Base station and cleaning device

Abstract

A cleaning apparatus includes a base station and a robot cleaner movable to a first position of the base station and a second position of the base station. The robot cleaner includes a wet cloth, a dust collection tank, and a dirt discharge port. The base station includes a washing chamber configured to wash the wet cloth when the robot cleaner is located at the first position of the base station, a dirt suction port spaced apart from the washing chamber, and a suction motor configured to provide a suction force to suction dirt outside the dust collection tank through the dirt discharge port and the dirt suction port when the robot cleaner is located at the second position of the base station.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a base station for a robotic vacuum cleaner that includes a wet cloth and a cleaning device that includes them. Background Technology

[0002] Typically, a robotic vacuum cleaner is a device that automatically cleans a space by sucking up dust and other dirt accumulated on the floor while moving around the space without user intervention. The robotic vacuum cleaner travels and cleans the space.

[0003] The robot vacuum cleaner uses distance sensors to determine the distance to obstacles such as furniture, office supplies, or walls placed in the cleaning area, and selectively drives the left and right wheel motors of the robot vacuum cleaner to change direction while cleaning the cleaning area.

[0004] Recently, not only have robotic vacuum cleaners emerged that suck up dust and other foreign objects from the floor, but they have also appeared that wipe away dust and other foreign objects from the floor. These robotic vacuum cleaners can perform wet cleaning using a damp cloth. Summary of the Invention Technical issues

[0005] One aspect of this disclosure provides a base station and cleaner that can reduce contamination of the dirt suction inlet of a base station used for emptying the dust collection bin of a robotic vacuum cleaner.

[0006] One aspect of this disclosure provides a base station and cleaner that can reduce damage to the suction motor of the base station used for emptying the dustbin of a robotic vacuum cleaner.

[0007] The technical problems to be solved by this disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above. Those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains can clearly understand other technical problems not mentioned from the following description. Technical solution

[0008] Aspects of the embodiments of this disclosure will be mentioned in part in the description which follows, and will be explicit in part from the description, or may be learned by practicing the mentioned embodiments.

[0009] A cleaning device according to the present disclosure includes: a base station; and a robotic vacuum cleaner capable of moving to a first position and a second position of the base station. The robotic vacuum cleaner includes a wet cloth, a dust collection bin, and a waste discharge port. The base station includes: a cleaning chamber configured to clean the wet cloth when the robotic vacuum cleaner is in the first position of the base station; a waste suction port spaced apart from the cleaning chamber; and a suction motor configured to provide suction force when the robotic vacuum cleaner is in the second position of the base station, so that waste is drawn through the waste discharge port and the waste suction port to the outside of the dust collection bin.

[0010] According to the present disclosure, a base station, which serves as a base station for a robotic vacuum cleaner including a wet cloth, a dust collection bin, and a waste discharge port, capable of being positioned in a first position and a second position, includes: a cleaning chamber configured to clean the wet cloth when the robotic vacuum cleaner is positioned in the first position of the base station; a waste suction port spaced apart from the cleaning chamber; a suction motor configured to provide suction force when the robotic vacuum cleaner is positioned in the second position of the base station, so that waste is sucked into the outside of the dust collection bin through the waste discharge port and the waste suction port; a first alignment unit configured to guide the robotic vacuum cleaner to the first position of the base station; and a second alignment unit configured to guide the robotic vacuum cleaner to the second position of the base station. Attached Figure Description

[0011] These and / or other aspects of this disclosure may become clear and more readily understood from the following description of embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0012] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the state in which a robotic vacuum cleaner is detached from a base station in a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the state in which a sweeping robot is positioned at a first location of a base station in a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the state in which a robotic vacuum cleaner in a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is positioned at a second location on a base station.

[0015] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing the rear of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating a robotic vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 6 This is a view showing the rear of a robotic vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing the lower part of a robotic vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 8 This is a frontal view showing the internal configuration of a base station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 9 This is a diagram showing the internal configuration of a base station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure from the rear.

[0021] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing the interior of a base station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure from the rear.

[0022] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating a portion of a base station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 12 This is a diagram showing the state in which the cleaning frame in a base station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is separated from the cleaning chamber.

[0024] Figure 13 This is a view showing a side cross-section of a base station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a portion of a base station configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 15 A control block diagram of a sweeping robot according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0027] Figure 16 A control block diagram of a base station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0028] Figure 17 The illustration schematically shows the positional relationship between the waste discharge port and wet cloth of the robot vacuum cleaner and the waste suction port and cleaning chamber of the base station when the base station is in the first position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 18 The diagram schematically illustrates the positional relationship between the driving part of the robot vacuum cleaner and the alignment part of the base station when the base station is in a first position, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 19 The illustration schematically shows the positional relationship between the waste discharge port and wet cloth of the robot vacuum cleaner and the waste suction port and cleaning chamber of the base station when the base station is in the second position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 20The diagram schematically illustrates the positional relationship between the driving part of the robotic vacuum cleaner and the alignment part of the base station when the base station is in a second position, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0032] The various embodiments described herein and the terminology used herein are not intended to limit the technical features described herein to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents or alternatives to the corresponding embodiments.

[0033] Regarding the description of the accompanying drawings, similar reference numerals may be used to indicate similar or related constituent elements.

[0034] Unless the context clearly specifies otherwise, the singular form of the noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items mentioned.

[0035] In this document, each of the following statements, such as “A or B”, “at least one of A and B”, “at least one of A or B”, “A, B or C”, “at least one of A, B and C”, and “at least one of A, B or C”, may include one of the items listed together in the corresponding statement or all possible combinations thereof.

[0036] The term "and / or" includes a combination of elements of a plurality of related records or one element of a plurality of related records.

[0037] The terms "part", "module", and "component" can be implemented using hardware or software. According to an embodiment, multiple "parts", "modules", and "components" can be implemented using a single constituent element, or a "part", "module", and "component" can also include multiple constituent elements.

[0038] Terms such as “first,” “second,” “first,” or “second” can be used simply to distinguish one constituent element from another, and do not limit the constituent element in other respects (e.g., importance or order).

[0039] In cases where a certain (e.g., first) component is referred to as being "integrated" or "connected" to another (e.g., second) component with or without terms such as "functional" or "communication", it means that the first component can be connected to the second component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or via a third component.

[0040] Terms such as “comprising” or “having” are used to specify the presence of features, figures, steps, operations, constituent elements, components or combinations thereof described herein, without precluding the presence or additional possibility of one or more other features or figures, steps, operations, constituent elements, components or combinations thereof.

[0041] When a constituent element is referred to as “connected,” “joined,” “supported,” or “in contact” with another constituent element, this includes not only cases where the constituent elements are directly connected, joined, supported, or in contact, but also cases where they are indirectly connected, joined, supported, or in contact through a third constituent element.

[0042] When a constituent element is "on" another constituent element, this includes not only the case where a constituent element is connected to another constituent element, but also the case where there is another constituent element between the two constituent elements.

[0043] Furthermore, the terms "front," "rear," "left," "right," "top," and "bottom," as used in the following description, are defined based on the accompanying drawings; the shape and position of each structural element are not limited by these terms. For example, as... Figure 1 As shown, the direction in which the robot vacuum cleaner 10 enters the base station 20 can be defined as rear (-X direction), and the opposite direction can be defined as front (+X direction).

[0044] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0045] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the state in which a robotic vacuum cleaner is detached from a base station in a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the state in which a sweeping robot is positioned at a first location of a base station in a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the state in which a robotic vacuum cleaner is positioned at a second location on a base station in a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4 This is a diagram showing the rear of a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] Reference Figures 1 to 4 The cleaning device 1 may include a robotic vacuum cleaner 10 and a base station 20. The cleaning device 1 may be referred to as a cleaning system 1.

[0047] The robotic vacuum cleaner 10 can clean the floor while moving along the ground. The floor cleaned by the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 can be referred to as the cleaned surface. The robotic vacuum cleaner 10 can perform dry cleaning and / or wet cleaning. The robotic vacuum cleaner 10 can suck up or wipe away dirt from the cleaned surface. Here, dirt can be collectively referred to as foreign objects such as dust, hair, food residue, etc.

[0048] The robotic vacuum cleaner 10 can be installed at the base station 20. The robotic vacuum cleaner 10 can be placed at the base station 20. The robotic vacuum cleaner 10 can dock with the base station 20. At least a portion of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 can be arranged in the receiving space 210a of the base station 20.

[0049] The robot vacuum cleaner 10 can move to the base station 20 during and / or after cleaning.

[0050] For example, the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 can move to the base station 20 when it needs to be charged, or when the dustbin 141 (see reference) Figure 6 The waste in bucket 114 needs to be emptied (see reference). Figure 6 The following situations may occur: insufficient water, low moisture content of the wet cloth 160, need to be washed, need to be sterilized, and / or need to be dried.

[0051] Base station 20 can be configured to house the sweeping robot 10. Base station 20 can be configured to house the sweeping robot 10. Base station 20 can be configured to store the sweeping robot 10.

[0052] For example, while the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is positioned at the base station 20, the base station 20 can monitor the battery 150 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 (see reference). Figure 6 The robot vacuum cleaner 10 can be charged using various methods. For example, while the robot vacuum cleaner 10 is positioned at the base station 20, the base station 20 can collect the dirt collected in the dustbin 141 of the robot vacuum cleaner 10. For example, while the robot vacuum cleaner 10 is positioned at the base station 20, the base station 20 can supply water to the water tank 114 of the robot vacuum cleaner 10. For example, while the robot vacuum cleaner 10 is positioned at the base station 20, the base station 20 can wet the damp mop 160 using water and / or steam. For example, while the robot vacuum cleaner 10 is positioned at the base station 20, the base station 20 can wash the damp mop 160. For example, while the robot vacuum cleaner 10 is positioned at the base station 20, the base station 20 can sterilize the damp mop 160. For example, while the robot vacuum cleaner 10 is positioned at the base station 20, the base station 20 can dry the damp mop 160.

[0053] Reference Figure 2The robotic vacuum cleaner 10 can be positioned relative to the base station 20 in a first location. For example, when the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is positioned in the first location of the base station 20, the base station 20 can charge the battery 150 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10. For example, when the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is positioned in the first location of the base station 20, the base station 20 can supply water to the water tank 114 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10. For example, when the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is positioned in the first location of the base station 20, the base station 20 can wet the damp mop 160 with water and / or steam. For example, when the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is positioned in the first location of the base station 20, the base station 20 can wash the damp mop 160. For example, when the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is positioned in the first location of the base station 20, the base station 20 can sterilize the damp mop 160. For example, when the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is positioned in the first location of the base station 20, the base station 20 can dry the damp mop 160.

[0054] Reference Figure 3 The robotic vacuum cleaner 10 can be positioned in a second location relative to the base station 20. For example, when the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is positioned in the second location of the base station 20, the base station 20 can collect the dirt collected by the dustbin 141 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10.

[0055] The first position and the second position of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 can be spaced apart from each other. For example, the second position of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 may include a position that is moved forward 40 mm from the first position of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10.

[0056] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating a robotic vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 6 This is a view showing the rear of a robotic vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 7 This is a diagram showing the lower part of a robotic vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0057] The robotic vacuum cleaner 10 may include a main body 110. The main body 110 forms the overall appearance of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10. The main body 110 may house the components of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10. Electrical components may be arranged inside the main body 110. The main body 110 may be referred to as the cleaner body 110.

