Cleaner station, cleaner system including same, and residual dust removal method using the cleaner system

Abstract

An invention is disclosed relating to a vacuum cleaner station that sucks dust stored in a vacuum cleaner into its interior, a vacuum cleaner system including the same, and a method for removing residual dust using the vacuum cleaner system. According to the present invention, residual dust accumulated near a push projection inside the vacuum cleaner station can be effectively sucked in through a bypass hole provided to penetrate the outside and inside of the suction pipe, and residual dust accumulated inside a coupling lever outside the dust bin of the vacuum cleaner can be effectively removed through a dust discharge groove formed in the coupling lever of the vacuum cleaner.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a vacuum cleaner station that sucks dust stored in a vacuum cleaner into its interior, a vacuum cleaner system including the same, and a method for removing residual dust using the vacuum cleaner system. More specifically, the invention relates to a vacuum cleaner station having a structure capable of removing residual dust accumulated inside the vacuum cleaner station after the vacuum cleaner station sucks all the dust inside the dust bin and the discharge cover of the dust bin is closed, and a vacuum cleaner system including the same. Additionally, the invention discloses a method for removing residual dust using the vacuum cleaner system. Background Technology

[0002] Generally, a vacuum cleaner is a household appliance that uses electricity to suck up air to collect small debris or dust and fill it into a dust bin inside the product, and it is commonly referred to as a vacuum cleaner.

[0003] These vacuum cleaners can be classified into manual vacuum cleaners, which are used for cleaning by moving the vacuum cleaner directly, and automatic vacuum cleaners, which are used for cleaning by driving on their own. Manual vacuum cleaners can be classified into canister-type vacuum cleaners, upright vacuum cleaners, handheld vacuum cleaners, and stick-type vacuum cleaners, depending on the form of the vacuum cleaner.

[0004] In the past, canister-type vacuum cleaners were widely used for household use, but recently, handheld and stick vacuum cleaners, which offer improved convenience by providing the dust bin and the main body as a single unit, are becoming more popular.

[0005] Canister-type vacuum cleaners have the main body and the suction nozzle connected by a rubber hose or pipe, and depending on the situation, a brush can be attached to the nozzle for use.

[0006] Handheld vacuum cleaners maximize portability; although lightweight, their short length may limit the cleaning area when sitting. Therefore, they are used to clean localized areas such as desks, sofas, or inside cars.

[0007] Stick vacuums can be used while standing, allowing for cleaning without bending over. This makes them advantageous for cleaning large areas. While handheld vacuums are used for cleaning narrow spaces, stick vacuums can clean larger areas and reach high places that are out of reach. Recently, stick vacuums are also being offered in modular types, allowing users to actively switch between different types of vacuums for various tasks.

[0008] However, stick vacuum cleaners had the inconvenience of requiring users to empty the dustbin every time because the capacity of the dustbin storing collected dust was small.

[0009] As a prior art document, Korean Published Patent Application No. 10-2020-0074001 discloses a cleaning device including a vacuum cleaner and a docking station.

[0010] The aforementioned prior art patent document comprises a vacuum cleaner including a dust collection container for collecting foreign substances, a docking station connected to the dust collection container to remove foreign substances collected in the dust collection container, and is configured such that the dust collection container is docked to the docking station, and the docking station includes a suction device for sucking in foreign substances and internal air inside the dust collection container docked to the docking station.

[0011] In addition, the aforementioned prior art is configured to include a collection unit that collects foreign substances inside the docking station.

[0012] However, the aforementioned prior art has a problem in that it cannot remove foreign substances that may have adhered to the surroundings of the dust collector during the suction process after the suction of the suction device (suction fan) has ended.

[0013] Therefore, when the user uses the vacuum cleaner again after the process of sucking up foreign substances is finished, the user is forced to touch the foreign substances (hereinafter referred to as residual dust) that are exposed and stuck to the dust collection container with their hands, and the user experiences the inconvenience of having to remove these residual dust directly using wet wipes, etc.

[0014] In addition, if such foreign substances accumulate inside the docking station, there is a problem of the interior of the docking station becoming contaminated. Prior art literature

[0015] Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2020-0074001 The problem to be solved

[0016] The present invention aims to provide a vacuum cleaner station configured to effectively remove residual dust accumulated on the outside of the vacuum cleaner's dust bin or on the inside of the vacuum cleaner station during the dust suction process of the vacuum cleaner station.

[0017] In addition, the present invention aims to provide a method for effectively removing residual dust using a vacuum cleaner system comprising the vacuum cleaner and the vacuum cleaner station. means of solving the problem

[0018] To solve the above problems, a vacuum cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a housing coupled to a vacuum cleaner; a coupling part formed such that one side of the housing is recessed toward the interior of the housing and at least a portion of the vacuum cleaner is coupled thereto; a cover opening unit disposed in the coupling part and opening the discharge cover of the dust bin of the vacuum cleaner; a dust collection motor received inside the housing and generating a suction force to suck dust inside the dust bin of the vacuum cleaner; and a suction pipe disposed in the vertical direction inside the housing and having one end connected to the coupling part; wherein the cover opening unit includes a push projection formed to protrude in the direction of the long axis of the housing at a position facing the coupling lever of the discharge cover to open the discharge cover when the vacuum cleaner is coupled to the coupling part, and the suction pipe is provided with a bypass hole that penetrates the interior and exterior of the suction pipe, formed in an elongated shape at a position facing the push projection in the direction in which the push projection presses the coupling lever.

[0019] Additionally, the device further includes a door unit comprising a door that is hinge-coupled to the joint and opens in the direction in which the discharge cover is opened, thereby communicating the outside of the housing with the suction pipe, and a door arm coupled to the door and configured to open and close the door; wherein the dust collection motor can generate suction force by operating for a predetermined time after the door is closed by the door unit and the dust bin is coupled to the joint.

[0020] At this time, the cover opening unit may further include a projection support coupled to the lower end of the push projection and performing a linear reciprocating motion together with the push projection.

[0021] Additionally, the coupling portion may include: a first coupling portion configured to correspond to the shape of the dust container and support a portion of the lower outer surface of the dust container; and a second coupling portion coupled to the first coupling portion and configured to include a flat surface on which the lower surface of the projection support is positioned to perform linear reciprocating motion.

[0022] Here, when the direction in which the protrusion support moves in a straight line is called the first direction and the direction perpendicular to the first direction is called the second direction, the size of the second direction of the protrusion support may be provided to be smaller than the size of the second direction of the flat surface.

[0023] In addition, the movement axis of the above-mentioned projection support can be positioned at the center of the second direction of the above-mentioned flat surface.

[0024] Meanwhile, a vacuum cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a housing coupled to a vacuum cleaner; a coupling part in which one side of the housing is formed in a shape recessed toward the interior of the housing and at least a part of the vacuum cleaner is coupled thereto, and a dust passage hole formed at a position facing the dust bin of the vacuum cleaner when the vacuum cleaner is coupled; a dust collection motor received inside the housing and generating a suction force to suck dust inside the dust bin; and a suction pipe arranged in an up-and-down direction inside the housing, with one end connected to the coupling part and communicating with the dust passage hole; wherein a bypass hole formed in the shape of an elongated hole penetrating the interior and exterior of the suction pipe is provided on the suction pipe, and the bypass hole is formed to have a cross-sectional area smaller than the penetrating cross-sectional area of ​​the dust passage hole.

[0025] Additionally, the device further includes a cover opening unit disposed in the coupling portion and opening the discharge cover of the dust bin, wherein the cover opening unit includes a push projection formed to protrude in the direction of the long axis of the housing at a position opposite to the coupling lever of the discharge cover so as to open the discharge cover when the vacuum cleaner is coupled to the coupling portion, and the bypass hole may be provided at a position facing the push projection in the direction in which the push projection presses the coupling lever.

