Charger and control method

Abstract

A charger and a control method are disclosed. The charger of the present invention comprises: a communication unit, which obtains temperature information of a battery from an external battery; and a processor, which applies power to the battery based on the temperature information received from the communication unit, and when the measured temperature of the battery is within a first preset interval, the processor can apply a pulse wave of a first period to the battery, thereby enabling the battery to be quickly charged even if the temperature of the battery deviates from a charging allowable range due to discharge of a battery built into a vacuum cleaner, thereby shortening the total time required for charging the battery.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a charger and a control method thereof, and more particularly to a charger and a control method for intelligently charging a battery attached to a vacuum cleaner. Background Art

[0002] Generally, a vacuum cleaner is a household appliance that uses electricity to suck in air to suck in smaller garbage or dust and fills the dust barrel inside the product, and is usually called a vacuum cleaner.

[0003] Such vacuum cleaners can be divided into manual vacuum cleaners, which are vacuum cleaners that the user directly moves and cleans, and automatic vacuum cleaners, which are vacuum cleaners that automatically move and clean. Manual vacuum cleaners can be divided into cylinder vacuum cleaners, upright vacuum cleaners, handheld vacuum cleaners, stick vacuum cleaners, etc. according to the shape of the vacuum cleaner.

[0004] Conventionally, most household vacuum cleaners are cylinder-type vacuum cleaners. However, in recent years, handheld vacuum cleaners and stick-type vacuum cleaners are increasingly being used, in which a dust container and a vacuum cleaner body are integrated to improve the convenience of use.

[0005] In a cylinder-type vacuum cleaner, a main body and a suction port are connected by a rubber hose or a tube, and a brush can be mounted on the suction port for use according to circumstances.

[0006] Handheld vacuum cleaners maximize portability, but are lightweight, but are short in length and require squatting for cleaning, so are limited in the cleaning area. Therefore, they are used for cleaning local areas such as on tables or sofas or in cars.

[0007] A stick vacuum cleaner can be used while standing, so it can be cleaned without bending over. Therefore, it is convenient to move and clean a wider area. When cleaning a narrow space, a stick vacuum cleaner can clean a wider space than a handheld vacuum cleaner, and can clean high places that cannot be reached by hands. In recent years, stick vacuum cleaners have been provided in a modular form to actively change the type of vacuum cleaner for various objects.

[0008] In addition, in recent years, there have been launched products configured to be able to be used as both a handheld vacuum cleaner and a stick vacuum cleaner, thereby improving user convenience.

[0009] On the other hand, rechargeable batteries can be detachably mounted on handheld / stick vacuum cleaners. When the vacuum cleaner is not in use, the user can charge the battery built into the vacuum cleaner by placing the vacuum cleaner on a charger connected to a power socket.

[0010] On the other hand, the temperature of the battery has a great impact on the performance and safety of the battery. For this reason, the battery of the vacuum cleaner is marked with an allowable temperature. That is, if the battery is used at a temperature higher than the allowable temperature marked on the battery, it may pose a threat to the safety of the user.

[0011] In addition, the specifications of the discharge allowable temperature and the charge allowable temperature of each battery are different from each other. On the other hand, the discharge allowable temperature range is larger than the charge allowable temperature range. Here, in the case where the battery is discharged to the maximum value of the discharge allowable temperature range, it will deviate from the charge allowable temperature range. Therefore, the user is required to wait for charging until the temperature of the battery drops to the charge allowable temperature range, which will unnecessarily increase the time required for charging. Summary of the invention

[0012] Problem to be solved

[0013] An object of the present invention is to provide a method for controlling a charger capable of charging a battery of a vacuum cleaner more quickly and safely.

[0014] Another object of the present invention is to provide a charger capable of efficiently charging a battery even under temperature conditions outside the charging allowable range of the battery of a vacuum cleaner.

[0015] Technical solutions to the problem

[0016] A charger control method according to an embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that it includes: a step of acquiring temperature information of the battery from the battery when connected to the battery of the vacuum cleaner; and a step of charging the battery based on the temperature information; in the step of charging the battery, when the temperature of the battery is measured to be within a pre-set first interval, a pulse wave of a first period is applied to the battery.

[0017] Furthermore, the control method of the charger may be characterized in that the first section is determined based on preset maximum charge-permitting temperature information and preset minimum charge-permitting temperature information.

[0018] Furthermore, the charger control method may be characterized in that the first period is less than 1 second.

[0019] Furthermore, the charger control method may be characterized by including a step of changing the first cycle based on the temperature information.

[0020] Furthermore, the charger control method may be characterized by including a step of changing a duration of the pulse wave based on the temperature information.

[0021] A charger according to an embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that it includes: a communication unit, which obtains temperature information of the battery from an external battery; and a processor, which applies power to the battery based on the temperature information received from the communication unit, and when the temperature of the battery is measured to be within a predetermined first interval, the processor applies a pulse wave of a first period to the battery.

[0022] Furthermore, the charger may be characterized in that the processor determines the first section based on preset maximum charge-permitting temperature information and preset minimum charge-permitting temperature information.

[0023] Furthermore, the charger may be characterized in that the processor determines the first period to be less than 1 second.

[0024] Furthermore, the charger may be characterized in that the processor changes the first cycle based on the temperature information.

[0025] Furthermore, the charger may be characterized in that the processor changes the duration of the pulse wave based on the temperature information.

[0026] Technical Effects

[0027] According to the vacuum cleaner and control method thereof of the present invention, even if the battery temperature deviates from the charging allowable range due to discharge of the battery built into the vacuum cleaner, the battery can be charged faster, thereby shortening the total time required for charging the battery.

[0028] Furthermore, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, even in a dangerous state where the temperature of the battery of the vacuum cleaner deviates from the charging allowable range, the battery can be safely charged, thereby preventing dangers that may occur when charging the battery. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] Figure 1 It is a diagram showing a control structure used for the vacuum cleaner according to the embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 2 This is a control block diagram of each component that makes up the control system of a vacuum cleaner and smart device.

[0031] Figure 3 A matching cleaning information providing device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0032] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 3 A block diagram of an example of a processor.

[0033] Figure 5 It is an exploded perspective view showing a vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment.

[0034] Figure 6 It is a diagram showing a control method of a vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment.

[0035] Figure 7 It is a block diagram showing the connection relationship of the vacuum cleaner.

[0036] Figure 8 2 is a cross-sectional view showing a connection portion between a cleaner body and a cleaning module according to the first embodiment.

[0037] Fig. 9 1 and 2 are top views respectively showing the joint portion of the vacuum cleaner body and the cleaning module according to the first embodiment.

[0038] Fig.10 1 and 10 are top views respectively showing the joint portion of the vacuum cleaner body and the cleaning module according to the second embodiment.

[0039] Fig.11 Detailed description of the invention is given in detail below.