[0058] The robotic vacuum cleaner 10 may include a suction port 111. The suction port 111 may be oriented towards the surface being cleaned. The suction port 111 may be open towards the surface being cleaned. The suction port 111 may be formed in the main body 110. The suction port 111 may be formed in the lower part of the main body 110. The suction port 111 may be formed through the lower surface 110b of the main body 110. Dirt from the surface being cleaned can be sucked into the interior of the main body 110 along with air through the suction port 111. The suction port 111 may be referred to as a cleaner suction port 111.

[0059] The robotic vacuum cleaner 10 may include a brush 130. The brush 130 can strike the surface being cleaned to disperse dirt. The dirt dispersed by the brush 130 can flow into the suction port 111 along with the air.

[0060] For example, the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 may include a first brush 131 disposed at the suction inlet 111. The first brush 131 may be mounted to be rotatable relative to the body 110. The axis of rotation of the first brush 131 may be an axis extending in a generally horizontal direction (Y direction). The first brush 131 may be referred to as the main brush 131.

[0061] For example, the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 may include a second brush 132 arranged adjacent to the lower edge of the main body 110. The second brush 132 may guide dirt around the main body 110 that the first brush 131 cannot reach to the suction port 111. The second brush 132 may be mounted to be rotatable relative to the main body 110. The axis of rotation of the second brush 132 may be an axis extending in a generally vertical direction (Z direction). The second brush 132 may be referred to as a side brush 132.

[0062] The robotic vacuum cleaner 10 may include a dustbin 141. Dirt and / or air drawn in through the suction port 111 can be moved to the dustbin 141. Dirt drawn in through the suction port 111 can be collected in the dustbin 141. Air drawn in through the suction port 111 can be filtered as it passes through the dustbin 141. Dirt and air drawn in through the suction port 111 can be separated within the dustbin 141.

[0063] The robotic vacuum cleaner 10 may include an exhaust port 112. The exhaust port 112 may be formed on the main body 110. The exhaust port 112 may be formed on the rear side of the main body 110. Air drawn in through the suction port 111 can be filtered and discharged to the outside of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 through the exhaust port 112. For example, multiple exhaust ports 112 may be provided, and multiple exhaust ports may be formed using multiple holes. The exhaust port 112 may be referred to as a cleaner exhaust port 112.

[0064] The robotic vacuum cleaner 10 may include a suction motor 142. The suction motor 142 generates suction force. Using the suction force generated in the suction motor 142, the suction port 111 can suck in dirt and / or air. Using the suction force generated in the suction motor 142, the exhaust port 112 can expel filtered air sucked into the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 to the outside. The suction motor 142 may be arranged in the airflow path formed between the suction port 111 and the exhaust port 112. The suction motor 142 may be referred to as a cleaner suction motor 142.

[0065] The robotic vacuum cleaner 10 may include a waste outlet 143 for discharging waste collected in a dustbin 141. The waste outlet 143 allows communication between the dustbin 141 and the outside of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10. The waste outlet 143 may be formed on the bottom surface of the body 110. For example, the waste outlet 143 may be located between the wet mop 160 and the suction port 111. The waste outlet 143 may be connected to the dustbin 141. The waste outlet 143 may be part of the dustbin 141 or part of the body 10.

[0066] The waste discharge port 143 can be configured to connect to the waste suction port 213 of the base station 20. The robot vacuum cleaner 10 can be configured such that, when in a second position, the waste discharge port 143 is connected to the waste suction port 213. The robot vacuum cleaner 10 can also be configured such that, when in a first position, the waste discharge port 143 is separated from the waste suction port 213.

[0067] The robotic vacuum cleaner 10 may include a waste cover 144 for opening and closing the waste discharge port 143. The waste cover 144 may be made of a resilient material. The waste cover 144 may be configured such that a portion is fixed to the body 10, and another portion is deformable and retractable. For example, the waste cover 144 may remain closed when no external force is applied to the waste discharge port 143. The waste cover 144 may be configured to open and close the waste discharge port 143 when the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is placed on the base station 20, along with the suction motor 224 from the base station 20 (see reference 10). Figure 8 The cover 144 can deform to open the waste outlet 143 when it receives suction force. When the operation of the suction motor 224 of the base station 20 stops and no suction force is applied, the waste cover 144 can return to the state of closing the waste outlet 143.

[0068] The robotic vacuum cleaner 10 may include a traveling unit 120 for moving the robotic vacuum cleaner 10. The traveling unit 120 may be mounted on the main body 110 and move the main body 110. For example, the traveling unit 120 may include a pair of main wheels 121. For example, for stable movement of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10, the traveling unit 120 may also include at least one auxiliary wheel 122. The main wheels 121 and the auxiliary wheels 122 may also be referred to as traveling wheels 121 and 122.

[0069] The robotic vacuum cleaner 10 may include a battery 150. The battery 150 may be rechargeable. The battery 150 provides the power required to drive the robotic vacuum cleaner 10.

[0070] The robotic vacuum cleaner 10 may include a charging terminal 151. The charging terminal 151 can be electrically connected to the battery 150. While the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is positioned at the base station 20, the charging terminal 151 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 can connect to the charging terminal 218 of the base station 20 (see reference). Figure 11Electrical connection. With the charging terminal 151 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 electrically connected to the charging terminal 218 of the base station 20, the battery 150 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 can be charged. That is, the battery 150 can be charged during the docking of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 and the base station 20. The charging terminal 151 may be referred to as the cleaner charging terminal 151.

[0071] The robotic vacuum cleaner 10 may include a wet mop 160. The wet mop 160 is detachably mountable to the lower part of the main body 110. The wet mop 160 may be mounted so as to be rotatable relative to the main body 110. The wet mop 160 may be configured to contact and clean the surface being cleaned. The wet mop 160 can wipe away dirt from the surface being cleaned while still damp. Although two wet mops 160 are shown in the accompanying drawings, the number of wet mops 160 is not limited. The wet mop 160 may be referred to as a cleaning pad 160. The wet mop 160 may be referred to as a wet pad 160.

[0072] The wet mop 160 can receive water from the water tank 114 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10. The wet mop 160 can also receive water from the base station 20. For example, if the moisture content of the wet mop 160 decreases during cleaning by the robotic vacuum cleaner 10, water stored in the water tank 114 can be supplied to the wet mop 160. Alternatively, if the moisture content of the wet mop 160 decreases during cleaning by the robotic vacuum cleaner 10, the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 can return to the base station 20 and be positioned there. At this time, the base station 20 can supply water to the water tank 114 or spray water and / or steam toward the wet mop 160. The robotic vacuum cleaner 10 being positioned at the base station 20 can include a docking arrangement between the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 and the base station 20.

[0073] The robotic vacuum cleaner 10 may include a water filling section 113. The water filling section 113 may be formed on the main body 110. The water filling section 113 may be formed on the rear side of the main body 110. While the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is positioned at the base station 20, the water filling section 113 may contain water supplied from the base station 20. The water supplied to the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 through the water filling section 113 may be stored in a water tank 114. While the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is positioned at the base station 20, the water filling section 113 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 may connect with the first water supply section 217 of the base station 20 (see below). Figure 11 ) docking.

[0074] The robotic vacuum cleaner 10 may include an obstacle sensing sensor 170. The obstacle sensing sensor 170 may be configured to sense the position of an obstacle or the distance to an obstacle. The obstacle sensing sensor 170 may be mounted on the body 110. For example, the obstacle sensing sensor 170 may protrude from the upper surface 110a of the body 110.

[0075] The robotic vacuum cleaner 10 may include a cleaner guide 117 for guidance by the base station 20 during placement. The cleaner guide 117 may be formed on the bottom surface of the body 110 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10. The cleaner guide 117 may extend in the direction in which the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is placed on the base station 20.

[0076] The cleaner guide 117 can be guided by the base station guide 2117 of the base station 20. The cleaner guide 117 can be guided by the base station 20 while the robot vacuum 10 moves to a position for washing the wet mop 160. The cleaner guide 117 can also be guided by the base station guide 2117 while the robot vacuum 10 moves to a first position. The cleaner guide 117 can be configured to correspond to the base station guide 2117. For example, the cleaner guide 117 can have a groove shape. The cleaner guide 117 can be configured to allow the base station guide 2117 to be inserted.

[0077] Figure 8 This is a frontal view showing the internal configuration of a base station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 9 This is a diagram showing the internal configuration of a base station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure from the rear. Figure 10 This is a diagram showing the interior of a base station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure from the rear.

[0078] The base station 20 may include a main body 210. The main body 210 may form the overall appearance of the base station 20. The main body 210 may form a receiving space 210a for accommodating at least a portion of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10. The main body 210 may be referred to as the base station main body 210.

[0079] The main body 210 may include a base 211 and a housing 212 detachably attached to the base 211.

[0080] The base 211 may include a cleaner placement section 211a for placing the robotic vacuum cleaner 10. The cleaner placement section 211a may have a shape that slopes upwards from the surface being cleaned, allowing the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 to enter. For example, the cleaner placement section 211a may have a shape that slopes upwards along the direction in which the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 enters the base station 20. For example, an anti-slip section 216 may be formed in the cleaner placement section 211a to allow the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 to easily climb onto the sloped surface of the cleaner placement section 211a. For example, an anti-slip step 215 may be formed in the cleaner placement section 211a to prevent the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 placed on the base station 20 from sliding along the sloped surface of the cleaner placement section 211a. The robotic vacuum cleaner 10 placed on the base station 20 can avoid detaching from the base station 20 by means of the anti-slip step 215.

[0081] Base station 20 may include base station guide 2117 for guiding robotic vacuum cleaner 10. Base station guide 2117 can guide cleaner guide 117 of robotic vacuum cleaner 10. Base station guide 2117 may extend in the direction in which robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is positioned on base station 20.

[0082] The base station guide 2117 can guide the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 during its movement to the position for cleaning the wet mop 160. The base station guide 2117 can be configured to correspond to the cleaner guide 117. For example, the base station guide 2117 can have a shape that protrudes from the cleaner mounting portion 211a. The base station guide 2117 can be configured to be inserted into the cleaner guide 117. As an example, the base station guide 2117 can have a protruding shape.

[0083] The base station 20 may include alignment units 2161 and 2162 for aligning the position of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10. For example, the alignment units 2161 and 2162 may be provided on the cleaner mounting unit 211a. The alignment units 2161 and 2162 may include a first alignment unit 2161 and a second alignment unit 2162.

[0084] Alignment portions 2161 and 2162 may include a first alignment portion 2161 for guiding the robot vacuum 10 to a first position where the wet mop 160 of the robot vacuum 10 can be cleaned by the cleaning chamber 230. The first alignment portion 2161 may be positioned for the drive wheels 121 when the robot vacuum 10 is in the first position. The first alignment portion 2161 may be closer to the cleaning chamber 230 than the second alignment portion 2162. The first alignment portion 2161 may be located rearward than the second alignment portion 2162. For example, the first alignment portion 2161 may have a groove shape.

[0085] The first alignment part 2161 may be configured to correspond to the travel part 120 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10. The first alignment part 2161 may also be configured to correspond to the main wheel 121 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10. The first alignment part 2161 may be configured such that, when the travel part 120 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is positioned in the first alignment part 2161, the travel part 120 can detach from the first alignment part 2161 by applying a force greater than a predetermined magnitude. When the travel part 120 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is positioned in the first alignment part 2161, if no force greater than a predetermined magnitude is applied, the first alignment part 2161 can support the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 to prevent it from detaching from the first position.

[0086] Alignment portions 2161 and 2162 may include a second alignment portion 2162 for guiding the robot vacuum 10 to a second position where the waste discharge port 143 of the robot vacuum 10 connects to the waste suction port 213. The second alignment portion 2162 may be used to position the drive wheels 121 when the robot vacuum 10 is in the second position. The second alignment portion 2162 may be further away from the cleaning chamber 230 than the first alignment portion 2161. The second alignment portion 2162 may be located forward of the first alignment portion 2161. For example, the second alignment portion 2162 may have a groove shape.