[0026] Additionally, the device further includes a door unit comprising a door that is hinge-coupled to the joint and opens in the direction in which the discharge cover is opened, thereby communicating the outside of the housing with the suction pipe, and a door arm coupled to the door and configured to open and close the door; wherein the dust collection motor can be driven for a predetermined time after the door closes the dust passage hole by the door unit to generate suction force in the bypass hole.

[0027] Meanwhile, a vacuum cleaner system according to an embodiment of the present invention is a vacuum cleaner system comprising a vacuum cleaner including a dust bin for collecting dust, and a vacuum cleaner station coupled to the vacuum cleaner to remove dust discharged from the dust bin. The dustbin comprises: a dustbin body having a cylindrical shape and one side open; a discharge cover including a coupling hook rotatably coupled to the open side of the dustbin body and hook-coupled to the dustbin body; and a coupling lever coupled to the dustbin body and moving along the outer surface of the dustbin body in the longitudinal direction of the dustbin body to release the hook coupling between the discharge cover and the dustbin body, wherein the coupling lever comprises: a lever body extending along the longitudinal direction of the dustbin body; and a lever inclined portion connected to the lever body and extending upward at a predetermined angle with respect to the direction of movement of the coupling lever; wherein the lever inclined portion is characterized by having a dust discharge groove recessed toward the lever body at one end of the lever inclined portion.

[0028] At this time, the vacuum cleaner station comprises: a housing coupled to the vacuum cleaner; a coupling part formed such that one side of the housing is recessed toward the interior of the housing and at least a portion of the vacuum cleaner is coupled thereto; a suction pipe positioned vertically within the housing and having one end connected to the coupling part; and a push projection formed to protrude in the direction of the long axis of the housing at a position facing the coupling lever to open the discharge cover when the vacuum cleaner is coupled to the coupling part. In the suction pipe, a bypass hole may be provided that penetrates the interior and exterior of the suction pipe, formed in an elongated shape at a position facing the push projection in the direction in which the push projection presses the coupling lever.

[0029] At this time, the through cross-sectional area of ​​one end of the suction pipe connected to the coupling part may be larger than the through cross-sectional area of ​​the bypass hole.

[0030] Additionally, the vacuum cleaner station further comprises: a dust collection motor that is housed inside the housing and generates a suction force to suck up dust inside the dust bin of the vacuum cleaner; and a door unit that includes a door hinged to the coupling part and open in the direction in which the discharge cover is opened to communicate the outside of the housing with the suction pipe, and a door arm coupled to the door and configured to open and close the door; wherein the dust collection motor can generate a suction force by operating for a predetermined time after the door is closed by the door unit and the dust bin is coupled to the coupling part.

[0031] A method for removing residual dust using a vacuum cleaner system according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises: a vacuum cleaner including a dust bin for collecting dust; and a vacuum cleaner station coupled to the vacuum cleaner to remove dust discharged from the dust bin. The method comprises: a door opening step in which a door provided in the vacuum cleaner station to communicate with the outside and inside of the vacuum cleaner station is opened; a discharge cover opening step in which a discharge cover for opening and closing the dust bin is opened; a dust collection step in which dust inside the dust bin is sucked into the interior of the vacuum cleaner station by driving a dust collection motor housed inside the vacuum cleaner station; a door closing step in which the door is closed together with the discharge cover; and a residual dust removal step in which residual dust existing around the dust bin is removed after the door closing step. The residual dust removal step is characterized in that, while the vacuum cleaner is coupled to the vacuum cleaner station, the dust collection motor is driven again for a predetermined time so that the residual dust is sucked into the interior of the vacuum cleaner station.

[0032] At this time, the vacuum cleaner station comprises: a housing coupled to the vacuum cleaner; a coupling part formed such that one side of the housing is recessed toward the interior of the housing and at least a portion of the vacuum cleaner is coupled thereto; a suction pipe positioned vertically within the housing and having one end connected to the coupling part; and a push projection formed to protrude in the direction of the long axis of the housing at a position facing the coupling lever of the discharge cover to open the discharge cover when the vacuum cleaner is coupled to the coupling part. The suction pipe is provided with a bypass hole formed in the shape of an elongated hole at a position facing the push projection in the direction in which the push projection presses the coupling lever, penetrating the interior and exterior of the suction pipe, and the residual dust removal step allows the residual dust to be sucked into the suction pipe through the bypass hole while the dust collection motor is restarted.

[0033] Additionally, the discharge cover is hook-coupled to a cylindrical dust bin body included in the dust bin, and the coupling lever comprises: a lever body extending along the longitudinal direction of the dust bin body; and a lever inclined portion connected to the lever body and extending upward at a predetermined angle with respect to the direction of movement of the coupling lever; wherein the lever inclined portion is provided with a dust discharge groove recessed toward the lever body at one end of the lever inclined portion, and the residual dust removal step allows the residual dust to be sucked into the suction pipe through the dust discharge groove and the bypass hole while the dust collection motor is driven again. Effects of the invention

[0034] According to the present invention, residual dust accumulated near the push protrusion inside the vacuum cleaner station can be effectively sucked in through a bypass hole provided to penetrate the outside and inside of the suction pipe.

[0035] In addition, according to the present invention, residual dust accumulated inside the coupling lever on the outside of the dust bin of the vacuum cleaner can be effectively removed through the dust discharge groove formed in the coupling lever of the vacuum cleaner.

[0036] In addition, according to the present invention, through a residual dust removal step in which the dust collection motor is restarted for a certain period of time after the suction of dust inside the dust bin is finished and the discharge cover is closed, the suction force for sucking residual dust can be concentrated on the bypass hole and the dust discharge groove, thereby allowing residual dust to be removed more effectively. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0037] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a vacuum cleaner system including a vacuum cleaner station and a vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 is a drawing showing the shape in which the vacuum cleaner is coupled to the vacuum cleaner station and the side interior of the vacuum cleaner station. Figure 3 is an enlarged view of the dustbin opening and closing structure of the vacuum cleaner. Figure 4 is an enlarged view of the cover opening unit of the vacuum cleaner station. Figure 5 is an enlarged view of the door unit of the vacuum cleaner station. Figure 6 is an enlarged perspective view of the cross-section of the joint and the suction pipe. Figure 7 is a top view of the joint. Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of a vacuum cleaner connected to a joint. Figure 9 is a perspective view of the coupling lever of the vacuum cleaner. FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the coupling lever of FIG. 9 seen from a different direction. Fig. 11 is a side view of the coupling lever of Fig. 9. FIG. 12 is a perspective view to show the relationship between the direction in which the lever inclined portion of the coupling lever is formed and the direction of movement of the push projection. Figure 13 is a schematic diagram of the suction path of residual dust through the dust removal groove and bypass hole of the coupling lever. FIG. 14 is a flowchart of a method for removing residual dust using a vacuum cleaner system, which is an embodiment of the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0038] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0039] The present invention is capable of various modifications and may have various embodiments, and specific embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and described in detail in the detailed description. This is not intended to limit the present invention to specific embodiments, and should be interpreted to include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions that fall within the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0040] In describing the present invention, terms such as "first," "second," etc., may be used to describe various components, but said components may not be limited by said terms. Such terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the present invention, the first component may be named the second component, and similarly, the second component may be named the first component.

[0041] The term "and / or" may include a combination of multiple related listed items or any of the multiple related listed items.

[0042] When it is stated that one component is "connected" or "connected" to another component, it can be understood that while it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, there may also be other components in between. On the other hand, when it is stated that one component is "directly connected" or "directly connected" to another component, it can be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0043] The terms used in this application are used merely to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the invention. Singular expressions may include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0044] In this application, terms such as “comprising” or “having” are intended to indicate the existence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and should be understood as not excluding in advance the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0045] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, may have the same meaning as generally understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains. Terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries may be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and may not be interpreted in an ideal or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined in this application.

[0046] In addition, the following embodiments are provided to explain more completely to those with average knowledge in the industry, and the shapes and sizes of the elements in the drawings may be exaggerated for clearer explanation.

