Cleaning device with vacuum cleaner and docking station and control method thereof

Abstract

A cleaning device and a control method thereof are provided. The cleaning device includes a vacuum cleaner including a dust collection container and a docking station to which the dust collection container is coupled. The docking station includes a suction device configured to move air from the dust collection container to an inside of the docking station, a collector configured to collect impurities moved together with the air by driving the suction device, a suction flow path along which the air moves in the inside of the docking station, a flow regulating device configured to open or close the suction flow path, and at least one processor configured to control the suction device to operate based on the dust collection container being coupled to the docking station, and to control the flow regulating device to periodically open and close the suction flow path in a state in which the suction device operates.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to cleaning apparatus including vacuum cleaners and docking stations. Background Technology

[0002] Typically, a vacuum cleaner is a device equipped with a fan motor that generates suction power, and is configured to clean by sucking in impurities such as dust along with the air, separating them from the air, and collecting the sucked-in impurities.

[0003] Therefore, vacuum cleaners include a dust collection container for collecting impurities, and users need to periodically remove the collected impurities from the container. However, when users remove impurities from the container, the impurities may disperse, which increases the concentration of dust in the room.

[0004] The above information is presented as background information only to aid in understanding this disclosure. No determination or assertion is made as to whether any of the above items are applicable as prior art to this disclosure. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This disclosure addresses at least the aforementioned problems and / or disadvantages and provides at least the following advantages. Therefore, this disclosure provides a cleaning apparatus including a docking station that allows for the automatic removal of impurities from the dust collection container of a vacuum cleaner by providing irregular suction airflow when docked with the dust collection container of the vacuum cleaner.

[0006] Other aspects will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be apparent from the description or may be learned by practice of the presented embodiments.

[0007] According to one aspect, a cleaning apparatus is provided. The cleaning apparatus includes a vacuum cleaner and a docking station. The vacuum cleaner includes a dust collection container, and the docking station is connected to the dust collection container. The docking station includes a suction device, a collector, a suction flow path, a flow control device, and at least one processor. The suction device is configured to move air from the dust collection container into the docking station. The collector is configured to collect impurities that move with the air by driving the suction device. The air moves along the suction flow path within the docking station. The flow control device is configured to open or close the suction flow path. At least one processor is configured to control the suction device to operate in response to the dust collection container being connected to the docking station, and, while the suction device is operating, control the flow control device to periodically open and close the suction flow path.

[0008] At least one processor may also be configured to control the suction device and the flow regulating device to stop operating based on a preset operating time elapsed after the operation of the suction device is started.

[0009] At least one processor can also be configured to set a longer preset operating time based on a decrease in the external power supply frequency.

[0010] At least one processor may also be configured to set a preset operating time based on the opening and closing cycle of the flow regulating device in the suction flow path, so that the flow regulating device stops when the suction flow path is open.

[0011] At least one processor may also be configured to control the flow regulating device to close the suction flow path based on a preset waiting time after the suction device stops operating.

[0012] The docking station may also include a position detection sensor configured to output a first value in response to the flow regulator closing the suction flow path and to output a second value in response to the flow regulator opening the suction flow path. When the external power supply frequency decreases, at least one processor may also be configured to delay the time point at which the suction flow path is determined to be closed after the first value is started to be output.

[0013] When the suction device is operated, at least one processor can also be configured to supply voltage to the suction device and control the flow regulating device to open the suction flow path when the voltage supplied to the suction device increases to the target voltage.

[0014] The docking station may also include an input device configured to receive input from the user.

[0015] In response to the dust collection container being connected to the docking station or in response to receiving an action command via an input device, at least one processor may also be configured to control the suction device and the flow regulating device to operate within a preset operating time.

[0016] In response to receiving a stop command via an input device during operation of the suction device and dust collection container, at least one processor may also be configured to control the flow regulating device to open the suction flow path and control the suction device to stop operation after a predetermined waiting time from the input stop command.

[0017] In response to receiving an input of a suction mode via an input device, at least one processor may also be configured to control the suction device to operate and, when the suction device is operating, control the flow regulating device to open the suction flow path.

[0018] The docking station may also include a display unit and a collector sensor, wherein the operating status is displayed on the display unit, the collector sensor is configured to detect whether the collector is full, and at least one processor may also be configured to control the display unit to display that the collector is full in response to the collector being full.

[0019] The docking station may also include a UV lamp configured to irradiate at least one of the dust collection container and the collector with ultraviolet light.

[0020] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a cleaning apparatus is provided. The cleaning apparatus includes a vacuum cleaner and a docking station. The vacuum cleaner includes a dust collection container, and the docking station is connected to the dust collection container. The docking station includes a suction fan, a motor, and at least one processor. The suction fan is configured to move air from the dust collection container to the interior of the docking station; the motor is configured to rotate the suction fan; and the at least one processor is configured to adjust at least one of the motor's drive time and rotational speed during repeated on / off operations of the motor.

[0021] At least one processor may also be configured to: adjust at least one of the time the motor is in the on state and the time the motor is in the off state whenever the motor alternately turns on and off.

[0022] At least one processor may also be configured to: adjust the pulse width of the power supply voltage supplied to the motor to regulate the rotational speed of the motor whenever the motor alternately turns on and off.

[0023] At least one processor may also be configured to set different pulse widths for the power supply voltage pulses during at least one time period during the motor’s on or off period, so as to cause the motor to vibrate.

[0024] The docking station may also include a suction flow path and a flow control device along which air moves within the docking station. The flow control device is configured to open or close the suction flow path. At least one processor is further configured to control a motor to be in an on state in response to the flow control device opening the suction flow path and to control a motor to be in an off state in response to the flow control device closing the suction flow path.

[0025] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a control method for a cleaning apparatus including a vacuum cleaner is provided. The cleaning apparatus includes a dust collection container and a docking station connected to the dust collection container. The method includes: controlling the operation of a suction device configured to move air from the dust collection container to the interior of the docking station in response to the dust collection container being connected to the docking station; and controlling a flow regulating device to periodically open and close a suction flow path while the suction device is operating, wherein air moves along the suction flow path within the docking station.

[0026] The method may further include: controlling the suction device and the flow regulating device to stop operating based on a preset operating time elapsed after the suction device is started.

[0027] Other aspects, advantages, and distinctive features of this disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of various embodiments disclosed in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0028] The above and other aspects, features and advantages of certain embodiments of this disclosure will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0029] Figure 1 This is an external view showing a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 2 This is a view showing the state in which the dust collection container of a vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is connected to the docking station;

[0031] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view showing a docking station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0032] Figure 4 This is a side sectional view showing a docking station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 5 This is a control block diagram illustrating a docking station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0034] Figure 6 This is a view showing the docking station operating automatically when connected to a dust collection container according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 7 This is a view showing the docking station operating in response to the input of an action command according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] Figure 8 This is a view used to describe the time point when the suction flow path is closed in association with the frequency of an external power supply, according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0037] Figure 9 This is a view used to describe the situation where the docking station begins operation according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0038] Figure 10 This is a view showing a situation where, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the docking station stops operating in response to a stop command input when the suction flow path is opened;

[0039] Figure 11 This is a view showing a situation where, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the docking station stops operating in response to a stop command input when the suction flow path is closed;

[0040] Figure 12 It is a graph showing the time-varying switch control of the first motor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0041] Figure 13 This is a view used to describe the situation where different rotational speeds are provided each time the opening operation of the first motor is repeated, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0042] Figure 14 This is a view used to illustrate the situation where a first motor vibrates according to an embodiment of the present disclosure to transmit vibration to a dust collection container;

[0043] Figure 15 This is a view used to describe the control of a first motor in association with the operation of a flow path valve according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0044] Figure 16 This is a view used to describe the situation where the docking station performs a suction mode according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0045] Figure 17 This is a view used to describe the situation where the docking station performs a display mode according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0046] Figure 18 This is a view used to describe the situation where the collector is full at the docking station according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0047] Figure 19 This is a view used to illustrate the situation where a docking station is irradiated with ultraviolet light according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0048] Figure 20 This is a flowchart of a method for controlling a cleaning device according to an embodiment, which illustrates automatic operation when connected to a dust collection container according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] Figure 21 This is a flowchart of a method for controlling a cleaning device, which illustrates operation in response to input of an action command according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0050] Figure 22 This is a flowchart of a method for controlling a cleaning device, which shows the operation stopping in response to an input of a stop command according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0051] Figure 23 This is a flowchart of a method for controlling a cleaning device, which shows the case of adjusting the flow rate of the suction airflow by controlling a first motor according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] Figure 24This is a flowchart of a method for controlling a cleaning device, which illustrates the control of a first motor in association with the operation of a flow path valve according to an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0053] Figure 25 This is a flowchart illustrating a method of a controlled cleaning apparatus for performing a suction mode according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0054] Figure 26 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling a cleaning apparatus to perform a display mode according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0055] Figure 27 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling the cleaning device to display the fullness of the collector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0056] In all the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals will be understood to denote the same parts, components and structures. Detailed Implementation

[0057] The following description, provided with reference to the accompanying drawings, is intended to aid in a comprehensive understanding of the various embodiments of this disclosure as defined by the claims and their equivalents. It includes various specific details to aid understanding, but these details are to be considered exemplary only. Therefore, those skilled in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications can be made to the various embodiments described herein without departing from the scope and spirit of this disclosure. Furthermore, for clarity and brevity, descriptions of well-known functions and structures may be omitted.

[0058] The terms and words used in the following description and claims are not limited to their literal meaning, but are merely used by the inventors to enable a clear and consistent understanding of this disclosure. Therefore, those skilled in the art will understand that the following description of various embodiments of this disclosure is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0059] It should be understood that, unless the context clearly specifies otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “one,” and “the” include plural indicators. Thus, for example, referring to “component surface” includes referring to one or more such surfaces.

[0060] It should also be understood that the term “connection” or its derivatives refer to both direct and indirect connections, with indirect connections including connections on wireless communication networks.

[0061] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments and is not intended to limit and / or restrict this disclosure. For example, singular expressions herein may include plural expressions unless the context clearly specifies otherwise. Furthermore, the terms “comprising” and “having” are intended to list the features, numbers, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof described in the specification, without excluding the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, operations, elements, components, or combinations thereof.

[0062] It should be understood that although the terms first, second, etc., are used herein to describe various components, these components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one component from another. For example, without departing from the scope of this disclosure, a first component may be referred to as a second component, and similarly, a second component may be referred to as a first component. The term "and / or" includes any combination of multiple related terms or any one of multiple related terms.

[0063] In addition, terms described in the specification, such as “part,” “module,” and “unit,” refer to a unit that performs at least one function or operation and can be implemented by software, hardware components (e.g., field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) or application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs)), or a combination of software and hardware.

[0064] The reference numerals used for method operations are for ease of explanation only and are not intended to restrict the order of operations. Therefore, unless the context clearly specifies otherwise, the written order may be practiced in other ways.

[0065] In the following, various embodiments according to this disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0066] Figure 1 This is an external view showing a cleaning apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 2 This is a view showing the state in which the dust collection container of a vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is connected to the docking station.

[0067] Reference Figure 1 The cleaning device 1 according to the embodiment may include a vacuum cleaner 10 and a docking station 100, wherein the vacuum cleaner 10 includes a dust collection container 15 configured to store the suctioned impurities, and the docking station 100 is configured to suction the impurities stored in the dust collection container 15 when connected to the dust collection container 15, so as to remove the impurities from the dust collection container 15.

[0068] The vacuum cleaner 10 according to this embodiment includes a cleaner body 11, an extension tube (not shown) detachably connected to the cleaner body 11, a suction unit (not shown) detachably connected to the extension tube (not shown), and a dust collection container 15 detachably connected to the cleaner body 11.

[0069] The cleaner body 11 may include a suction motor (not shown) and a dust collection container 15, wherein the suction motor generates the suction power required to suction impurities from the surface to be cleaned, and the impurities sucked from the surface to be cleaned are contained in the dust collection container 15.

[0070] The dust collection container 15 is arranged upstream of the airflow relative to the suction motor and is configured to filter and collect dust or dirt from the air flowing into the dust collection container 15 through the suction unit (not shown). The dust collection container 15 may be detachably mounted on the cleaner body 11.

[0071] The vacuum cleaner 10 may include a filter housing 12. The filter housing 12 is configured in a generally annular shape to house a filter (not shown). The type of filter is not limited; however, for example, a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter may be arranged inside the filter housing 12. The filter may filter out ultrafine dust and the like that not filtered out from the dust collection container 15. The filter housing 12 may include an outlet 13, thereby allowing air that has passed through the filter to be exhausted to the outside of the vacuum cleaner 10.

[0072] The cleaner body 11 may include a handle 14, which a user can grasp to operate the vacuum cleaner 10. The user can hold the handle 14 and move the vacuum cleaner 10 back and forth.

[0073] The cleaner body 11 may include a battery 16 that provides power to the vacuum cleaner 10. The battery 16 may be removably mounted to the cleaner body 11.

[0074] The main body 11 of the vacuum cleaner may include a control component 17. The user can turn the vacuum cleaner 10 on / off or adjust the suction intensity by operating a power button or other means provided on the control component 17.

[0075] The cleaner body 11 may include a dust collection guide 30, which guides impurities into the dust collection container 15 by connecting the dust collection container 15 to an extension tube (not shown) and a suction unit (not shown).

[0076] As described above, when guiding impurities to the dust collection container 15, the dust collection guide 30 can be connected to the aforementioned extension tube (not shown). Furthermore, in addition to the extension tube (not shown), the dust collection guide 30 can be configured to be directly connected to the suction unit (not shown) or connected to other components, such as an auxiliary suction unit.

[0077] Therefore, users can connect various components to the dust collection guide 30 according to the cleaning situation, thereby improving the convenience of cleaning.

[0078] Reference Figure 2According to this embodiment, the docking station 100 may include a main body 101 and a docking housing 102, the docking housing 102 being configured to allow the dust collection container 15 of the vacuum cleaner 10 to be docked thereon. The docking housing 102 may include a mounting portion 181 for the dust collection container 15 to be located thereon.

