearing holder 134.

The step 1351 extends in the circumferential direction and may be formed in a ring shape.

The longitudinal inner end of the bearing holder 134 is in close contact with the step 1351, so that the bearing holder 134 can be coupled to the holder cover 135.

The step 1351 may be disposed inside the first bearing 133 in the longitudinal direction.

The bearing holder 134 and the holder cover 135 are fixed by a coupling hook 1343 and a coupling hole 1353.

The bearing holder coupling hook 1343 protrudes from the outer circumferential surface of the bearing holder 134 toward the holder cover 135.

The bearing holder coupling hook 1343 is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the bearing holder 134. The bearing holder coupling hook 1343 protrudes toward the holder cover 135. In other words, the bearing holder coupling hook 1343 protrudes outward in the radial direction.

The bearing holder coupling hook 1343 is formed in a wedge shape in which the outer end protrudes more than the inner end in the longitudinal direction. Accordingly, the coupling force between the bearing holder coupling hook 1343 and the bearing holder coupling hole 1353 is stronger than the coupling force between the agitator guide coupling protrusion 1235 and the agitator guide coupling groove 1355. Accordingly, when the end cap assembly 130 is separated, the holder cover 135 can be separated along with the bearing holder 134.

The bearing holder coupling hole 1353 is formed in the holder cover 135, and at least a portion of the bearing holder coupling hook 1343 is inserted and caught.

Referring to FIG. 6, the bearing holder coupling hole 1353 is a hole that penetrates the holder cover 135 in the radial direction. However, unlike what is shown in FIG. 6, the bearing holder coupling hole 1353 may be a groove rather than a hole.

A plurality of bearing holder coupling hooks 1343 and bearing holder coupling holes 1353 may be formed along the circumferential direction.

The holder cover 135 is coupled to the bearing holder 134 and can rotate together with the bearing holder 134.

The agitator 120 and the holder cover 135 are fixed by a coupling protrusion 1235 and a coupling groove 1355.

The agitator guide coupling protrusion 1235 is formed on the agitator 120 and protrudes toward the holder cover 135.

The agitator guide coupling protrusion 1235 is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the left agitator guide 123. The agitator guide coupling protrusion 1235 protrudes toward the holder cover 135. In other words, the agitator guide engaging protrusion 1235 protrudes inward in the radial direction.

The agitator guide coupling protrusion 1235 is formed in a protrusion shape in which the inclination of the outer end and the inclination of the inner end are the same in the longitudinal direction. Accordingly, the coupling force between the agitator guide coupling protrusion 1235 and the agitator guide coupling groove 1355 is smaller than the coupling force between the left agitator guide coupling hook 1237 and the left agitator guide coupling hole 1217, It is weaker than the coupling force between the bearing holder coupling hook (1343) and the bearing holder coupling hole (1353). Therefore, when the end cap assembly 130 and the agitator 120 are separated, the fixation between the agitator guide engaging protrusion 1235 and the agitator guide engaging groove 1355 is released and the two can be separated.

The agitator guide coupling groove 1355 is formed in the holder cover 135, and at least a portion of the agitator guide coupling protrusion 1235 is inserted and caught.

The agitator guide coupling groove 1355 is formed by recessing radially inward from the outer circumferential surface of the holder cover 135.

Referring to FIG. 6, the agitator guide coupling groove 1355 is a groove recessed inward in the radial direction. However, unlike what is shown in FIG. 6, the agitator guide coupling groove 1355 may be a hole rather than a groove.

A plurality of agitator guide coupling protrusions 1235 and agitator guide coupling grooves 1355 may be formed along the circumferential direction.

The holder cover 135 is coupled to the left agitator guide 123 and can rotate together with the left agitator guide 123. Specifically, the bearing holder 134, the holder cover 135, the left agitator guide 123, the agitator bar 121, and the mop 122 rotate simultaneously.