[0047] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a vacuum cleaner system (1000) including a vacuum cleaner station (1) and a vacuum cleaner (2) according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a drawing showing the shape in which the vacuum cleaner (2) is coupled to the vacuum cleaner station (1) and the side interior of the vacuum cleaner station (1), FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the dust bin (2600) opening and closing structure of the vacuum cleaner (2), FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of the cover opening unit (500) of the vacuum cleaner station (1), and FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of the door unit (600) of the vacuum cleaner station (1).

[0048] Referring to FIG. 1, the vacuum cleaner system (1000) may include a vacuum cleaner station (1) and a vacuum cleaner (2).

[0049] The vacuum cleaner station (1) is configured to be coupled with the vacuum cleaner (2) to remove dust discharged from the dust bin (2600) of the vacuum cleaner (2), and the vacuum cleaner (2) can be coupled to the front of the vacuum cleaner station (1). More specifically, the vacuum cleaner body (2000) of the vacuum cleaner (2) can be coupled to the front of the vacuum cleaner station (1).

[0050] At this time, the front of the vacuum cleaner station (1) can be defined as the direction in which the connecting part (110), formed such that one side of the housing (100) is recessed toward the interior of the housing (100) so that the main body of the vacuum cleaner (2) can be connected, faces. Additionally, the direction in which the opposite side of the housing (100) faces relative to the connecting part (110) can be defined as the rear. The structure of the housing (100) will be described later.

[0051] First, the configuration of the vacuum cleaner body (2000) of the vacuum cleaner (2) coupled to the vacuum cleaner station (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be briefly described below.

[0052] Referring to FIG. 2, the vacuum cleaner body (2000) may include a suction part (2100) that provides a path for air containing dust to flow, a dust separation part (2200) that communicates with the suction part (2100) and separates dust sucked into the interior through the suction part (2100), a suction motor (2300) that generates a suction force to suck in air, a handle (2400) that is held by a user, and a battery housing (2500) that accommodates a battery inside.

[0053] Additionally, the vacuum cleaner body (2000) may further include a dust bin (2600).

[0054] Here, the dust bin (2600) may be connected to the dust separation unit (2200) and may collect dust separated from the dust separation unit (2200). The dust separation unit (2200) may be configured to separate dust by a cyclone dust collection method.

[0055] Referring to FIG. 3, the dustbin (2600) may include a dustbin body (2610), an exhaust cover (2620), and a coupling lever (2630).

[0056] The dustbin body (2610) may be provided in a cylindrical shape with one side open. Air introduced through the suction part (2100) passes through the dust separation part (2200) housed in the dustbin body (2610). At this time, dust is collected inside the dustbin body (2610), and the air from which dust has been separated flows toward the suction motor (2300) and is discharged to the outside of the vacuum cleaner (2). The dustbin body (2610) may be provided with a body ridge (2650) that extends longitudinally from both sides of the dustbin body (2610) between the coupling lever (2630).

[0057] The discharge cover (2620) can be rotatably coupled to an open side of the dustbin body (2610). More specifically, the discharge cover (2620) can be coupled to the dustbin body (2610) via a dustbin hinge (2640) at an open side of the dustbin body (2610). At this time, the dustbin hinge (2640) can be positioned on a side close to the battery housing (2500). The discharge cover (2620) can rotate to open or close the dustbin body (2610) around the dustbin hinge (2640) as an axis.

[0058] Additionally, the discharge cover (2620) may include a coupling hook (2660) that is hook-coupled to the dustbin body (2610) on one side close to the suction part (2100). The coupling hook (2660) and the dustbin hinge (2640) may be positioned on opposite sides.

[0059] The coupling lever (2630) may be provided to move along the outer surface of the dustbin body (2610) in the longitudinal direction of the dustbin body (2610) to release the hook coupling between the discharge cover (2620) and the dustbin body (2610). The coupling lever (2630) may be positioned downward relative to the state in which the vacuum cleaner (2) is coupled to the vacuum cleaner station (1). When an external force is applied to the coupling lever (2630) and the coupling lever (2630) moves in the longitudinal direction of the dustbin body (2610) (the direction for releasing the hook coupling), the coupling hook (2660), which is provided in an extended form from the discharge cover (2620), undergoes elastic deformation, thereby releasing the hook coupling between the discharge cover (2620) and the dustbin body (2610).

[0060] Meanwhile, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the coupling lever (2630) may be provided with a shape to efficiently remove residual dust that has entered the inside of the coupling lever (2630) during the dust suction process of the vacuum cleaner station (1), and details regarding this will be described later. Here, the inside of the coupling lever (2630) may refer to the space between the coupling lever (2630) and the dust bin body (2610).

[0061] Next, a vacuum cleaner station (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0062] Referring to FIG. 2, the vacuum cleaner station (1) may include a housing (100), a dust collection motor (200), and a dust storage module (300).

[0063] The housing (100) is a configuration to which the vacuum cleaner (2) is coupled, and can form the exterior of the vacuum cleaner station (1). Specifically, the housing (100) can be formed in the shape of a column including at least one outer wall surface. As an example, the housing (100) can be formed in a shape similar to a square column.

[0064] The housing (100) has a space formed inside to accommodate the dust collection motor (200), dust storage module (300), etc. described above.

[0065] The housing (100) may include a ground support member (100e). At this time, the ground support member (100e) may be positioned toward the ground. The bottom surface of the ground support member (100e) that contacts the ground may be positioned parallel to the ground, or it may be positioned at an angle inclined to the ground. With such a configuration, the dust collection motor (200) housed inside the housing (100) can be stably supported, and the overall weight can be balanced even when the vacuum cleaner (2) is attached.

[0066] Additionally, the ground support (100e) may be in the form of a plate extending from the bottom surface of the housing (100) to prevent the vacuum cleaner station (1) from tipping over, maintain balance, and increase the contact area with the ground.

[0067] Meanwhile, the housing (100) may be configured to include at least one outer wall surface as described above. For example, the housing (100) may include a first outer wall surface (100a) on which a coupling portion (110) is formed, and may further include a second outer wall surface (100b), a third outer wall surface (100c), and a fourth outer wall surface (100d) arranged in a counterclockwise order while looking at the first outer wall surface (100a).

[0068] The coupling portion (110) formed on the first outer wall surface (100a) may be formed in such a way that one side of the housing (100) is recessed toward the interior of the housing (100). More specifically, the coupling portion (110) may be provided such that the first outer wall surface (100a) is recessed to correspond to the shape of a part of the direction in which the dust bin (2600) of the vacuum cleaner body (2000) is positioned. With this configuration, a part of the vacuum cleaner body (2000) can be coupled to the vacuum cleaner station (1) and supported by the vacuum cleaner station (1).

[0069] Meanwhile, the housing (100) may be provided to be openable so that some of the parts housed inside (e.g., dust storage module (300)) are exposed.

[0070] The dust collection motor (200) can be housed inside the housing (100) and positioned at the bottom of the dust storage module (300). The dust collection motor (200) can generate suction force in the suction pipe (700) described later. Through this, the dust collection motor (200) can suck up dust inside the dust bin body (2610) of the vacuum cleaner (2). (See FIG. 2)

[0071] Next, the dust storage module (300) is housed inside the housing (100) and is configured to collect dust sucked in from inside the dust bin (2600) of the vacuum cleaner (2) by the dust collection motor (200). The dust storage module (300) can be detachably coupled to the housing (100).

[0072] Accordingly, when the housing (100) is opened, the dust storage module (300) can be separated from the housing (100) and discarded, and a new dust storage module (300) can be attached to the housing (100). That is, the dust storage module (300) can be defined as a consumable part.

[0073] The dust storage module (300) may include a dust bag (310). The dust bag (310) may be configured to expand in volume and accommodate dust inside when suction force is generated by the dust collection motor (200). To this end, the dust bag (310) may be made of a material that allows air to pass through but does not allow foreign substances such as dust to pass through. For example, the dust bag (310) may be made of a non-woven fabric material and may have a cuboid shape when its volume is expanded.