[0079] In addition, the docking station 100 may include a cover 103, which is disposed above the main body 101 and configured to open and close the docking housing 102.

[0080] Furthermore, the docking station 100 may include an input device 120 disposed on its upper part to receive input from a user. For example... Figure 2 As shown, the input device 120 can be provided as a button, switch, etc. However, the location and type of the input device 120 are not limited to this, as long as the input device can receive input from the user.

[0081] In addition, the docking station 100 may include a panel 104 disposed on the front surface of the body 101 and configured to be detachable from the body 101. The panel 104 may be disposed on the side or rear surface of the body 101 and on the front surface, such that it is detachable from the body 101.

[0082] Since panel 104 is separate from body 101, the user can open the collector (which will be described below) and the user can easily replace the dust bag of the collector.

[0083] Furthermore, the docking station 100 may also include a display component 170 disposed on its front surface and displaying the operating status of the docking station 100. For example, such as Figure 2 As shown, the display component 170 may correspond to a light-emitting diode (LED) panel. However, the position and type of the display component 170 are not limited to this, as long as the display component 170 can display the operating status.

[0084] In this case, docking station 100 can be used to automatically discharge impurities from dust collection container 15 by changing the suction airflow supplied to dust collection container 15 of vacuum cleaner 10.

[0085] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 According to this embodiment, the docking station 100 can be configured to allow only the dust collection container 15 to be docked to it, but not the dust collection guide 30 to be docked to it.

[0086] In other words, in the docking station 100 according to this embodiment, even when only the dust collection container 15 of the vacuum cleaner 10 is docked to the docking station 100, the automatic discharge of the docking station 100 can be effectively performed.

[0087] Therefore, instead of connecting the vacuum cleaner 10 as a whole to the docking station 100, the user can simply separate the dust collection container 15 from the vacuum cleaner 10 and connect the dust collection container 15 to the docking station 100. This allows for miniaturization of the docking station 100 and automatic dust removal by simply separating the dust collection container 15.

[0088] However, the type of docking station 100 is not limited to the above examples, and according to the embodiments, docking station 100 may include a component to which dust collection guide 30 is docked so that vacuum cleaner 10 can be docked as a whole to docking station 100, and docking station 100 may use the whole docked vacuum cleaner 10 to provide suction airflow to dust collection container 15.

[0089] In the following description, an embodiment of the dust collection container 15 that is separated and connected to the docking station 100 will be described, but this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the following description is applicable to an embodiment of the vacuum cleaner 10 that is connected to the docking station 100 as a whole.

[0090] Figure 3 This is an exploded perspective view showing a docking station 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 4 This is a side sectional view showing a docking station 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0091] Reference Figure 3 and Figure 4 According to this embodiment, the docking station 100 may be equipped with a suction device 150, which discharges impurities collected in the dust collection container 15 from the dust collection container 15. The suction device 150 may be arranged inside the main body 101 and includes a suction fan 153 for moving air and a first motor 151 for rotating the suction fan 153.

[0092] The docking station 100 according to this embodiment may include a collector 190 in which impurities discharged from the dust collection container 15 are collected. The collector 190 may be arranged inside the main body 101. The collector 190 may be arranged upstream of the airflow relative to the suction device 150.

[0093] According to this embodiment, the docking station 100 includes a suction flow path 180, which includes one end connected to the dust collection container 15 and the other end connected to the suction device 150, and air moved by the suction device 150 flows through the suction flow path 180.

[0094] In detail, the suction flow path 180 can connect the docking housing 102 to the suction device 150. In this case, the collector 190 can be disposed on the suction flow path 180.

[0095] In other words, the suction flow path 180 connects the docking housing 102 to the collector 190 so that impurities discharged from the dust collection container 15 are drawn into the collector 190 through the docking housing 102.

[0096] The docking housing 102 may include a placement portion 181 communicating with the suction flow path 180, and the dust collection container 15 is placed on the placement portion 181.

[0097] The mounting portion 181 can be an externally open space within the docking housing 102, allowing the dust collection container 15 to be inserted and mounted thereon. When the dust collection container 15 is mounted on the mounting portion 181, docking of the dust collection container 15 with the docking station 100 can be completed.

[0098] Although not shown in the accompanying drawings, a sensor may be disposed inside the mounting portion 181 to detect whether the dust collection container 15 is connected. Therefore, when the dust collection container 15 is mounted on the mounting portion 181, the docking station 100 can detect this connection via sensor 110 (see [reference]). Figure 5 The output value is used to identify the status of the dust collection container 15 docked to the docking station 100.

[0099] A multi-tube cyclone separator 18 may be arranged inside a dust collection container 15. The dust collection container 15 may be configured to collect impurities in the lower side 18a of the multi-tube cyclone separator 18. The dust collection container 15 includes a first dust collector 15a and a second dust collector 15b, wherein the first dust collector 15a collects mainly larger impurities, and the second dust collector 15b collects relatively smaller impurities collected by the multi-tube cyclone separator 18.

[0100] When the dust collection container door 19 is opened, both the first dust collector 15a and the second dust collector 15b can be configured to open to the outside.

[0101] Therefore, when the dust collection container door 19 located below the dust collection container 15 is opened, the impurities collected in the dust collection container 15 can be easily discharged to the placement part 181.

[0102] For this purpose, the dust collection container 15 may include a dust collection container door 19 configured to open when the dust collection container 15 is connected to the docking station 100; and the docking station 100 may include an opening guide configured to press one side of the dust collection container door 19 to open the dust collection container door 19 when the dust collection container 15 is connected to the docking station 100.

[0103] The opening guide may be formed as part of the inner circumferential surface of the housing portion 181. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto; and the opening guide may be configured as a region protruding towards the center from the inner circumferential surface of the housing portion 181, or may be configured as a protrusion, rib, or the like protruding towards the center from the inner circumferential surface of the housing portion 181. However, the position and type of the opening guide are not limited to the examples described above, and the opening guide may be implemented in various structures without limitation, as long as it enables the dust collection container door 19 to be opened when the dust collection container 15 is installed.

[0104] Therefore, when the dust collection container 15 is connected to the mounting section 181, the pushing component located on one side of the dust collection container door 19 automatically presses against the opening guide so that the dust collection container door 19 can be opened simultaneously when the dust collection container 15 is connected to the docking station 100.

[0105] The suction flow path 180 can pass through the main body 101 from the docking housing 102 and then connect to the suction device 150.

[0106] The suction flow path 180 can transmit the airflow generated by the suction device 150 to the dust collection container 15. That is, the suction airflow generated by the suction device 150 is conveyed through the suction flow path 180 along the collector 190 and the placement part 181 to the interior of the dust collection container 15, and impurities in the dust collection container 15 are discharged from the dust collection container 15 to the placement part 181 according to the airflow, and then collected by the collector 190 through the suction flow path 180.

[0107] Collector 190 may include collector housing 191. Collector housing 191 may form an internal space. That is, collector housing 191 may correspond to a portion of suction flow path 180, but for ease of description, it is described as a separate component.

[0108] Collector 190 may include collector cover 192. Collector cover 192 may be disposed on the front surface of collector housing 191. Collector cover 192 may open or close collector housing 191 such that the interior of collector 190 is open to the outside when panel 104 is detached.

[0109] Collector 190 may include a dust collection bag 193 disposed within the internal space of collector housing 191 and collecting impurities flowing through suction flow path 180.

[0110] The dust collection bag 193 is formed of a material that allows air to pass through but blocks impurities, so that impurities introduced from the dust collection container 15 into the collector 190 can be collected in the dust collection bag 193.

[0111] The dust collection bag 193 can be installed on the suction flow path 180, and the dust collection bag 193 can be installed separately from the collector 190.

[0112] When docking station 100 is activated and impurities are collected in dust bag 193, the user separates panel 104 and opens collector cover 192 to separate dust bag 193 from collector 190, so that impurities collected in docking station 100 are discharged.

[0113] The suction device 150 includes a suction fan 153, a first motor 151 for rotating the suction fan 153, and a suction device housing 106 forming an internal space in which the suction fan 153 is arranged.

[0114] The suction device housing 106 may include a suction device cover 107 disposed on the body 101 and opening and closing the interior of the suction device 150. The suction device cover 107 may be configured to discharge air drawn in by the suction fan 153.

[0115] The suction airflow generated by the suction fan 153 can be supplied to the collector 190 through the suction flow path 180 in the internal space of the suction device housing 106, and then to the dust collection container 15.

[0116] As described above, the suction device 150 can supply suction airflow to the dust collection container 15 by rotating the suction fan 153, and the airflow caused by the suction fan 153 can move from the dust collection container 15 to the collector and eventually to the outside of the docking station 100.

[0117] The docking station 100 may also include a flow regulating device 160 configured to selectively change the amount of suction airflow supplied to the dust collection container 15 according to an embodiment. The flow regulating device 160 may include a flow path valve 163 configured to open or close the suction flow path 180 and a second motor 161 that transmits power to the flow path valve 163.

[0118] Flow regulating device 160 may be arranged inside the main body 101. Flow regulating device 160 may be arranged between collector 190 and suction device 150. In detail, flow path valve 163 may be arranged between the connecting flow path (suction flow path) 180 that connects collector 190 to suction device 150 and allows air to flow therethrough. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and flow path valve 163 may be arranged between the connecting flow path (suction flow path) 180 that connects collector 190 and placement portion 181.

[0119] In other words, the flow path valve 163 can open and close the suction flow path 180 based on the power supplied from the second motor 161. For this purpose, the flow path valve 163 can be provided on the suction flow path 180.

[0120] For example, the flow path valve 163 may include a plate-shaped body portion that is configured to reciprocate in one direction, and may be configured to open and close the suction flow path 180 by means of the reciprocating motion of the body portion.

[0121] Furthermore, the flow path valve 163 may be configured as a generally cylindrical form that can rotate about a central axis, and may include a main body portion that provides a cylindrical form and a cut portion formed by cutting both sides of the main body portion around a central side; and as the main body portion and the cut portion rotate about the central axis, the suction flow path 180 is opened and closed.

[0122] However, the type of flow path valve 163 is not limited to the example above, and the flow path valve 163 can be implemented without limitation, as long as it can open and close the suction flow path 180 based on the power transmitted from the second motor 161.

[0123] The structural characteristics of the cleaning device 1 have been described in detail above. The following description relates to the control configuration that irregularly provides suction airflow to the dust collection container 15 connected to the docking station 100.

[0124] Figure 5 This is a control block diagram illustrating a docking station 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0125] Reference Figure 5According to this embodiment, the docking station 100 includes a sensor 110, an input device 120, a position detection sensor 130, a collector sensor 195, a controller 140, a suction device 150, a flow regulating device 160, a display component 170, and an ultraviolet irradiator 185. The sensor 110 is used to detect whether the dust collection container 15 is connected to the docking station 100; the input device 120 is used to receive input from the user; the position detection sensor 130 is used to detect the position of the flow path valve 163 of the flow regulating device 160; and the collector sensor 195 is used to detect whether the collector 190 is full. The controller 140 controls the suction device 150 and the flow regulating device 160 to provide an irregular suction airflow to the dust collection container 15; the suction device 150 includes a first motor 151 and a suction fan 153 and generates a suction airflow to be supplied to the dust collection container 15; the flow regulating device 160 includes a second motor 161 and a flow path valve 163 for opening and closing the suction flow path 180, and regulates the flow rate of the suction airflow to be supplied to the dust collection container 15; the display unit 170 displays the operating status; the ultraviolet irradiator 185 irradiates the dust collection container 15 or the collector 190 with ultraviolet light.

[0126] However, according to the implementation method, this can be omitted. Figure 5 The docking station 100 shown includes some components, and the docking station 100 may further include, in addition to Figure 5 Other components besides those shown (e.g., storage devices that store various types of information, such as flash memory, random access memory (RAM), and hard disk drives (HDD)).

[0127] According to this embodiment, sensor 110 can detect whether dust collection container 15 is connected to docking station 100.

[0128] Therefore, sensor 110 can be located at the end of the suction flow path 180 connected to the dust collection container 15, and its output when the dust collection container 15 is connected to the docking station 100 can differ from its output when the dust collection container 15 is not connected to the docking station 100. Specifically, sensor 110 can be located at one end of the mounting portion 181.

[0129] For example, sensor 110 can be provided as an infrared sensor, a piezoelectric sensor, etc., but is not limited to these. Various sensors can be provided without limitation, as long as the sensor can change its output value depending on whether the dust collection container 15 is connected to the docking station 100.

[0130] The input device 120 according to this embodiment can receive input from the user.

[0131] For this purpose, the input device 120 can be installed on the main body 101 of the docking station 100, and can be implemented using physical buttons, switches, knobs, touchpads, etc.

[0132] For example, the input device 120 can be located on the upper side of the docking station 100 and can be configured as a button or switch. However, the position and type of the input device 120 are not limited, as long as it can receive user input.

[0133] In detail, the input device 120 can receive action commands and stop commands from the user for the operation of removing impurities from the dust collection container 15. Furthermore, according to an embodiment, the input device 120 can receive action commands for various modes, such as suction mode, display mode, etc.

[0134] According to this embodiment, the position detection sensor 130 can detect the position of the flow regulating device 160.

[0135] In detail, the position detection sensor 130 can detect whether the flow path valve 163 of the flow regulating device 160 is in the position where the flow path valve 163 is closed to draw the flow path 180 or in the position where the flow path valve 163 is open to draw the flow path 180.

[0136] For example, the position detection sensor 130 may be configured as a microswitch that is pressurized according to the movement of the flow path valve 163 to output a first value when the flow path valve 163 closes the suction flow path 180 and outputs a second value when the flow path valve 163 opens the suction flow path 180.