[0040] Fig.12 is a block diagram showing a charger and a battery according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Fig.13 From the signal processing point of view Fig.12 A diagram showing the battery and charger.

[0042] Fig.14 The temperature distribution of an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0043] Fig.15 It is a graph showing the change in temperature corresponding to the change in time.

[0044] Fig.16 An example of a pulse wave according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0045] Fig.17 Another example of the pulse wave according to the embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0046] Fig.18 Another example of the pulse wave according to the embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0047] Fig.19 Another example of the pulse wave according to the embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0048] Fig. 20 Another example of the pulse wave according to the embodiment of the present invention is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0049] Hereinafter, the embodiments disclosed in the present specification will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, and the same or similar structural elements are given the same reference numerals regardless of the figure numbers, and repeated descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0050] In the process of describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if a certain structural element is mentioned to be “connected” or “coupled” to another structural element, it should be understood that it may be directly connected to or coupled to the other structural element, but other structural elements may also exist between them.

[0051] In addition, in the process of describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, when it is determined that the specific description of the relevant known technology makes the gist of the embodiments disclosed in this specification unclear, the detailed description thereof is omitted. In addition, the drawings are provided to facilitate understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical ideas disclosed in this specification are not limited to the drawings. The present invention includes all changes, equivalents and substitutes made within the technical ideas and technical scope of the present invention.

[0052] On the other hand, the term disclosure can be replaced by terms such as document, specification, description, etc.

[0053] Figure 1 1 is a diagram showing a control structure of the vacuum cleaner 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 It is a control block diagram of each component of the control system that realizes the vacuum cleaner 100 and the smart device 20.

[0054] Reference Figure 1 The control system of the vacuum cleaner 100 of an embodiment of the present invention may include: a vacuum cleaner 100; a smart device 20 equipped with an application (APP: application) for controlling or managing the vacuum cleaner 100; a server 30 for managing the application; and the Internet 40 for communication between the smart device 20, the vacuum cleaner 100 and the server 30.

[0055] Reference Figure 2 The vacuum cleaner 100 may include: a control unit 101, an input unit 102, an output unit 103, a detection unit 104, a memory 105, a communication module 106 and a power supply unit 107.

[0056] The control unit 101 may include a processor, such as a microcontroller (MCU: MicroController Unit).

[0057] The input unit 102 may be formed on a control panel disposed near the handle of the vacuum cleaner 100, and may be provided in the form of a touch button or a push button. Alternatively, it may be provided in the form of a microphone to recognize voice commands. In addition, an input unit including a camera or an image sensor may also be provided to be able to recognize the user's gesture.

[0058] The output unit 103 may include a display configured as an image output unit and a speaker configured as an audio output unit.

[0059] The display may be arranged on the control panel or provided as an additional display area, and may include an LCD panel for outputting images or dynamic images, or may simply include a single or multiple light-emitting units.

[0060] The speaker can output a selection sound, an alarm sound, a cleaning start or cleaning end prompt signal, etc. In addition, the speaker can be arranged in a region outside the handle that can be held by the user.

[0061] The detection unit 104 may include a current sensor for sensing a current value (or voltage value) of a drive unit described later, a load sensor for sensing a load of the drive unit, a torque sensor for sensing a torque of the drive unit, and a timer for sensing an operation time and moment.

[0062] The memory 105 may include DRAM (RAM that needs to be refreshed), SRAM (RAM that does not need to be refreshed), ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, etc.

[0063] Furthermore, the communication module 106 may include a wired communication module or a wireless communication module, wherein the wired communication module includes a power line communication (PLC: Power Line Communication) capable of Internet communication, and the wireless communication module includes Wifi (Wireless-Fidelity). The communication module 106 may include a transceiver or an antenna. In addition, the transceiver may include a transmitter and a receiver.

[0064] In addition, a driving unit for operating the power supply unit 107 and the vacuum cleaner 100 may be included. The driving unit may include a driving motor or a motor pump. The driving motor may include: a main driving motor, which is provided on the vacuum cleaner body to generate suction; and an auxiliary driving motor, which is provided on the suction nozzle provided on the suction end of the vacuum cleaner to generate the rotational force of the roller, etc.

[0065] On the other hand, the smart device 20 may include a smartphone that a user can carry. In addition, the smart device 20 may include a control unit 21 , an input unit 22 , a memory 23 , a power supply unit 24 , a wireless communication unit 25 , an audio output unit 26 , and a display unit 27 .

[0066] The input unit 22 may include a touch key for inputting a command by touching the display unit 27 .

[0067] The wireless communication unit 25 may be a wireless communication module capable of communicating with the Internet 40 .

[0068] The audio output unit 26 may include a speaker.

[0069] According to the above configuration, the user can run the application (APP) installed on the smart device 20 for managing or controlling the vacuum cleaner 100, and confirm the management status of the vacuum cleaner 100 or input a control instruction through the application. In addition, the user can receive information related to the management status of the vacuum cleaner 100 stored in the server 30 through the Internet 40 on the smart device 20. In addition, the control instruction input from the smart device 20 can be transmitted to the server 30 of the application through the Internet 40, and the server 30 can send the control instruction to the communication module 106 of the vacuum cleaner 100 through the Internet 40.

[0070] In addition, the control instruction received by the communication module 106 is transmitted to the control unit 101 of the vacuum cleaner 100, and the control unit 101 can control the operation of the driving unit 105 according to the received control instruction.

[0071] In addition, the control unit 101 of the vacuum cleaner 100 can send the events occurring during the cleaning process received by the detection unit 104 in a wired or wireless manner through the communication module 106. The event information sent by the communication module 106 of the vacuum cleaner 100 can be transmitted to the server 30 through the Internet 40. In addition, the server 30 can send the received event information to the wireless communication unit 25 of the smart device 20 through the Internet 40.

[0072] In addition, the event information received by the wireless communication unit 25 may be displayed on the display unit 27 by the control unit 21 of the smart device 20 .

[0073] Figure 3 A matching cleaning information providing device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0074] Reference Figure 3 The matching cleaning information providing device 100 may include: a control unit 101, an input unit 102, an output unit 103, a detection unit 104, a memory 105, a communication module 106 and / or a power supply unit 107.

[0075] The control unit 101 may include a processor, such as a microcontroller (MCU: MicroController Unit).

[0076] The input unit 102 may include: physical keys or touch keys, which receive physical signals or touch signals from the outside based on the control of the control unit 101; and a microphone, which receives audio signals. In addition, it may also include a camera or image sensor, which receives images from the outside based on the control of the control unit 101.

[0077] The output unit 103 may include a speaker that outputs an audio signal based on the control of the control unit 101. For example, the speaker may provide matching cleaning information in the form of an audio signal.