[0087] The second alignment part 2162 may be configured to correspond to the travel part 120 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10. The second alignment part 2162 may also be configured to correspond to the main wheel 121 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10. The second alignment part 2162 may be configured such that, when the travel part 120 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is positioned on the second alignment part 2162, the travel part 120 can detach from the second alignment part 2162 by applying a force greater than a predetermined magnitude. When the travel part 120 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is positioned on the second alignment part 2162, if no force greater than a predetermined magnitude is applied, the second alignment part 2162 can support the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 to prevent it from detaching from the second position.

[0088] Base station 20 may include a magnet 283. The magnet 283 can be sensed by the position sensor 183 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10. When the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is in a second position, the position sensor 183 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 can sense the magnet 283 of the base station 20. Alternatively, the magnet can be attached to the robotic vacuum cleaner 10, and the position sensor can also be attached to the base station 20.

[0089] The base 211 may include a sidewall portion 211b extending upward from the cleaner mounting portion 211a. The sidewall portion 211b may be configured to surround at least a portion of the cleaner mounting portion 211a.

[0090] The outer casing 212 may be equipped with a side wall portion 211b covering the base 211. The outer casing 212 may house the components of the base station 20. Electrical components may be arranged inside the outer casing 212. The outer casing 212 may form an opening portion 212a, through which the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 may enter the housing space 210a of the base station 20.

[0091] Base station 20 may include a water tank 221. The water tank 221 may be configured to store water. The water tank 221 may contain relatively clean water. The water stored in the water tank 221 may be supplied to the water tank 114 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10, or may be supplied to the cleaning chamber 230 of the base station 20 (described later). That is, the water stored in the water tank 221 may be used to provide moisture to the wet mop 160 or to clean the wet mop 160. The water tank 221 may store water for supplying to the cleaning chamber 230. The water tank 221 can be detachably mounted to the main body 210. For example, a user can grasp the handle 221a of the water tank 221 to detach the water tank 221 from the main body 210 or to attach the water tank 221 to the main body 210.

[0092] Base station 20 may include a wastewater tank 222. The wastewater tank 222 may be configured to store water. The wastewater tank 222 can contain relatively dirty water. Water (wastewater) that becomes dirty while washing a wet cloth 160 can be stored in the wastewater tank 222. The wastewater tank 222 can be detachably mounted to the main body 210. For example, a user can grasp the handle 222a of the wastewater tank 222 to detach the wastewater tank 222 from the main body 210 or to attach the wastewater tank 222 to the main body 210.

[0093] Base station 20 may include a waste collection bin 223. Waste collection bin 223 may be configured to store waste collected from the dustbin 141 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10. Waste collection bin 223 can be detachably mounted to body 210. For example, a user can grasp the handle 223a of waste collection bin 223 to detach waste collection bin 223 from body 210 or to attach waste collection bin 223 to body 210.

[0094] Waste collection bin 223 can be configured to be separate from water supply bin 221.

[0095] Although the accompanying drawings show the sewage tank 222, water supply tank 221 and waste collection tank 223 arranged side by side in a generally horizontal direction (Y direction), the positions of the sewage tank 222, water supply tank 221 and waste collection tank 223 are not restricted.

[0096] The base station 20 may include a waste suction port 213. The waste suction port 213 may be formed in the cleaner mounting section 211a. While the robot vacuum 10 is mounted on the base station 20, the waste suction port 213 may communicate with the dust collection bin 141 of the robot vacuum 10. The waste suction port 213 may be equipped to suck up waste collected in the dust collection bin 141. The waste suction port 213 may be referred to as the cleaner waste suction port 213.

[0097] The waste suction port 213 can be configured to be separated from the cleaning chamber 230. The distance between the waste suction port 213 and the cleaning chamber 230 can be configured to be greater than the distance between the wet mop 160 and the waste discharge port 143 in the robot vacuum cleaner 10. According to this configuration, the cleaning device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can be configured such that when the robot vacuum cleaner 10 is in a first position of the base station 20, the wet mop 160 is located in the cleaning chamber 230 and the waste discharge port 143 is separated from the waste suction port 213; when the robot vacuum cleaner 10 is in a second position of the base station 20, the waste discharge port 143 is connected to the waste suction port 213 and the wet mop 160 is detached from the cleaning chamber 230.

[0098] Base station 20 may include a waste collection conduit 225. The waste collection conduit 225 may be configured to guide waste sucked in through waste suction port 213 to waste collection bin 223. The waste collection conduit 225 may be arranged between waste suction port 213 and waste collection bin 223. One end of the waste collection conduit 225 may communicate with waste suction port 213. The other end of the waste collection conduit 225 may communicate with waste collection bin 223. Waste passing through waste collection conduit 225 can be collected in waste collection bin 223.

[0099] The waste collection pipe 225 and waste collection bucket 223 can be configured to be separate from the cleaning chamber 230. Accordingly, the waste collection pipe 225 and waste collection bucket 223 can be prevented from being contaminated by the water supplied to the cleaning chamber 230.

[0100] Base station 20 may include exhaust port 214 (see reference) Figure 4 An exhaust port 214 may be formed on the rear side of the main body 210. An exhaust port 214 may also be formed on the rear surface of the housing 212. The exhaust port 214 allows filtered air drawn into the base station 20 to be discharged to the outside. For example, multiple exhaust ports 214 may be provided, and multiple exhaust ports 214 may be constructed using multiple holes. The exhaust port 214 may be referred to as a base station exhaust port 214.

[0101] Base station 20 may include a suction motor 224. When the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is placed on base station 20, suction motor 224 can generate suction force for sucking up dirt from dustbin 141. Suction motor 224 may be configured to provide suction force to dirt suction port 213. By means of suction force from suction motor 224, dirt from dustbin 141 can flow along dirt suction port 213 and dirt collection pipe 225 to be collected in dirt collection bin 223. By means of suction force generated in suction motor 224, exhaust port 214 can exhaust air sucked into base station 20 and through exhaust filter 226 to the outside. Suction motor 224 may be referred to as base station suction motor 224.

[0102] Base station 20 may include a heating device 250. The heating device 250 can generate high-temperature water and / or steam. The heating device 250 can utilize water stored in water supply tank 221 to generate high-temperature water and / or steam. The heating device 250 can receive water stored in water supply tank 221 to generate high-temperature water and / or steam. For example, the heating device 250 can heat water to above 40°C or above 100°C to turn the water into steam.

[0103] The high-temperature water and / or steam generated from the heating device 250 can be supplied to the cleaning chamber 230. The high-temperature water and / or steam generated from the heating device 250 can also be supplied to the robotic vacuum cleaner 10.

[0104] The heating device 250 may be positioned below the water supply tank 221. When water is supplied from the water supply tank 221 to the heating device 250, the first pump 21 can pump water from the water supply tank 221 with relatively low power using the aid of gravity. As an example, the heating device 250 may include a heater 252 (see reference 250). Figure 16 ).

[0105] Base station 20 may include a drying device 260. The drying device 260 may be configured to generate air (hereinafter referred to as drying air) for drying the wet mop 160. The drying device 260 may be configured to supply the drying air to the cleaning chamber 230, described later. While the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is positioned at base station 20, the drying air discharged from the drying device 260 may be directed towards the wet mop 160. The air generated and supplied in the drying device 260 (drying air) may be relatively low in humidity or relatively high in temperature. The drying air may also be referred to as hot air or drying wind.

[0106] For example, after cleaning and / or sterilizing with the wet cloth 160, the base station 20 can provide drying air to the wet cloth 160. For example, if the wet cloth 160 increases in moisture content while wiping the surface being cleaned during the cleaning process of the robot vacuum 10, the robot vacuum 10 can return to the base station 20, and the base station 20 can discharge drying air toward the wet cloth 160.

[0107] The drying apparatus 260 may include a fan 262 that generates airflow. The drying apparatus 260 may include a drying duct 261 configured to guide the air blown by the fan 262. The drying duct 261 may be configured to connect the fan 262 to the cleaning chamber 230 described later. The drying apparatus 260 may include a heater 263 configured to heat the air blown by the fan 262. The heater 263 may be configured to heat the air guided by the drying duct 261. At least a portion of the heater 263 may be disposed inside the drying duct 261.

[0108] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating a portion of a base station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 12 This is a diagram showing the state in which the cleaning frame is separated from the cleaning chamber in a base station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 13 This is a view showing a side cross-section of a base station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0109] Base station 20 may include a cleaning chamber 230. While the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is placed on base station 20, the cleaning chamber 230 may be configured to correspond to a wet mop 160. The cleaning chamber 230 may be defined as a space for cleaning the wet mop 160. The cleaning chamber 230 may be configured to contain water received from water tank 221. The cleaning chamber 230 may have a shape for containing water. While the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is placed on base station 20, the wet mop 160 can be cleaned by the water contained in the cleaning chamber 230.

[0110] A cleaning chamber 230 may be formed in the base 211 of the main body 210. The cleaning chamber 230 may be configured to be recessed from the cleaner mounting portion 211a. The cleaning chamber 230 may be defined by a chamber bottom 230a and a chamber sidewall 230b extending upward from the chamber bottom 230a. The chamber sidewall 230b may be configured to have a predetermined height.

[0111] The bottom 230a of the chamber can be configured to slope downwards along the direction in which the robot vacuum cleaner 10 enters the base station 20. For example, the bottom 230a of the chamber can be configured to slope downwards in a rearward direction. Thus, after the wet cloth 160 has finished cleaning, the water (sewage) in the cleaning chamber 230 can easily flow along the inclined surface of the bottom 230a toward the sewage collection section 234 located at the rear of the cleaning chamber 230. However, this disclosure is not limited to this, and the inclination direction of the bottom 230a of the chamber can of course vary depending on the position of the sewage collection section 234.

[0112] For example, base station 20 may include a tray 2301. The tray 2301 may be configured as a base 211 detachably mounted to the body 210 to form at least a portion of the cleaning chamber 230. For example, the tray 2301 may be configured to form at least a portion of the chamber bottom 230a and the chamber sidewall 230b. The tray 2301 may include at least one tray hole 2302. Wastewater within the cleaning chamber 230 can flow through the tray hole 2302 to the wastewater collection section 234. Because the tray 2301 includes the tray hole 2302, foreign objects larger than the tray hole 2302 can be filtered out by the tray 2301. That is, the tray 2301 can initially filter wastewater after washing the wet cloth 160.

[0113] The base station 20 may include a cleaning frame 240. The cleaning frame 240 may be configured to correspond to a cleaning chamber 230. The cleaning frame 240 can be detachably mounted to the cleaning chamber 230. While the robot vacuum 10 is placed on the base station 20, the cleaning frame 240 may be configured to contact a wet cloth 160. While the robot vacuum 10 is placed on the base station 20, the cleaning frame 240 may be configured to rub against the wet cloth 160. The wet cloth 160 can be cleaned while rubbing against the cleaning frame 240. At this time, the wet cloth 160 may be configured to be rotatable.

[0114] For example, the cleaning frame 240 may include a frame body 240a, a frame protrusion 240b, and a frame opening 240c. The frame body 240a may be separably coupled to the chamber sidewall 230b. The frame opening 240c may be formed through the frame body 240a. The frame protrusion 240b may be formed in the frame body 240a in a manner that interferes with the wet cloth 160.