[0137] However, the position detection sensor 130 is not limited to the example described above, and can be configured as a motor position sensor, which is configured to measure the position of the second motor 161 that transmits power to the flow path valve 163, outputting a first value when the flow path valve 163 closes the suction flow path 180, and outputting a second value when the flow path valve 163 opens the suction flow path 180. In this case, the position detection sensor 130 can detect the position of the rotor included in the second motor 161, and for this purpose, it can be disposed on a surface facing the rotational shaft of the second motor 161. For example, the position detection sensor 130 can correspond to a Hall sensor using the Hall effect, but is not limited thereto, and the position detection sensor 130 can be provided differently without limitation, as long as it can change the output signal according to the rotation of the motor.

[0138] According to this embodiment, the controller 140 can control the suction device 150 so that when the dust collection container 15 is connected to the docking station 100, the impurities in the dust collection container 15 are discharged into the docking station 100.

[0139] In detail, the controller 140 can determine whether the dust collection container 15 is connected to the docking station 100 based on the output value of the sensor 110, and when the dust collection container 15 is connected to the docking station 100, the controller 140 can control the operation of the first motor 151 to start.

[0140] However, in addition to the output value of sensor 110, controller 140 may also consider user action commands input via input device 120, so that control operation is initiated only when there is a user action command.

[0141] In this situation, when the first motor 151 remains on and supplies the same suction airflow to the dust collection container 15, some impurities may become trapped by the internal components of the dust collection container 15 and may not be discharged to the outside. For example, impurities (e.g., hair) may become trapped by the internal structure of the dust collection container 15, and despite the suction airflow, the impurities may remain inside the dust collection container 15 and not be separated to the outside. That is, the suction airflow delivered to the inside of the dust collection container 15 may only form in the same direction. Therefore, some impurities may resist the direction in which the suction airflow forms and thus may not be separated to the outside of the dust collection container 15 by the suction airflow. Thus, impurities inside the dust collection container 15 may not be effectively discharged.

[0142] When the suction airflow is supplied to the dust collection container 15 by the suction fan 153 and the air in the dust collection container 15 is drawn, the docking station 100 according to this embodiment allows the suction airflow to be changed, thereby changing the airflow velocity inside the dust collection container 15 and diversifying the airflow inside the dust collection container 15.

[0143] In order to provide irregular suction airflow to the dust collection container 15, the controller 140 can control the flow regulating device 160 to periodically open and close the suction flow path 180 during the operation of the suction device 150 (i.e., when the first motor 151 remains on).

[0144] In this configuration, the controller 140 can continuously supply voltage to the first motor 151 to enable the suction device 150 to operate; and during the operation of the suction device 150, the controller 140 can even continuously supply voltage to the second motor 161 of the flow regulating device 160.

[0145] With this configuration, the suction device 150 can continuously generate suction airflow through the suction fan 153, and the flow regulating device 160 can periodically open and close the suction flow path 180 so that the flow rate of the suction airflow formed by the suction device 150 is periodically changed.

[0146] As the direction of airflow changes instantaneously, some impurities that have resistance in a particular direction can lose resistance due to the airflow in another direction and thus escape from the dust collection container 15 along with the airflow.

[0147] In this case, the impurities separated and discharged from the dust collection container 15 can be moved with the air by the drive of the suction fan 153 and then collected by the collector 190 provided in the suction flow path 180.

[0148] In other words, the controller 140 allows the flow regulating device 160 to periodically open and close the suction flow path 180, thereby altering the airflow inside the dust collection container 15. With this configuration, impurities in the dust collection container 15 can be discharged more effectively.

[0149] The following describes in detail an embodiment in which, during continuous operation of the suction device 150 (first motor 151), the flow regulating device 160 periodically opens and closes the suction flow path 180 to remove impurities from the dust collection container 15.

[0150] In addition, in order to provide irregular suction airflow to the dust collection container 15, the controller 140 according to this embodiment can adjust at least one of the drive time and rotation speed of the first motor 151 when the first motor 151 of the suction device 150 is repeatedly turned on / off.

[0151] In other words, the controller 140 can control the first motor 151 so that the first motor 151 can be repeatedly turned on and off.

[0152] In this case, whenever the first motor 151 alternately turns on and off, the controller 140 adjusts at least one of the on time and the off time of the first motor 151, thereby adjusting the drive time of the first motor 151.

[0153] Furthermore, whenever the first motor 151 is alternately turned on and off, the controller 140 can adjust the pulse width of the power supply voltage supplied to the first motor 151, thereby adjusting the rotational speed of the first motor 151.

[0154] In this case, depending on the driving time of the first motor 151 or the change in the rotational speed of the first motor 151, whenever the first motor 151 is alternately turned on and off, the suction fan 153 can provide suction airflow with different suction power, and because the internal pressure of the dust collection container 15 changes due to the irregular suction airflow, the impurities in the dust collection container 15 can be smoothly discharged from the dust collection container 15.

[0155] In other words, as the air velocity inside the dust collection container 15 changes, the air diffuses in all directions within the space inside the dust collection container 15. Therefore, the airflow inside the dust collection container 15 can change in different directions.

[0156] As the direction of airflow changes instantaneously, some impurities that have resistance in a certain direction can lose resistance due to the airflow in another direction and can escape from the dust collection container 15 along with the airflow.

[0157] In this case, the impurities separated and discharged from the dust collection container 15 can be moved with the air by the drive of the suction fan 153 and collected in the collector 190 provided in the suction flow path 180.

[0158] In other words, the controller 140 can repeatedly supply and stop the suction airflow to the dust collection container 15 by controlling the on / off state of the first motor 151, and change the supply time or suction power during the supply of suction airflow, thereby periodically changing the airflow within the dust collection container 15. With this configuration, impurities in the dust collection container 15 can be discharged more effectively.

[0159] Furthermore, the controller 140 according to this embodiment can set different pulse widths for the power supply voltage pulses during at least one time period when the first motor 151 is turned on and off, so that the first motor 151 vibrates.

[0160] In other words, during the turn-on time when the first motor 151 is turned on by providing voltage to the first motor 151, the controller 140 sets the pulse widths of the power supply voltage pulses to be different from each other, and provides the set pulse widths to the first motor 151.

[0161] For example, controller 140 can adjust the pulse width of the power supply voltage such that a first pulse width and a second pulse width are provided alternately as the pulse of the power supply voltage propagates in at least one time interval.

[0162] In this situation, the first motor 151 can be subjected to rapid changes in rotational speed based on the pulse width difference between pulses of the power supply voltage, and therefore, the first motor 151 can vibrate.

[0163] The vibration of the first motor 151 can be transmitted to the main body of the docking station 100 and the dust collection container 15 connected to the docking station 100. That is, the dust collection container 15 can vibrate according to the vibration of the first motor 151, and impurities in the dust collection container 15 can be discharged more effectively according to the vibration. For example, even if the suction airflow is trapped in the internal components of the dust collection container 15, impurities that have not been discharged from the dust collection container 15 can be discharged from the dust collection container 15 with the suction airflow according to the vibration of the dust collection container 15.

[0164] According to this embodiment, the controller 140 can repeat the on / off control of the first motor 151 when the dust collection container 15 is separated from the docking station 100 or when a stop command is input, or until the first motor 151 completes a predetermined number of on operations (e.g., a preset operation duration).

[0165] When the dust collection container 15 is connected to the docking station 100 and then disconnected from the docking station 100, the controller 140 can drive the first motor 151 for a preset time so that the collector 190 can collect the impurities remaining in the suction flow path 180.

[0166] In addition to controlling the first motor 151, the controller 140 according to this embodiment can control the flow path valve 163 so that the suction flow path 180 is periodically opened and closed while the suction airflow is supplied by the suction fan 153 according to the drive of the first motor 151.

[0167] In other words, controller 140 controls the second motor 161 to cause flow path valve 163 to periodically open and close the suction flow path 180, repeatedly supplying and stopping the suction airflow to the dust collection container 15, thereby periodically changing the airflow inside the dust collection container 15. In other words, flow path valve 163 can regulate the flow rate of air moved by suction fan 153 and completely stop the suction airflow that might remain during the off-time when no voltage is supplied to the first motor 151, thereby more effectively changing the airflow inside the dust collection container 15.

[0168] In this case, the controller 140 can determine whether the suction flow path 180 is open or closed by the flow path valve 163 based on the output value of the position detection sensor 130, and drive the first motor 151 based on the opening or closing of the suction flow path 180, thereby improving the noise and overload of the first motor 151.

[0169] In detail, when the flow path valve 163 opens to draw in the flow path 180, the controller 140 controls the first motor 151 to start, and when the flow path valve 163 closes to draw in the flow path 180, the controller 140 controls the first motor 151 to stop.

[0170] In other words, the controller 140 controls the first motor 151 and the second motor 161 in combination with each other, thereby more effectively performing the supply and repetition of the suction airflow, preventing the suction fan 153 from causing noise due to rotation when the suction flow path 180 is closed, and improving the overload of the first motor 151.

[0171] The controller 140 can control the second motor 161 to cause the flow path valve 163 to open and close the suction flow path 180 at a preset cycle, or when the first motor 151 is alternately opened and closed, the controller 140 can control the second motor 161 to operate in response to the changing drive time of the first motor 151.

[0172] In other words, when the opening time of the first motor 151 when the voltage is supplied to the first motor 151 or the closing time when the voltage is not supplied to the first motor 151 changes, the controller 140 can control the second motor 161 to operate the flow path valve 163 in response to the changed opening or closing time.

[0173] According to this embodiment, the controller 140 can control the flow path valve 163 to close the suction flow path 180 when the dust collection container 15 is separated from the docking station 100. That is, the controller 140 can control the second motor 161 to cause the flow path valve 163 to close the suction flow path 180.

[0174] In this case, the closure of the suction flow path 180 according to the embodiment can be performed after the first motor 151 has been driven for a preset time, which is set so that impurities remaining in the suction flow path 180 are collected by the collector 190.

[0175] The following describes in detail an embodiment in which the suction device 150 (first motor 151) repeatedly opens and closes to remove impurities from the dust collection container 15.

[0176] In response to receiving an action command for the suction mode via the input device 120, the controller 140 according to this embodiment can control the operation of the suction device 150 by continuously supplying voltage to the suction device 150, and control the flow regulating device 160 to open the suction flow path 180 so that the suction fan 153 rotates continuously without closing the suction flow path 180.

[0177] According to this embodiment, the controller 140 can determine whether the collector 190 is full based on the output of the collector sensor 195, and when the collector 190 is full, the controller 140 can control the display unit 170 to display that the collector 190 is full.

[0178] According to this embodiment, the controller 140 can control the ultraviolet irradiator 185 to irradiate the dust collection container 15 or the collector 190 with ultraviolet light.

[0179] In detail, the controller 140 can control the ultraviolet irradiator 185 to perform ultraviolet irradiation when the suction device 150 is operated to remove impurities from the dust collection container 15, and can control the ultraviolet irradiator 185 to perform ultraviolet irradiation based on user input input through the input device 120.

[0180] In response to receiving user input for display mode via input device 120, controller 140 according to the embodiment can control display unit 170 to emit light.

[0181] The controller 140 may include at least one memory and at least one processor, wherein the at least one memory stores a program for performing the operations described above and below, and the at least one processor executes the stored program. When multiple memories and processors are provided, the multiple memories and multiple processors may be integrated into a single chip, or they may be located in physically separate locations.

[0182] According to this embodiment, the suction device 150 can supply suction airflow to the dust collection container 15, and for this purpose, the suction device 150 may include a suction fan 153 and a first motor 151 for transmitting power to the suction fan 153.

[0183] The first motor 151 rotates according to the power supply voltage to transmit rotational power to the suction fan 153.

[0184] The suction fan 153 rotates based on the power supplied from the first motor 151 to move air from the dust collection container 15 into the docking station 100.

[0185] For this purpose, the suction fan 153 may be provided at one end connected to the other end of the suction flow path 180 of the dust collection container 15, and may be mechanically connected to the first motor 151 to receive power from the first motor 151.

[0186] The flow regulating device 160 according to this embodiment can open and close the suction flow path 180 at predetermined cycles when a voltage is supplied. To this end, the flow regulating device 160 includes a flow path valve 163 capable of opening and closing the suction flow path 180 and a second motor 161 that transmits power to the flow path valve 163.

[0187] The second motor 161 can transmit power to the flow path valve 163 to open and close the suction flow path 180.

[0188] In detail, under the control of the controller 140, the second motor 161 can transmit power to the flow path valve 163 at a preset cycle, or it can transmit power to the flow path valve 163 in accordance with the changing drive time of the first motor 151 whenever the first motor 151 alternately opens and closes.

[0189] According to this embodiment, the flow path valve 163 can open and close the suction flow path 180 based on the power supplied by the second motor 161. For this purpose, the flow path valve 163 can be provided on the suction flow path 180.

[0190] For example, the flow path valve 163 may include a plate-shaped body portion that is configured to reciprocate in one direction, and the reciprocating motion of the body portion may be used to open and close the suction flow path 180.

[0191] Furthermore, the flow path valve 163 may include a generally cylindrical form configured to rotate about a central axis, and includes a main body portion providing the cylindrical form and a cut portion formed by cutting both sides of the main body portion relative to the central axis, and the flow path valve 163 may be configured to open and close the suction flow path 180 when the main body portion and the cut portion rotate relative to the central axis.

[0192] However, the type of flow path valve 163 is not limited to the example above, and the flow path valve 163 can be implemented without limitation, as long as it can open and close the suction flow path 180 based on the power transmitted from the second motor 161.

[0193] The display unit 170 according to this embodiment can display the operating status of the docking station 100.

[0194] For example, the display component 170 may correspond to a light-emitting diode (LED) panel for emitting light, and may include a front display disposed on the front surface of the docking station 100 to emit light to the outside of the docking station 100 and an internal display disposed on the mounting portion 181 to emit light from the inside of the mounting portion 181 to the dust collection container 15.

[0195] The display component 170 may correspond to an LED panel disposed on the mounting portion 181 and may emit light from inside the mounting portion 181 into the dust collection container 15.

[0196] However, the position and type of the display component 170 are not limited to this, as long as the display component 170 can display the operating status.

[0197] According to this embodiment, the ultraviolet irradiator 185 can be used to irradiate the dust collection container 15 or the collector 190.

