Dust collector base station

Abstract

The present invention relates to a vacuum cleaner base station, comprising: a flow path part for communicating an inner space of a dust barrel and an inner space of a dust collection part of a vacuum cleaner, at least a part of the flow path part being provided with a flow path through which the dust flows upward against gravity; the flow path portion includes: a cleaning hole that communicates the internal space with the outside; and a cleaning hole cover for selectively opening and closing the cleaning hole, so that dust remaining in the internal space of the flow path part can be easily cleaned by separating the cleaning hole cover, and smooth air flow can be ensured.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a vacuum cleaner base station, and more particularly, to a vacuum cleaner base station that is combined with a vacuum cleaner and sucks dust stored in the vacuum cleaner into the interior thereof. Background Art

[0002] Generally, a vacuum cleaner is a household appliance that sucks in small garbage or dust by using electricity to suck in air and fills a dust bin inside the product with it, and is generally referred to as a vacuum cleaner.

[0003] Such vacuum cleaners can be classified into a manual vacuum cleaner in which the user directly moves the vacuum cleaner to perform cleaning, and an automatic vacuum cleaner that autonomously travels and performs cleaning. The manual vacuum cleaner can be classified into a canister-type vacuum cleaner, an upright vacuum cleaner, a handheld vacuum cleaner, a stick-type vacuum cleaner, etc. according to the form of the vacuum cleaner.

[0004] In the past, canister-type vacuum cleaners were mostly used in household vacuum cleaners, but in recent years, handheld vacuum cleaners and stick-type vacuum cleaners in which the dust bin and the vacuum cleaner body are integrated to improve the usability have been increasingly used.

[0005] In a canister-type vacuum cleaner, a rubber hose or a pipe is used to connect the main body and the suction port, and a brush can be inserted into the suction port and used according to the situation.

[0006] A handheld vacuum cleaner is a vacuum cleaner that maximizes portability. Although it is light in weight, since its length is short, it is necessary to squat down to perform cleaning, so there is a limitation in the cleaning area. Therefore, it is used for cleaning local areas such as desks, sofas, or inside a car.

[0007] A stick-type vacuum cleaner can be used while standing, so it is possible to clean without bending over. Therefore, it is advantageous to clean while moving in a spacious area. Compared with a handheld vacuum cleaner for cleaning a narrow space, a stick-type vacuum cleaner can clean a wider space and can clean high places that are out of reach of the hand. In recent years, a stick-type vacuum cleaner has been provided in a modular form to actively change the type of vacuum cleaner and use it for various objects.

[0008] In addition, a floor cleaning robot that automatically performs cleaning without the operation of the user is recently being used. The floor cleaning robot automatically cleans the area to be cleaned by sucking in foreign substances such as dust from the floor while autonomously traveling in the area to be cleaned.

[0009] To this end, the floor cleaning robot is provided with a distance sensor, a left wheel and a right wheel. The distance sensor senses the distance to obstacles such as furniture, office supplies or walls arranged in the cleaning area, and the left wheel and the right wheel are used for the movement of the floor cleaning robot.

[0010] Here, the left wheel is configured to rotate by a left wheel motor, and the right wheel is configured to rotate by a right wheel motor. With the driving of the left wheel motor and the right wheel motor, the floor cleaning robot automatically changes its direction to perform indoor cleaning.

[0011] However, existing handheld vacuum cleaners, stick vacuum cleaners and floor cleaning robots have a small capacity of the dust bin for storing the collected dust, so there is a trouble that users need to empty the dust bin every time.

[0012] In addition, there is a problem that when emptying the dust bin, the health of the user is adversely affected due to the scattering of dust.

[0013] In addition, there is a problem that the suction power of the vacuum cleaner decreases when the residual dust in the dust bin is not removed.

[0014] In addition, there is a problem that when the residual dust in the dust bin is not removed, an odor is generated due to the residue.

[0015] As Reference Document 1, US10595692 B2 is proposed. Reference Document 1 discloses a discharge base station having a debris bin of a floor cleaning robot.

[0016] In Reference Document 1, there is a base station for the floor cleaning robot to dock, and the base station is formed with a flow path for sucking dust in a direction perpendicular to the ground.

[0017] In the base station, the dust collecting motor for sucking dust of the floor cleaning robot is arranged on the upper side of the base station.

[0018] According to Reference Document 1, the flow path includes an ascending flow path rising from the lower part to the upper part. In this case, there is a problem that when the density of the dust is high, the dust cannot rise and remains at the lower end.

[0019] As Reference Document 2, KR2022-0006850A is proposed. Reference Document 2 discloses a vacuum cleaner base station combined with a handheld stick vacuum cleaner and / or a floor cleaning robot to collect dust.