[0115] Base station 20 may include a charging terminal 218. While the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is positioned on base station 20, the charging terminal 218 of base station 20 can be electrically connected to the charging terminal 151 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10. During a first position of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 on base station 20, the charging terminal 218 of base station 20 can be electrically connected to the charging terminal 151 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10. With the charging terminal 218 of base station 20 electrically connected to the charging terminal 151 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10, the battery 150 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 can be charged. That is, the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 can be charged during docking with base station 20. The charging terminal 218 may be referred to as base station charging terminal 218.

[0116] When the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is in the second position, its charging terminal 151 can be disconnected from the charging terminal 218 of the base station 20. When the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is in the second position, its charging terminal 151 can be separated from the charging terminal 218 of the base station 20. When the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is in the second position, its charging terminal 151 can be released from contact with the charging terminal 218 of the base station 20.

[0117] The base station 20 may include a first water supply unit 217. The first water supply unit 217 can receive water stored in a water tank 221 and supply it to the robotic vacuum cleaner 10. While the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is placed on the base station 20, the first water supply unit 217 of the base station 20 can be connected to the water filling unit 113 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10. Water flowing from the first water supply unit 217 can flow into the water filling unit 113. Water flowing into the water filling unit 113 can be stored in a water tank 114. If the moisture content of the wet mop 160 decreases during the cleaning process of the robotic vacuum cleaner 1, the water stored in the water tank 114 can be supplied to the wet mop 160. For example, the first water supply unit 217 may be formed on the side wall 211b of the base 211 of the main body 210.

[0118] Base station 20 may include a second water supply unit 231. The second water supply unit 231 may communicate with the cleaning chamber 230. The second water supply unit 231 may receive water stored in the water supply tank 221 and supply it to the cleaning chamber 230. Water flowing out of the second water supply unit 231 may be contained in the cleaning chamber 230. The water flowing out of the second water supply unit 231 may be used to clean the wet cloths 160. Although two second water supply units 231 are shown in the figures, the number of second water supply units 231 is not limited. For example, the number of second water supply units 231 may correspond to the number of wet cloths 160.

[0119] The base station 20 may include a water jet nozzle 241. The water jet nozzle 241 may be formed on the cleaning frame 240. While the cleaning frame 240 is installed in the cleaning chamber 230, the water jet nozzle 241 may correspond to the second water supply unit 231. The water jet nozzle 241 may communicate with the second water supply unit 231. The water jet nozzle 241 may communicate with the cleaning chamber 230. The water jet nozzle 241 can receive water from the second water supply unit 231 and spray water toward the cleaning chamber 230. While the sweeping robot 10 is placed on the base station 20, the water jet nozzle 241 may spray water toward the wet mop 160. Although two water jet nozzles 241 are shown in the figures, the number of water jet nozzles 241 is not limited. For example, the number of water jet nozzles 241 may correspond to the number of wet mops 160.

[0120] Base station 20 may include a drying air supply unit 232. The drying air supply unit 232 may communicate with the cleaning chamber 230. The drying air supply unit 232 may receive drying air from the drying device 260 and supply it to the cleaning chamber 230. Drying air flowing out of the drying device 260 may be supplied to the cleaning chamber 230 via the drying air supply unit 232. Although two drying air supply units 232 are shown in the figures, the number of drying air supply units 232 is not limited. For example, the number of drying air supply units 232 may correspond to the number of wet cloths 160.

[0121] The base station 20 may include a drying air jet 242. The drying air jet 242 may be formed on the cleaning frame 240. While the cleaning frame 240 is mounted in the cleaning chamber 230, the drying air jet 242 may correspond to the drying air supply unit 232. The drying air jet 242 may communicate with the drying air supply unit 232. The drying air jet 242 may communicate with the cleaning chamber 230. The drying air jet 242 may receive drying air from the drying air supply unit 232 and jet drying air toward the cleaning chamber 230. While the robot vacuum cleaner 10 is placed on the base station 20, the drying air jet 242 may jet drying air toward the wet mop 160. Although the accompanying drawings show two vertically arranged drying air jets 242 corresponding to one drying air supply unit 232, this disclosure is not limited thereto. The shape and / or position of the drying air jet 242 are not limited.

[0122] Base station 20 may include a cleaning supply unit 233. The cleaning supply unit 233 may be in communication with the cleaning chamber 230. The cleaning supply unit 233 may receive high-temperature water and / or steam from the heating device 250 and supply it to the cleaning chamber 230. The high-temperature water and / or steam generated in the heating device 250 may flow out through the cleaning supply unit 233 toward the cleaning chamber 230. Although only one cleaning supply unit 233 is shown in the figures, the number of cleaning supply units 233 is not limited. For example, multiple cleaning supply units 233 may be provided.

[0123] The base station 20 may include a cleaning nozzle 243. The cleaning nozzle 243 may be formed on the cleaning frame 240. While the cleaning frame 240 is installed in the cleaning chamber 230, the cleaning nozzle 243 may correspond to the cleaning supply unit 233. The cleaning nozzle 243 may communicate with the cleaning supply unit 233. The cleaning nozzle 243 may communicate with the cleaning chamber 230. The cleaning nozzle 243 may receive high-temperature water and / or steam from the cleaning supply unit 233 and spray it toward the cleaning chamber 230. While the robot vacuum cleaner 10 is placed on the base station 20, the cleaning nozzle 243 may spray high-temperature water and / or steam toward the wet mop 160. Although two cleaning nozzles 243 are shown in the figures, the number of cleaning nozzles 243 is not limited. For example, the number of cleaning nozzles 243 may correspond to the number of wet mops 160.

[0124] Base station 20 may include a wastewater collection unit 234. The wastewater collection unit 234 may be in communication with the cleaning chamber 230. The wastewater collection unit 234 may be configured to collect wastewater within the cleaning chamber 230. The wastewater collection unit 234 may be configured to guide the wastewater within the cleaning chamber 230.

[0125] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a portion of a base station configuration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0126] Reference Figure 14 Base station 20 may include at least one pipe 201, 202, 2023, 204, 205, 206, 207, 208, 209 and / or 2010. Base station 20 may include at least one pump 21 and / or 22. Base station 20 may include at least one valve 23 and / or 24.

[0127] Base station 20 may include a first conduit 201. The first conduit 201 may be configured to connect a water tank 221 to a first pump 21. One end of the first conduit 201 may be in communication with the water tank 221. The other end of the first conduit 201 may be in communication with the first pump 21. The first conduit 201 may be configured to guide water flowing from the water tank 221 or from the first pump 21. Water may flow along a first flow path formed within the first conduit 201.

[0128] Base station 20 may include a second conduit 202. The second conduit 202 may be configured to connect the first pump 21 and the first valve 23. One end of the second conduit 202 may be in communication with the first pump 21. The other end of the second conduit 202 may be in communication with the first valve 23. The second conduit 202 may be configured to allow water pumped by the first pump 21 to flow. The second conduit 202 may be configured to guide water flowing from the first pump 21 or from the first valve 23. Water may flow along a second flow path formed within the second conduit 202.

[0129] Base station 20 may include a third conduit 203. The third conduit 203 may be configured to connect a first valve 23 and a second valve 24. The third conduit 203 may be arranged between the first pump 21 and the second valve 24. One end of the third conduit 203 may be connected to the first valve 23. The other end of the third conduit 203 may be connected to the second valve 24. The third conduit 203 may be configured to allow water pumped by the first pump 21 to flow. The third conduit 203 may be configured to guide water flowing from the first valve 23 or from the second valve 24. Water may flow along a third flow path formed within the third conduit 203.

[0130] Base station 20 may include a fourth conduit 204. The fourth conduit 204 may be configured to connect the second valve 24 to the base 211. The fourth conduit 204 may be configured to connect the second valve 24 to the second water supply unit 231. One end of the fourth conduit 204 may be in communication with the second valve 24. The other end of the fourth conduit 204 may be in communication with the second water supply unit 231. The other end of the fourth conduit 204 may be in communication with the cleaning chamber 230. The fourth conduit 204 may be configured to guide water flowing from the second valve 24. The fourth conduit 204 may be configured to guide water pumped by the first pump 21 to the cleaning chamber 230. The water may flow along a fourth flow path formed inside the fourth conduit 204.

[0131] At least one piping 201, 202, 203, 204 of base station 20 can direct water from water tank 221 to cleaning chamber 230. At least one piping 201, 202, 203, 204 for directing water from water tank 221 to cleaning chamber 230 can be separated from waste collection pipe 225.

[0132] Base station 20 may include a fifth conduit 205. The fifth conduit 205 may be configured to connect the second valve 24 and the heating device 250. One end of the fifth conduit 205 may be in communication with the second valve 24. The other end of the fifth conduit 205 may be in communication with the heating device 250. The fifth conduit 205 may be configured to guide water flowing from the second valve 24 or from the heating device 250. The fifth conduit 205 may be configured to guide water pumped by the first pump 21 to the heating device 250. Thus, water stored in the water supply tank 221 is guided by the fifth conduit 205 to flow to the heating device 250. Alternatively, the fifth conduit 205 may be configured to guide water pumped by the first pump 21 from the heating device 250 to the second valve 24. Thus, water in the heating device 250 can be guided by the fifth conduit 205 to flow to the second valve 24. Water may flow along a fifth flow path formed inside the fifth conduit 205.

[0133] For example, the fifth piping 205 can be connected to the lower part of the heating device 250.

[0134] Base station 20 may include a sixth conduit 206. The sixth conduit 206 may be configured to connect the heating device 250 and the base 211. The sixth conduit 206 may be configured to connect the heating device 250 and the cleaning supply unit 233. One end 206a of the sixth conduit 206 (see reference) Figure 10 It can be connected to the heating device 250. The other end 206b of the sixth pipe 206 (refer to...) Figure 10The sixth pipe 206 can communicate with the cleaning supply unit 233. The other end 206b of the sixth pipe 206 can communicate with the cleaning chamber 230. The sixth pipe 206 can be configured to guide the high-temperature water and / or steam generated in the heating device 250 to the cleaning chamber 230. The high-temperature water and / or steam can flow along a sixth flow path formed inside the sixth pipe 206.

[0135] For example, the sixth pipe 206 can be connected to the upper part of the heating device 250. Generally, considering that steam is less dense than air and therefore rises, the sixth pipe 206 can be connected to the upper part of the heating device 250.

[0136] For example, the sixth piping 206 may include a bend 2061 that is bent at the height between the heating device 250 and the water tank 221 (see reference). Figure 10 This prevents water and / or dirt in the cleaning chamber 230 from flowing back into the heating device 250.

[0137] Base station 20 may include a seventh conduit 207. The seventh conduit 207 may be configured to connect the first valve 23 and the base 211. The seventh conduit 207 may be configured to connect the first valve 23 and the first water supply unit 217. One end of the seventh conduit 207 may be in communication with the first valve 23. The other end of the seventh conduit 207 may be in communication with the first water supply unit 217. The seventh conduit 207 may be configured to guide water flowing from the first valve 23. The seventh conduit 207 may be configured to guide water flowing in the second conduit 202 to a robotic vacuum cleaner 10 placed in base station 20. Water may flow along a seventh flow path formed inside the seventh conduit 207.

[0138] Base station 20 may include an eighth conduit 208. The eighth conduit 208 may be configured to connect the wastewater tank 222 and the second pump 22. One end of the eighth conduit 208 may be in communication with the wastewater tank 222. The other end of the eighth conduit 208 may be in communication with the second pump 22. The eighth conduit 208 may be configured to guide air flowing from the wastewater tank 222. The air may flow along an eighth flow path formed inside the eighth conduit 208.