[0078] The output unit 103 may include: a display that outputs time information based on the control of the control unit 101. The display can realize a touch screen by forming a layer structure or integrally forming with the touch sensor. Such a touch screen can function as a user input unit that provides an input interface between the matching cleaning information providing device 100 and the user, while providing an output interface between the matching cleaning information providing device 100 and the user. For example, the display can obtain information for registration from the user. In addition, the display can output the matching cleaning information to the user in the form of time information. That is, the display can be the input interface of the matching cleaning information providing device 100 and the output interface at the same time.

[0079] The detection unit 104 may include a sensor for detecting one or more of the current, voltage, load, and torque of the driving unit of the matching cleaning information providing device 100. In addition, a timer for knowing the operation time and running time of the driving unit may be included. In addition, a camera or an image sensor may be included to sense a user or an obstacle, etc.

[0080] The memory 105 stores data supporting various functions of the matching cleaning information providing device 100. The memory 105 can store a plurality of application programs (application programs or applications) driven in the matching cleaning information providing device 100, data and instructions for the actions of the matching cleaning information providing device 100. At least a portion of such application programs can be downloaded from an external server via wireless communication. In addition, at least a portion of such application programs can exist in the matching cleaning information providing device 100 from the factory for the basic functions of the matching cleaning information providing device 100 (for example, data receiving and transmitting functions). On the other hand, the application program can be stored in the memory 105, installed in the matching cleaning information providing device 100, and driven by the control unit 101 to perform the actions (or functions) of the matching cleaning information providing device 100.

[0081] The communication module 106 may include one or more modules that can realize wireless communication between the matching cleaning information providing device 100 and the wireless communication system, between the matching cleaning information providing device 100 and other matching cleaning information providing devices 100, or between the matching cleaning information providing device 100 and an external server. In addition, the communication module 106 may include one or more modules that connect the matching cleaning information providing device 100 to one or more networks. Here, the communication module 106 can be connected to a 5G communication system. The communication module 106 can communicate wirelessly with other matching cleaning information providing devices, external servers or external devices (for example, mobile terminals) through the 5G communication system.

[0082] Such a communication module 106 may include at least one of a short distance communication part and a wireless Internet part.

[0083] The wireless Internet unit refers to a module for wireless Internet connection, which can be built-in or external to the matching cleaning information providing device 100. The wireless Internet unit is implemented by sending and receiving wireless signals on a communication network based on wireless Internet technology.

[0084] For example, wireless Internet technologies include WLAN (Wireless LAN), WiFi (Wireless-Fidelity), WiFi Direct (Wireless Fidelity Direct), DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance), WiBro (Wireless Broadband), WiMAX (World Interoperability for Microwave Access), HSDPA (High Speed ​​Downlink Packet Access), HSUPA (High Speed ​​Uplink Packet Access), LTE (Long Term Evolution), LTE-A (Long Term Evolution-Advanced), etc. The wireless Internet unit can send and receive data based on at least one wireless Internet technology in a range including Internet technologies not listed above.

[0085] From the point of view that wireless Internet access based on WiBro, HSDPA, HSUPA, GSM, CDMA, WCDMA, LTE, LTE-A, etc. is realized through a mobile communication network, it can also be understood that the wireless Internet part that performs wireless Internet access through the mobile communication network is a kind of mobile communication module.

[0086] The short-range communication unit is used for short-range communication (Short range communication), and can support short-range communication by using at least one of Bluetooth, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), Infrared Data Association (IrDA), UWB (Ultra Wideband), ZigBee (ZigBee protocol), NFC (Near Field Communication), WiFi (Wireless-Fidelity), WiFi Direct, and USB (Wireless Universal Serial Bus) technologies. Such a short-range communication unit can support wireless communication between the matching cleaning information providing device 100 and the wireless communication system, between the matching cleaning information providing device 100 and other matching cleaning information providing devices 100, or between the matching cleaning information providing device 100 and other mobile terminals (or external servers) through a short-range wireless communication network (Wireless Area Networks). The short-range wireless communication network can be a short-range wireless personal communication network (Wireless Personal Area Networks).

[0087] Here, other matching cleaning information providing devices may be devices that can exchange data with the matching cleaning information providing device 100 of the present invention (or can be linked). The short-range communication unit can sense (or identify) other matching cleaning information providing devices that can communicate with the matching cleaning information providing device 100 around the matching cleaning information providing device 100. Further, in the case where the sensed other matching cleaning information providing devices are matching cleaning information providing devices that have been authenticated as communicating with the matching cleaning information providing device 100 of the present invention, the control unit 101 can transmit at least a portion of the data processed in the matching cleaning information providing device 100 to other matching cleaning information providing devices through the short-range communication unit. Therefore, users of other matching cleaning information providing devices can use the data processed by the matching cleaning information providing device 100 through other matching cleaning information providing devices. For example, based on this, the user can receive cleaning information from the matching cleaning information providing device 100 and output the cleaning information through the display of other matching cleaning information providing devices.

[0088] The power supply unit 107 receives external power and internal power under the control of the control unit 101 and supplies power to various components included in the matching cleaning information providing device 100. Such a power supply unit 107 includes a battery, which may be a built-in battery or a replaceable battery.

[0089] According to the embodiment of the present invention, the control unit 101 may control the input unit 102 , the output unit 103 , the detection unit 104 , the memory 105 , the communication module 106 , and the power supply unit 107 .

[0090] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the control unit 101 may provide matching cleaning information by controlling the input unit 102 and the output unit 103 .

[0091] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the control unit 101 can obtain information required by the matching cleaning information providing device 100 by controlling the detection unit 104. For example, the control unit 101 can obtain current / voltage values, load values, torque values, operating time and operating time information, user identification information and / or obstacle sensing information from the detection unit 104.

[0092] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the control unit 101 can obtain facial images of a plurality of users stored in the memory 105, and generate / learn a facial classification model for classifying the faces of the users using only a predetermined number of images from the facial images of the plurality of users (Meta Learning). In addition, the control unit 101 can obtain images of a plurality of foods stored in the memory 105, and generate / learn a food classification model for classifying the foods using only a predetermined number of images from the plurality of food images.

[0093] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the control unit 101 may transmit matching cleaning information to an external mobile terminal by controlling the communication module 106 .

[0094] The functions and operations of the control unit 101 will be described in detail later.

[0095] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 3 A block diagram of an example of a processor.

[0096] like Figure 4 As shown, Figure 4 The control unit 101 may be the AI ​​device 50, but is not necessarily limited thereto.

[0097] The AI ​​device 50 may include an electronic device having an AI module capable of performing AI processing or a server including the AI ​​module. Figure 3At least a portion of the matching cleaning information providing device 100 shown is configured to execute at least a portion of the AI ​​processing together.

[0098] The AI ​​processing may include Figure 3 All actions related to the control of the matching cleaning information providing device 100 shown. For example, the matching cleaning information providing device 100 can perform processing / judgment and control signal generation actions by performing AI processing on the detection data or the acquired data. In addition, for example, the matching cleaning information providing device 100 can perform control of the intelligent electronic device by performing AI processing on the data received through the communication unit.