The agitator guide coupling groove 1355 may be disposed inside the bearing holder coupling hole 1353 in the longitudinal direction.

The coupling force between the holder cover 135 and the bearing holder 134 is stronger than the coupling force between the holder cover 135 and the agitator 120. Referring to Figure 6, the coupling force between the holder cover 135 and the bearing holder 134 is generated by the wedge-shaped bearing holder coupling hook 1343. Additionally, the coupling force between the holder cover 135 and the agitator 120 is generated by the agitator guide coupling protrusion 1235 that has a gentle protrusion shape. Accordingly, the coupling force between the holder cover 135 and the bearing holder 134 is stronger than the coupling force between the holder cover 135 and the agitator 120. Therefore, when the end cap assembly 130 and the agitator 120 are separated, the holder cover 135 is placed on the end cap assembly 130 rather than on the agitator 120. Accordingly, exposure of the first bearing 133 can be prevented and the lifespan of the first bearing 133 can be improved.

The fixing ring 136 is a component that fixes the first bearing 133 to the first shaft 132.

The fixing ring 136 is in close contact with the longitudinal inner end of the first bearing 133 and prevents the first bearing 133 from being separated from the first shaft 132.

The fixing ring 136 may be an E-ring. The fixing ring 136 is installed on the outer circumferential surface of the first shaft 132.

The cleaning module 100 includes a gasket 137. The gasket 137 is a component that fills the gap between the agitator 120 and the bearing holder 134.

The inner surface of the gasket 137 is in close contact with the bearing holder 134, and the outer surface is in close contact with the agitator 120. Specifically, the inner surface of the gasket 137 is in close contact with the outer peripheral surface of the bearing holder 134, and the outer surface of the gasket 137 is in close contact with the inner peripheral surface of the left agitator guide 123.

The gasket 137 may be divided into a first part and a second part. The first part is in close contact with the bearing holder 134 and extends outward in the longitudinal direction. The second part extends from the longitudinal inner end of the first part longitudinally outward. The inner end of the first part and the inner end of the second part are connected to each other, and the outer ends of the first part and the outer ends of the second part are spaced apart from each other. The gasket 137 may be formed in a V-shape with an open longitudinal outer side.

The gasket 137 is disposed on the longitudinal outer side of the holder cover 135. Taking Figure 6 as an example, the gasket 137 is disposed on the left side of the holder cover 135.

The gasket 137 is effective in securing dust suction power in the cleaning module 100 by filling the gap between the agitator 120 and the bearing holder 134.

Hereinafter, the driving unit of the cleaning module 100 will be described with reference to FIG. 7.

The driving unit is a component that generates power to drive the agitator 120 and supplies the power to the agitator 120.

The driving unit includes a motor (not shown), a second shaft 142, a second bearing 143, a pulley 144, and a belt 145.

A motor (not shown) is a component that generates power to drive the agitator 120. The motor generates power by receiving power from a battery placed in the main body.

Although not shown, referring to FIGS. 5 and 7 , the motor may be placed on the right side of the internal space of the cleaning module 100.

The cleaning module 100 includes a second shaft 142. The second shaft 142 is a component that supports the agitator 120 and allows the agitator 120 to rotate around the rotation axis.

The second shaft 142 is disposed in the housing 110 and extends inside the agitator 120 along the rotation axis of the agitator 120. Taking FIG. 7 as an example, the second shaft 142 extends inside the agitator 120 through the right side of the agitator 120.

The second shaft 142 is coupled to the housing 110. Specifically, the second shaft 142 may be non-rotatably fixed to the housing 110.

The second shaft 142 may be disposed on the rotation axis of the agitator 120. Accordingly, the second shaft 142 becomes the center of rotation when the agitator 120 rotates.

The cleaning module 100 may include a second bearing 143. The second bearing 143 is a component that reduces friction between the agitator 120 and the housing 110.