[0074] When an airflow is formed by the suction force of the dust collection motor (200), the air containing foreign matter flowing from inside the dust bin (2600) of the vacuum cleaner (2) moves to the dust bag (310) through the suction pipe (700), and exits the dust bag (310) leaving only foreign matter in the dust bag (310).

[0075] Additionally, the dust storage module (300) may further include a dust storage housing (320) that is accommodated inside the housing (100) and has an internal space to which a dust bag (310) is coupled (see FIG. 2).

[0076] Below, the coupling part (110) to which the vacuum cleaner (2) is coupled will be explained with reference to FIGS. 5 and FIGS. 6.

[0077] FIG. 6 is an enlarged perspective view of the cross-section of the connecting part (110) and the suction pipe (700).

[0078] First, referring to FIG. 6, the coupling part (110) may include a first coupling part (111) and a second coupling part (112). At this time, the first coupling part (111) may be provided to support a part of the lower outer surface of the dust container (2600) corresponding to the shape of the dust container (2600). The second coupling part (112) may include a flat surface (112a) which is coupled to the first coupling part (111) and is configured to allow linear reciprocating motion by having the lower surface of a protrusion support (512) included in the cover opening unit (500) described later arranged thereon.

[0079] More specifically, the second coupling part (112) is provided in a form extending downward from the first coupling part (111) to provide a space in which a push projection (511) can be received. At this time, the first coupling part (111) may be positioned to the left and right of the second coupling part (112) based on the view looking at the first outer wall surface (100a).

[0080] The first connecting part (111) may include a curved part (111a) and a protruding ridge (111b). The curved part (111a) is formed to correspond to the cylindrical shape of the dustbin body (2610) and can support the dustbin body (2610). Additionally, the protruding ridge (111b) is coupled with the curved part (111a) and is formed so that the curved part (111a) extends upward and protrudes, and is configured to support the body ridge (2650) of the dustbin body (2610), thereby serving to fix the dustbin body (2610) so that it does not shake when the dustbin (2600) is seated on the connecting part (110).

[0081] At this time, the curved portion (111a) and the protruding ridge (111b) can be provided in a symmetrical shape on the left and right sides of the second connecting portion (112), respectively, based on the view looking at the first outer wall surface (100a).

[0082] The second coupling part (112) may further include a vertical wall (112b) extending downward from the first coupling part (111). The vertical wall (112b) may be positioned on the left and right sides of the flat surface (112a) based on the view looking toward the first outer wall surface (100a). That is, the second coupling part (112) is composed of a vertical wall (112b) extending downward from the end of the first coupling part (111) and a flat surface (112a), thereby forming a space in which the push projection (511) can move in a straight reciprocating motion. Meanwhile, on the flat surface (112a) of the second coupling part (112), a projection neck insertion hole (112aa) may be provided for positioning a projection neck (513), which will be described later.

[0083] Meanwhile, the connecting part (110) may further include a third connecting part (113).

[0084] Referring to FIG. 5, the third coupling part (113) can be defined as an area positioned facing the discharge cover (2620) based on the state in which the vacuum cleaner (2) is coupled to the vacuum cleaner station (1). The third coupling part (113) may include a charging part (not shown) to which a battery is electrically coupled for charging the vacuum cleaner (2), and a dust passage hole (113a) positioned below the charging part and provided to communicate the inside of the dust bin (2600) and the suction pipe (700) of the vacuum cleaner station (1). A door hinge (605) may be coupled to the third coupling part (113) above the dust passage hole (113a). A door (610) coupled to the door hinge (605) may be positioned in the dust passage hole (113a) to open or close the dust passage hole (113a). The dust passage hole (113a) may be a hole formed with a diameter corresponding to the diameter of the dust bin (2600) at a position facing the bottom surface of the dust bin (2600) of the vacuum cleaner (10) when the vacuum cleaner (2) is coupled to the coupling part (110). Through this, the dust passage hole (113a) can serve as a main hole for sucking dust from the dust bin (2600) into the internal flow path of the vacuum cleaner station (1).

[0085] Next, referring again to FIG. 2, the combined form of the vacuum cleaner station (1) and the vacuum cleaner (2) will be described.

[0086] As described above, the vacuum cleaner (2) can be coupled to the front of the housing (100). More specifically, a part of the main body (2100) of the vacuum cleaner (2) can be coupled to the coupling part (110) so that the entire vacuum cleaner (2) can be mounted on the vacuum cleaner station (1). Even more specifically, when the vacuum cleaner (2) is coupled to the coupling part (110) of the housing (100), the longitudinal axis of the dust bin (2600) can be positioned parallel to the ground. In addition, when the vacuum cleaner (2) is coupled to the coupling part (110) of the housing (100), the longitudinal axis of the dust bin (2600) can be positioned perpendicular to the long axis of the housing (100). At this time, the vacuum cleaner (2) can be mounted so that the longitudinal axis of the suction part (2100) of the vacuum cleaner (2) is positioned parallel to the long axis of the housing (100).

[0087] Meanwhile, as will be described later, the suction pipe (700) of the vacuum cleaner station (1) can be extended vertically within the housing (100). Accordingly, dust present in the dust bin (2600) moves horizontally along the dust bin body (2610) by the suction force of the dust collection motor (200), and then, as it enters the suction pipe (700), its direction of flow changes to a vertical direction and is collected in the dust storage module (300) housed in the lower part of the housing (100).

[0088] That is, dust inside the dust bin (2600) of the vacuum cleaner (2) can be collected into the dust storage module (300) of the vacuum cleaner station (1) by the action of the suction force of the dust collection motor (200) and gravity.

[0089] This configuration provides user convenience by allowing dust to be removed from the dustbin without any separate operation. It also eliminates the hassle of having to empty the dustbin every time. Furthermore, it prevents dust from scattering when the dustbin is emptied.

[0090] A vacuum cleaner station (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a cover opening unit (500).

[0091] A cover opening unit (500) is provided to open the discharge cover (2620) of the vacuum cleaner (2). Referring to FIG. 4, the cover opening unit (500) may include a push projection (511), a cover opening gear (520), and a cover opening motor (not shown).

[0092] The push projection (511) can move in a linear reciprocating motion on the coupling part (110) to press and open the discharge cover (2620) when the vacuum cleaner (2) is coupled to the coupling part (110). More specifically, the push projection (511) can be positioned on the coupling part (110) to press the coupling lever (2630) and can move in a linear reciprocating motion to press the coupling lever (2630). Even more specifically, the push projection (511) can be formed to protrude upward in the direction of the long axis of the housing at a position opposite to the coupling lever (2630) provided to open the discharge cover (2620) of the vacuum cleaner (2).

[0093] The cover opening unit (500) may further include a projection support (512), a projection neck (513), and a gear coupling block (514).

[0094] At this time, the protrusion support (512) is configured to be coupled to the lower end of the push protrusion (511) and to move in a straight reciprocating motion together with the push protrusion (511), and the lower surface of the protrusion support (512) is positioned to face the flat surface (112a) of the second coupling part (112) so that the protrusion support (512) can move in a straight reciprocating motion on the flat surface (112a).

[0095] The projection neck (513) can be coupled to the lower surface of the projection support (512) and placed in the projection neck insertion hole (112aa). The projection neck (513) can be coupled between the projection support (512) and the gear coupling block (514). That is, the projection support (512) is coupled to the upper part of the projection neck (513), and the gear coupling block (514) is coupled to the lower part of the projection neck (513), so that the push projection (511) and the projection support (512) are exposed to the upper part of the flat surface (112a), and the gear coupling block (514) is placed to the lower part of the flat surface (112a). The projection neck (513) can be formed to have a narrower width than the projection support (512) and the gear coupling block (514).

[0096] The gear coupling block (514) is positioned at the bottom of the flat surface (112a) and can reciprocate in a straight line by the movement of the cover opening gear (520).