[0099] The AI ​​device 50 may be a client device that directly uses the AI ​​processing result, or may be a device in a cloud environment that provides the AI ​​processing result to other devices.

[0100] The AI ​​device 50 may include: an AI processor 51 , a memory 55 and / or a communication unit 57 .

[0101] The AI ​​device 50 is a computing device capable of learning a neural network, and can be implemented by a variety of electronic devices such as a server, a desktop PC, a notebook PC, a tablet PC, etc.

[0102] The AI ​​processor 51 can learn a neural network using a program stored in the memory 55. In particular, the AI ​​processor 51 can learn a neural network for identifying vehicle-related data. Here, the neural network for identifying vehicle-related data can be designed to simulate the structure of the human brain on a computer, and can include a plurality of network nodes with weights that simulate neurons of the human neural network. The plurality of network nodes can respectively send and receive data according to the connection relationship, simulating the synaptic activity of neurons that send and receive signals through synapses. Here, the neural network can include a deep learning model developed from a neural network model. In the deep learning model, a plurality of network nodes can be located at different layers from each other and send and receive data according to a convolution connection relationship. Examples of neural network models include various deep learning techniques such as deep neural networks (DNN), convolutional deep neural networks (CNN), recurrent neural networks (RNN), restricted Boltzmann machines (RBM), deep belief neural networks (DBN), and deep Q-networks, which can be applied to computer vision, speech recognition, natural language processing, speech / signal processing and other fields.

[0103] On the other hand, the processor that performs the aforementioned functions may be a general processor (e.g., a CPU) or an AI-specific processor (e.g., a GPU) for artificial intelligence learning.

[0104] The memory 55 can store various programs and data required for the operation of the AI ​​device 50. The memory 55 can be implemented by a non-volatile memory, a volatile memory, a flash memory, a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid state disk (SDD). The memory 55 can be accessed by the AI ​​processor 51, and the reading / recording / modification / deletion / update of data based on the AI ​​processor 51 can be performed in the memory 55. In addition, the memory 55 can store a neural network model (for example, a deep learning model 26) generated by a learning algorithm for data classification / data recognition according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0105] On the other hand, the AI ​​processor 51 may include a data learning unit 52 that learns a neural network for data classification / data recognition. The data learning unit 52 may learn what kind of learning data to use for determining data classification / data recognition, and a benchmark for how to classify and recognize data using the learning data. The data learning unit 52 may acquire learning data to be used when learning is to be done, and learn a deep learning model by applying the acquired learning data to the deep learning model.

[0106] The data learning unit 52 can be made in the form of at least one hardware chip and mounted on the AI ​​device 50. For example, the data learning unit 52 can be made in the form of a dedicated hardware chip for artificial intelligence (AI), or it can be made as a part of a general processor (CPU) or a graphics dedicated processor (GPU) and mounted on the AI ​​device 50. In addition, the data learning unit 52 can be implemented using a software module. When implemented as a software module (or a program module including instructions), the software module can be stored in a non-transitory computer readable recording medium (non-transitory computer readable media). In this case, at least one software module can be provided by an OS (Operating System) or by an application.

[0107] The data learning section 52 may include a learning data acquisition section 53 and a model learning section 54 .

[0108] The learning data acquisition unit 53 may acquire learning data required for the neural network model for classifying and identifying data. For example, the learning data acquisition unit 53 may acquire vehicle data and / or sample data for input to the neural network model as learning data.

[0109] The model learning unit 54 can be learned using the acquired learning data so that the neural network model has a judgment criterion on how to classify the specified data. At this time, the model learning unit 54 can learn the neural network model through supervised learning (supervised learning) using at least a part of the learning data as a judgment criterion. In addition, the model learning unit 54 can use the learning data to learn on its own without supervision, thereby learning the neural network model through unsupervised learning (unsupervised learning) to find the judgment criterion. In addition, the model learning unit 54 can use the feedback on whether the result judged according to the learning situation is correct to learn the neural network model through reinforcement learning. In addition, the model learning unit 54 can use learning algorithms including error back-propagation (error back-propagation) or gradient decent (gradient decent) to learn the neural network model.

[0110] If the neural network model is learned, the model learning unit 54 may store the learned neural network model in a memory. The model learning unit 54 may also store the learned neural network model in a memory of a server connected to the AI ​​device 50 via a wired or wireless network.

[0111] The data learning unit 52 may further include a learning data preprocessing unit (not shown) and a learning data selecting unit (not shown) in order to improve the analysis results of the recognition model or save resources or time required for generating the recognition model.

[0112] The learning data preprocessing unit may preprocess the acquired data so that the acquired data can be used in learning for situation determination. For example, the learning data preprocessing unit may process the acquired data into a predetermined format so that the model learning unit 54 can use the learning data acquired for learning for image recognition.

[0113] In addition, the learning data selection unit may select data required for learning from the learning data acquired by the learning data acquisition unit 53 or the learning data preprocessed by the preprocessing unit. The selected learning data may be provided to the model learning unit 54. For example, the learning data selection unit may select only data for an object included in a specific area as learning data by detecting a specific area in an image acquired by a camera of an intelligent electronic device.

[0114] In addition, the data learning unit 52 may further include a model evaluation unit (not shown) in order to improve the analysis results of the neural network model.

[0115] The model evaluation unit may input evaluation data to the neural network model, and when the analysis result output from the evaluation data does not meet the prescribed benchmark, the model learning unit 52 may be made to learn again. In this case, the evaluation data may be predefined data for evaluating the recognition model. As an example, in the analysis result of the learned recognition model for the evaluation data, when the number or ratio of the evaluation data whose analysis result is inaccurate exceeds a preset critical value, the model evaluation unit may evaluate that the prescribed benchmark is not met.

[0116] The communication unit 57 can transmit the AI ​​processing result based on the AI ​​processor 51 to an external electronic device.

[0117] The external electronic devices may include autonomous vehicles, robots, drones, AR devices, mobile devices, home appliances, etc.

[0118] As an example, in the case where the external electronic device is an autonomous vehicle, the AI ​​device 50 may be defined as another vehicle or a 5G network that communicates with the autonomous vehicle. On the other hand, the AI ​​device 50 may also be implemented by being functionally embedded in an autonomous driving module provided in the vehicle. In addition, the 5G network may include a server or module that performs autonomous driving related control.

[0119] on the other hand, Figure 4 The AI ​​device 50 shown is functionally divided into an AI processor 51, a memory 55, a communication unit 57, etc. and described, but it should be understood that the aforementioned structural elements may be integrated into one module and referred to as an AI module.

[0120] Figure 5 1 is an exploded perspective view showing a vacuum cleaner 100 according to an embodiment.

[0121] Reference Figure 5 The vacuum cleaner 100 may include: a vacuum cleaner body 200; a cleaning module 210, which is combined with the vacuum cleaner body 200, a length adjustment member 220, which connects the vacuum cleaner body 200 and the cleaning module 210; a battery 400, which is combined with the vacuum cleaner body 200; and a vacuum cleaner rack 300, which is used to place the vacuum cleaner body 200.