[0139] Base station 20 may include a ninth conduit 209. The ninth conduit 209 may be configured to connect the second pump 22 to the base 211. The ninth conduit 209 may also be configured to connect the second pump 22 to an air vent 219 (see reference). Figures 11 to 13One end of the ninth piping 209 may be connected to the second pump 22. The other end of the ninth piping 209 may be connected to the outside through an air vent 219. The ninth piping 209 may be configured to guide air pumped by the second pump 22. The air may flow along a ninth flow path formed inside the ninth piping 209.

[0140] Base station 20 may include a tenth conduit 2010. The tenth conduit 2010 may be configured to connect a wastewater tank 222 to a base 211. The tenth conduit 2010 may also be configured to connect the wastewater tank 222 to a wastewater collection unit 234. One end of the tenth conduit 2010 may communicate with the wastewater tank 222. The other end of the tenth conduit 2010 may communicate with the wastewater collection unit 234. The remaining end of the tenth conduit 2010 may communicate with a cleaning chamber 230. The tenth conduit 2010 may be configured to guide wastewater within the cleaning chamber 230. The wastewater may flow along a tenth flow path formed within the tenth conduit 2010.

[0141] Base station 20 may include a waste collection conduit 225. The waste collection conduit 225 may be configured to connect a waste collection bin 223 to a base 211. The waste collection conduit 225 may also be configured to connect the waste collection bin 223 to a waste suction inlet 213. One end of the waste collection conduit 225 may communicate with the waste collection bin 223. The other end of the waste collection conduit 225 may communicate with the waste suction inlet 213. The waste collection conduit 225 may be configured to guide waste and / or air. The waste collection conduit 225 may be referred to as an eleventh conduit 225. Waste and / or air may flow along an eleventh flow path formed within the eleventh conduit 225.

[0142] Base station 20 may include a drying duct 261. The drying duct 261 may be configured to guide drying air. The drying duct 261 may be configured to guide air, circulated by fan 262 and heated by heater 263, to base 211. The drying duct 261 may communicate with base 211. The drying duct 261 may communicate with drying air supply unit 232. The drying duct 261 may communicate with cleaning chamber 230 via drying air supply unit 232. The drying duct 261 may be referred to as twelfth piping 261. Drying air may flow along a twelfth flow path formed within twelfth piping 261.

[0143] Furthermore, in the first conduit 201, second conduit 202, third conduit 203, fourth conduit 204, fifth conduit 205, sixth conduit 206, seventh conduit 207, eighth conduit 208, ninth conduit 209, tenth conduit 2010, eleventh conduit 2011, and twelfth conduit 2012, the ordinal numbers "first," "second," "third," "fourth," "fifth," "sixth," "seventh," "eighth," "ninth," "tenth," "eleventh," and "twelfth" do not restrict their composition. For example, the fourth conduit 204 can be referred to as the first conduit 204, and the fifth conduit 205 can be referred to as the second conduit 205.

[0144] Base station 20 may include a first pump 21. The first pump 21 may be connected to a water tank 221. The first pump 21 may be connected to the water tank 221 via a first conduit 201. The first pump 21 may be connected to a first valve 23. The first pump 21 may be connected to the first valve 23 via a second conduit 202. The first pump 21 may be positioned between the water tank 221 and the first valve 23.

[0145] The first pump 21 may be configured to pump water stored in the water supply tank 221. The first pump 21 may also be configured to pump water from the heating device 250. For example, the rotation of the internal components of the first pump 21 (e.g., piston, rotor, or impeller) can generate power to flow water. For example, when the internal components of the first pump 21 rotate in a first direction, it pumps water stored in the water supply tank 221; when the internal components of the first pump 21 rotate in a second direction opposite to the first direction, the first pump 21 can pump water from the heating device 250.

[0146] Base station 20 may include a second pump 22. The second pump 22 may be connected to a wastewater tank 222. The second pump 22 may be connected to the wastewater tank 222 via an eighth conduit 208. The second pump 22 may be connected to an air vent 219. The second pump 22 may be connected to the air vent 219 via a ninth conduit 209. The second pump 22 may be positioned between the wastewater tank 222 and the base 211.

[0147] The second pump 22 can be equipped with air for pumping the sewage tank 222. The air inside the sewage tank 222 can be discharged from the sewage tank 222 by the second pump 22.

[0148] Furthermore, the ordinal numbers "first" and "second" in the first pump 21 and the second pump 22 do not restrict their composition. For example, the first pump 21 can be referred to as the second pump 21, and the second pump 22 can be referred to as the first pump 22.

[0149] Base station 20 may include a first valve 23. The first valve 23 may be connected to a second conduit 202. The first valve 23 may be connected to a seventh conduit 207. The first valve 23 may be connected to a third conduit 203.

[0150] The first valve 23 may be configured to connect the second pipe 202 to the seventh pipe 207, or to connect the second pipe 202 to the third pipe 203. The first valve 23 may be configured to regulate the flow of water pumped by the first pump 21. The first valve 23 may direct the water pumped by the first pump 21 to the first water supply unit 217 or the second valve 24. For example, the first valve 23 may selectively open the seventh pipe 207 and the third pipe 203.

[0151] Base station 20 may include a second valve 24. The second valve 24 may be connected to a third conduit 203. The second valve 24 may be connected to a fourth conduit 204. The second valve 24 may be connected to a fifth conduit 205.

[0152] The second valve 24 may be configured to connect the third pipe 203 to the fourth pipe 204, or to connect the third pipe 203 to the fifth pipe 205. The second valve 24 may be configured to regulate the flow of water guided by the third pipe 203. The second valve 24 may direct the water guided by the third pipe 203 to the second water supply unit 231 or the heating device 250. For example, the second valve 24 may selectively open the fourth pipe 204 and the fifth pipe 205.

[0153] The base station 20 may include a first pump 21, a first valve 23 and / or a second valve 24 for regulating water passing through at least one pipe 201, 202, 203, 204.

[0154] Furthermore, the ordinal numbers "first" and "second" in the first valve 23 and the second valve 24 do not restrict their configuration. For example, the first valve 23 can be referred to as the second valve 23, and the second valve 24 can be referred to as the first valve 24.

[0155] Figure 15 A control block diagram of a sweeping robot according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0156] Reference Figure 15 According to one embodiment, the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 may include an obstacle sensing sensor 170, a humidity sensor 171, a battery 150, a user interface 181, a position sensor 183, a driving unit 120, a brush motor 133, a suction motor 142, a drive unit 163, a communication unit 182, and / or a control unit 190.

[0157] The obstacle sensing sensor 170 senses obstacles that impede the movement of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10. An obstacle can refer to any object that protrudes from the floor of the cleaning area and obstructs the movement of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10. For example, not only furniture such as tables and sofas located in the cleaning area, but also walls that divide the space can be considered obstacles, and objects that the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 can rise and fall to, such as thresholds or round bars, can also be considered obstacles.

[0158] Specifically, the obstacle sensing sensor 170 can use electromagnetic waves such as infrared light, visible light, or ultrasound to sense obstacles in a non-contact manner. For example, the obstacle sensing sensor 170 can detect infrared light reflected from an obstacle after infrared light is irradiated, and can output the intensity of the detected infrared light or the time interval (Time of Flight (TOF)) from the time of infrared light irradiation to the time of detecting the reflected infrared light after infrared light irradiation to the control unit 190.

[0159] The control unit 190 can calculate the presence or absence of an obstacle or the distance between the obstacle and the robot vacuum cleaner 10 based on the output value of the obstacle sensing sensor 170.

[0160] As another example, the obstacle sensing sensor 170 may include a transmitter that radiates electromagnetic waves and a receiver that receives electromagnetic waves reflected from an obstacle.

[0161] The transmitter can be mounted in front of the main body 110 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 to emit electromagnetic waves toward the front of the main body 110. Furthermore, depending on the embodiment, the transmitter may also include an LED that generates electromagnetic waves and a wide-angle lens that refracts the emitted electromagnetic waves to spread the electromagnetic waves in all directions.

[0162] As yet another example, obstacle sensing sensor 170 may include a camera that acquires images of the vicinity of the robot vacuum cleaner 10 (e.g., in front, behind, and / or to the side).

[0163] The control unit 190 can calculate the presence or absence of an obstacle or the distance between the obstacle and the robot vacuum cleaner 10 based on the image acquired by the obstacle sensing sensor 170.

[0164] The humidity sensor 171 may include at least one sensor for measuring the humidity (or moisture content) of the wet cloth 160.

[0165] In one embodiment, humidity sensor 171 can measure changes in moisture content in the air. Humidity sensor 171 can be positioned around a damp cloth 160 to measure the humidity (or moisture content) of the damp cloth 160. In this case, the output humidity of humidity sensor 171 can be proportional to the moisture content of the damp cloth 160.

[0166] The control unit 190 can determine the humidity (or moisture content) of the wet cloth 160 based on the humidity measured by the humidity sensor 171.

[0167] In one embodiment, the humidity sensor 171 can measure the intensity of electromagnetic waves reflected from the wet cloth 160 after the wet cloth 160 is irradiated with light such as infrared or visible light or electromagnetic waves such as ultrasonic waves, and / or the time interval until the reflected electromagnetic waves are detected after the electromagnetic waves have been irradiated.

[0168] For example, the humidity sensor 171 may include a light-emitting part that illuminates the wet cloth 160 with light and a light-receiving part that receives the light reflected from the wet cloth 160.

[0169] The control unit 190 can determine the humidity (or moisture content) of the wet cloth 160 based on the output value of the humidity sensor 171.

[0170] The control unit 190 can perform various operations based on the humidity (or moisture content) of the wet cloth 160. For example, the control unit 190 can control the driving unit 120 to return the robot vacuum cleaner 10 to the base station 20 based on the measured humidity of the wet cloth 160 being above a predetermined maximum humidity. As another example, the control unit 190 can control the driving unit 120 to return the robot vacuum cleaner 10 to the base station 20 based on the measured humidity of the wet cloth 160 being below a predetermined minimum humidity.

[0171] Battery 150 can supply power to various electrical components of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10. Battery 150 can be charged while the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is placed at base station 20.

[0172] The robotic vacuum cleaner 10 may include a battery sensor that senses the charge level of the battery 150.

[0173] If the charge level of the battery 150 drops below a predetermined charge level, the control unit 190 can control the driving unit 120 to return the robot vacuum cleaner 10 to the base station 20.

[0174] The control unit 190 can determine the first position of the sweeping robot 10 in the base station 20 based on the electrical connection between the cleaner charging terminal 151 of the sweeping robot 10 and the station charging terminal 218 of the base station 20.

[0175] User interface 181 may include output interface and input interface.

[0176] At least one output interface can transmit various information related to the operation of the robot vacuum cleaner 10 to the user by generating sensory information.

[0177] For example, at least one output interface can transmit information related to the settings of the robot vacuum cleaner 10 and the operating time of the robot vacuum cleaner 10 to the user. Information about the operation of the robot vacuum cleaner 10 can be output through a display, indicator, and / or sound. For example, at least one output interface may include a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, an indicator, a light-emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0178] In the case of a display including a touch screen display, the touch screen display can be an example of an output interface and an input interface.

[0179] In one embodiment, at least one output interface can output sensory information (e.g., visual information, auditory information, etc.) related to the control of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10.

[0180] At least one input interface can convert sensory information received from the user into electrical signals.

[0181] At least one input interface may include a power button for turning on the power to the robot vacuum cleaner 10.

[0182] Each button may include a visual indicator (e.g., a phrase, an icon, etc.) that can indicate its function.

[0183] For example, at least one input interface may include a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touchpad, a touch screen, a micro dial, and / or a microphone, etc.

[0184] In this disclosure, a "button" may be replaced by a user interface element, a tactile switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touchpad, a touch screen, a micro dial, and / or a microphone.