[0198] For this purpose, the ultraviolet irradiator 185 can be configured as an ultraviolet lamp installed on the mounting portion 181 and emitting ultraviolet light. In this case, the ultraviolet light emitted from the ultraviolet irradiator 185 can irradiate the dust collection container 15 connected to the docking station 100 and irradiate the collector 190 through the suction flow path 180.

[0199] Furthermore, the ultraviolet irradiator 185 according to the embodiment may include a motor, and the dust collection container 15 or collector 190 may be irradiated by mechanically adjusting the irradiation angle based on the rotational power of the motor using ultraviolet light.

[0200] Furthermore, the ultraviolet irradiator 185 according to the embodiment may include a plurality of ultraviolet lamps, and the dust collection container 15 or collector 190 may be irradiated by adjusting the irradiation angle electrically by adjusting the irradiation intensity of each of the plurality of ultraviolet lamps arranged in an array.

[0201] Furthermore, the ultraviolet irradiator 185 according to the embodiment may include an ultraviolet lamp disposed on the placement portion 181 for using ultraviolet light to irradiate the dust collection container 15 and an ultraviolet lamp disposed on the collector housing 191 for using ultraviolet light to irradiate the collector 190.

[0202] According to this embodiment, the collector sensor 195 can detect whether the collector 190 is in a full state.

[0203] For example, collector sensor 195 can be configured as a pressure sensor, and when collector 190 is full and interferes with the suction airflow of suction device 150, collector sensor 195 can detect a pressure different from that in normal operation. With this configuration, when collector sensor 195 outputs a pressure different from that in normal operation, controller 140 can determine that collector 190 is full.

[0204] However, the collector sensor 195 is not limited to the examples above, and can be of various kinds, as long as it can detect the fullness of the collector 190, such as an optical sensor or a camera.

[0205] The components of docking station 100 have been described in detail above. The following will describe how irregular suction airflow is provided to dust collection container 15 to effectively remove impurities from it.

[0206] First, an embodiment will be described in detail, in which, in order to provide an irregular suction airflow to the dust collection container 15, the suction device 150 is controlled to operate continuously, and the flow regulating device 160 is controlled to periodically open and close the suction flow path 180.

[0207] Figure 6 This is a view showing the automatic operation of the docking station 100 when connected to the dust collection container 15 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 7 This is a view illustrating the operation of the docking station 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure in response to the input of an action command. Figure 8 This is a view illustrating the point in time when the docking station 100 determines the closure of the suction flow path 180 according to an embodiment of this disclosure, and Figure 9 This is a view used to describe the startup operation of the docking station 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0208] Reference Figure 6 According to this embodiment, the controller 140 can be configured to, when connected to the dust collection container 15, initiate an operation to remove impurities from the dust collection container 15 by supplying voltage to the suction device 150 and the flow regulating device 160 upon receiving individual user input.

[0209] In detail, in response to the determination of the placement portion 181 of the docking station 100 based on the output of the sensor 110, the controller 140 can control the supply of voltage to the suction device 150 and the flow regulating device 160 to initiate the operation of removing impurities from the dust collection container 15.

[0210] Additionally, refer to Figure 7 When the controller 140 receives an action command from the user via the input device 120 while connected to the dust collection container 15, the controller 140 according to this embodiment can be configured to initiate the operation of removing impurities from the dust collection container 15 by supplying voltage to the suction device 150 and the flow regulating device 160.

[0211] For example, a user can input an action command by pressing the button corresponding to the input device 120.

[0212] Whether the operation is initiated by connecting to the dust collection container 15 or by inputting an action command from the user, the details of the operation to remove impurities from the dust collection container 15 are the same, and will be referred to below. Figure 6 and Figure 7 Describe the operation of removing impurities from the dust collection container 15.

[0213] When the start of operation is determined based on the connection of the dust collection container 15 or a user-input action command, the controller 140 can control the suction device 150 to operate for dust removal. That is, the controller 140 can supply voltage to the suction device 150 to drive the suction fan 153 to form a suction airflow.

[0214] Furthermore, the controller 140 can control the flow regulating device 160 to periodically open and close the suction flow path 180 while the suction device 150 is operating. That is, the controller 140 can supply voltage to the flow regulating device 160 to open and close the suction flow path 180 at a preset cycle.

[0215] With this configuration, the suction device 150 can continuously generate suction airflow through the suction fan 153, and the flow regulating device 160 can periodically open and close the suction flow path 180 to periodically change the flow rate of the suction airflow generated by the suction device 150.

[0216] As the direction of airflow changes instantaneously, some impurities that have resistance in a certain direction may lose resistance due to airflow in another direction and may escape from the dust collection container 15 along with the airflow.

[0217] In this case, the impurities separated and discharged from the dust collection container 15 can be moved with the air by the drive of the suction fan 153 and collected in the collector 190 provided in the suction flow path 180.

[0218] In other words, the controller 140 can alter the airflow inside the dust collection container 15 by allowing the flow regulating device 160 to periodically open or close the suction flow path 180. With this configuration, impurities in the dust collection container 15 can be discharged more effectively.

[0219] According to this embodiment, the controller 140 can control the suction device 150 and the flow regulating device 160 so that after the suction device 150 is started, a preset operating time T is elapsed. O Stop the dust removal operation when necessary.

[0220] In other words, the controller 140 can control the suction device 150 and the flow regulating device 160 to operate within a preset time T. O The operation is performed during this period to discharge impurities from the dust collection container 15, and after a preset operation time T has elapsed since the operation was started. O When necessary, the supply of voltage to the suction device 150 and the flow regulating device 160 can be stopped.

[0221] In this case, the flow regulating device 160 can operate within a preset time T. O During this period, the opening and closing of the suction flow path 180 will be repeated a preset number of times (e.g., five times). That is, considering the opening and closing cycle of the flow regulating device 160, the preset operating time T... O It can be set to repeat the opening and closing of the suction flow path 180 a preset number of times (e.g., five times).

[0222] In this situation, as the external power supply frequency decreases, the controller 140 can reduce the operating time T. O The setting is extended. As the external power frequency decreases, the revolutions per hour of the second motor 161 driving the flow regulator 160 can be increased, and the cycle of opening and closing the flow regulator 160 can be extended. Therefore, the controller 140 can adjust the operating time T. O This ensures that the number of times the suction flow path 180 is opened and closed by the flow regulating device 160 remains constant, even when the frequency of the external power supply changes.

[0223] For example, when the external power supply frequency is 60 Hz, the opening and closing cycle of the flow regulator 160 may correspond to 3.3 seconds, while when the external power supply frequency is 50 Hz, the opening and closing cycle of the flow regulator 160 may correspond to 3.9 seconds. Therefore, the controller 140 may allow the suction device 150 and the flow regulator 160 to operate for a longer period (e.g., 21 seconds) at an external power supply frequency of 50 Hz than at an external power supply frequency of 60 Hz (e.g., 18 seconds).

[0224] With this configuration, docking station 100 ensures the number of times the suction flow path 180 is opened and closed regardless of the external power supply frequency, thereby ensuring the performance of removing impurities from the dust collection container 15.

[0225] In this case, the controller 140 according to the embodiment can be set to a preset operation time T. O This allows the flow regulating device 160 to stop when the suction flow path 180 is in the open state, based on the opening and closing cycle of the flow regulating device 160 for the suction flow path 180.

[0226] Controller 140 can operate during time T O The supply of voltage to the suction device 150 and the flow regulating device 160 is then stopped. However, even without a power supply to the suction device 150, the suction fan 153 may continue to rotate due to inertia. The suction airflow on the suction flow path 180 may remain and decrease until the suction fan 153 completely stops after the voltage supply to the suction device 150 is interrupted. When the flow regulating device 160 closes the suction flow path 180 due to changes in air pressure caused by variations in the suction airflow, noise may be generated due to the instantaneous changes in air pressure.

[0227] The controller 140 can be set to operate for a specific time T. O So that after the operation starts, the operation time T is elapsed. O When the flow regulating device 160 is in the state of opening the suction flow path 180, the suction flow path 180 is closed to prevent noise from being prevented when the suction fan 153 continues to rotate after the supply voltage to the suction device 150 is interrupted.

[0228] For example, when the flow regulating device 160 is started in the state of closed suction flow path 180, the controller 140 can determine the operation time T by taking into account the opening and closing cycles. O It is an odd multiple of the opening and closing cycle of the flow regulating device 160 for the suction flow path 180.

[0229] According to this embodiment, the controller 140 can operate during the time T.O After a preset waiting time T W (For example, 2.5 seconds) the flow regulating device 160 closes the suction flow path 180.

[0230] In other words, the controller 140 can [operate at] the operating time T. O Then, the flow regulating device 160 is controlled to allow the suction flow path 180 to remain within the waiting time T. W The device is closed when the flow path 180 is open, thereby protecting the suction device 150 from impurities remaining on the suction flow path 180; while when operation is started, the suction device 150 is allowed to open with the suction flow path 180 open, thereby reducing noise.

[0231] As described above, the controller 140 controls the flow regulating device 160 during the operation time T. O The subsequent waiting time T W During this period, the suction flow path is opened at 180°, and then a waiting time T is reached. W When the flow path is closed, the suction flow path is closed by 180°.

[0232] In other words, controller 140 can prevent the suction flow path 180 from being shut down after the supply voltage to the suction device 150 is interrupted, but before the suction fan 153 stops completely, and can control the flow regulating device 160 when the suction fan 153 operates for time T. O After a waiting period T W When completely stopped, the suction flow path 180 is closed.

[0233] In other words, to prevent noise caused by changes in the suction airflow due to residual rotational power after the operation of removing impurities from the dust collection container 15 has stopped, the controller 140 can stop the flow regulating device 160 so that the suction flow path 180 remains within a predetermined waiting time T. W The internal valve remains open. Furthermore, the controller 140 can control the flow regulating device 160 during the waiting time T. W The suction flow path 180 is then closed to protect the suction device 150 from impurities remaining in the suction flow path 180. When the impurity removal operation is initiated, the suction device 150 can be operated with the suction flow path 180 open to prevent noise generation.

[0234] In this case, the controller 140 can adjust the timing of shutting off the suction flow path 180 according to the external power frequency.

[0235] As described above, as the frequency of the external power supply decreases, the rotational speed of the second motor 161 decreases, and the opening and closing cycle of the flow regulating device 160 for the suction flow path 180 can be extended.

[0236] Therefore, as the external power supply frequency decreases, the time required to shut off the suction flow path 180 can become longer. For example, the shutdown time at 60Hz can be 0.8 seconds, while at 50Hz it can be 1.05 seconds.

[0237] Therefore, when the flow regulating device 160 is in the waiting time T W When the suction flow path 180 is subsequently closed, the controller 140 may delay the time point at which the suction flow path 180 is determined to be closed in proportion to the decrease in the external power supply frequency.

[0238] For example, refer to Figure 8 When the external power supply frequency is 60Hz, the controller 140 can determine the suction flow path 180 during the waiting time T. W Then, time T elapses after the first value indicating the closure of the suction flow path 180 is output from the position detection sensor 130. a1 It shuts off after (for example, 0.1 seconds). Additionally, as... Figure 8 As shown, when the external power supply frequency is 50Hz, the controller 140 can determine the suction flow path 180 during the waiting time T. W Then, time T elapses after the first value indicating the closure of the suction flow path 180 is output from the position detection sensor 130. a2 (For example, 0.5 seconds) it will turn off.

[0239] In other words, because the time for shutting down the suction flow path 180 is extended as the external power frequency decreases, the controller 140 can delay the time point at which the suction flow path 180 is determined to be shut down after the output of the first value of the position detection sensor 130 is initiated.

[0240] With this configuration, when a new operation to remove impurities from the dust collection container 15 is initiated, the suction device 150 can be started with the suction flow path 180 open, regardless of the external power supply frequency.

[0241] In other words, in response to a decrease in the external power supply frequency, the controller 140 can be configured to delay the point at which the suction flow path 180 is determined to be closed after the position detection sensor 130 begins to output a first value. This ensures that the time taken for the flow regulating device 160 to open the suction flow path 180 when a new operation is initiated can be constant, regardless of the external power supply frequency, thus reducing noise variations caused by different external power supply frequencies. Figure 8 As shown, the time T taken to open the suction flow path 180 with an external power supply frequency of 60Hz is... b1 The time T taken to open the suction flow path 180 with an external power frequency of 50Hz is comparable to that of the time taken to open the path.b2 Same or slightly different.

[0242] In other words, considering that the time required to shut down the suction flow path 180 at an external power frequency of 50 Hz is longer than the time required to shut down the suction flow path 180 at an external power frequency of 60 Hz, the controller 140 can delay the shutdown determination point at the external power frequency of 50 Hz to a later time than the shutdown determination point at the external power frequency of 60 Hz, so that the flow control device 160 can operate further during the delayed time. With this configuration, the remaining time before shutdown at the external power frequency of 60 Hz can be the same as or slightly different from the remaining time before shutdown at the external power frequency of 50 Hz, so that the change in noise generation can be ignored when a new operation is started.

[0243] When voltage is supplied to the suction device 150 to start operation, the controller 140 can gradually increase the magnitude of the voltage supplied during the soft start time, and supply a voltage with a magnitude corresponding to the target voltage starting from the point in time when the soft start time has elapsed.

[0244] In other words, the voltage supplied to the suction device 150 can be gradually increased during the soft-start time to reach the target voltage, and then maintained at the target voltage until the operating time T is reached. O .

[0245] This is to prevent the first motor 151 from vibrating violently due to the instantaneous supply of high voltage, and to prevent the docking station 100 from vibrating due to the violent vibration of the first motor 151, while also preventing noise from being generated due to the vibration of the docking station 100.

[0246] During the soft-start time when the voltage supplied to the suction device 150 increases, the flow rate of the suction airflow generated by the suction device 150 may increase, and when the suction flow path 180 is closed due to the increased flow rate of the suction airflow, noise may be generated due to the sudden change in air pressure in the suction flow path 180.