[0122] The vacuum cleaner body 200 may include: a main body 201, which is provided with a suction motor (not shown) for generating suction and a cyclone (not shown) for separating dust from the sucked air; a handle 202, which is connected to the rear of the main body 201 and can be held by a user; and a connecting part 203, which is connected to the front of the main body 201 and to which a cleaning module 210 or a length adjustment member 220 is combined.

[0123] The cleaning module 210 may include: a suction part 211 for sucking dust and the like; and a coupling part 212 for coupling with the cleaner body 200 or the length adjusting member 220 .

[0124] One end of the length adjustment member 220 can be combined with the vacuum cleaner body 200, and the other end can be combined with the cleaning module 210. In addition, the length adjustment member 220 can adopt a variable length structure. The length adjustment member 220 can adopt an elastically changeable material. In addition, one end of the length adjustment member 220 can be combined with the vacuum cleaner body 200 and a suction part (not shown) can be provided at the other end, so that the suction function can be performed without combining with an additional cleaning module.

[0125] The battery 400 can be connected to the main body 201 of the vacuum cleaner body 200 in a detachable manner and supply power for driving the vacuum cleaner 100. In addition, the battery 400 can be configured to be detachably accommodated in the battery accommodation portion 302 of the vacuum cleaner rack 300 and can be charged. Two batteries 400 can be provided, one of which can be combined with the vacuum cleaner body 200 to supply power, and the other can be combined with the vacuum cleaner rack 300 to be charged.

[0126] The vacuum cleaner rack 300 may include: a vertical or wall-mounted main body 301; a battery accommodating portion 302, in which the battery 400 is charged; a vacuum cleaner supporting portion 303, which supports the vacuum cleaner main body 200; and a charging portion 304, which is electrically connected to the battery 400 combined with the vacuum cleaner main body 200.

[0127] Although the drawings show a wall-mounted main body 301 , unlike the drawings, a vertical main body (not shown) arranged in a state of standing on the ground may be included.

[0128] In addition, in a state where the cleaner body 200 is supported by the cleaner support part 303 , the battery 400 may be electrically connected to the charging part 304 . Therefore, the user may charge the battery 400 while placing the cleaner body 200 on the cleaner shelf 300 .

[0129] Furthermore, the vacuum cleaner rack 300 can be electrically connected to an external socket 311 via a power cord 310. The current transmitted via the power cord 310 can charge the first battery contained in the vacuum cleaner body 200 via the charging unit 304 of the vacuum cleaner rack, and charge the second battery placed on the battery receiving unit 302.

[0130] In addition, in the vacuum cleaner 100, the suction unit performing various functions can be installed in the form of a module on the vacuum cleaner body 200. That is, a plurality of cleaning modules 210 can be provided according to different functions, and the user can combine the cleaning module 210 matching the cleaning object with the vacuum cleaner body 200 and use it.

[0131] The cleaning module 210 may include a cleaning module with a basic floor suction port, a cleaning module with a special suction port for a bed, a cleaning module with a special suction port for a mattress, a cleaning module with a special suction port for a carpet, a cleaning module with a wet rag, etc. In addition, a special cleaning module that performs various functions such as drying dust, cleaning curved gaps, and cleaning the upper part may be provided in a modular form.

[0132] In addition, the drawings show a cleaning module 221 with a 2in1 suction port and a cleaning module 222 with a gap suction port placed on a vacuum cleaner rack 300. The cleaning module 221 with a 2in1 suction port can adjust the length of the brush by key operation, so that it can be used as a basic type when cleaning a sofa or a mattress, and as a brush type when cleaning a photo frame or furniture. In addition, the cleaning module 222 with a gap suction port is configured so that its suction port is in the form of a narrow nozzle, which is convenient for inserting it into a narrow gap to inhale dust, etc.

[0133] Figure 6 1 is a diagram showing a method of controlling the vacuum cleaner 100 according to an embodiment.

[0134] The vacuum cleaner 100 of the embodiment of the present invention can be provided with the cleaning module 210 in a detachable module form, and a suitable cleaning module 210 can be replaced and used as needed.

[0135] The vacuum cleaner body 200 can receive information on the use of the cleaning module and load information from the cleaning module 210. For example, the main circuit (MCU: Micro Controller Unit) provided in the vacuum cleaner body 200 can distinguish and store which cleaning module 210 is currently being used by measuring the current value (or voltage value) of the power line connected to the cleaning module 210. In addition, since the current value of the power line can be different depending on the load applied to the cleaning module 210, the main circuit can also store and use the load information or torque information applied in the cleaning module 210.

[0136] In addition, the main circuit may store information about when and for how long which cleaning module 210 was used, that is, usage time information. Furthermore, in the case where the suction mode can be distinguished as strong / medium / weak according to the rotational force of the suction motor of the vacuum cleaner body 200, the main circuit may store the usage time and usage output of different suction modes used by the user. Furthermore, the main circuit may transmit the cumulative usage time and usage frequency information of different cleaning modules used by the user to the server 30 together with this information.

[0137] In addition, the main circuit may store information about when and for how long which cleaning module 210 was used, that is, usage time information. Furthermore, in the case where the suction mode can be distinguished as strong / medium / weak according to the rotational force of the suction motor of the vacuum cleaner body 200, the main circuit may store the usage time and usage output of different suction modes used by the user. Furthermore, the main circuit may transmit the cumulative usage time and usage frequency information of different cleaning modules used by the user to the server 30 together with this information.

[0138] The server 30 can use the accumulated information to provide the user with cleaning history information. In addition, the server 30 can analyze the user's cleaning pattern to recommend the required cleaning type to the smart device 20 or the vacuum cleaner 100 and prompt that the cleaning time has arrived. For example, when analyzing the accumulated data of the vacuum cleaner 100, if two months have passed since the last pillow cleaning, the application of the smart device 20 can prompt the user that it is time to clean the pillow.

[0139] In addition, the server 30 can prompt that the cleaning time of the cleaning module 210 components has arrived, or prompt that the cleaning module 210 has failed or the replacement time has passed.

[0140] Figure 7 2 is a block diagram showing the connection relationship of the vacuum cleaner 100 .

[0141] Reference Figure 7 (a), the cleaning module 210 and the vacuum cleaner body 200 can be physically connected via a power cord, the vacuum cleaner body 200 and the server 30 are connected via wireless communication, and the server 30 and the smart device 20 are connected via wireless communication.

[0142] The connecting part of the cleaning module 210 and the vacuum cleaner body 200 may be provided with: a suction pipe, which transmits the suction force generated in the vacuum cleaner body 200 to the cleaning module 210, and becomes a passage for moving the dust and the like sucked from the cleaning module 210; and a power cord, which is used to provide power to the cleaning module 210.