[0185] The robot vacuum cleaner 10 can process user input received through the user interface 181 and can output information related to the robot vacuum cleaner 10 through the user interface 181.

[0186] In one embodiment, the user interface 181 may include an input interface for receiving wet cloth cleaning commands and / or wet cloth steam commands.

[0187] If a user determines that the wet mop 160 of the robot vacuum cleaner 10 needs to be cleaned or sterilized, they can input a wet mop cleaning command and / or a wet mop steam command through the input interface.

[0188] When the robot vacuum cleaner 10 inputs a wet mop cleaning command and / or a wet mop steam command through the input interface, it can return to the base station 20.

[0189] When the robot vacuum cleaner 10 inputs a wet cloth cleaning command and / or a wet cloth steam command through the input interface, it can transmit a wet cloth cleaning request signal and / or a wet cloth steam request signal to the base station 20.

[0190] Therefore, if the robot vacuum cleaner 10 returns to the base station 20 and docks with the base station 20, the base station 20 can perform a cleaning cycle and / or a steam cycle.

[0191] Position sensor 183 can sense that the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is in a second position at base station 20. When the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is in the second position at base station 20, position sensor 183 can sense the magnet 283 of base station 20. For example, position sensor 183 may include a Hall sensor, and base station 20 may be equipped with a magnet 283 that the Hall sensor can sense. Alternatively, position sensor may be provided at base station 20, and the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 may also be equipped with a magnet.

[0192] The control unit 190 can determine that the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is in a second position based on the position sensor 183 sensing the magnet 283. In contrast, when the position sensor is equipped with the base station 20 and the magnet is equipped with the robotic vacuum cleaner 10, the control unit 290 of the base station 20 (see reference...) Figure 16 The robot vacuum cleaner 10 can determine its second position based on the magnet detected by the position sensor.

[0193] The driving unit 120 may include driving wheels 121 and 122 mounted on the main body 110 and wheel motors that provide power to the driving wheels 121 and 122.

[0194] The driving wheels 121 and 122 can move the main body 110 by rotating. By rotating the driving wheel 122, the main body 110 can move forward, backward, or rotate. For example, if the driving wheels 121 and 122 both rotate forward, the main body 110 can move forward in a straight line; if the driving wheels 121 and 122 both rotate backward, the main body 110 can move backward in a straight line.

[0195] Furthermore, if the left and right driving wheels 121 rotate in the same direction but at different speeds, the main body 110 will move to the right or left in a curved path. If the left and right driving wheels 121 rotate in different directions, the main body 110 can rotate to the left or right in place.

[0196] The wheel motor generates rotational force to rotate the travel wheels 121 and 122. The wheel motor can be a DC motor or a BLDC motor, but the embodiment of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is not limited to the type of wheel motor. The same applies to other motors included in the robotic vacuum cleaner 10, in addition to the wheel motor.

[0197] Wheel motors may include a left wheel motor that rotates the left driving wheel and a right wheel motor that rotates the right driving wheel.

[0198] Each of the left and right side wheel motors can operate independently of each other according to the control signal of the control unit 190, and the main body 110 can move forward, backward or rotate according to the operation of the left and right side wheel motors.

[0199] The control unit 190 can control the movement of the sweeping robot 10 by controlling the driving unit 120 (e.g., wheel motor).

[0200] In one embodiment, the control unit 190 can control the driving unit 120 to move the sweeping robot 10 from the base station 20 to a second position.

[0201] For example, when the robot vacuum cleaner 10 finishes cleaning and returns to the base station 20, the control unit 190 can control the driving unit 120 so that the robot vacuum cleaner 10 moves to a first position at the base station 20.

[0202] As an example, since the charging terminal 151 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is electrically connected to the charging terminal 218 of the base station 20, the control unit 190 can determine that the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is located at a first position of the base station 20.

[0203] The control unit 190 can control the driving unit 120 based on the determination that the robot vacuum cleaner 10 is located at the first position of the base station 20, so that the robot vacuum cleaner 10 moves from the base station 20 to the second position.

[0204] As an example, the control unit 190 can determine that the robot vacuum cleaner 10 is located at the second position of the base station 20 based on the position sensor 183 of the robot vacuum cleaner 10 sensing the magnet 283 of the base station 20.

[0205] The control unit 190 can control the communication unit 190 of the sweeping robot 10 to transmit information to the communication unit 282 of the base station 20 based on the determination of the second position of the sweeping robot 10 in the base station 20.

[0206] The base station 20 can transmit information received from the communication unit 282 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 to the control unit 290 of the base station 20, and the control unit 290 of the base station 20 can control the suction motor 224 based on the information received from the communication unit 282. The control unit 290 can control the suction motor 224 to provide suction force to the dirt suction port 213.

[0207] The dirt collected in the dustbin 141 of the robot vacuum cleaner 10 can be emptied by the suction motor 224 of the base station 20.

[0208] If the journey of emptying the dust collection bin 141 of the sweeping robot 10 is completed, the control unit 190 can control the driving unit 120 to move the sweeping robot 10 from the base station 20 to the first position.

[0209] Based on the determination that the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is located at a first position on the base station 20, the control unit 290 of the base station 20 can control the first pump 21, the first valve 23, and / or the second valve 24 to clean the wet cloth 160. The control unit 290 of the base station 20 can control the heating device 250 to sterilize the wet cloth 160. The control unit 290 of the base station 20 can control the drying device 260 to dry the wet cloth 160.

[0210] According to this configuration, the cleaning device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can enable the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 to be positioned more accurately at the second position of the base station 20. Furthermore, in the cleaning device 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 first discharges the dirt collected in the dust collection bin 141 at the second position before moving to the first position to clean the wet cloth 160. This reduces the possibility of contamination of the dirt suction inlet 213, the dirt collection pipe 225, and / or the suction motor 224 by moisture generated during the cleaning of the wet cloth 160.

[0211] The brush motor 133 can rotate the brush 130.

[0212] The control unit 190 can control the brush motor 133 to rotate the brush 130 during dry cleaning, thereby causing foreign objects on the floor to be scattered by the brush 130.

[0213] The suction motor 142 can suck foreign objects scattered by the brush 130 into the dust collection bin 141 and cause the suction fan, which generates the suction force to suck the foreign objects into the dust collection bin 141, to rotate.

[0214] During dry cleaning, the control unit 190 can control the suction motor 142 to rotate the suction fan, so that the foreign objects scattered by the brush 130 can flow into the dust collection bin 141 through the suction port 111.

[0215] The drive unit 163 may include a rotation drive unit 161 for rotating the wet cloth 160 and / or a lifting drive unit 162 for raising or lowering the wet cloth 160.

[0216] The robotic vacuum cleaner 10 may include a rotary drive unit 161 for rotating a wet mop 160. The rotary drive unit 161 may include a motor. The rotary drive unit 161 may be referred to as motor 161. For example, during the cleaning and / or sterilization of the wet mop 160 while the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is mounted on the base station 20, motor 161 may rotate the wet mop 160. The control unit 190 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 may control motor 161 to rotate the wet mop 160.

[0217] The control unit 190 can rotate the wet cloth 160 by controlling the rotary drive unit 161. The rotary drive unit 161 may include a motor for rotating the wet cloth 160 and a drive circuit for driving the motor.

[0218] The robotic vacuum cleaner 10 may include a lifting drive unit 162 that moves a wet mop 160 up and down. During cleaning, the lifting drive unit 162 can move the wet mop 160 downwards, allowing it to contact the surface being cleaned. During cleaning and return to the base station 20, the lifting drive unit 162 can move the wet mop 160 upwards, separating it from the surface. This prevents the wet mop 160 from colliding with obstacles above the surface or leaving unnecessary moisture on the surface during the robot's movement back to the base station 20. As described later, the control unit 190 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 can control the lifting drive unit 162 to move the wet mop 160 up and down.

[0219] The control unit 190 can raise or lower the wet cloth 160 by controlling the lifting drive unit 162. That is, the control unit 190 can move the wet cloth 160 by controlling the lifting drive unit 162. The lifting drive unit 162 may include an actuator capable of moving the wet cloth 160.

[0220] The communication unit 182 can communicate with external devices (e.g., servers, user equipment, base stations 20) via wired and / or wireless communication.

[0221] The communication unit 182 can transmit data to or receive data from external devices (e.g., servers, user equipment, base station 20). To this end, the communication unit 182 can support the establishment of direct (e.g., wired) or wireless communication channels with external devices and perform communication through the established communication channels. According to one embodiment, the communication unit 182 may include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module or a power line communication module). The corresponding communication modules can communicate with external devices through a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, WiFi Direct, or IrDA) or a second network (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a traditional cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various communication modules can be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip), or they can be implemented as multiple independent components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0222] Short-range wireless communication modules can include, but are not limited to, Bluetooth communication modules, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication modules, Near Field Communication modules, WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication modules, Zigbee communication modules, infrared Data Association (IrDA) communication modules, WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication modules, ultra-wideband (UWB) communication modules, Ant+ communication modules, and microwave (uWave) communication modules.

[0223] Long-distance communication modules can include various types of communication modules that perform long-distance communication, and may include a mobile communication interface. The mobile communication interface transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0224] In one embodiment, the communication unit 182 can communicate with external devices via a surrounding connection repeater (access point (AP)). The connection repeater (AP) can connect the local area network (LAN) to which the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is connected to to the wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The robotic vacuum cleaner 10 can then connect to the server via the WAN.

[0225] In one embodiment, the communication unit 182 can communicate wirelessly with the base station 20.

[0226] The control unit 190 can control the overall operation of the sweeping robot 10.

[0227] The control unit 190 may include at least one processor 191 for controlling the operation of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 and at least one memory 192 storing programs and data for controlling the operation of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10.

[0228] At least one processor 191 controls the overall operation of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10. Specifically, at least one processor 191 may be connected to various components of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 to control the overall operation of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10. For example, at least one processor 191 may be electrically connected to a memory 192 to control the overall operation of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10. The processor 191 may be configured using one or more processors.

[0229] At least one processor 191 can perform the operation of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 according to various embodiments by executing at least one instruction stored in memory 192.

[0230] At least one memory 192 can store data required for various embodiments. Depending on the data storage purpose, the memory 192 can be implemented as a memory embedded in the robot vacuum cleaner 10, or as a memory removable from the robot vacuum cleaner 10. For example, data for driving the robot vacuum cleaner 10 can be stored in a memory embedded in the robot vacuum cleaner 10, while data for extended functions of the robot vacuum cleaner 10 can be stored in a memory removable from the robot vacuum cleaner 10. Additionally, the memory embedded in the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 can be implemented as at least one of the following: volatile memory (e.g., dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), or synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM)). Furthermore, the memory that can be detached and installed in the robot vacuum cleaner 10 can be implemented in the form of a memory card (e.g., compact flash (CF), secure digital (SD), micro-secure digital (Micro-SD), mini secure digital (Mini-SD), extreme digital (xD), multi-media card (MMC), etc.) or an external memory that can be connected to a USB port (e.g., a USB memory).

[0231] At least one processor 191 may include one or more of a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an accelerated processing unit (APU), a many integrated core (MIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), a neural processing unit (NPU), a hardware accelerator, and a machine learning accelerator. At least one processor 191 can control one or any combination of other components of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 and can perform operations related to communication or data processing. At least one processor 191 can execute at least one program or instruction stored in memory 192. For example, at least one processor 191 can perform a method according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure by executing at least one instruction stored in memory 192.

[0232] In one embodiment, the control unit can control the drive unit 163 according to predetermined conditions. Controlling the drive unit 163 may include rotating or moving the wet cloth 160.