[0097] The cover opening motor can provide power to the cover opening gear (520) to cause the push projection (511) to move in a linear reciprocating motion. More specifically, the cover opening gear (520) is coupled with the cover opening motor and can move the push projection (511), projection support (512), projection neck (513), and gear coupling block (514) together using the power of the cover opening motor. The cover opening gear (520) may include a first cover opening gear (521) that receives rotational power from the shaft of the cover opening motor, and a second cover opening gear (522) that meshes with the first cover opening gear (521) and transmits linear reciprocating motion to the push projection (511).

[0098] At this time, the first cover opening gear (521) may be made of a pinion gear, and the second cover opening gear (522) may be made of a rack gear.

[0099] In other words, when the main body of the vacuum cleaner (2) is fixed to the connecting part (110), the cover opening motor moves the push projection (511) through the cover opening gear (520) and opens the discharge cover (2620) so that it can be separated from the dust bin body (2610).

[0100] A vacuum cleaner station (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a door unit (600).

[0101] Referring to FIG. 5, the door unit (600) may include a door (610), a door arm (620), and a door motor (630).

[0102] The door (610) is hinge-connected to the connecting part (110) and is opened in the direction in which the discharge cover (2620) is opened, so as to be able to communicate the outside of the housing (100) with the suction pipe (700). More specifically, the door (610) is connected to a door hinge (605) placed in the third connecting part (113) and is configured to be able to rotate around the door hinge (605).

[0103] In a state where the door (610) blocks the dust passage hole (113a) and closes the connection between the inside and outside of the housing (100), when the door arm (620) pulls the door (610), the door (610) can rotate toward the inside of the housing (100) of the vacuum cleaner station (1). Meanwhile, when the door arm (620) pushes the door (610), the door (610) can rotate toward the outside of the vacuum cleaner station (1).

[0104] The door motor (630) can provide power to the door arm (620) to rotate the door (610). Specifically, the door motor (630) can rotate the door arm (620) in a forward direction or a reverse direction. Here, the forward direction may mean the direction in which the door arm (620) pulls the door (610) toward the inside of the housing (100). Also, the reverse direction may mean the direction in which the door arm (620) pushes the door (610) toward the outside of the housing (100).

[0105] The door arm (620) is coupled to the door (610) and configured to open and close the door (610), and serves to connect the door (610) and the door motor (630). The door arm (620) can open and close the door (610) using power generated from the door motor (630).

[0106] For example, the door arm (620) may include a first door arm (621) and a second door arm (622). One end of the first door arm (621) may be coupled to a door motor (630). The first door arm (621) may rotate by the power of the door motor (630). The other end of the first door arm (621) may be rotatably coupled to the second door arm (622). The first door arm (621) may transmit power transmitted from the door motor (630) to the second door arm (622). One end of the second door arm (622) may be coupled to the first door arm (621). The other end of the second door arm (622) may be coupled to the door (610). The second door arm (622) may push or pull the door (610).

[0107] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 4 and FIGS. 6, the arrangement of the bypass hole (710) formed in the suction pipe (700) and the specific structure for removing residual dust, which is the problem to be solved by the present invention, will be described.

[0108] The vacuum cleaner station (1) may further include a suction tube (700).

[0109] First, referring to FIG. 6, the suction tube (700) is housed inside the housing (100) and arranged in an up-and-down direction, and can be provided to provide a space (S1) through which air containing dust from the dust bin (2600) of the vacuum cleaner (2) can flow. That is, when the vacuum cleaner (2) is connected to the vacuum cleaner station (1), the dust bin (2600) can be placed at the open upper end of the suction tube (700). At this time, since the open lower end of the suction tube (700) is connected to the dust storage module (300), when the discharge cover (2620) is separated from the dust bin body (2610), the dust inside the dust bin body (2610) can be collected into the dust storage module (300) through the suction tube (700).

[0110] Additionally, the open upper end of the suction pipe (700) may be defined as a dust passage hole (113a). As described above, the dust passage hole (113a) can serve as a main hole for sucking dust from the dust container (2600) into the interior of the housing (100).

[0111] A bypass hole (710) may be provided in the suction tube (700) to remove residual dust. At this time, referring to FIG. 4, the bypass hole (710) may be provided on the suction tube (700) in a position facing the push projection (511) in the direction in which the push projection (511) presses the coupling lever (2630) coupled to the dust bin body (2610), and may be provided in a form that penetrates the inside and outside of the suction tube (700). The bypass hole (710) may be provided, for example, in the form of a horizontal elongated hole. More specifically, the bypass hole (710) may be formed by the suction tube (700) penetrating at the same level as the flat surface (112a) where the projection support (512) moves in a straight reciprocating motion.

[0112] The bypass hole (710) may be formed below the dust passage hole (113a). Additionally, the bypass hole (710) may be formed to have a cross-sectional area smaller than the through cross-sectional area of ​​the dust passage hole (113a).

[0113] With this configuration, when the dust collection motor (200) generates suction force while the dust passage hole (113a) is closed, a strong suction force concentrated in a small cross-sectional area can be applied to the bypass hole (710), and residual dust can be effectively removed.

[0114] Additionally, with this configuration, when the discharge cover (2620) of the dust bin (2600) is opened, residual dust that has fallen and accumulated near the push projection (511) inside the vacuum cleaner station (1) can be sucked into the suction pipe (700) through the bypass hole (710) by the suction force of the dust collection motor (200). That is, if the path through which dust is sucked into the suction pipe (700) via the dust bin (2600) and the dust passage hole (113a) is called the main suction path, then the path through which residual dust that has fallen off from the dust bin (2600) is sucked into the suction pipe (700) via the bypass hole (710) near the push projection (511) (which may also be called near the second coupling part (112)) can be called the bypass suction path. The vacuum cleaner station (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention can remove dust that is at risk of accumulating in the space near the push protrusion inside the vacuum cleaner station through the bypass suction path, thereby reducing the risk of contamination inside the vacuum cleaner station and enabling hygienic management of the vacuum cleaner station.

[0115] Below, the operation of the dust collection motor (200) for removing residual dust through the above bypass suction path is described.

[0116] When the vacuum cleaner (2) is connected to the connecting part (110) and the door unit (600) opens the door (610), and the cover opening unit (500) opens the discharge cover (2620) so that the inside of the dust bin body (2610) and the suction pipe (700) are connected, the dust collection motor (200) can be driven for a first time (t1). At this time, air containing dust flows through the main suction path and the bypass suction path into the internal space (S1) of the suction pipe (700), and dust can be collected in the dust bag (310) connected to the lower end of the suction pipe (700).

[0117] After the first time (t1) has elapsed, when the dust collection motor (200) stops operating, the door unit (600) can close the door (610). When the door arm (620) pushes the door (610) in a direction that closes the door (610), the discharge cover (2620) can also move together with the door (610) in a direction that closes the dust bin (2600). Thus, the discharge cover (2620) is reattached to the dust bin body (2610), and the door (610) also closes the dust passage hole (113a).

[0118] After the door (610) is closed by the door unit (600) and the dust bin (2600) is still connected to the connecting part (110), the dust collection motor (200) can be driven again for a second time (t2) to generate suction force. Here, since the main suction path is closed, the air containing dust flows into the internal space (S1) of the suction pipe (700) by passing only through the bypass suction path. At this time, if the dust collection motor (200) generates the same suction force, the suction force of the dust collection motor (200) can be concentrated more strongly toward the bypass suction path than when the dust collection motor (200) was driven with the door (610) open.

[0119] The fact that the suction power of the dust collection motor (200) is concentrated in the bypass suction path means that the suction power acting on the residual dust is increased. In other words, by configuring the dust collection motor (200) to be driven again when the discharge cover (2620) and the door (610) are closed, the effect of increasing the efficiency of removing residual dust is achieved.