[0143] In addition, the main circuit of the vacuum cleaner body 200 can obtain information about what kind of cleaning module 210 is combined, whether it is currently in use, and the magnitude of the applied load or torque through the current value (or voltage value) of the power line.

[0144] Reference Figure 7 (b), the cleaning module 210 and the vacuum cleaner body 200 can be physically connected through a power cord and connected in a wired communication manner, the vacuum cleaner body 200 and the server 30 are connected in a wireless communication manner, and the server 30 and the smart device 20 are connected in a wireless communication manner.

[0145] The connecting part of the cleaning module 210 and the vacuum cleaner body 200 may be provided with: a suction pipe, which transmits the suction generated in the vacuum cleaner body 200 to the cleaning module 210, and becomes a passage for moving the dust and the like sucked from the cleaning module 210; a power cord, which is used to provide power to the cleaning module 210; and a communication line, which is used to transmit the usage information of the cleaning module 210.

[0146] Furthermore, the main circuit of the vacuum cleaner body 200 can obtain information about what kind of cleaning module 210 is combined, whether it is currently in use, and the magnitude of the load applied through the information of the communication line. The current (or voltage) information of the power line includes noise. When the noise is relatively large, the information you want to obtain may not be identified from this information. In such a case, only the information you want to obtain can be transmitted through an additional communication line. For example, when a special cleaning module for pillows is combined and used, it may not be easy to obtain usage information through the power line because the starting current is very weak. In this case, a communication line separate from the power line can be provided, and the usage information of the cleaning module 210 can be transmitted through the communication line, so that the information can be transmitted without losing the information.

[0147] Reference Figure 7 (c), the cleaning module 210 and the vacuum cleaner body 200 can be physically connected via a power cord and connected via wireless communication at the same time, the vacuum cleaner body 200 and the server 30 are connected via wireless communication, and the server 30 and the smart device 20 are connected via wireless communication.

[0148] The cleaning module 210 may be provided with a transmitting unit for wirelessly transmitting the usage information. Also, the cleaner body 200 may be provided with a receiving unit for receiving information from the cleaning module 210 .

[0149] In addition, the main circuit of the vacuum cleaner body 200 can obtain information about what kind of cleaning module 210 is combined, whether it is currently in use, and the magnitude of the applied load through the information of the receiving unit. As a wireless communication method that can be used, there are ZigBee protocol (ZigBee) or Bluetooth (Bluetooth) and the like.

[0150] Figure 8 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the joint of the cleaner body 200 and the cleaning module 210 according to the first embodiment. Fig. 9 1 and 2 are top views respectively showing the connection parts of the cleaner body 200 and the cleaning module 210 according to the first embodiment.

[0151] The cleaner body 200 is connected to the front of the main body 201, and may be formed with a connection part 203 for connecting the cleaning module 210 or the length adjustment member 220. The connection part 203 may be configured as a tube protruding from the front of the main body 201.

[0152] In addition, a coupling portion 212 coupled to the connecting portion 203 is formed at one end of the cleaning module 210 or the length adjustment member 220. The coupling portion 212 may be configured as a tube capable of accommodating the connecting portion 203. At this time, the inner diameter of the coupling portion 212 may be the same as or slightly larger than the outer diameter of the connecting portion 203.

[0153] The connection part 203 and the coupling part 212 can be coupled in a detachable manner. For example, this can be achieved by coupling a coupling groove 203 c formed concavely on the outer peripheral surface of the connection part 203 and a coupling protrusion 212 c formed protrudingly on the inner peripheral surface of the coupling part 212 .

[0154] In addition, the coupling protrusion 212c can be connected to the coupling part 212 by a hinge and supported by an elastic member such as a coil spring. That is, when the user inserts the connecting part 203 into the inner space of the coupling part 212, the coupling protrusion 212c is pressed in a state of applying pressure to the elastic member, and when the insertion of the connecting part 203 is completed, the coupling protrusion 212c is inserted into the coupling groove 203c due to the restoring force of the elastic member. Therefore, the connecting part 203 and the coupling part 212 can be firmly coupled.

[0155] When separating, a push piece provided on the outer circumferential surface of the coupling part 212 can be used. If the user presses the push piece, the coupling protrusion 212c connected thereto is pressed in a state of pressurizing the elastic member. That is, the coupling protrusion 212c can be separated from the coupling groove 203c so that the connecting part 203 is separated from the coupling part 212.

[0156] The connection part 203 may be provided with: a first suction pipe 203a, which transmits the suction force generated in the vacuum cleaner body 200 to the cleaning module 210, and becomes a passage for moving the dust and the like sucked from the cleaning module 210; and a first power connection part 203b, which is used to provide power to the cleaning module 210.

[0157] In addition, the coupling portion 212 may be provided with: a second suction pipe 212a, which transmits the suction force of the connecting portion 203 and becomes a passage for moving dust and the like sucked from the cleaning module 210; and a second power supply connecting portion 212b, which is used to receive power from the first power supply connecting portion 203b.

[0158] The first and second power connection parts 203b and 212b can be arranged on one side of the first and second suction pipes 203a and 212a, and can be arranged in a shape where two terminals are connected to each other. For example, the second power connection part 212b can be configured as a positive terminal protruding, and the first power connection part 203b is configured as a negative terminal concave, so that the second power connection part 212b can be inserted.

[0159] That is, the suction pipes 203 a and 212 a and the power connection parts 202 b and 212 b may be connected simultaneously as the connection part 203 and the connection part 212 are connected.

[0160] Fig.10 1 and 10 are top views respectively showing the connection parts of the cleaner body 200 and the cleaning module 210 according to the second embodiment.

[0161] The connection part 203 can be provided with: a first suction pipe 203a, which transmits the suction force generated in the vacuum cleaner body 200 to the cleaning module 210, and becomes a passage for moving the dust and the like sucked from the cleaning module 210; a first power connection part 203b, which is used to provide power to the cleaning module 210; and a first information connection part 203d, which is connected to the second information connection part 212d described later and receives information.

[0162] In addition, the combining part 212 may be provided with: a second suction pipe 212a, which transmits the suction force of the connecting part 203 and becomes a passage for moving the dust and the like sucked from the cleaning module 210; a second power supply connecting part 212b, which is used to receive power from the first power supply connecting part 203b; and a second information connecting part 212d, which transmits the information of the cleaning module 210 to the main circuit of the vacuum cleaner body 200.

[0163] The first and second power connection parts 203b and 212b can be arranged on one side of the first and second suction pipes 203a and 212a, and can be arranged in a shape where two terminals are connected to each other. For example, the second power connection part 212b can be configured as a positive terminal protruding, and the first power connection part 203b is configured as a cathode terminal recessed, so that the second power connection part 212b can be inserted.