[0233] In one embodiment, the control unit can control the driving unit 120 according to predetermined conditions. Controlling the driving unit 120 may include moving the robotic vacuum cleaner 10.

[0234] In one embodiment, the control unit 190 can control the brush motor 133 and / or the suction motor 142 according to predetermined conditions.

[0235] Figure 16 A control block diagram of a base station according to one embodiment is shown.

[0236] Reference Figure 16 The base station 20 may include a docking sensing sensor 270, a suction motor 224, a user interface 281, a communication unit 282, a first pump 21, a second pump 22, a first valve 23, a second valve 24, a heating device 250, a drying device 260, and / or a control unit 290.

[0237] The docking sensing sensor 270 can sense whether the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is docked with the base station 20. The docking sensing sensor 270 may include at least one sensor that senses mechanical changes and / or electrical changes when the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 docks with the base station 20.

[0238] For example, docking sensing sensor 270 may include a sensor that senses whether the charging terminal 151 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is electrically connected to the charging terminal 218 of the base station 20. As yet another example, docking sensing sensor 270 may include a sensor (e.g., an elastic sensor) that senses mechanical deformation of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 when it is docked.

[0239] The control unit 290 can determine whether the robot vacuum cleaner is docked with the base station based on the output value of the docking sensing sensor 270. For example, the control unit 290 can determine that the robot vacuum cleaner 10 is located in a first position in the base station 20 based on the docking sensing sensor 270 sensing that the charging terminal 151 of the robot vacuum cleaner 10 is electrically connected to the charging terminal 218 of the base station 20.

[0240] The suction motor 224 can generate suction force for sucking up dirt from the dust collection bin 141.

[0241] The control unit 290 can operate the suction motor 224 to suck the dirt from the dust collection bin 141 into the dirt collection bin 223.

[0242] The operation of the suction motor 224 operated by the control unit 290 to suck the dirt from the dust collection bin 141 into the dirt collection bin 223 can be referred to as the suction stroke.

[0243] User interface 281 may include output interface and input interface.

[0244] At least one output interface can transmit various information related to the operation of the base station to the user by generating sensory information.

[0245] For example, at least one output interface can transmit information related to the base station's settings and operating time to the user. Information about the base station's operation can be output via a display, indicator, and / or voice. For example, at least one output interface may include a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, an indicator, a light-emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0246] In the case of a display including a touch screen display, the touch screen display can be an example of an output interface and an input interface.

[0247] In one embodiment, at least one output interface can output sensory information (e.g., visual information, auditory information, etc.) related to the control of the base station.

[0248] At least one input interface can convert sensory information received from the user into electrical signals.

[0249] At least one input interface may include a power button for turning on the base station.

[0250] Each button may include a visual indicator (e.g., a phrase, an icon, etc.) that can indicate its function.

[0251] For example, at least one input interface may include a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touchpad, a touch screen, a micro dial, and / or a microphone, etc.

[0252] In this disclosure, "button" may be replaced by a user interface element, tact switch, push switch, slide switch, toggle switch, micro switch, touch switch, touchpad, touch screen, micro dial and / or microphone.

[0253] Base station 20 can process user input received through user interface 281, and can also output base station-related information through user interface 281.

[0254] In one embodiment, the user interface 281 may include an input interface for receiving wet cloth cleaning commands and / or wet cloth steam commands.

[0255] When a user determines that the wet mop 160 of the robot vacuum cleaner 10 needs to be cleaned or sterilized, the user can input a wet mop cleaning command and / or a wet mop steam command through the input interface.

[0256] Base station 20 can execute a cleaning cycle, a steaming cycle, and / or a drying cycle in response to input of a wet cloth cleaning command and / or a wet cloth steam command via user interface 281.

[0257] The communication unit 282 can communicate with external devices (e.g., servers, user equipment, robot vacuum cleaner 10) via wired and / or wireless communication.

[0258] The communication unit 282 can transmit data to or receive data from external devices (e.g., servers, user equipment, robotic vacuum cleaner 10). To this end, the communication unit 282 can support the establishment of direct (e.g., wired) or wireless communication channels with external devices and perform communication through these established channels. According to one embodiment, the communication unit 282 may include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module or a power line communication module). The respective communication modules can communicate with external devices through a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, WiFi Direct, or IrDA) or a second network (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a traditional cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various communication modules can be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip), or they can be implemented as multiple independent components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0259] Short-range wireless communication modules can include, but are not limited to, Bluetooth communication modules, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication modules, Near Field Communication modules, WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication modules, Zigbee communication modules, infrared Data Association (IrDA) communication modules, WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication modules, ultra-wideband (UWB) communication modules, Ant+ communication modules, and microwave (uWave) communication modules.

[0260] The long-distance communication module may include communication modules that perform various types of long-distance communication, and may include a mobile communication interface. The mobile communication interface transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0261] In one embodiment, the communication unit 282 can communicate with external devices via surrounding connection repeaters (access points (APs)). The connection repeater (AP) can connect the local area network (LAN) to which the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is connected to to the wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The base station 20 can connect to the server via the wide area network (WAN).

[0262] In one embodiment, the communication unit 282 can communicate wirelessly with the robotic vacuum cleaner 10.

[0263] Various methods can be used to communicate between the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 and the base station 20.

[0264] In one embodiment, the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 and the base station 20 can communicate directly via a short-range communication module.

[0265] In one embodiment, the robot vacuum cleaner 10 and the base station 20 can communicate directly via wired communication while the robot vacuum cleaner 10 and the base station 20 are connected.

[0266] In one embodiment, the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 and the base station 20 can communicate indirectly via an external server through a long-distance communication module.

[0267] Indirect communication via an external server may include the following scenarios: if the robot vacuum cleaner 10 transmits a predetermined signal to the external server, the external server will transmit the predetermined signal received from the robot vacuum cleaner 10 to the base station 20 and / or if the base station 20 transmits a predetermined signal to the external server, the external server will transmit the predetermined signal received from the base station 20 to the robot vacuum cleaner 10.

[0268] The first pump 21 may be equipped to pump water stored in the water supply tank 221 or water in the heating device 250.

[0269] When the internal configuration of the first pump 21 rotates in a first direction, it pumps water stored in the water supply tank 221, and when the internal configuration of the first pump 21 rotates in a second direction opposite to the first direction, it pumps water from the heating device 250.

[0270] The control unit 290 can control the pumping direction of the first pump 21 and enable the first pump 21 to operate.

[0271] The second pump 22 can be equipped with air for pumping the sewage tank 222.

[0272] The control unit 290 can operate the second pump 22.

[0273] A water level sensor (not shown) equipped in the sewage tank 222 can transmit information related to the water level of the sewage tank 222 to the control unit 290.

[0274] The control unit 290 can control the second pump 22 based on information obtained through the water level sensor. The control unit 290 can also stop the second pump 22 when the water level in the sewage tank 222 reaches a preset level.

[0275] The first valve 23 can be configured to regulate the flow of water pumped by the first pump 21, and can be operated based on the control signal of the control unit 290.

[0276] The second valve 24 can be configured to regulate the flow of water guided by the third piping 203, and can be operated based on the control signal of the control unit 290.

[0277] The heating device 250 may include a heater 252.

[0278] The heater 252 can be equipped to heat the water in the heating device 250 and can be operated based on the control signal of the control unit 290.

[0279] The heating device 250 may also include a temperature sensor 254. The temperature sensor 254 may be configured to sense the temperature of the water passing through the heating device 250 and to transmit information related to the temperature within the heating device 250 to the control unit 290.

[0280] In one embodiment, the control unit 290 can control the heater 252 based on temperature information received from the temperature sensor 254. For example, the control unit 290 can interrupt the operation of the heater 252 based on the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 254 reaching a predetermined temperature.

[0281] The control unit 290 can perform the steam stroke by controlling at least one pump 21, 22, at least one valve 23, 24 and heating device 250 described above.

[0282] In one embodiment, the control unit 290 may initiate a steam stroke in response to the satisfaction of the steam stroke start condition.

[0283] The control unit 290 can control the first valve 23 to connect the second pipe 202 and the third pipe 203, control the second valve 24 to connect the third pipe 203 and the fifth pipe 205, and control the first pump 21 to pump water stored in the water supply tank 221 in response to the start of the steam stroke. Accordingly, the water stored in the water supply tank 221 can flow to the heating device 250 through the first pipe 201, the first pump 21, the second pipe 202, the first valve 23, the third pipe 203, the second valve 24, and the fifth pipe 205.

[0284] Subsequently, the control unit 290 can operate the heater 252 based on sensing that water is passing through the heating device 250, thereby enabling high-temperature water and / or steam to be sprayed from the heating device 250 into the cleaning chamber 230.

[0285] During the passage of water through the heating device 250, the control unit 290 operates the heater 252, and during the steam stroke, the operation of the heater 252 is temporarily interrupted based on the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 254 reaching a predetermined temperature, thereby preventing the heater 252 from overheating.

[0286] The control unit 290 can terminate the steam cycle based on the satisfaction of the steam cycle termination conditions.

[0287] In one embodiment, the control unit 290 may terminate the steam stroke in response to a predetermined time elapsed during the execution of the steam stroke.

[0288] The control unit 290 can shut off the heater 252 in response to the end of the steam cycle.

[0289] In one embodiment, the control unit 290 can start the drying cycle at the end of the steam cycle.

[0290] The drying device 260 may include a heater 263 for heating air and a fan 262 for supplying heated air. The air heated by the heater 263 may be supplied to the cleaning chamber 230 according to the operation of the fan 262.

[0291] The control unit 290 can control the drying device 260 to send heated air to the cleaning chamber 230 to perform the drying cycle.

[0292] The control unit 290 can perform the drying cycle by operating the heater 263 and the fan 262.

[0293] The control unit 290 can end the drying cycle according to the drying cycle end conditions.

[0294] In one embodiment, the control unit 290 may terminate the drying cycle in response to a predetermined time elapsed during the execution of the drying cycle.

[0295] In one embodiment, the control unit 290 may terminate the drying cycle in response to receiving a drying end request signal from the robotic vacuum cleaner 10. To this end, the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 may be configured to transmit a drying end request signal to the base station 20 in response to the humidity measured by the humidity sensor 171 dropping below a predetermined humidity level during the drying cycle.

[0296] The control unit 290 can control the overall operation of the base station 20.

[0297] The control unit 290 may include at least one processor 291 for controlling the operation of the base station 20 and at least one memory 292 storing programs and data for controlling the operation of the base station 20.

[0298] At least one processor 291 controls the overall operation of the base station 20. Specifically, at least one processor 291 can be connected to various components of the base station 20 to control the overall operation of the base station 20. For example, at least one processor 291 can be electrically connected to a memory 292 to control the overall operation of the base station 20. The processor 291 can be configured using one or more processors.

[0299] At least one processor 291 can perform the operation of the base station 20 according to various embodiments by executing at least one instruction stored in memory 292.

[0300] At least one memory 292 can store data required for various embodiments. Depending on the data storage purpose, the memory 292 can be implemented as a memory embedded in the base station 20 or as a memory removable from the base station 20. For example, data for driving the base station 20 can be stored in a memory embedded in the base station 20, while data for extended functions of the base station 20 can be stored in a memory removable from the base station 20. Additionally, the memory embedded in the base station 20 can be implemented as at least one of the following: volatile memory (e.g., dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), or synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM)). Furthermore, the memory that can be removably mounted to the base station 20 can be implemented in the form of a memory card (e.g., compact flash (CF), secure digital (SD), micro-secure digital (Micro-SD), mini secure digital (Mini-SD), extreme digital (xD), multi-media card (MMC), etc.) or an external memory that can be connected to a USB port (e.g., a USB memory).