At least a portion of the second bearing 143 is inserted into the pulley 144 and connects the housing 110 and the second shaft 142.

The second bearing 143 is coupled to the second shaft 142.

The second bearing 143 is disposed on one side of the agitator 120. Taking FIG. 7 as an example, the second bearing 143 may be placed on the right side of the agitator 120.

The second bearing 143 is coupled to the second shaft 142. Specifically, the inner circumferential surface of the second bearing 143 is in close contact with the outer circumferential surface of the second shaft 142.

The second bearing 143 may be a radial bearing. That is, the second bearing 143 supports the load applied from the agitator 120 in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis.

The cleaning module 100 includes a pulley 144. The pulley 144 is a component that transmits the power of the motor to the agitator 120.

The pulley 144 is disposed in the housing 110, at least a portion of which is inserted into the right agitator guide 124, and transmits power to the right agitator guide 124.

Pulley 144 is disposed in housing 110. As at least a portion of the second shaft 142 is inserted into the pulley 144, the second shaft 142 is coupled to the pulley 144. Specifically, the outer circumferential surface of the second shaft 142 is in close contact with the inner circumferential surface of the pulley 144, and the pulley 144 is fixedly and non-rotatably coupled to the second shaft 142. The pulley 144 rotates together with the second shaft 142.

The pulley 144 surrounds at least a portion of the second bearing 143.

The pulley 144 is inserted into the right agitator guide 124. A protrusion is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the pulley 144 that protrudes radially outward toward the right agitator guide 124. A protrusion is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the right agitator guide 124 that protrudes radially inward toward the pulley 144. By engaging the protrusion of the pulley 144 and the protrusion of the right agitator guide 124, the right agitator guide 124 can rotate together with the pulley 144.

The pulley 144 transmits power to the right agitator guide 124. A belt 145 is disposed on the outer circumferential surface of the pulley 144. By the belt 145, power is transmitted from the motor to the pulley 144.

The cleaning module 100 includes a belt 145. The belt 145 is a component that transmits the power of the motor to the pulley 144.

One side of the belt 145 is wound around the pulley 144, and the other side of the belt 145 is wound around the shaft of the motor.

The power generated from the motor is transmitted in the following order: belt 145 - pulley 144 - right agitator guide 124 - agitator bar 121.

Referring to FIG. 7, the second shaft 142, second bearing 143, pulley 144, and belt 145 are fixed to the housing 110. Alternatively, the agitator bar 121, the mop 122, and the right agitator guide 124 may be coupled to or separated from the housing 110.

The operation of the vacuum cleaner according to the present invention configured as above will be described as follows.

8 and 9, according to the present invention, the end cap assembly 130 is detachably coupled to the housing 110. The end cap assembly 130 is coupled to the agitator 120, and when the end cap assembly 130 is separated from the housing 110, the agitator 120 is also connected to the housing 110 together with the end cap assembly 130. can be separated from Accordingly, it is convenient that the agitator 120 and the end cap assembly 130 can be coupled or separated from the housing 110 at one time.

Additionally, referring to FIGS. 9 and 10 , the end cap assembly 130 separated from the housing 110 may be separated from the agitator 120 again. Specifically, the end cap 131, the first shaft 132, the first bearing 133, the bearing holder 134, and the holder cover 135 constitute one assembly, and the agitator bar 121 and the mop (122) and agitator guides (123, 124) constitute another assembly. At this time, by separating the end cap assembly 130, which cannot be cleaned with water, from the agitator 120, the agitator 120, which can be cleaned with water, can be easily cleaned with water.

In the above, preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, but the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above, and can be used in the technical field to which the invention pertains without departing from the gist of the present invention as claimed in the patent claims. Of course, various modifications can be made by those skilled in the art, and these modifications should not be understood individually from the technical idea or perspective of the present invention.