[0120] In addition, when dust is sucked in by the dust collection motor (200) while the discharge cover (2620) and the door (610) are open, dust may fly and stick to the inner side of the door (610) (the side opposite to the surface facing the discharge cover (2620)). There is an advantage that the dust stuck in this way can also be removed by configuring the dust collection motor (200) to operate again when the door (610) is closed.

[0121] Meanwhile, the first time (t1) and the second time (t2) may be pre-set in a control unit (not shown) of the vacuum cleaner station (1). At this time, the first time (t1), during which more dust must be sucked in, may be set to be longer than or equal to the second time (t2), during which residual dust is sucked in. The control unit may be housed inside the housing (100) and may be provided to control the driving, stopping, and suction power of the dust collection motor (200).

[0122] FIG. 7 is a top view of the connecting part (110), and FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the connecting part (110) with the vacuum cleaner (2) connected thereto.

[0123] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, when the direction in which the protrusion support (512) moves in a straight reciprocating motion is called the first direction and the direction perpendicular to the first direction is called the second direction, the size (D1) of the protrusion support (512) in the second direction may be smaller than the size (D2) of the flat surface (112a) in the second direction. In other words, the vertical wall (112b) of the second coupling part (112) may be spaced apart by a predetermined distance from each end of the protrusion support (512) arranged in the second direction.

[0124] Foreign substances that have flowed into the second coupling part (112) of the vacuum cleaner station (1) exhibit a random pattern of deposition, and most of them can be removed by the configuration of the bypass hole (710) formed in the suction pipe (700). However, if the size (D1) of the second direction of the protrusion support (512) and the size (D2) of the second direction of the flat surface (112a) of the second coupling part (112) are nearly the same, that is, if each end positioned in the second direction of the protrusion support (512) is in contact with or positioned too close to the vertical wall (112b) of the second coupling part (112), the possibility that the deposited foreign substances cannot escape through the bypass hole (710) increases.

[0125] At this time, especially when hard and small foreign substances, such as grains of sand, accumulate in the small gap between the upper end of the protrusion support (512) and the vertical wall (112b), resistance to linear reciprocating motion may occur, and the protrusion support (512) may generate a grimy noise as it rubs against the foreign substances. To solve this problem, the vacuum cleaner station (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention may be configured such that a predetermined distance is spaced between the upper end of the protrusion support (512) and the vertical wall (112b). Here, the predetermined distance may be selected by considering the size of the foreign substances that may fall by gravity when the discharge cover (2620) is opened, escape through the gap between the dust bin body (2610) and the coupling part (110), and flow into the second coupling part (112). (See FIG. 8)

[0126] Through this configuration, it becomes possible to resolve the aforementioned problems (deposition of foreign substances, generation of resistance to linear reciprocating motion, generation of noise, etc.).

[0127] Meanwhile, referring again to FIG. 7, the movement axis (L1) of the linear reciprocating movement direction of the protrusion support (512) can be positioned at the center of the second direction of the flat surface (112a). In other words, the distance from the left end of the protrusion support (512) to the nearby vertical wall (112b) and the distance from the right end of the protrusion support (512) to the nearby vertical wall (112b) can be the same. That is, the second connecting part (112) and the protrusion support (512) can have a symmetrical structure with respect to the movement axis (L1) of the protrusion support (512). Through this configuration, the left and right separation distances between the protrusion support (512) and the vertical wall (112b) can be set equally to the minimum distance with respect to the movement axis (L1) of the protrusion support (512), and there is an advantage in that the internal space of the vacuum cleaner station (1) can be designed efficiently.

[0128] From now on, the structure of the connecting lever (2630) of the vacuum cleaner (2) will be explained in detail.

[0129] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the coupling lever (2630) of the vacuum cleaner (2), FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the coupling lever (2630) of FIG. 9 seen from a different direction, FIG. 11 is a side view of the coupling lever (2630) of FIG. 9, and FIG. 12 is a perspective view to show the relationship between the direction in which the lever inclined portion (2632) of the coupling lever (2630) is formed and the direction of movement (A) of the push projection (511).

[0130] Referring to FIGS. 9 to 12, the coupling lever (2630) may include a lever body (2631), a lever inclined portion (2632), a lever side wall (2633), a lever pressing portion (2634), and a hook pressing portion (2635).

[0131] The lever body (2631) may form part of the outer shape of the coupling lever (2630). The lever body (2631) may be formed to extend along the longitudinal direction of the dustbin body (2610). At this time, the lever body (2631) may be bent for a predetermined length from both ends perpendicular to the direction of extension toward the center of the dustbin body (2610) to form the inner internal space of the coupling lever (2630). Additionally, a lever inclined portion (2632) may be connected to one end of the direction in which the lever body (2631) is extended.

[0132] The lever inclined portion (2632) is connected to the lever body (2631) at one end where the lever body (2631) is extended and can be formed extending from the lever body (2631).

[0133] At this time, a dust discharge groove (2632a) may be provided in the lever inclined portion (2632) by being carved into the lever inclined portion (2632). By providing the dust discharge groove (2632a) in the coupling lever (2630), residual dust that has flowed into the coupling lever (2630) can pass through the dust discharge groove (2632a) by the suction operation of the dust collection motor (200) and be introduced into the suction pipe (700) to be removed.

[0134] The lever inclined portion (2632) may be formed to be inclined toward the center of the dustbin body (2610) based on the state in which the coupling lever (2630) is coupled to the dustbin body (2610). Alternatively, the lever inclined portion (2632) may be formed extending from the lever body (2631) and may be formed at a predetermined angle (θ) upward with respect to the movement direction (A) of the coupling lever (2630). The lever inclined portion (2632) may be positioned obliquely with respect to the door (610) when the vacuum cleaner (2) is coupled to the coupling portion (110). Alternatively, the lever inclined portion (2632) may be positioned in a shape facing the bypass hole (710) when the vacuum cleaner (2) is coupled to the coupling portion (110). With this configuration, the dust discharge groove (2632a) through which residual dust must escape is not blocked by the door (610), and the removal of residual dust through the dust discharge groove (2632a) to the bypass hole (710) can be smoothly carried out. (See FIG. 11 and FIG. 12)

[0135] The lever side wall (2633) is coupled with the lever body (2631) and the lever pressing part (2632). One or more side wall support ribs (2637) positioned toward the interior of the coupling lever (2630) may be coupled to each of the lever side walls (2633).

[0136] The lever pressure part (2634) can be coupled to the other end of the lever body (2631). At this time, the other end of the lever body (2631) may mean the direction opposite to the direction in which the lever inclined part (2632) is positioned. The lever pressure part (2634) can be formed by extending from the other end of the lever body (2631) in a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the lever body (2631) is extended. The lever pressure part (2634) is configured such that an external force is applied by a user, and when an external force is applied to the lever pressure part (2634), the coupling lever (2630) moves along the length of the dust bin (2600) to open the discharge cover (2620).

[0137] A lever hole (2634a) formed to penetrate the lever pressing portion (2634) may be provided in the lever pressing portion (2634). The lever hole (2634a) may be provided in the form of an elongated hole that penetrates in the direction in which the lever side wall (2633) is positioned. Additionally, the lever hole (2634a) and the dust discharge groove (2632a) may be positioned to face each other.

[0138] When the dust collection motor (200) generates suction force through the lever hole (2634a) and the dust discharge groove (2632a) arranged to face each other in this manner, an airflow can be formed that communicates from the outside of the coupling lever (2630) through the lever hole (2634a) and through the dust discharge groove (2632a) to the bypass hole (710), and since the airflow is not blocked at the lever pressurizing part (2634) during the suction operation of the dust collection motor (200), the suction effect of residual dust can be further enhanced.