[0247] The controller 140 can control the flow regulating device 160 to open the suction flow path 180 during the soft-start time in which the voltage supplied to the suction device 150 increases to the target voltage, in order to prevent noise from occurring.

[0248] For example, such as Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the controller 140 can take into account the opening and closing cycle T of the flow regulating device 160 used for the suction flow path 180. f Determine the time T between opening the suction flow path 180° f1 The corresponding soft start time T SS .

[0249] In other words, the soft start time T SS It can be determined as the time from the start of opening the suction flow path 180 to the start of closing the suction flow path 180 during continuous operation of the flow regulating device 160.

[0250] In addition, the controller 140 can determine the soft start time T. SS Without considering the opening and closing cycle T of the flow regulating device 160 for the suction flow path 180 f For example, controller 140 can control the soft-start time T. SS The opening and closing cycle T of the flow regulating device 160 for the suction flow path 180 is set to be longer than that of the flow regulating device 160. f The time T for opening the suction flow path by 180° f1 This minimizes the vibration of docking station 100.

[0251] In this case, such as Figure 9 As shown, controller 140 can be in conjunction with the soft-start time T SS And the time T for opening the suction flow path by 180 f1 The difference between them corresponds to the time T f3 The internal stop flow adjustment device 160 ensures that the suction flow path 180 is within the soft start time T. SS Open during this period.

[0252] Furthermore, when the operation to remove impurities from the dust collection container 15 begins with the suction flow path 180 open, the controller 140 according to the embodiment can stop the operation of the flow regulating device 160 for a predetermined time, so that the suction flow path 180 is in a soft-start state T. SS During this period, the flow regulating device 160 can be opened and controlled during the soft start time T. SS Then close the suction flow path 180.

[0253] With this configuration, docking station 100 can prevent noise from being generated due to the closure of the suction flow path 180 during the soft start time, during which the voltage supplied to the suction device 150 increases.

[0254] The above description pertains to an embodiment in which, in order to provide an irregular suction airflow to the dust collection container 15, the suction device 150 is controlled to operate continuously, and the flow regulating device 160 is controlled to periodically open and close the suction flow path 180. Hereinafter, an embodiment in which a stop command is received from the user during the continuous operation of the suction device 150 and the periodic opening and closing of the suction flow path 180 by the flow regulating device 160 will be described in detail.

[0255] Figure 10 This is a view showing a situation where, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the docking station 100 stops operating in response to a stop command input when the suction flow path 180 is open.

[0256] Figure 11 This is a view showing a situation where, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, docking station 100 stops operating in response to a stop command input when the suction flow path 180 is closed.

[0257] Reference Figure 10 and Figure 11 In response to receiving a stop command for dust removal operation via the input device 120 when the suction device 150 and the flow regulating device 160 are operating for dust removal, the controller 140 according to this embodiment can control the flow regulating device 160 to open the suction flow path 180 and control the suction device 150 for a first waiting time T after the stop command is input. W1 (For example, 1 second) the operation stops.

[0258] As described above, even when the supply voltage to the suction device 150 is interrupted, the suction fan 153 may continue to rotate due to inertia. The suction airflow on the suction flow path 180 may remain and decrease until the suction fan 153 completely stops after the supply voltage to the suction device 150 is interrupted. When the suction flow path 180 is closed by the flow regulating device 160, noise may be generated due to instantaneous changes in air pressure, especially when the air pressure changes due to variations in the suction airflow.

[0259] Therefore, in response to receiving a stop command for the dust removal operation after the dust removal operation is started, the controller 140 can control the flow regulating device 160 to stop operating while the suction flow path 180 is open, thereby preventing the suction flow path 180 from closing if the suction fan 153 continues to rotate after the voltage supply to the suction device 150 is interrupted, thereby preventing noise from occurring.

[0260] In detail, such as Figure 10 As shown, when a stop command for dust removal operation is received while the suction flow path 180 is open, the controller 140 according to this embodiment can stop the flow adjustment device 160 so that the suction flow path 180 remains open.

[0261] In other words, when the flow regulating device 160 is in the open suction flow path 180 position during operation, the controller 140 can stop supplying voltage to the flow regulating device 160 in response to receiving a stop command input to keep the suction flow path 180 open.

[0262] After the first waiting time T elapses after the time the stop command is entered. W1 At this time, the controller 140 may stop supplying voltage to the suction device 150 so that the suction device 150 stops operating.

[0263] In this case, according to the embodiment, the controller 140 can control the flow regulating device 160 to wait for a second waiting time T after the time of inputting the stop command. W2 (For example, 2.5 seconds) the suction flow path 180 is closed.

[0264] With this configuration, the controller 140 can prevent the suction flow path 180 from being shut down while the suction fan 153 continues to rotate after the supply voltage to the suction device 150 is interrupted, thereby preventing noise generation.

[0265] Reference Figure 11 In response to receiving a stop command for dust removal operation while the suction flow path 180 is closed, the controller 140 according to this embodiment can operate the flow adjustment device 160 to open the suction flow path 180.

[0266] In other words, when the flow regulating device 160 is in the position of closing the suction flow path 180 during operation, in response to receiving a stop command input for dust removal, the controller 140 can, after a first waiting time T following the input of the stop command... W1 The voltage supply to the flow regulating device 160 is maintained internally, thereby opening the suction flow path 180. In this case, the first waiting time T W1 This corresponds to the time required for the flow regulating device 160 to move from the closed position of the suction flow path 180 to the open position of the suction flow path 180.

[0267] The controller 140 may stop supplying voltage to the suction device 150 such that after a first waiting time T has elapsed since the input time of the stop command for the dust removal operation. W1 When the suction device 150 stops operating, and when the voltage supply to the suction device 150 is stopped, the voltage supply to the flow regulating device 160 is also stopped, so that the suction device 150 and the flow regulating device 160 can stop while the suction flow path 180 is open by the flow regulating device 160.

[0268] As described above, the controller 140 can take into account the first waiting time T W1The controller 140 controls the suction device 150 and the flow regulating device 160 to stop operating. According to an embodiment, the controller 140 can determine whether the flow regulating device 160 opens the suction flow path 180 based on the output value of the position detection sensor 130 to control the suction device 150 and the flow regulating device 160 to stop operating.

[0269] In other words, in response to a stop command input for dust removal operation at docking station 100, the controller 140 can control the suction device 150 and the flow regulating device 160 to stop operation based on the output value of the position detection sensor 130 after determining that the suction flow path 180 is opened.

[0270] In this configuration, according to an embodiment, the controller 140 can control the flow regulating device 160 to allow a second waiting time T after the voltage supply to the suction device 150 is interrupted. W2 (For example, 2.5 seconds) the suction flow path 180 is closed.

[0271] With this configuration, the controller 140 can be shut down to prevent the suction flow path 180 from continuing to rotate after the suction fan 153 has been interrupted from the power supply voltage of the suction device 150, thereby preventing noise generation.

[0272] As described above, the controller 140 terminates the cycle by finally closing the suction flow path 180 after the stop command input for the dust removal operation, thereby preventing the suction device 150 from being affected by impurities remaining in the suction flow path 180, and allowing the suction device 150 to operate with the suction flow path 180 open when a new operation for removing impurities is started, thereby preventing noise generation.

[0273] As described above, an embodiment in which the suction airflow supplied to the dust collection container 15 is altered by the flow regulating device 160 while the suction device 150 is operating continuously. Hereinafter, an embodiment in which the suction airflow supplied to the dust collection container 15 is altered by changing the on / off operation of the first motor 151 of the suction device 150 will be described in detail.

[0274] Figure 12 This is a graph showing the time-varying switch control of the first motor 151 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 13 This is a view used to describe the situation where different rotational speeds are provided each time the opening operation of the first motor 151 is repeated, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0275] Reference Figure 12According to this embodiment, the docking station 100 can control the suction device 150 so that when the dust collection container 15 of the vacuum cleaner 10 is connected to the docking station 100, the impurities in the dust collection container 15 are discharged.

[0276] In detail, docking station 100 can determine whether dust collection container 15 is connected to docking station 100 based on the output value of sensor 110, and when dust collection container 15 is connected to docking station 100, start the control of first motor 151.

[0277] However, in addition to the output value of sensor 110, controller 140 may also consider user control commands input via input device 120 so that the control of the first motor 151 is activated only when there is an action command from the user.

[0278] In this situation, when the first motor 151 remains on and the same suction airflow is supplied to the dust collection container 15, some impurities may become trapped inside the dust collection container 15 and may not be discharged to the outside. For example, impurities (e.g., hair) may become trapped by the internal structure of the dust collection container 15, and despite the suction airflow, the impurities may remain inside the dust collection container 15 instead of being separated to the outside. That is, the suction airflow delivered to the inside of the dust collection container 15 may only form in the same direction. Therefore, some impurities may resist the direction in which the suction airflow forms and thus may not be separated to the outside of the dust collection container 15. Consequently, impurities inside the dust collection container 15 may not be effectively discharged.

[0279] While the suction airflow is supplied to the dust collection container 15 by the suction fan 153 and the air in the dust collection container 15 is being drawn out, the docking station 100 according to this embodiment changes the suction airflow so as to change the airflow velocity inside the dust collection container 15 and diversify the airflow inside the dust collection container 15.

[0280] In order to provide irregular suction airflow to the dust collection container 15, the controller 140 may adjust at least one of the drive time and rotation speed of the first motor 151 when the first motor 151 is repeatedly turned on and off.

[0281] In other words, such as Figure 12 As shown, the controller 140 can control the first motor 151 so that the first motor 151 repeatedly turns on and off.

[0282] In detail, the controller 140 can control the first motor 151 such that the first motor 151 is turned on and then turned off in each of a plurality of time periods.

[0283] For example, refer to Figure 12The first motor 151 can be repeatedly turned on / off according to the progress of a time period. In this case, a time period may include an on time and a off time, wherein, during the on time, the first motor 151 is turned on by supplying a rated voltage to the first motor 151, and during the off time, the first motor 151 is turned off by not supplying a rated voltage to the first motor 151, and the time taken (soft start time) to change the rotational speed at the beginning of each time period until the voltage supplied to the first motor 151 rises to the rated voltage can be set to be different for each time period.

[0284] In this case, whenever the first motor 151 is alternately turned on and off (i.e., whenever the time period changes), the controller 140 adjusts at least one of the time the first motor 151 is turned on and the time the first motor 151 is turned off, thereby adjusting the drive time of the first motor 151.

[0285] For example, the opening time in the first time period can be longer than the opening time in the second time period, and the closing time in the first time period can be shorter than the closing time in the third time period.

[0286] In addition, whenever the first motor 151 is alternately turned on and off, the controller 140 can adjust the pulse width of the power supply voltage supplied to the first motor 151 to adjust the rotational speed of the first motor 151.

[0287] For example, refer to Figure 13 The controller 140 can set the pulse width of the power supply voltage supplied to the first motor 151 during the on-time of the first time period to 80%, and can set the pulse width of the power supply voltage supplied to the first motor 151 during the on-time of the second time period after the first time period to 65%. Therefore, the rotational speed of the first motor 151 can decrease as the transition from the first time period to the second time period progresses.

[0288] In this situation, whenever the first motor 151 is alternately turned on and off, the suction fan 153 can provide suction airflow with different suction power to the dust collection container 15 according to the driving time of the first motor 151 or the change in the rotation speed of the first motor 151. As the internal pressure of the dust collection container 15 changes due to the irregular suction airflow, the impurities in the dust collection container 15 can be smoothly discharged from the dust collection container 15.

[0289] In other words, as the air velocity inside the dust collection container 15 changes, the air diffuses in all directions within the internal space of the dust collection container 15, so the airflow inside the dust collection container 15 can change in different directions.

[0290] When the direction of airflow changes instantaneously, some impurities that have resistance in a certain direction can lose resistance due to the airflow in another direction and can escape from the dust collection container 15 with the airflow.

[0291] In this case, the impurities separated from and discharged from the dust collection container 15 can be moved with the air by the drive of the suction fan 153 and collected in the collector 190 provided in the suction flow path 180.

[0292] In other words, the controller 140 repeatedly supplies and interrupts the suction airflow to the dust collection container 15 by controlling the on / off state of the first motor 151, and changes the supply time or suction power when supplying suction airflow, thereby periodically changing the airflow inside the dust collection container 15. With this configuration, impurities in the dust collection container 15 can be discharged more effectively.

[0293] The above has described how an irregular suction airflow is provided to the dust collection container 15 by repeatedly opening and closing the first motor 151 of the suction device 150 to effectively remove impurities from the dust collection container 15. Hereinafter, the transmission of vibration to the dust collection container 15 to effectively remove impurities from the dust collection container 15 will be described in detail.

[0294] Figure 14 This is a view used to illustrate the situation where a first motor 151 vibrates to transmit vibrations to a dust collection container 15 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0295] Reference Figure 14 According to this embodiment, the controller 140 can set different pulse widths for the power supply voltage pulses during at least one time period when the first motor 151 is turned on and off, so that the first motor 151 vibrates.

[0296] In other words, the controller 140 sets the pulse widths of the power supply voltage pulses to be different from each other during the turn-on time, during which the first motor 151 is turned on by being supplied with voltage, and the controller 140 provides the set pulse widths to the first motor 151.

[0297] For example, refer to Figure 14 The controller 140 can adjust the pulse width of the power supply voltage so that as the pulse of the power supply voltage propagates in the third time period, a first pulse width ① and a second pulse width ② are provided alternately.

[0298] In this case, the first motor 151 can undergo rapid changes in rotational speed based on the pulse width difference between pulses of the power supply voltage, thereby the first motor 151 can vibrate.

[0299] The vibration of the first motor 151 can be transmitted to the main body of the docking station 100 and the dust collection container 15 connected to the docking station 100. That is, the dust collection container 15 can vibrate according to the vibration of the first motor 151, and impurities in the dust collection container 15 can be discharged more effectively according to the vibration. For example, even impurities that have not been able to escape from the dust collection container 15 due to being trapped in the internal components of the dust collection container 15 can be discharged from the dust collection container 15 with the suction airflow according to the vibration of the dust collection container 15.