[0301] At least one processor 291 may include one or more of a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an accelerated processing unit (APU), a many integrated core (MIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), a neural processing unit (NPU), a hardware accelerator, and a machine learning accelerator. At least one processor 291 may control one or any combination of other components of the base station 20 and may perform operations or data processing related to communication. At least one processor 291 may execute at least one program or instruction stored in memory 292. For example, at least one processor 291 may execute a method according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure by executing at least one instruction stored in memory 292.

[0302] Figure 17 The illustration schematically shows the positional relationship between the waste discharge port and wet cloth of the robot vacuum cleaner and the waste suction port and cleaning chamber of the base station when the base station is in the first position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 18 The diagram schematically illustrates the positional relationship between the driving part of the robot vacuum cleaner and the alignment part of the base station when the base station is in a first position, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 19 The illustration schematically shows the positional relationship between the waste discharge port and wet cloth of the robot vacuum cleaner and the waste suction port and cleaning chamber of the base station when the base station is in the second position according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 20 The diagram schematically illustrates the positional relationship between the driving part of the robotic vacuum cleaner and the alignment part of the base station when the base station is in a second position, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0303] Reference Figure 17 and Figure 18 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cleaning device 1 can be configured such that when the robot vacuum cleaner 10 is located in the first position of the base station 20, the wet mop 160 is located in the cleaning chamber 230. When the robot vacuum cleaner 10 is located in the first position of the base station 20, the wet mop 160 can be cleaned in the cleaning chamber 230.

[0304] When the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is in the first position of the base station 20, the waste discharge port 143 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 can be separated from the waste suction port 213 of the base station 20. When the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is in the first position of the base station 20, the waste discharge port 143 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 can be unconnected to the waste suction port 213 of the base station 20. When the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is in the first position of the base station 20, the waste discharge port 143 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 can be located behind the waste suction port 213 of the base station 20.

[0305] When the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is in the first position of the base station 20, the driving wheels 121 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 can be placed in the first alignment part 2161 of the base station 20. Compared with the second position of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 in the base station 20, the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is further introduced into the reception space 210a of the base station 20 when it is in the first position of the base station 20.

[0306] Reference Figure 19 and Figure 20 According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cleaning device 1 can be configured to connect the waste discharge port 143 and the waste suction port 213 when the robot vacuum cleaner 10 is in the second position of the base station 20. When the robot vacuum cleaner 10 is in the second position of the base station 20, the waste cover 144 can open the waste discharge port 143 as suction force is applied to the waste suction port 213 by the suction motor of the base station 20.

[0307] When the robot vacuum cleaner 10 is in the second position of the base station 20, the wet mop 160 of the robot vacuum cleaner 10 can be detached from the cleaning chamber 230 of the base station 20 and separated from the cleaning chamber 230 of the base station 20.

[0308] When the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is in the second position of the base station 20, the driving wheels 121 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 can be placed in the second alignment part 2162 of the base station 20. Compared with when the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is in the first position of the base station 20, when the robotic vacuum cleaner 10 is in the second position of the base station 20, it can be further removed from the receiving space 210a of the base station 20.

[0309] A cleaning device according to one embodiment includes: a base station; and a robotic vacuum cleaner capable of moving to a first position and a second position of the base station. The robotic vacuum cleaner includes a wet cloth, a dust collection bin, and a waste discharge port. The base station includes: a cleaning chamber configured to clean the wet cloth when the robotic vacuum cleaner is located at the first position of the base station; a waste suction port spaced apart from the cleaning chamber; and a suction motor configured to provide suction force when the robotic vacuum cleaner is located at the second position of the base station, so that waste is sucked through the waste discharge port and the waste suction port to the outside of the dust collection bin.

[0310] The robotic vacuum cleaner may include: wheels for driving the robotic vacuum cleaner. The base station may include: a first alignment part for arranging the wheels when the robotic vacuum cleaner is located at the first position of the base station; and a second alignment part for arranging the wheels when the robotic vacuum cleaner is located at the second position of the base station.

[0311] The base station may include a base station guide. The robotic vacuum cleaner may include a cleaner guide, configured to be guided by the base station guide during the robotic vacuum cleaner's movement toward the first position of the base station.

[0312] The base station guide may be a protrusion. The cleaner guide may be a groove into which the base station guide can be inserted.

[0313] The base station may include a base station charging terminal. The robotic vacuum cleaner may include a cleaner charging terminal, which is electrically connected to the base station charging terminal when the robot is located in the first position of the base station.

[0314] When the robotic vacuum cleaner is located at the second position of the base station, the cleaning device charging terminal can be disconnected from the base station charging terminal.

[0315] The base station may include a magnet. The robotic vacuum cleaner may include a Hall sensor configured to sense the magnet when located at the second position of the base station.

[0316] The base station may include: a waste collection pipe equipped to guide waste sucked in through the waste suction port; and a waste collection bucket for collecting waste guided through the waste collection pipe. The waste collection pipe and the waste collection bucket may be configured to be separate from the cleaning chamber.

[0317] The base station may include a water tank capable of storing water for supplying to the cleaning chamber. A waste collection tank may be configured to be separate from the water tank.

[0318] The base station may include at least one conduit for directing water stored in the water supply tank to the cleaning chamber. The waste collection conduit is separate from the at least one conduit.

[0319] The base station may include a pump or valve for regulating the flow of stored water through the at least one piping.

[0320] When the robotic vacuum cleaner is located at the first position of the base station, the waste discharge port may be configured to be separated from the waste suction port.

[0321] The robotic vacuum cleaner may include: a waste cover, equipped to open and close the waste discharge port.

[0322] The distance between the cleaning chamber and the waste inlet can be configured to be greater than the distance between the wet cloth and the waste outlet.

[0323] According to one embodiment, a base station, which serves as a base station for a robotic vacuum cleaner including a wet cloth, a dust collection bin, and a waste discharge port, capable of being positioned in a first position and a second position, includes: a cleaning chamber configured to clean the wet cloth when the robotic vacuum cleaner is positioned in the first position of the base station; a waste suction port spaced apart from the cleaning chamber; a suction motor configured to provide suction force when the robotic vacuum cleaner is positioned in the second position of the base station, so that waste is sucked into the outside of the dust collection bin through the waste discharge port and the waste suction port; a first alignment unit configured to guide the robotic vacuum cleaner to the first position of the base station; and a second alignment unit configured to guide the robotic vacuum cleaner to the second position of the base station.

[0324] The distance between the cleaning chamber and the waste inlet can be configured to be greater than the distance between the wet cloth and the waste outlet.

[0325] The base station may further include: a base station charging terminal, configured to be electrically connected to the cleaner charging terminal of the sweeping robot when the sweeping robot is placed in the first alignment part, and to be electrically disconnected from the cleaner charging terminal of the sweeping robot when the sweeping robot is placed in the second alignment part.

[0326] The base station may further include: a waste collection pipe equipped to guide waste into the waste suction inlet; and a waste collection bucket for collecting waste passing through the waste collection pipe. The waste collection pipe and the waste collection bucket may be configured to be separate from the cleaning chamber.

[0327] The base station may further include a water tank capable of storing water for supplying to the cleaning chamber. The waste collection tank may be configured to be separate from the water tank.

[0328] The base station may further include at least one conduit for directing water from the water supply tank to the cleaning chamber. The waste collection conduit may be configured to be separate from the at least one conduit.

[0329] According to the concept disclosed herein, the base station and cleaning device can be separately configured with a first position for cleaning a wet cloth used by a sweeping robot and a second position for emptying dirt collected in a dustbin, thereby reducing contamination of the base station's dirt intake.

[0330] According to the concept of this disclosure, the base station and cleaning device can be separately configured with a first position for cleaning the wet cloth of the sweeping robot and a second position for emptying the dirt collected in the dust collection bin, thereby reducing damage to the suction motor of the base station.

[0331] The effects achievable by this disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above. Those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains can clearly understand other effects not mentioned above through the above description.

[0332] The above description and illustrations have provided specific embodiments. However, the invention is not limited to the above embodiments. Anyone skilled in the art can make various modifications and implementations without departing from the spirit of the technical concept of the invention as described in the claims.

Claims

1. A cleaning device, comprising: Base station; as well as The robotic vacuum cleaner is capable of moving to both a first location and a second location of the base station. The sweeping robot includes: A damp cloth; Dust collection bin; and Waste discharge outlet The base station includes: The cleaning chamber is configured to clean the wet cloth when the sweeping robot is located at the first position of the base station; The waste suction inlet is separated from the cleaning chamber; and The suction motor is configured to provide suction force when the robot vacuum is in the second position of the base station, so that dirt is sucked into the outside of the dust collection bin through the dirt discharge port and the dirt suction port.

2. The cleaning device according to claim 1, wherein, The robotic vacuum cleaner includes: The driving wheels are used to propel the robotic vacuum cleaner. The base station includes: A first alignment section, for arranging the driving wheels when the sweeping robot is located at the first position of the base station; and The second alignment section is used to arrange the driving wheels when the sweeping robot is located in the second position of the base station.

3. The cleaning device according to claim 1, wherein, The base station includes a base station guidance component. The sweeping robot includes: A cleaner guide is configured to be guided by a base station guide during the robot vacuum's movement toward the first position of the base station.

4. The cleaning device according to claim 3, wherein, The base station guide is a protrusion. The cleaner guide is a slot into which the base station guide can be inserted.

5. The cleaning device according to claim 1, wherein, The base station includes a base station charging terminal. The sweeping robot includes: The cleaner charging terminal is electrically connected to the base station charging terminal when it is located in the first position of the base station.

6. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 5, wherein, When the robotic vacuum cleaner is located at the second position of the base station, the cleaning device charging terminal is disconnected from the base station charging terminal.

7. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The base station includes a magnet. The sweeping robot includes: A Hall sensor is configured to sense the magnet when located at the second position of the base station.

8. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The base station includes: A waste collection pipe, equipped for guiding waste sucked in through the waste suction port; and A waste collection bin for collecting waste guided through the waste collection pipe. The waste collection pipe and the waste collection bucket are configured to be separate from the cleaning chamber.

9. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 8, wherein, The base station includes: A water tank is used to store water for supplying to the cleaning chamber. The waste collection bucket is configured to be separate from the water supply bucket.

10. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 9, wherein, The base station includes: At least one piping is used to direct water stored in the water supply tank to the cleaning chamber. The waste collection bucket is separated from the at least one piping.

11. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 10, wherein, The base station includes: A pump or valve for regulating the flow of stored water through the at least one piping.

12. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, When the robotic vacuum cleaner is located at the first position of the base station, the waste discharge port is configured to be separated from the waste suction port.

13. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The robotic vacuum cleaner includes: A waste cover is provided for opening and closing the waste discharge outlet.

14. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The distance between the cleaning chamber and the waste inlet is configured to be greater than the distance between the wet cloth and the waste outlet.

15. A base station, serving as a base station for a robotic vacuum cleaner including a wet cloth, a dust collection bin, and a waste discharge outlet, capable of being positioned at a first position and a second position, comprising: The cleaning chamber is configured to clean the wet cloth when the sweeping robot is located at the first position of the base station; The waste suction inlet is separated from the cleaning chamber; The suction motor is configured to provide suction force when the robot vacuum is in the second position of the base station, so that dirt is sucked into the outside of the dust collection bin through the dirt discharge port and the dirt suction port; The first alignment unit is configured to guide the robotic vacuum cleaner to the first position of the base station; as well as The second alignment unit is configured to guide the robotic vacuum cleaner to the second position of the base station.

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