Claims

A cleaning module that sucks in external air; And a main body that provides suction power to the cleaning module,

The cleaning module is,

A housing coupled to the main body and having an opening on one side that communicates the external space and the internal space;

an agitator inserted into the opening and rotatably coupled to the housing;

an end cap that covers the opening and is detachably coupled to the housing;

a first shaft coupled to the end cap and extending inside the agitator along a rotation axis of the agitator;

At least a portion of a first bearing is disposed inside the agitator and coupled to the first shaft,

The end cap is a cleaner that is coupled to or separated from the housing along with the first shaft and the first bearing.
According to paragraph 1,

The cleaning module is,

disposed on the radial outer side of the first bearing,

One side is coupled to the first bearing and the other side is coupled to the agitator,

A vacuum cleaner including a bearing holder that rotates together with the agitator.
According to paragraph 2,

The bearing holder is,

A vacuum cleaner that surrounds at least a portion of the outer circumferential surface of the first bearing.
According to paragraph 2,

The cleaning module is,

A gasket whose inner surface is in close contact with the bearing holder and whose outer surface is in close contact with the agitator.
According to paragraph 2,

The cleaning module is,

Surrounding at least a portion of the bearing holder on a radial outer side of the bearing holder,

A holder cover having one side coupled to the bearing holder and the other side coupled to the agitator.
According to clause 5,

The holder cover is,

A vacuum cleaner comprising a step formed on the inner circumferential surface and in close contact with an end of the bearing holder.
According to clause 5,

The bearing holder is,

It includes a bearing holder coupling hook protruding from the outer circumferential surface toward the holder cover,

The holder cover is.

A cleaner comprising a bearing holder coupling hole into which at least a portion of the bearing holder coupling hook is inserted and caught.
According to clause 5,

The agitator is,

Includes an agitator guide coupling protrusion protruding toward the holder cover,

The holder cover is.

A vacuum cleaner comprising: an agitator guide coupling groove into which at least a portion of the agitator guide coupling protrusion is inserted and engaged.
According to paragraph 1,

The agitator is,

An agitator bar forming a space therein and extending along a rotation axis;

An agitator guide disposed on the rotation axis and coupled to an end of the agitator bar.
According to clause 9,

The agitator guide is,

One side is coupled to the agitator bar,

A vacuum cleaner whose other side is coupled to the first bearing.
According to clause 9,

The cleaning module is,

A pulley disposed in the housing, at least a portion of which is inserted into the agitator guide, and transmitting power to the agitator guide.
According to clause 11,

The cleaning module is,

a second shaft disposed in the housing and extending inside the agitator along a rotation axis of the agitator;

A vacuum cleaner including; a second bearing at least partially inserted into the pulley and connecting the housing and the second shaft.
A cleaning module that sucks in external air; And a main body that provides suction force to the cleaning module,

The cleaning module is,

A housing coupled to the main body and having an opening on one side that communicates the external space and the internal space;

an agitator inserted into the opening and rotatably coupled to the housing;

Covers at least a portion of the opening and is detachably coupled to the housing,

A cleaner including; an end cap assembly that is separated along with the agitator when separated from the housing.
According to clause 13,

The end cap assembly,

A vacuum cleaner at least partially inserted into the agitator to support an inner peripheral surface of the agitator.
According to clause 13,

The end cap assembly,

A vacuum cleaner including a first bearing disposed inside the agitator.
According to clause 13,

The end cap assembly,

an end cap that covers the opening and is detachably coupled to the housing;

a first shaft coupled to the end cap and extending inside the agitator along a rotation axis of the agitator;

a first bearing at least partially disposed inside the agitator and coupled to the first shaft;

a bearing holder surrounding at least a portion of the first bearing;

A holder cover that surrounds at least a portion of the bearing holder, one side of which is coupled to the bearing holder, and the other side of which is coupled to the agitator.
According to clause 16,

The coupling force between the holder cover and the bearing holder is,

A cleaner that is stronger than the bonding force between the holder cover and the agitator.