[0300] As described above, the docking station 100 according to this embodiment repeatedly supplies and interrupts the suction airflow to the dust collection container 15 by controlling the switch of the first motor 151, and adjusts the pulse width during the same time period when supplying the suction airflow to cause the dust collection container 15 to vibrate, so that the impurities in the dust collection container 15 can be discharged more effectively.

[0301] According to this embodiment, the controller 140 can repeatedly control the opening and closing of the first motor 151 until the dust collection container 15 is separated from the docking station 100, or the first motor 151 is opened a preset number of times.

[0302] When the dust collection container 15 is connected to the docking station 100 and then separated from the docking station 100, the controller 140 according to this embodiment can drive the first motor 151 for a preset time, which is set for impurities remaining in the suction flow path 180 and to be collected by the collector 190.

[0303] The above has described in detail how vibration is transmitted to the dust collection container 15 to effectively remove impurities from the dust collection container 15. The following will describe, in conjunction with the control of the first motor 151 for irregular suction airflow, the control of the second motor 161 by the flow regulating device 160 to open and close the suction flow path 180.

[0304] Figure 15 This is a view used to describe the control of the first motor 151 according to the operation of the flow path valve 163 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0305] Reference Figure 15 In addition to controlling the first motor 151, the controller 140 according to this embodiment can also control the flow adjustment device 160 so as to periodically open and close the suction flow path 180 when the suction airflow is supplied by the suction fan 153 according to the drive of the suction device 150.

[0306] In other words, controller 140 controls the second motor 161 to cause flow path valve 163 to periodically open and close the suction flow path 180, thereby repeatedly supplying and stopping the suction airflow to the dust collection container 15, and thus periodically changing the airflow inside the dust collection container 15. In other words, flow path valve 163 can regulate the flow rate of air moved by suction fan 153 and completely stop any residual suction airflow that may remain during the off-time when no voltage is supplied to the first motor 151, thereby more effectively changing the airflow inside the dust collection container 15.

[0307] In this case, the controller 140 determines whether the suction flow path 180 is open or closed by the flow path valve 163 based on the output value of the position detection sensor 130, and drives the first motor 151 based on whether the suction flow path 180 is open or closed, thereby improving the noise and overload of the first motor 151.

[0308] In detail, when the flow regulating device 160 opens the suction flow path 180, the controller 140 controls the first motor 151 to start, and when the flow regulating device 160 closes the suction flow path 180, the controller 140 controls the first motor 151 to stop.

[0309] In other words, the controller 140 controls the first motor 151 and the second motor 161 connected to each other, thereby more effectively performing the supply and repetition of the suction airflow, preventing the suction fan 153 from causing noise due to rotation when the suction flow path 180 is closed, and improving the overload of the first motor 151.

[0310] In this case, the controller 140 can control the second motor 161 so that the flow path valve 163 opens and closes the suction flow path 180 at a preset cycle, and can control the second motor 161 in correspondence with the changing drive time of the first motor 151 whenever the first motor 151 opens and closes alternately.

[0311] In other words, when the opening time of the first motor 151 is changed or the closing time of the first motor 151 is changed, the controller 140 can control the second motor 161 to operate the flow path valve 163 in accordance with the changed opening and closing times.

[0312] According to this embodiment, the controller 140 can control the flow path valve 163 to close the suction flow path 180 when the dust collection container 15 is separated from the docking station 100. That is, the controller 140 can control the second motor 161 to cause the flow path valve 163 to close the suction flow path 180.

[0313] In this case, the suction flow path 180 can be closed after the first motor 151 is driven at a predetermined time, so that the impurities remaining in the suction flow path 180 are collected by the collector 190.

[0314] The following text will describe in detail the suction mode in which the suction device 150 operates continuously with the suction flow path 180 open.

[0315] Figure 16 This is a view used to describe the situation where the docking station 100 performs a suction mode according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0316] Reference Figure 16 When an action command for the suction mode is received via the input device 120, the controller 140 according to this embodiment can control the suction device 150 and the flow adjustment device 160 so that the suction airflow is continuously supplied when the suction flow path 180 is open.

[0317] In detail, in response to receiving an action command for the suction mode from the user while the dust collection container 15 is connected to the docking station 100, the controller 140 can control the suction device 150 and the flow regulating device 160 to perform the suction mode.

[0318] The controller 140 can determine whether the dust collection container 15 is connected to the docking station 100 based on the output of the sensor 110, and determine the input of the suction mode based on the output of the input device 120.

[0319] The suction mode is a mode used to check the suction power of the suction device 150, and can refer to the cycle of continuously supplying suction airflow when the suction flow path 180 is open.

[0320] In response to receiving an input of a suction mode, the controller 140 can control the flow adjustment device 160 to open the suction flow path 180.

[0321] For details, refer to Figure 16 When the suction flow path 180 is closed upon receiving the input of the suction mode, the controller 140 may supply voltage to the flow regulating device 160 to open the suction flow path 180, and may stop supplying voltage to the flow regulating device 160 when the suction flow path 180 becomes open.

[0322] In addition, with Figure 16 In contrast, when the suction flow path 180 opens upon receiving a suction mode input, the controller 140 can control the flow adjustment device 160 to stop, so that the suction flow path 180 remains open.

[0323] In response to receiving an input of a suction mode, the controller 140 can control the operation of the suction device 150 and continuously supply voltage to the first motor 151.

[0324] Reference Figure 16 The controller 140 can execute the suction mode until the dust collection container 15 separates from the docking station 100 or receives a stop command input. That is, when the dust collection container 15 separates from the docking station 100 or receives a stop command for the suction mode, the controller 140 can control the suction device 150 to stop. However, according to this embodiment, the controller 140 can control the suction device 150 to execute the suction mode only for a preset operating time, and stop when the preset operating time has elapsed.

[0325] Furthermore, the controller 140 according to the embodiment can control the flow adjustment device 160 to close the suction flow path 180 after a predetermined waiting time has elapsed after the suction mode has ended.

[0326] In other words, after a predetermined waiting time has elapsed since the voltage supply to the suction device 150 has been stopped, the controller 140 can control the flow regulating device 160 to allow the suction flow path 180 to be shut off, thereby preventing the suction flow path 180 from being shut off while the suction fan 153 continues to rotate after the power supply voltage to the suction device 150 has been stopped, thus preventing noise generation.

[0327] According to the embodiment, the controller 140 terminates the cycle by finally closing the suction flow path 180 after the suction mode is terminated, thereby protecting the suction device 150 from the effects of impurities remaining in the suction flow path 180, and allowing the suction device 150 to operate with the suction flow path 180 open when a new operation for removing impurities is started, thereby preventing noise generation.

[0328] The display mode in which the display component 170 continuously emits light will be described in detail below.

[0329] Figure 17 This is a view used to describe the situation where the docking station 100 performs a display mode according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0330] Reference Figure 17 In response to receiving a display mode input via the input device 120, the controller 140 according to this embodiment can execute the display mode by controlling the display unit 170 to emit light.

[0331] In detail, in response to receiving an input of display mode via input device 120, controller 140 may perform at least one of the following: control the front display 170a disposed on the front surface of docking station 100 to emit light to the outside of docking station 100, and control the internal display 170b disposed on mounting portion 181 to emit light from the inside of mounting portion 181 to dust collection container 15.

[0332] When the display mode is executed, the controller 140 can control the display component 170 to continuously emit light, regardless of the operation of the suction device 150, and can continue to execute the display mode until the external power supply is stopped.

[0333] The following will describe in detail an implementation of which the display unit 170 displays whether the collector 190 is performing collection based on whether the collector 190 is in a full state.

[0334] Figure 18 This is a view used to describe the situation where the docking station 100 determines the fullness of the collector 190 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0335] Reference Figure 18 According to this embodiment, the controller 140 can determine whether the collector 190 is full based on the output of the collector sensor 195, and can control the display unit 170 to display that the collector 190 is full when the collector 190 is full.

[0336] For example, when collector 190 is full, controller 140 can control front display 170a to output a "red" light and control front display 170a to keep outputting a "red" light until the dust bag 193 of collector 190 is replaced.

[0337] According to an embodiment, the collector sensor 195 may be configured as a pressure sensor located in the suction flow path 180. For example, such as Figure 18 As shown, the collector sensor 195 may be disposed within the collector housing 191. However, this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the collector sensor 195 may be located in different positions, as long as it is capable of measuring the pressure of the suction airflow. For example, the collector sensor 195 may be located on the suction device housing 106.

[0338] In this situation, when the collector 190, which is in a full state, blocks the suction airflow of the suction device 150, the collector sensor 195 can sense a pressure different from the pressure during normal operation.

[0339] With this configuration, when the collector sensor 195 outputs a pressure different from that in normal operation, the controller 140 can determine that the collector 190 is full and can control the display unit 170 to display that the collector 190 is full.

[0340] However, the collector sensor 195 is not limited to the example described above, and may be configured as an optical sensor or camera disposed in the collector housing 191 and capable of detecting when the collector 190 is full.

[0341] As described above, docking station 100 can notify the user that impurities in dust collection container 15 cannot be discharged normally due to the collector 190 being full, and can notify the user to replace dust collection bag 193.

[0342] The following will describe in detail an embodiment of disinfecting the dust collection container 15 or the collector 190 by irradiating it with ultraviolet light.

[0343] Figure 19 This is a view used to illustrate the situation where the docking station 100 is irradiated with ultraviolet light according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0344] Reference Figure 19 According to this embodiment, the controller 140 can control the ultraviolet irradiator 185 to use ultraviolet light to irradiate the dust collection container 15 or the collector 190 for disinfection.

[0345] According to this embodiment, the ultraviolet irradiator 185 can be used to irradiate the dust collection container 15 or the collector 190.

[0346] For this purpose, the ultraviolet irradiator 185 can be configured as an ultraviolet lamp installed on the mounting portion 181 and irradiating ultraviolet light. In this case, the ultraviolet light from the ultraviolet irradiator 185 can be transmitted to the dust collection container 15 connected to the docking station 100, and can be transmitted to the collector 190 through the suction flow path 180.

[0347] Furthermore, the ultraviolet irradiator 185 according to the embodiment may include a motor, and the irradiation angle can be mechanically adjusted based on the rotational force of the motor to irradiate the dust collection container 15 or the collector 190 with ultraviolet light.

[0348] Furthermore, the ultraviolet irradiator 185 according to the embodiment may include a plurality of ultraviolet lamps and may be used to irradiate the dust collection container 15 or collector 190 by electronically adjusting the irradiation angle in a manner that adjusts the irradiation intensity of each of the plurality of ultraviolet lamps in the form of an array.

[0349] Furthermore, the ultraviolet irradiator 185 according to the embodiment may include an ultraviolet lamp disposed on the placement portion 181 to transmit ultraviolet light to the dust collection container 15 and an ultraviolet lamp disposed on the collector housing 191 to transmit ultraviolet light to the collector 190.

[0350] According to the embodiment, when the suction device 150 is operated to remove impurities from the dust collection container 15, the controller 140 can control the ultraviolet irradiator 185 to perform ultraviolet irradiation.

[0351] Furthermore, when a user input for ultraviolet irradiation is received via the input device 120, the controller 140 according to the embodiment can control the ultraviolet irradiator 185 to irradiate ultraviolet light at a predetermined time.

[0352] In this way, docking station 100 can disinfect dust collection container 15 and collector 190 by using ultraviolet light to irradiate them.

[0353] In the following, an embodiment of the method for controlling the cleaning device 1 according to one aspect will be described. The cleaning device 1 according to the above embodiment can be used in the method for controlling the cleaning device 1. Therefore, the above references Figures 1 to 19 The description provided can be applied to the method of controlling the cleaning device 1.

[0354] Figure 20 This is a flowchart of a method for controlling the cleaning device 1 according to an embodiment, which illustrates the automatic operation when the docking station 100 is connected to the dust collection container 15 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0355] Reference Figure 20 When connected to the dust collection container 15 ("Yes" in operation 2010), the docking station 100 of the cleaning device 1 according to this embodiment can control the suction device 150 and the flow regulating device 160 to operate in operation 2020 to perform dust removal.

[0356] In other words, in response to the determination based on the output of sensor 110 that the dust collection container 15 is connected to the placement portion 181 of docking station 100, controller 140 can control the supply of voltage to suction device 150 and flow regulating device 160 to initiate the operation of removing impurities from dust collection container 15.

[0357] When operation is initiated based on the connection of the dust collection container 15, the controller 140 can control the operation of the suction device 150. That is, the controller 140 can supply voltage to the suction device 150 to drive the suction fan 153 to form a suction airflow.

[0358] Furthermore, the controller 140 can control the flow regulating device 160 to periodically open and close the suction flow path 180 during the operation of the suction device 150. That is, the controller 140 can supply voltage to the flow regulating device 160 to open and close the suction flow path 180 at a preset cycle.

[0359] With this configuration, the suction device 150 can continuously generate suction airflow through the suction fan 153, and the flow regulating device 160 can periodically open and close the suction flow path 180, thereby periodically changing the flow rate of the suction airflow generated by the suction device 150.

[0360] As the direction of airflow changes instantaneously, some impurities that have resistance in a certain direction can lose resistance due to the airflow in another direction and can escape from the dust collection container 15 along with the airflow.

[0361] In operation 2040, the docking station 100 of the cleaning device 1 according to this embodiment can control the suction device 150 and the flow regulating device 160, so that after the suction device 150 is started, a preset operation time T is elapsed. O (Stop dust removal operation when "Yes" in operation 2030).

[0362] In other words, the controller 140 can control the suction device 150 and the flow regulating device 160 for a preset operating time T for discharging impurities from the dust collection container 15. O The operation is performed during this period, and after the operation starts, a preset operation time T is elapsed. O When necessary, the supply of voltage to the suction device 150 and the flow regulating device 160 can be stopped.