[0139] The hook pressing part (2635) can be coupled to the lever pressing part (2634). One side of the lever pressing part (2634) can be coupled to the lever body (2631), and the other side of the lever pressing part (2634) can be coupled to the hook pressing part (2635). At this time, the hook pressing part (2635) can be formed in a shape that extends in the same direction as the lever body (2631). The hook pressing part (2635) can press the coupling hook (2660) of the discharge cover (2620) to cause elastic deformation in the coupling hook (2660). In other words, when an external force is applied to the lever pressing part (2634) by a user, the hook pressing part (2635) presses the coupling hook (2660), and the discharge cover (2620) can be opened. (See FIG. 12)

[0140] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of the suction path of residual dust through the dust discharge groove (2632a) and bypass hole (710) of the coupling lever (2630).

[0141] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, residual dust that flows into the second coupling part (112) during the process of opening the discharge cover (2620) or during the process of dust being sucked into the vacuum cleaner station (1) can be sucked into the suction pipe (700) through the bypass hole (710) from the second coupling part (112). Additionally, residual dust that flows into the inside of the coupling lever (2630) (the space between the coupling lever (2630) and the dust bin body (2610)) during the process of opening the discharge cover (2620) or during the process of dust being sucked into the vacuum cleaner station (1) can be sucked into the suction pipe (700) through the bypass hole (710) from the dust discharge groove (2632a).

[0142] Next, a method for removing residual dust using a vacuum cleaner system (1000) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 14.

[0143] FIG. 14 is a flowchart of a method for removing residual dust using a vacuum cleaner system (1000) which is an embodiment of the present invention.

[0144] First, when it is confirmed that the vacuum cleaner (2) is connected to the connecting part (110) (S100), in the door opening step, the door (610) provided in the vacuum cleaner station (1) is opened to communicate the outside and inside of the vacuum cleaner station (1) (S200). At this time, the opening of the door (610) can be performed by the door unit (600) of the vacuum cleaner station (1) described above.

[0145] Meanwhile, a coupling sensor (not shown) may be placed in the coupling part (110) to check whether the vacuum cleaner (2) is coupled to the coupling part (110). The coupling sensor may be a contact sensor such as a micro switch, or a non-contact sensor such as an infrared sensor.

[0146] Next, in the discharge cover (2620) opening step, the discharge cover (2620) that opens and closes the dust bin (2600) is opened (S300). At this time, the opening of the discharge cover (2620) can be performed by the cover opening unit (500) of the vacuum cleaner station (1) described above.

[0147] When both the door (610) and the discharge cover (2620) are opened and the inside of the dust bin body (2610) and the suction pipe (700) are connected, the process proceeds to the dust collection stage, and the dust collection motor (200) is driven to suck dust into the inside of the vacuum cleaner station (1). (S400) The dust collection motor (200) can be driven for a predetermined first time (t1). At this time, air containing dust flows through the main suction path and the bypass suction path to the suction pipe (700), and dust can be collected in the dust bag (310).

[0148] After the first time (t1) has elapsed, when the dust collection motor (200) stops operating and stops (S500), the door unit (600) can close the door (610) together with the discharge cover (2620) during the door closing stage (S600). When the door arm (620) of the door unit (600) pushes the door (610) in the direction of closing the door (610), the discharge cover (2620) also moves together in the direction of closing the dust bin (2600), so that the discharge cover (2620) is re-attached to the dust bin body (2610) and the door (610) also closes the dust passage hole (113a).

[0149] Meanwhile, after the door closing step, a residual dust removal step is performed to remove residual dust present around the dust bin (2600). (S700)

[0150] At this time, the residual dust removal step is a process in which the dust collection motor (200) is driven again for a predetermined time while the vacuum cleaner (2) is connected to the vacuum cleaner station (1), thereby sucking residual dust into the interior of the vacuum cleaner station (1). More specifically, after the door (610) is closed by the door unit (600) and the dust bin (2600) is connected to the connection part (110), the dust collection motor (200) can be driven again for a second time (t2) to generate suction force. At this time, since the main suction path is closed, the air containing dust flows through only the bypass suction path to the suction pipe (700) while the dust collection motor (200) is driven again. Accordingly, when the dust collection motor (200) generates the same suction force, the suction force can be concentrated more significantly in the bypass suction path. That is, by configuring the dust collection motor (200) to be driven again when the discharge cover (2620) and the door (610) are closed, the suction force provided to the residual dust increases, thereby increasing the efficiency of removing residual dust.

[0151] Meanwhile, the bypass suction path may be a path in which residual dust that has flowed into the second coupling part (112) is sucked into the inside of the suction pipe (700) through the bypass hole (710), or a path in which residual dust that has flowed into the inside of the coupling lever (2630) is sucked into the inside of the suction pipe (700) through the dust discharge groove (2632a) and the bypass hole (710).

[0152] In addition, the first time (t1) and the second time (t2) may be predetermined times set in a control unit (not shown) of the vacuum cleaner station (1), and the first time (t1), during which more dust must be sucked, may be set to be longer than or equal to the second time (t2), during which residual dust is sucked. The control unit may be housed inside the housing (100) and may control the driving, stopping, and suction power of the dust collection motor (200).

[0153] Finally, when the second time (t2) has elapsed, the dust collection motor (200) stops (S800) and all operations of the vacuum cleaner station (1) are terminated.

[0154] As described above, according to the present invention, residual dust accumulated near the push protrusion inside the vacuum cleaner station can be effectively sucked in through a bypass hole provided to penetrate the outside and inside of the suction pipe.

[0155] In addition, according to the present invention, residual dust accumulated inside the coupling lever on the outside of the dust bin of the vacuum cleaner can be effectively removed through the dust discharge groove formed in the coupling lever of the vacuum cleaner.

[0156] In addition, according to the present invention, through a residual dust removal step in which the dust collection motor is restarted for a certain period of time after the suction of dust inside the dust bin is finished and the discharge cover is closed, the suction force for sucking residual dust can be concentrated on the bypass hole and the dust discharge groove, thereby allowing residual dust to be removed more effectively.

[0157] Although specific embodiments of the present invention have been described and illustrated above, the present invention is not limited to the described embodiments, and those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and variations can be made to other specific embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention should not be determined by the described embodiments but by the technical concept described in the claims. Explanation of the symbols

[0158] 1000: Vacuum cleaner system 1: Vacuum cleaner station 100: Housing 100a: First outer wall surface 110: Joint 111: First joint 111a: Curved part 111b: Protruding jaw 112: Second connecting part 112a: Flat surface 122aa: Protrusion insertion hole 112b: Vertical wall 113: Third joint 113a: Dust passage hole 110b: Second outer wall surface 110c: Third exterior wall surface 110d: 4th exterior wall surface 110e: Ground support 200: Dust collector motor 300: Dust storage module 310: Dust bag 320: Dust storage module housing 500: Cover opening unit 510: Push section 511: Push protrusion 512: Protrusion support 513: Protruding neck 514: Gear coupling block 520: Cover opening gear 521: 1st cover opening gear 522: Second cover opening gear 600: Door unit 605: Door hinge 610: Door 620: Door arm 621: 1st door arm 622: 2nd door arm 630: Door motor 700: Suction tube 610: Bypass hole 2: Vacuum cleaner 2000: Vacuum cleaner body 2100: Intake 2200: Dust separator 2300: Suction motor 2400: Handle 2500: Battery housing 2600: Dust bin 2610: Dustbin body 2620: Discharge cover 2630: Connecting lever 2631: Lever Body 2632: Lever incline 2632a: Dust exhaust groove 2633: Lever sidewall 2634: Lever pressure part 2634a: Lever hole 2635: Hook pressure part 2636: Sidewall support rib 2640: Dustbin hinge 2650: Body Tuck