[0164] In addition, the first and second information connection parts 203d and 212d can be arranged adjacent to the first and second power connection parts 203b and 212b, and can be arranged in a shape in which one terminal is connected. For example, the second information connection part 212d can be configured as a terminal protruding, and the first information connection part 203d is configured as a cathode terminal recessed, so as to be inserted into the second power connection part 212d.

[0165] That is, the suction pipes 203 a and 212 a , the power connection parts 202 b and 212 b , and the information connection parts 202 d and 212 d may be connected simultaneously as the connection part 203 and the connection part 212 are connected.

[0166] The torque of the motor is proportional to the load current flowing in the rotor. When the load of the motor increases, the load current increases and the torque increases, thereby achieving a balance with the load and being able to continue stable operation. The relationship between torque and load current can be known through the torque characteristic curve, etc.

[0167] Fig.11 Detailed description of the invention is given in detail below.

[0168] like Fig.11 As shown, the charger of the embodiment of the present invention can charge the battery loaded and unloaded from the vacuum cleaner through steps S110 and S130, which are described in detail as follows. Figure 5 At least a portion of the vacuum cleaner rack 300 shown in FIG. Figures 1 to 10 At least some of the components of the vacuum cleaner 100 are described.

[0169] First, the charger obtains temperature information from the battery attached to the vacuum cleaner (step S110). Here, the temperature information may include information related to the temperature of the battery itself. Here, the temperature of the battery itself may be detected by a sensor included in the battery (not shown, and will be described later). If the sensor included in the battery detects the temperature of the battery itself, the processor included in the battery (not shown, and will be described later) may transmit the temperature information to the charger through a communication unit (not shown, and will be described later) included in the battery. Here, the communication unit may transmit the temperature information to the charger in a wired communication manner, but is not limited thereto, and all forms of communication units for transmitting temperature information may be used.

[0170] Next, the charger charges the battery attached to the vacuum cleaner based on the temperature information (step S130). In more detail, the charger can determine whether the measured temperature of the battery is within a preset first interval based on the temperature information of the battery, and when the measured temperature of the battery is within the preset first interval, the battery can be charged by applying a first period of pulse waves to the battery.

[0171] Here, the predetermined first interval may refer to an interval outside a predetermined charge-permitting temperature range of the battery and within a predetermined discharge-permitting temperature range.

[0172] Fig.12 is a block diagram showing a charger and a battery according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0173] like Fig.12 As shown, the battery 1210 may include: a first communication unit 1211, a first processor 1212, a temperature sensor 1213, a power storage unit 1214 and / or a switch 1215. The charger 1220 may include: a second communication unit 1221, a second processor 1222 and / or a power transmission unit 1223. The charger 1220 may receive power from the power supply unit 1230 and charge the battery 1210 (in the direction of the dotted line). The detailed description is as follows.

[0174] First, the temperature sensor of the battery can detect the temperature that changes due to the discharge / charging of the power storage unit. The temperature sensor can transmit the detected temperature to the first processor. The first processor can transmit information related to the temperature received from the temperature sensor to the first communication unit. The first communication unit can transmit the received temperature information to the communication unit through the second wired / wireless communication of the charger. The switch can transfer the power applied from the charger to the power storage unit, or cut off the power applied from the charger according to the control of the first processor. For example, when the temperature detected by the temperature sensor is outside the discharge allowable temperature range, the first processor can prevent power from being applied to the power storage unit by turning off the switch.

[0175] Then, the second communication unit of the charger may acquire the temperature information of the power storage unit from the first communication unit of the battery, and the second communication unit may transmit the acquired temperature information to the second processor.

[0176] When the temperature of the battery (or power storage unit) is outside the discharge allowable temperature range, the second processor may cut off the power applied to the battery. When the temperature of the battery is within the charge allowable temperature range, the second processor may apply a phase voltage or a phase current to the battery. When the temperature of the battery is outside the charge allowable temperature range and within the discharge allowable temperature range, the second processor may charge the battery by applying a pulse wave with a preset period of less than 1 second to the battery.

[0177] The power transmission unit of the charger can transmit the power supplied from the power supply unit (eg, power outlet) to the battery according to the control of the second processor.

[0178] Fig.13 From the signal processing point of view Fig.12 A diagram showing the battery and charger.

[0179] like Fig.13 As shown, the battery 1310 may include: at least one switch 1315 , a power storage unit 1314 , and a processor module 1312 / 1313 . Here, the processor module may detect the temperature of the power storage unit and transmit the temperature information to the charger 1320 .

[0180] The processor module 1322 of the charger may generate / control a pulse (PULSE) waveform based on the temperature information received from the battery, and transmit the generated pulse waveform to the battery.

[0181] If the pulse waveform is transmitted to the battery, the power is stored in the power storage unit 1314 .

[0182] Fig.14 The temperature distribution of an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0183] like Fig.14As shown, the charging allowable temperature range can represent the range between the minimum charging allowable temperature and the maximum charging allowable temperature. That is, the charging allowable temperature range can be determined based on the allowable operating temperature parameter (e.g., Minimum / Maximum Operating Temperature Parameter) and / or the allowable surface temperature parameter (e.g., Minimum / Maximum Surface Temperature Parameter). Here, as described above, the allowable operating temperature parameter and / or the allowable surface temperature parameter can be pre-set by the user / manufacturer. For example, the allowable operating temperature lower limit value or the allowable surface temperature lower limit value can be pre-set to 0 degrees Celsius, and the allowable operating temperature upper limit value or the allowable surface temperature upper limit value can be pre-set to 50 degrees Celsius. That is, the range 1401 between 0 degrees Celsius and 50 degrees Celsius can be defined as the charging allowable temperature range.

[0184] The charging allowable temperature range may indicate a temperature range in which the probability of a heat reaction of a predetermined amount or more in the battery being generated as the battery is charged is above a critical value. For example, the charging allowable temperature range may indicate an interval between 0 degrees Celsius and 50 degrees Celsius. Here, the charging allowable temperature range may be preset by a user or specified in advance by a manufacturer.

[0185] The discharge allowable temperature range may represent a range between a lower limit of the discharge temperature and an upper limit of the discharge temperature. For example, the lower limit of the discharge allowable temperature may be preset to minus 20 degrees Celsius, and the upper limit of the discharge allowable temperature may be preset to 80 degrees Celsius. That is, the range 1402 from minus 20 degrees Celsius to 80 degrees Celsius may be defined as the discharge allowable temperature range.

[0186] The discharge allowable temperature range may indicate a temperature range in which the probability of a heat reaction of a predetermined amount or more being generated from the battery as the battery is discharged is above a critical value. For example, the discharge allowable temperature range may indicate an interval between -20 degrees Celsius and 80 degrees Celsius. Here, the discharge allowable temperature range may be preset by a user or specified in advance by a manufacturer.

[0187] In more detail, the charger may not charge the battery outside the discharge allowable temperature range. The charger may charge the battery within the charge allowable temperature range, and may charge the battery by applying a phase voltage (Constant Voltage) or a phase current (Constant Current) to the battery.