[0363] In this case, the flow regulating device 160 can operate within a preset time T. O The suction flow path 180 is repeatedly opened and closed a preset number of times (e.g., five times). That is, the preset operating time T takes into account the opening and closing cycle of the flow regulating device 160. O It can be set to repeat the opening and closing of the suction flow path 180 a preset number of times (e.g., five times).

[0364] In this case, the controller 140 according to this embodiment can be set to a preset operation time T. O This allows the flow regulating device 160 to stop when the suction flow path 180 is open, based on the opening and closing cycle of the flow regulating device 160 of the suction flow path 180.

[0365] The controller 140 can be set to operate for a specific time T. O So that after the operation starts, a preset operation time T is elapsed. O When the suction flow path 180 is open, the flow regulating device 160 stops, thereby preventing the suction flow path 180 from being shut off while the suction fan 153 continues to rotate after the power supply voltage of the suction device 150 is interrupted, thus preventing noise.

[0366] In operation 2060, the docking station 100 of the cleaning device 1 according to this embodiment can operate during operation time T. O After a preset waiting time T W (For example, 2.5 seconds) ("Yes" in operation 2050) control flow regulating device 160 closes suction flow path 180.

[0367] In other words, controller 140 can allow flow regulating device 160 to stop so that suction flow path 180 is open during a predetermined waiting time to prevent noise from changes in suction airflow caused by residual suction power after the operation of removing impurities from dust collection container 15 has stopped. Furthermore, controller 140 can control flow regulating device 160 to close suction flow path 180 after the waiting time, thereby protecting suction device 150 from impurities remaining in suction flow path 180, and allowing suction device 150 to operate with suction flow path 180 open when the impurity removal operation is initiated, thereby reducing noise.

[0368] Figure 21 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling the cleaning device 1, showing operation in response to input of an action command according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0369] Reference Figure 21 When connected to the dust collection container 15 ("Yes" in operation 2110), the docking station 100 of the cleaning device 1 according to this embodiment can be configured to control the suction device 150 and the flow regulating device 160 in response to receiving an action command ("Yes" in operation 2120) to operate in operation 2130 for dust removal.

[0370] Subsequently, in operation 2150, the docking station 100 of the cleaning device 1 according to this embodiment can control the suction device 150 and the flow regulating device 160 so that after a preset operation time T has elapsed since the operation of the suction device 150 is started. o Stop the dust removal operation when you click "Yes" in operation 2140.

[0371] Furthermore, in operation 2170, the controller 140 according to this embodiment can, when operation time T O After a preset waiting time T W (For example, at 2.5 seconds) (when “Yes” is selected in operation 2160), the control flow regulating device 160 closes the suction flow path 180.

[0372] Since operations 2130 to 2170 correspond to Figure 20 Operations 2030 to 2060 are included in this list, so detailed descriptions will be omitted.

[0373] Figure 22 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling the cleaning device 1, showing a stop operation in response to an input of a stop command according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0374] Reference Figure 22 In operation 2210, the docking station 100 of the cleaning device 1 according to this embodiment can control the operation of the suction device 150 and the flow regulating device 160 to perform dust removal based on the connection of the dust collection container 15 or the input of the user's action command.

[0375] In this situation, when a stop command for dust removal operation is input ("Yes" in operation 2220) and the suction flow path 180 is closed ("Yes" in operation 2230), in operation 2250, the controller 140 according to this embodiment can control the suction device 150 and the flow regulating device 160 so that after a first waiting time T after the input of the stop command... W1 Then, when the suction flow path 180 becomes open ("Yes" in operation 2240), the dust removal operation is stopped.

[0376] In other words, in response to receiving a stop command for dust removal operation while the suction flow path 180 is closed, the controller 140 according to this embodiment can operate the flow adjustment device 160 to open the suction flow path 180.

[0377] In other words, in response to receiving a stop command input when the flow regulator 160 is in the position of closing the suction flow path 180 during operation, the controller 140 can maintain the voltage supplied to the flow regulator 160 for a first waiting time T from the time the stop command is input. W1 This opens the suction flow path 180. In this case, the first waiting time T W1 This corresponds to the time required for the flow regulating device 160 to move from the closed position of the suction flow path 180 to the open position of the suction flow path 180.

[0378] In this way, the controller 140 can stop supplying voltage to the suction device 150, so that after a first waiting time T is elapsed following the input of a stop command for dust removal operation. W1 When the suction device 150 stops operating, and when the voltage supply to the suction device 150 is stopped, the voltage supply to the flow regulating device 160 is also stopped, so that the suction device 150 and the flow regulating device 160 stop when the flow regulating device 160 opens the suction flow path 180.

[0379] As described above, the controller 140 can calculate the first waiting time T W1The suction device 150 and the flow regulating device 160 can be stopped from operating, and the flow regulating device 160 can be determined by the output value of the position detection sensor 130 to control the suction device 150 and the flow regulating device 160 to stop operating.

[0380] In other words, after a stop command is input for the dust removal operation of docking station 100, controller 140 can determine the opening of suction flow path 180 based on the output value of position detection sensor 130, and control suction device 150 and flow adjustment device 160 to stop operation.

[0381] With this configuration, the controller 140 can prevent the suction flow path 180 from shutting off if the suction fan 153 continues to rotate after the power supply voltage of the suction device 150 is interrupted, thereby preventing noise generation.

[0382] As described above, even without a power supply to the suction device 150, the suction fan 153 may continue to rotate due to inertia. After the power supply to the suction device 150 is interrupted, the suction airflow on the suction flow path 180 may remain and decrease until the suction fan 153 completely stops. When the suction flow path 180 is closed by the flow regulating device 160 due to changes in air pressure caused by variations in the suction airflow, noise may be generated due to the instantaneous changes in air pressure.

[0383] Therefore, in response to receiving a stop command for the dust removal operation after the dust removal operation is started, the controller 140 can control the flow regulating device 160 to stop operating while the flow regulating device 160 is open in the suction flow path 180, thereby preventing the suction flow path 180 from being closed while the suction fan 153 continues to rotate after the power supply voltage of the suction device 150 is interrupted, thereby preventing noise generation.

[0384] Furthermore, when a stop command for dust removal operation is input ("Yes" in operation 2220) and the suction flow path 180 is opened ("No" in operation 2230), in operation 2260, the controller 140 according to this embodiment can control the flow regulating device 160 to stop operation. Thereafter, in operation 2280, after a first waiting time T following the input of the stop command... W1 When "Yes" is selected in operation 2270, the docking station 100 of the cleaning device 1 can control the suction device 150 to stop operating.

[0385] In other words, in response to receiving a stop command for dust removal operation while the suction flow path 180 is open, the controller 140 according to this embodiment can allow the flow regulating device 160 to stop so that the suction flow path 180 is kept open by the flow regulating device 160.

[0386] In other words, in response to receiving a stop command input when the flow regulator 160 is in the open suction flow path 180 position during operation, the controller 140 can stop supplying voltage to the flow regulator 160 to keep the suction flow path 180 open.

[0387] With this configuration, the controller 140 can prevent the suction flow path 180 from being shut off while the suction fan 153 continues to rotate after the power supply voltage of the suction device 150 is interrupted, thereby preventing noise generation.

[0388] According to this embodiment, the docking station 100 of the cleaning device 1 can, during operation 2290, wait for a second waiting time T after the flow regulating device 160 stops. W2 (For example, 2.5 seconds) the flow regulating device 160 closes the suction flow path 180.

[0389] As described above, the controller 140 terminates the cycle by finally closing the suction flow path 180 after the input of the stop command for the dust removal operation, thereby protecting the suction device 150 from the effects of impurities remaining in the suction flow path 180, and allowing the suction device 150 to operate with the suction flow path 180 open when a new operation for removing impurities is started, thereby preventing noise generation.

[0390] Figure 23 The flowchart illustrates a method for controlling the cleaning device 1, showing the case where the flow rate of the suction airflow is adjusted by controlling the first motor 151 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0391] Reference Figure 23 In operation 2310, the docking station 100 of the cleaning device 1 according to this embodiment can determine whether the dust collection container 15 is connected to the docking station 100 based on the output value of the sensor 110.

[0392] According to this embodiment, the docking station 100 of the cleaning device 1 can control the first motor 151 to open and close when the dust collection container 15 is connected to the docking station 100 ("Yes" in 2320).

[0393] In other words, the controller 140 of docking station 100 can control the first motor 151 so that when the dust collection container 15 of vacuum cleaner 10 is connected to docking station 100, the impurities in the dust collection container 15 are discharged.

[0394] In detail, the controller 140 can determine whether the dust collection container 15 is connected to the docking station 100 based on the output value of the sensor 110, and when the dust collection container 15 is connected to the docking station 100, it starts to execute control of the first motor 151.

[0395] However, in addition to the output value of sensor 110, controller 140 can also consider user control commands input via input device 120, and start controlling the first motor 151 only if a user command is present.

[0396] When the first motor 151 drives the suction fan 153 to supply suction airflow to the dust collection container 15 and draws air from the dust collection container 15, the docking station 100 of the cleaning device 1 according to this embodiment allows the suction airflow to be changed, thereby changing the airflow rate inside the dust collection container 15 and diversifying the airflow inside the dust collection container 15.

[0397] Therefore, when the dust collection container 15 is not separated ("No" in operation 2340) and the number of times the first motor 151 is turned on has not reached the preset number ("No" in operation 2350), the docking station 100 of the cleaning device 1 can adjust at least one of the drive time and rotational speed of the first motor 151 in operation 2360. Subsequently, in operation 2330, the docking station 100 of the cleaning device 1 can control the first motor 151 such that the first motor 151 is turned on and then off based on the adjusted drive time and / or adjusted rotational speed.

[0398] In order to provide irregular suction airflow to the dust collection container 15, the controller 140 can adjust at least one of the drive time and rotation speed of the first motor 151, and repeatedly turn the first motor 151 on and off.

[0399] In other words, the controller 140 can control the first motor 151 so that the first motor 151 is turned on and off alternately.

[0400] In this case, whenever the first motor 151 alternately turns on and off, the controller 140 can adjust the drive time of the first motor 151 by adjusting at least one of the time the first motor 151 turns on and the time the first motor 151 turns off.

[0401] Furthermore, whenever the first motor 151 alternately turns on and off, the controller 140 can adjust the rotational speed of the first motor 151 by adjusting the pulse width of the power supply voltage supplied to the first motor 151.

[0402] In this situation, whenever the first motor 151 alternately turns on and off according to the change in the driving time or the rotational speed of the first motor 151, the suction fan 153 can provide suction airflow with different suction power, and because the irregular suction airflow causes the internal pressure of the dust collection container 15 to change, the impurities in the dust collection container 15 can be smoothly discharged from the dust collection container 15.

[0403] In other words, as the air velocity inside the dust collection container 15 changes, the air diffuses in all directions within the space inside the dust collection container 15. Therefore, the airflow inside the dust collection container 15 can change in different directions.

[0404] As the direction of airflow changes instantaneously, some impurities that have resistance in a certain direction can lose resistance due to the airflow in another direction and can escape from the dust collection container 15 along with the airflow.

[0405] In other words, the controller 140 repeatedly supplies and interrupts the suction airflow to the dust collection container 15 by controlling the on / off state of the first motor 151, and changes the supply time or suction power when supplying suction airflow, thereby periodically changing the airflow inside the dust collection container 15. With this configuration, impurities in the dust collection container 15 can be discharged more effectively.

[0406] According to an embodiment, the controller 140 can set different pulse widths for the pulses of the power supply voltage during at least one time period during which the first motor 151 alternately turns on and off, so as to cause the first motor 151 to vibrate.

[0407] In this situation, the first motor 151 can undergo rapid changes in rotational speed based on the pulse width difference between pulses of the power supply voltage, and therefore, the first motor 151 can vibrate.

[0408] The vibration of the first motor 151 can be transmitted to the main body of the docking station 100 and the dust collection container 15 connected to the docking station 100. That is, the dust collection container 15 can vibrate according to the vibration of the first motor 151, and the impurities in the dust collection container 15 can be discharged more effectively according to the vibration.

[0409] According to this embodiment, the docking station 100 of the cleaning device 1 can repeatedly control the on / off state of the first motor 151 until the dust collection container 15 is separated from the docking station 100 ("Yes" in operation 2340) or the first motor 151 is turned on a preset number of times ("Yes" in operation 2350). In this case, the preset number of times can be set during the design phase of the cleaning device 1, or it can be set by the user via the input device 120. However, this disclosure is not limited to this, and the controller 140 can set the preset number of times based on information obtained from sensors or the like regarding the amount of impurities collected in the dust collection container 15.

[0410] According to this embodiment, the controller 140 can drive the first motor 151 for a predetermined time, which is set for the impurities remaining in the suction flow path 180 that are to be collected by the collector 190 when the dust collection container 15 is connected to the docking station 100 and subsequently separated from the docking station 100.

[0411] Figure 24 The flowchart illustrates a method for controlling the cleaning device 1, showing the case where the operation of the flow path valve 163 is used to control the first motor 151 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0412] Reference Figure 24 In operation 2410, the docking station 100 of the cleaning device 1 according to this embodiment can determine whether the dust collection container 15 is connected to the docking station 100 based on the output value of the sensor 110.

[0413] When the dust collection container 15 is connected to the docking station 100 ("Yes" in operation 2420), in operation 2430, the docking station 100 of the cleaning device 1 according to this embodiment can control the second motor 161 so that the flow path valve 163 periodically opens and closes the suction flow path 180.

[0414] In detail, in addition to controlling the first motor 151, the controller 140 according to this embodiment can also control the flow path valve 163 to periodically open and close the suction flow path 180 when the suction airflow of the suction fan 153 is supplied according to the drive of the first motor 151.

[0415] In other words, controller 140 controls the second motor 161 to cause flow path valve 163 to periodically open and close suction flow path 180, thereby repeating the supply and interruption of suction airflow in dust collection container 15, and thus periodically changing the airflow inside dust collection container 15. In other words, flow path valve 163 can regulate the flow rate of air moved by suction fan 153 and completely stop any residual suction airflow that may remain during the off-time when no voltage is supplied to the first motor 151, thereby more effectively changing the airflow inside dust collection container 15.