Claims

Claim 1 A vacuum cleaner station comprising: a housing coupled to a vacuum cleaner; a coupling portion formed such that one side of the housing is recessed toward the interior of the housing and at least a portion of the vacuum cleaner is coupled thereto; a cover opening unit disposed in the coupling portion and opening the discharge cover of the dust bin of the vacuum cleaner; a dust collection motor received inside the housing and generating a suction force to suck dust inside the dust bin of the vacuum cleaner; and a suction pipe disposed vertically inside the housing and having one end connected to the coupling portion; wherein the cover opening unit includes a push projection formed to protrude in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the housing at a position facing the coupling lever of the discharge cover to open the discharge cover when the vacuum cleaner is coupled to the coupling portion, and wherein the suction pipe is provided with a bypass hole formed in the shape of an elongated hole at a position facing the push projection in the direction in which the push projection presses the coupling lever, penetrating the interior and exterior of the suction pipe. Claim 2 The vacuum cleaner station according to claim 1 further comprises: a door unit including a door hinged to the coupling portion and opened in the direction in which the discharge cover is opened to communicate the outside of the housing with the suction pipe, and a door arm coupled to the door and configured to open and close the door; wherein the dust collection motor generates suction force by operating for a predetermined time after the door is closed by the door unit and the dust bin is coupled to the coupling portion. Claim 3 A vacuum cleaner station according to claim 1, wherein the cover opening unit further comprises a projection support coupled to the lower end of the push projection and reciprocating in a straight line together with the push projection. Claim 4 A vacuum cleaner station comprising, in paragraph 3, a first coupling part provided to support a portion of the lower outer surface of the dust bin corresponding to the shape of the dust bin; and a second coupling part coupled to the first coupling part and configured to have a flat surface on which the lower surface of the projection support is disposed to perform linear reciprocating motion. Claim 5 A vacuum cleaner station according to claim 4, wherein the direction in which the protrusion support moves in a straight reciprocating motion is called the first direction, and the direction perpendicular to the first direction is called the second direction, and the size of the second direction of the protrusion support is provided to be smaller than the size of the second direction of the flat surface. Claim 6 A vacuum cleaner station characterized in that, in claim 5, the movement axis of the protrusion support is positioned at the center of the second direction of the flat surface. Claim 7 A vacuum cleaner station comprising: a housing coupled to a vacuum cleaner; a coupling part in which one side of the housing is formed in a shape recessed toward the interior of the housing and at least a part of the vacuum cleaner is coupled thereto, and a dust passage hole formed in a position facing the dust bin of the vacuum cleaner when the vacuum cleaner is coupled; a dust collection motor received inside the housing and generating a suction force to suck dust inside the dust bin; and a suction pipe arranged in an up-and-down direction inside the housing, with one end connected to the coupling part and communicating with the dust passage hole; wherein a bypass hole formed in the shape of an elongated hole penetrating the interior and exterior of the suction pipe is provided on the suction pipe, and the bypass hole is formed to have a cross-sectional area smaller than the penetrating cross-sectional area of ​​the dust passage hole. Claim 8 A vacuum cleaner station according to claim 7, further comprising a cover opening unit disposed in the coupling portion and opening the discharge cover of the dust bin, wherein the cover opening unit includes a push projection formed to protrude in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the housing at a position opposite to the coupling lever of the discharge cover so as to open the discharge cover when the vacuum cleaner is coupled to the coupling portion, and wherein the bypass hole is provided at a position facing the push projection in a direction in which the push projection presses the coupling lever. Claim 9 A vacuum cleaner station according to claim 8, further comprising: a door unit including a door hinged to the joint portion and opened in the direction in which the discharge cover is opened to communicate the outside of the housing with the suction pipe, and a door arm coupled to the door and configured to open and close the door; wherein the dust collection motor is driven for a predetermined time after the door closes the dust passage hole by the door unit to generate suction force in the bypass hole. Claim 10 A vacuum cleaner system comprising a vacuum cleaner including a dust bin for collecting dust, and a vacuum cleaner station coupled to the vacuum cleaner to remove dust discharged from the dust bin, wherein the dust bin comprises: a dust bin body having a cylindrical shape and one side open; a discharge cover including a coupling hook rotatably coupled to the open side of the dust bin body and hook-coupled to the dust bin body; and a coupling lever coupled to the dust bin body and moving along the outer surface of the dust bin body in the longitudinal direction of the dust bin body to release the hook coupling between the discharge cover and the dust bin body, wherein the coupling lever comprises: a lever body extending along the longitudinal direction of the dust bin body; and a lever inclined portion connected to the lever body and extending upward at a predetermined angle with respect to the direction of movement of the coupling lever; wherein the lever inclined portion is provided with a dust discharge groove facing the lever body at one end of the lever inclined portion. Claim 11 A vacuum cleaner system according to claim 10, wherein the vacuum cleaner station comprises: a housing coupled to the vacuum cleaner; a coupling part formed such that one side of the housing is recessed toward the interior of the housing and at least a portion of the vacuum cleaner is coupled thereto; a suction pipe arranged vertically within the housing and having one end connected to the coupling part; and a push projection formed to protrude in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the housing at a position opposite to the coupling lever to open the discharge cover when the vacuum cleaner is coupled to the coupling part, wherein the suction pipe is provided with a bypass hole formed in the shape of an elongated hole at a position facing the push projection in the direction in which the push projection presses the coupling lever, penetrating the interior and exterior of the suction pipe. Claim 12 A vacuum cleaner system according to claim 11, characterized in that the through-hole cross-sectional area of ​​one end of the suction pipe connected to the coupling part is larger than the through-hole cross-sectional area of ​​the bypass hole. Claim 13 In claim 11, the vacuum cleaner station further comprises: a dust collection motor that is housed inside the housing and generates a suction force to suck dust inside the dust bin; and a door unit comprising a door that is hinge-coupled to the coupling part and opens in the direction in which the discharge cover is opened to communicate the outside of the housing with the suction pipe, and a door arm coupled to the door and configured to open and close the door; wherein the dust collection motor generates a suction force by driving for a predetermined time after the door is closed by the door unit and the dust bin is coupled to the coupling part. Claim 14 A method for removing residual dust using a vacuum cleaner system comprising a vacuum cleaner including a dust bin for collecting dust and a vacuum cleaner station coupled to the vacuum cleaner to remove dust discharged from the dust bin, the method comprising: a door opening step in which a door provided in the vacuum cleaner station to communicate with the outside and inside of the vacuum cleaner station is opened; a discharge cover opening step in which a discharge cover for opening and closing the dust bin is opened; a dust collection step in which dust inside the dust bin is sucked into the interior of the vacuum cleaner station by driving a dust collection motor housed inside the vacuum cleaner station; a door closing step in which the door is closed together with the discharge cover; and a residual dust removal step in which residual dust existing around the dust bin is removed after the door closing step; wherein the residual dust removal step is characterized in that the dust collection motor is driven again for a predetermined time while the vacuum cleaner is coupled to the vacuum cleaner station, thereby sucking the residual dust into the interior of the vacuum cleaner station. Claim 15 In claim 14, the vacuum cleaner station comprises: a housing coupled to the vacuum cleaner; a coupling part formed such that one side of the housing is recessed toward the interior of the housing and at least a portion of the vacuum cleaner is coupled thereto; a suction pipe arranged vertically within the housing and having one end connected to the coupling part; and a push projection formed to protrude in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the housing at a position facing the coupling lever of the discharge cover to open the discharge cover when the vacuum cleaner is coupled to the coupling part, wherein the suction pipe is provided with a bypass hole formed in the shape of an elongated hole at a position facing the push projection in the direction in which the push projection presses the coupling lever, penetrating the interior and exterior of the suction pipe, and the residual dust removal step is characterized in that the residual dust is sucked into the interior of the suction pipe through the bypass hole while the dust collection motor is driven again. Claim 16 In claim 15, the discharge cover is hook-coupled to a cylindrical dust bin body included in the dust bin, and the coupling lever comprises: a lever body formed extending along the longitudinal direction of the dust bin body; and a lever inclined portion connected to the lever body and formed extending upward at a predetermined angle with respect to the direction of movement of the coupling lever; wherein the lever inclined portion has a dust discharge groove formed facing the lever body at one end of the lever inclined portion, and the residual dust removal step is characterized in that the residual dust is sucked into the inside of the suction pipe through the dust discharge groove and the bypass hole while the dust collection motor is driven again.

Images