[0188] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the charger can charge the battery in a predetermined first interval (within the discharge allowable temperature range and outside the charge allowable temperature range), but without applying phase voltage or phase current, the battery can be charged by applying a pulse wave (Pulse) of a predetermined period. This is because, when the battery is charged by applying a phase voltage or a phase current in the first interval, the probability of generating a heat reaction in the battery at the temperature of the first interval is above a critical value. That is, when a pulse wave of a predetermined period is applied in the first interval instead of applying a phase voltage or a phase current, the probability of generating a heat reaction in the battery is below a critical value, and the voltage of the battery can be charged.

[0189] Here, the cycle of the pulse wave applied by the charger to the battery may be less than 1 second. This is because applying a pulse wave with a cycle longer than 1 second to the battery will produce the same effect as applying a phase voltage or phase current to the battery (for example, a heating reaction). For this reason, the charger can use a pulse wave with a cycle of less than 1 second to charge the battery that has detected a temperature in the first interval.

[0190] Here, the interval 1403 from -20 degrees Celsius to 0 degrees Celsius and the interval 1404 from 50 degrees Celsius to 80 degrees Celsius can be collectively defined as Fig.11 The pre-set first interval mentioned in .

[0191] Fig.15 It is a graph showing the change in temperature corresponding to the change in time.

[0192] like Fig.15 As shown, for example, when the battery temperature is 0 degrees Celsius at t=0 (minutes), when the battery is discharged as the vacuum cleaner is operated, the battery temperature increases in proportion to the time as time passes. At this time, the interval between 0 degrees Celsius and 50 degrees Celsius can be set in advance as the charging allowable temperature range.

[0193] For example, as the vacuum cleaner operates, the battery temperature may reach 80 degrees Celsius at t=60 (minutes). According to the prior art, even if the user wants to charge the battery of the vacuum cleaner, the battery temperature exceeds 50 degrees Celsius between t=60 (minutes) and t=90 (minutes), which deviates from the charging allowable temperature range, and therefore the battery cannot be charged. Therefore, when the user wants to charge the battery of the vacuum cleaner, there is the inconvenience of having to wait from t=60 (minutes) to t=90 (minutes).

[0194] However, according to an embodiment of the present invention, when a vacuum cleaner with a battery attached is connected to a charger at t=60 (minutes), the charger can charge the battery by applying a pulse wave to the battery in an interval between t=60 (minutes) and t=90 (minutes) (an interval within the discharge allowable temperature range and outside the charging allowable temperature range).

[0195] When time passes and reaches t=90 (minutes), and the battery temperature drops to 50 degrees Celsius, the battery temperature enters the charge-permitting temperature range, and the charger can charge the battery by applying phase voltage or phase current to the battery.

[0196] Fig.16 An example of a pulse wave according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0197] like Fig.16 As shown, the charger may apply a pulse wave of T (period) = 1 s to the battery. For example, the peak value of the pulse wave may be 1 V. For example, the length L (duration) of the pulse wave may be 0.2 s.

[0198] Fig.17 Another example of the pulse wave according to the embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0199] like Fig.17 As shown, the charger can apply a pulse wave of T (period) = 0.5s to the battery.

[0200] Fig.18 Another example of the pulse wave according to the embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0201] like Fig.18 As shown, the charger can apply a pulse wave of T (period) = 0.25s to the battery.

[0202] Fig.19 Another example of the pulse wave according to the embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0203] like Fig.19 As shown, the charger can apply a pulse wave with T (period) = 1 s and a length L of 0.5 s to the battery.

[0204] Fig. 20 Another example of the pulse wave according to the embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0205] like Fig. 20 As shown, the charger can apply a pulse wave with T (period) = 1 s and a length L of 0.8 s to the battery.

[0206] Reference Figures 16 to 20Although various forms of pulse waves are described, they are not necessarily limited thereto. For example, the second processor of the charger can determine the duty cycle of the pulse wave based on the temperature information of the battery. For example, the second processor of the charger can change the duration and / or period of the pulse wave in real time according to the temperature of the battery.

[0207] Any of the aforementioned embodiments or other embodiments of the present invention are not mutually exclusive or distinguishable. The respective configurations or functions of any of the aforementioned embodiments or other embodiments of the present invention may be used or combined.

[0208] For example, it means that the A configuration described in a specific embodiment and / or the drawings and the B configuration described in other embodiments and / or the drawings can be combined. That is, although the combination between the configurations is not directly described, they can be combined with each other unless it is clearly stated that they cannot be combined.

[0209] Therefore, the above detailed description should not be understood as limiting in all aspects, but should be understood as exemplary. The scope of the present invention should be determined by the reasonable interpretation of the claims, and all changes within the equivalent scope of the present invention should fall within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A charger control method, characterized in that: include: When connected to a battery of a vacuum cleaner, a step of obtaining temperature information of the battery from the battery; and The step of charging the battery based on the temperature information, In the step of charging the battery, applying a phase voltage or a phase current to the battery when the temperature of the battery is within a charge-permitting temperature range, applying a pulse wave of a first cycle to the battery when the temperature of the battery is within the discharge-allowed temperature range and outside the charge-allowed temperature range, The charging permission temperature range is a temperature range in which the probability of the battery generating a heat reaction exceeding a predetermined amount as the battery is charged is equal to or greater than a first critical value. The discharge-allowable temperature range is a temperature range in which a probability of a heat reaction exceeding a predetermined amount occurring in the battery as the battery is discharged is equal to or greater than a second critical value.

2. The charger control method according to claim 1, characterized in that: The first period is less than 1 second.

3. The charger control method according to claim 2, characterized in that: include: The step of changing the first cycle based on the temperature information.

4. The charger control method according to claim 3, characterized in that: include: The step of changing the duration of the pulse wave based on the temperature information.

5. A charger for charging a battery of a vacuum cleaner, characterized in that: include: a communication unit, which acquires temperature information of the battery from an external battery; and a processor that applies power to the battery based on the temperature information received from the communication unit, When the temperature of the battery is within a charge-permitting temperature range, the processor applies a phase voltage or a phase current to the battery. When the temperature of the battery is within the discharge-allowed temperature range and outside the charge-allowed temperature range, the processor applies a pulse wave of a first cycle to the battery. The charging permission temperature range is a temperature range in which the probability of the battery generating a heat reaction exceeding a predetermined amount as the battery is charged is greater than a first critical value. The discharge-allowable temperature range is a temperature range in which a probability of a heat reaction exceeding a predetermined amount occurring in the battery as the battery is discharged is equal to or greater than a second critical value.

6. The charger according to claim 5, characterized in that: The processor determines the first period to be less than 1 second.

7. The charger according to claim 6, characterized in that: The processor changes the first period based on the temperature information.

8. The charger according to claim 7, characterized in that: The processor changes a duration of the pulse wave based on the temperature information.

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