[0416] In operation 2440, the docking station 100 of the cleaning device 1 according to this embodiment can control the opening / closing of the first motor 151 in response to the opening and closing of the suction flow path 180.

[0417] In other words, the controller 140 of docking station 100 determines whether the suction flow path 180 is opened or closed by the flow path valve 163 based on the output value of the position detection sensor 130, and turns the first motor 151 on or off based on whether the suction flow path 180 is open or closed, thereby improving the noise and overload of the first motor 151.

[0418] In detail, when the flow path valve 163 opens to draw in the flow path 180, the controller 140 controls the first motor 151 to start, and when the flow path valve 163 closes to draw in the flow path 180, the controller 140 controls the first motor 151 to stop.

[0419] In other words, the controller 140 controls the first motor 151 and the second motor 161 in combination with each other, thereby more effectively performing the supply and repetition of the suction airflow, preventing the suction fan 153 from causing noise due to rotation when the suction flow path 180 is closed, and improving the overload of the first motor 151.

[0420] In this case, the controller 140 can control the second motor 161 so that the flow path valve 163 opens and closes the suction flow path 180 at a preset cycle, and the second motor 161 can be controlled in accordance with the changing drive time of the first motor 151 whenever the first motor 151 opens and closes alternately.

[0421] In other words, when the opening time of supplying voltage to the first motor 151 or the closing time of not supplying voltage to the first motor 151 changes, the controller 140 can control the second motor 161 to operate the flow path valve 163 in accordance with the changed opening and closing times.

[0422] Figure 25 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling the cleaning device 1, which shows the suction mode performed according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0423] Reference Figure 25 When connected to the dust collection container ("Yes" in operation 2510) and receiving a command for the suction mode ("Yes" in operation 2520), the docking station 100 of the cleaning device 1 according to this embodiment can control the flow regulating device 160 to open the suction flow path 180 in operation 2530, and control the operation of the suction device 150 in operation 2540.

[0424] In other words, in response to receiving an action command for the suction mode via the input device 120, the controller 140 according to this embodiment can control the suction device 150 and the flow adjustment device 160 so that the suction airflow is continuously supplied when the suction flow path 180 is open.

[0425] Specifically, in response to receiving an action command for the suction mode from the user while the dust collection container 15 is connected to the docking station 100, the controller 140 can control the suction device 150 and the flow regulating device 160 to execute the suction mode.

[0426] The controller 140 can determine whether the dust collection container 15 is connected to the docking station 100 based on the output of the sensor 110, and determine the input of the suction mode based on the output of the input device 120.

[0427] The suction mode is a mode used to check the suction power of the suction device 150, and can refer to the cycle of continuously supplying suction airflow when the suction flow path 180 is open.

[0428] In response to receiving an input of a suction mode, the controller 140 can control the flow regulating device 160 to open the suction flow path 180.

[0429] Specifically, when the suction flow path 180 is closed upon receiving the input of the suction mode, the controller 140 may supply voltage to the flow regulating device 160 to open the suction flow path 180, and may stop supplying voltage to the flow regulating device 160 when the suction flow path 180 becomes open.

[0430] Furthermore, when the suction flow path 180 opens upon receiving a suction mode input, the controller 140 can control the flow adjustment device 160 to stop operating so that the suction flow path 180 remains open.

[0431] In response to receiving an input of a suction mode, the controller 140 can control the operation of the suction device 150 and continue to supply voltage to the first motor 151 of the suction device 150.

[0432] When the dust collection container is separated ("Yes" in operation 2550) or when a stop command for the suction mode is received via the input device 120 ("Yes" in operation 2560), in operation 2570, the docking station 100 of the cleaning device 1 according to this embodiment can control the suction device 150 to stop operating.

[0433] Thus, the controller 140 can execute the suction mode until the dust collection container 15 separates from the docking station 100 or receives a stop command input. That is, when the dust collection container 15 separates from the docking station 100 or receives a stop command for the suction mode, the controller 140 can control the suction device 150 to stop operating. However, according to the embodiment, the controller 140 can control the suction device 150 to execute the suction mode only for a preset operating time, and stop when the preset operating time has elapsed.

[0434] Furthermore, the docking station 100 of the cleaning device 1 according to this embodiment can control the flow regulating device 160 to close the suction flow path 180 after a predetermined waiting time has elapsed after the suction mode has ended.

[0435] Figure 26 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling the cleaning device 1, showing a display mode executed according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0436] Reference Figure 26In response to receiving an input for a display mode in operation 2610, the docking station 100 of the cleaning device 1 according to this embodiment can control the display unit 170 to emit light in operation 2620, and terminate the display mode when the external power supply is interrupted ("yes" in operation 2630).

[0437] In detail, in response to receiving an input of display mode via input device 120, controller 140 may perform at least one of the following: control the front display 170a disposed on the front surface of docking station 100 to emit light to the outside of docking station 100, and control the internal display 170b disposed on mounting portion 181 to emit light from the inside of mounting portion 181 to dust collection container 15.

[0438] When the display mode is executed, the controller 140 can control the display component 170 to continuously emit light regardless of the operation of the suction device 150, and can continue to execute the display mode until the external power supply is stopped.

[0439] Figure 27 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for controlling the cleaning device 1, which shows the display collector 190 being full according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0440] Reference Figure 27 In operation 2710, the docking station 100 of the cleaning device 1 according to this embodiment can control the operation of the suction device 150 and the flow regulating device 160 to perform dust removal based on the connection of the dust collection container 15 or the input of action commands from the user.

[0441] When the collector 190 is full ("Yes" in operation 2720), the docking station 100 of the cleaning device 1 according to this embodiment can control the display unit 170 in operation 2730 to display the fullness of the collector 190.

[0442] Furthermore, when the suction device 150 and the flow regulating device 160 perform a new dust removal operation ("Yes" in operation 2740), the docking station 100 of the cleaning device 1 according to this embodiment can re-determine whether the collector 190 is full, and when the collector is not full ("Yes" in operation 2750), the control display unit 170 does not display whether the collector 190 is full in operation 2760.

[0443] For example, when collector 190 is full, controller 140 can control front display 170a to output a "red" light and control front display 170a to keep outputting a "red" light until the dust bag 193 of collector 190 is replaced.

[0444] In this way, docking station 100 can notify the user that the impurities in dust collection container 15 cannot be discharged normally due to the fullness of collector 190, and can notify the user to replace dust collection bag 193.

[0445] On the other hand, the disclosed embodiments can be implemented as a recording medium storing computer-executable instructions. The instructions can be stored as program code, and when executed by a processor, can generate a program module to perform the operations of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium can be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

[0446] Computer-readable recording media include all types of recording media in which instructions that can be decoded by a computer are stored, such as read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic tape, magnetic disk, flash memory, optical data storage devices, and so on.

[0447] As is evident from the above, the cleaning apparatus according to this embodiment allows for the automatic and efficient removal of impurities from the dust collection container of the vacuum cleaner by providing irregular suction airflow when the vacuum cleaner is connected to the docking station.

[0448] Although this disclosure has been shown and described with reference to various embodiments thereof, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A cleaning device, comprising: Vacuum cleaner, including dust collection container; as well as Dust collection station, wherein the dust collection container is connected to the dust collection station; The dust collection station includes: A sensor is configured to detect whether the dust collection container is connected to the dust collection station; Input device, configured to receive input from a user; A suction fan, configured to generate suction airflow; A motor configured to rotate the suction fan; A dust collection bag, configured to collect foreign objects moved by the suction airflow; and At least one processor, configured as follows: The dust collection container is connected to the dust collection station based on the output value of the sensor. Based on the determination that the dust collection container is connected to the dust collection station and the input command being entered through the input device, the motor is controlled to rotate the suction fan for a predetermined operating time; and Based on the determination that the dust collection container separates from the dust collection station before the predetermined operation time has elapsed or a stop command is received through the input device, the motor is controlled to remain on for a preset waiting time and then shut off, so that the foreign matter remaining in the suction airflow along its suction airflow path inside the dust collection station can be collected in the dust collection bag.

2. The cleaning device according to claim 1, wherein, The dust collection station also includes: The flow control device is configured to open or close the suction airflow path. The at least one processor is further configured to control the flow regulating device to periodically open and close the suction airflow path during motor operation.

3. The cleaning device according to claim 2, wherein, The at least one processor is further configured to control the motor and the flow regulating device to stop in response to a preset operating time elapsed since the start of operation of the motor.

4. The cleaning device according to claim 3, wherein, The at least one processor is further configured to determine the preset operating time based on the opening and closing cycle of the flow regulating device for the suction airflow path, such that the suction airflow path opens in response to the flow regulating device stopping.

5. The cleaning device according to claim 2, wherein, The at least one processor is further configured to: The voltage supplied to the motor is controlled to maintain the target voltage after it has been reached. As the voltage supplied to the motor increases to the target voltage, the flow regulating device is controlled to open the suction airflow path, and While maintaining the voltage supplied to the motor at the target voltage, the flow regulating device is controlled to periodically open and close the suction airflow path.

6. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one processor is further configured to: adjust at least one of the drive time of the motor or the rotational speed of the motor while repeating the on and off operations of the motor, so as to change the suction airflow supplied to the dust collection container.

7. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 6, wherein, The at least one processor is further configured to: in each example of the alternating on and off of the motor, adjust at least one of the time the motor is in the on state or the time the motor is in the off state to adjust the drive time of the motor.

8. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 6, wherein, The at least one processor is further configured to: in each example in which the motor is alternately turned on and off, adjust the pulse width of the power supply voltage supplied to the motor to adjust the rotational speed of the motor.

9. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 8, wherein, The at least one processor is further configured to: set different pulse widths for the pulses of the power supply voltage during at least one time period during the time period when the motor is turned on or off, so as to cause the motor to vibrate.

10. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 9, wherein, The at least one processor is further configured to: adjust the pulse width of the power supply voltage for the pulse, such that a first pulse width and a second pulse width are alternately provided as the pulse of the power supply voltage propagates during the at least one time period.

11. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 3, wherein, The at least one processor is further configured to: control the flow regulating device to open the suction airflow path in response to receiving a stop command input via the input device during operation of the motor and the flow regulating device.

12. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The dust collection station also includes a display screen that shows the operating status. The at least one processor is further configured to: in response to the dust bag being full, control the display to show an indication that the dust bag is full.

13. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 12, wherein, The at least one processor is further configured to control the display to output light of a preset color in response to the dust bag being full.

14. The cleaning apparatus according to claim 13, wherein, The at least one processor is further configured to: in response to the dust bag not being full, control the display to prevent the output of light of a preset color.

15. A method of controlling a cleaning apparatus, the cleaning apparatus comprising a vacuum cleaner, the vacuum cleaner including a dust collection container and a dust collection station, the dust collection container being configured to be connected to the dust collection station, the method comprising: Based on the configuration of the dust collection station, the output value of the sensor used to detect whether the dust collection container is connected to the dust collection station is used to determine whether the dust collection container is connected to the dust collection station; Based on the determination that the dust collection container is connected to the dust collection station and that an operation command has been input through the input device of the dust collection station, the motor configured to rotate the suction fan to generate suction airflow is controlled to operate for a predetermined time. Based on the determination that the dust collection container separates from the dust collection station before the predetermined operation time has elapsed or a stop command is received via the input device, the motor is controlled to remain on for a preset waiting time and then shut off, so that foreign objects remaining in the suction airflow along its path within the dust collection station can be collected by the dust collection bag of the dust collection station, wherein the dust collection bag is configured to collect the foreign objects moving through the suction airflow.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein, The dust collection station also includes: The flow control device is configured to open or close the suction airflow path. The method further includes: The flow regulation device is controlled to periodically open and close the suction airflow path during motor operation.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein, It also includes: controlling the motor and the flow regulating device to stop in response to a preset operating time elapsed since the start of the operation of the motor.

18. The method of claim 17, further comprising: Based on the opening and closing cycle of the flow regulating device for the suction airflow path, the preset operating time is determined such that the suction airflow path opens in response to the flow regulating device being stopped.

19. The method of claim 16, further comprising: The voltage supplied to the motor is controlled to maintain the target voltage after it is reached. As the voltage supplied to the motor increases to the target voltage, the flow regulating device is controlled to open the suction airflow path; as well as While maintaining the voltage supplied to the motor at the target voltage, the flow regulating device is controlled to periodically open and close the suction airflow path.

20. The method of claim 15, further comprising: While repeatedly turning the motor on and off, at least one of the motor's drive time or the motor's rotational speed is adjusted to change the suction airflow supplied to the dust collection container.

21. The method according to claim 20, wherein, Adjusting at least one of the drive time of the motor or the rotational speed of the motor includes: in each example in which the motor is alternately turned on and off, adjusting at least one of the time the motor is in the on state or the time the motor is in the off state to adjust the drive time of the motor.

22. The method according to claim 20, wherein, Adjusting at least one of the drive time of the motor or the rotational speed of the motor includes: in each example in which the motor is alternately turned on and off, adjusting the pulse width of the power supply voltage supplied to the motor to adjust the rotational speed of the motor.

23. The method of claim 22, further comprising: During at least one of the time periods when the motor is turned on or off, different pulse widths are set for the pulses of the power supply voltage to cause the motor to vibrate.

24. The method of claim 23, further comprising: The pulse width of the power supply voltage for the pulse is adjusted such that a first pulse width and a second pulse width are alternately provided as the pulse of the power supply voltage propagates during the at least one time period.

25. The method of claim 17, further comprising: In response to receiving a stop command input via the input device during operation of the motor and the flow regulating device, the flow regulating device is controlled to open the suction airflow path.

26. The method according to claim 15, wherein, The dust collection station also includes a display screen that shows the operating status. The method further includes: In response to the dust bag being full, the display is controlled to show an indication that the dust bag is full.

27. The method of claim 26, further comprising: In response to the dust bag being full, the display is controlled to output light of a preset color.

28. The method of claim 27, further comprising: In response to the dust bag not being full, the display is controlled to prevent the output of light of a predetermined color.

Images