[0020] The vacuum cleaner base station has a first flow path, a second flow path and a flow path switching valve. The dust in the dust bin of the handheld stick vacuum cleaner flows in the first flow path, and the dust in the dust bin of the floor cleaning robot flows in the second flow path. The flow path switching valve selectively opens and closes the first flow path and the second flow path.

[0021] However, the specific structure of the vacuum cleaner base station combined with the floor cleaning robot is not disclosed, and thus, the structure of the second flow path is not disclosed.

[0022] Referring to Reference Document 2, obviously, the flow path includes an upward flow path that rises from the lower part to the upper part. In this case, there is a problem that when the density of dust is high, the dust cannot rise and remains at the lower end. Summary of the Invention

[0023] Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0024] The present invention is proposed to improve the problems existing in the above-mentioned existing vacuum cleaner system, and its purpose is to provide a vacuum cleaner base station capable of maintaining performance by removing the dust remaining at the lower end of the upward flow path.

[0025] In addition, its purpose is to provide a vacuum cleaner base station that minimizes the loss of the dust collection flow capacity by easily removing the dust remaining in the flow path.

[0026] Technical Solutions for Solving the Problems

[0027] To achieve the above object, the vacuum cleaner base station of the present invention includes: a cover body, on one side of which a vacuum cleaner can be combined; a dust collection part, accommodated inside the cover body, for collecting the dust inside the dust bin of the vacuum cleaner; a lower coupling part, arranged on the cover body and below the dust collection part, including a coupling surface for at least a part of the vacuum cleaner to be combined; a dust collection motor, accommodated inside the cover body and below the dust collection part, for generating a suction force to suck the dust inside the dust bin; and a flow path part, communicating the internal space of the dust bin of the vacuum cleaner and the internal space of the dust collection part, and a flow path that overcomes gravity and flows upward is formed in at least a part of the flow path part. The flow path part includes: a cleaning hole, for communicating the internal space with the outside; a cleaning hole cover, selectively opening and closing the cleaning hole.

[0028] The cleaning hole cover may include a cleaning hole shielding part, which closely adheres to the outer surface of the flow path part and covers the cleaning hole. At this time, the cleaning hole cover may further include a cleaning hole insertion part, which further protrudes from the cleaning hole shielding part toward the flow path part and at least a part of it is inserted into the cleaning hole. At this time, the cleaning hole cover may further include a cleaning hole seal, which is arranged on the radial outer side of the cleaning hole insertion part and fills the gap between the cleaning hole shielding part and the outer surface of the flow path part.

[0029] The cleaning hole cover may include an extension part, which extends outward from the outer periphery of the cleaning hole shielding part toward the cover body. At this time, the cleaning hole cover may further include a coupling part, which further protrudes radially outward from the end of the extension part and is coupled to the cover body.

[0030] The flow path part may include an outer cover, which is disposed outside the cleaning hole cover, is detachably coupled to the cover body, and selectively shields the cleaning hole cover. At this time, the flow path part includes: a cleaning hole cover installation hole formed in the cover body into which the cleaning hole cover is inserted; and an outer cover installation hole formed in the cover body, at least a part of which overlaps with the cleaning hole cover installation hole, and the outer cover is inserted into the outer cover installation hole; a step is formed between the outer circumferential surface of the cleaning hole cover installation hole and the outer circumferential surface of the outer cover installation hole; the outer cover can be caught by the step.

[0031] The flow path part may include: an upper coupling part disposed in the cover body and on the upper side of the dust collection part, including a coupling surface for coupling at least a part of another vacuum cleaner; a first vacuum cleaner flow path communicating with a dust through hole formed in the upper coupling part; and a second vacuum cleaner flow path communicating with a dust suction hole formed in the lower coupling part; a cleaning hole may be formed in the second vacuum cleaner flow path. At this time, the second vacuum cleaner flow path may include: a third flow path communicating with the dust suction hole of the vacuum cleaner and extending rearward from the dust suction hole; and a fourth flow path extending upward from the rear end of the third flow path; the cleaning hole may be formed in the fourth flow path.

[0032] To achieve the above object, the vacuum cleaner base station of the present invention includes: a cover body; a coupling part disposed in the cover body, including a coupling surface for coupling at least a part of a first vacuum cleaner; a lower coupling part disposed closer to the ground than the coupling part, and a second vacuum cleaner is coupled to the lower coupling part; a dust collection part accommodated inside the cover body and disposed between the coupling part and the lower coupling part to collect dust; and a flow path part formed inside the cover body, having a flow path that connects the internal space of the dust bin of the first vacuum cleaner or the internal space of the dust bin of the second vacuum cleaner to the internal space of the dust collection part. At this time, the flow path part includes: a first vacuum cleaner flow path that connects a dust through hole formed in the coupling part to the internal space of the dust collection part; a second vacuum cleaner flow path that connects a dust suction hole formed in the lower coupling part to the internal space of the dust collection part; a cleaning hole that connects the internal space of the second vacuum cleaner flow path to the outside; and a cleaning hole cover that selectively opens and closes the cleaning hole.

[0033] Advantages of the Invention

[0034] As described above, according to the vacuum cleaner base station of the present invention, it includes a cleaning hole that connects the internal space of the flow path part having an upward flow path to the outside and a cleaning hole cover that selectively opens and closes the cleaning hole. Therefore, by separating the cleaning hole cover, it is easy to clean the dust remaining in the internal space of the flow path part, thereby having the effect of ensuring smooth air flow.

[0035] In addition, the cleaning hole cover includes a cleaning hole insertion part that is at least partially inserted into the cleaning hole, so it also has the effect of minimizing the air resistance inside the flow path part while preventing air leakage.

[0036] In addition, it further includes an outer cover which is disposed outside the cleaning hole cover and detachably coupled to the cover body to selectively shield the outside of the cleaning hole cover. Therefore, it also has the effects of maintaining the delicate appearance of the vacuum cleaner base station and doubly preventing air leakage. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner system according to an embodiment of the present invention, which is composed of a vacuum cleaner base station, a first vacuum cleaner, and a second vacuum cleaner.

[0038] Figure 2 is a view for explaining the first vacuum cleaner in the vacuum cleaner system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] Figure 3 is a view for explaining the weight distribution by using a virtual plane passing through the first vacuum cleaner in the vacuum cleaner system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 4 is a view for explaining the lower side of the dust bin of the first vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 5 is a perspective view for explaining the dust bin of the second vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 6 is an exploded Figure 5 perspective view of the discharge cover of the second vacuum cleaner.

[0043] Figure 7 is a view for explaining the weight distribution and the angle of the flow path of the vacuum cleaner base station by using virtual lines according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 8 is a view for explaining the coupling part in the vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view for explaining the fixing unit in the vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 10 is a view for explaining the state where the door unit blocks the dust through-hole in the vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 11 is a view for explaining the state where the door unit opens the dust through-hole in the vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 12 is a view for explaining the cover opening unit in the vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figure 13It is a diagram for explaining the flow path switching module in the flow path section of the vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 14 It is a diagram for explaining the configuration relationship between the first vacuum cleaner flow path and the dust collection flow path in the flow path section of the vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 15 It is a diagram for explaining the configuration relationship between the second vacuum cleaner flow path and the dust collection flow path in the flow path section of the vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 16 It is a block diagram for explaining the control composition in the vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 17 As a rear view of the vacuum cleaner base station, it is an enlarged rear view showing the external cover.

[0054] Figure 18 As a rear view of the vacuum cleaner base station, it is an enlarged rear view showing the cleaning hole cover.

[0055] Figure 19 As a rear view of the vacuum cleaner base station, it is an enlarged rear view showing the cleaning hole.

[0056] Figure 20 It is a perspective view of the cleaning hole cover.

[0057] Figure 21 It is a front view of the cleaning hole cover.

[0058] Figure 22 It is a rear view of the cleaning hole cover.

[0059] Figure 23 It is Figure 17 a right side sectional view of the cleaning hole cover in Detailed Description of the Invention

[0060] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0061] The present invention can be variously modified and can have various embodiments. Therefore, specific embodiments are shown in the drawings and are specifically described in the detailed description. This is not intended to limit the present invention to specific embodiments, but should be construed as including all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives within the spirit and technical scope of the present invention.

[0062] The terms used in this application are only for explaining specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention. Unless otherwise clearly stated in the context, the singular expression may include the plural expression.

[0063] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, may have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the technical field to which this invention belongs. Terms defined in commonly used dictionaries may be interpreted to have a meaning consistent with the meaning in the relevant technical context, and shall not be interpreted to have an ideal or overly formal meaning unless clearly defined in this application.

[0064] Figure 1 FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner system according to an embodiment of the present invention, which is composed of a base station, a first vacuum cleaner, and a second vacuum cleaner. Figure 5 FIG. 6 shows a diagram for explaining the weight distribution and the angle of the flow path of the vacuum cleaner base station by using virtual lines in the vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] Referring to Figure 1 and Figure 5 , a vacuum cleaner system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a vacuum cleaner base station 100 and vacuum cleaners 200 and 300. At this time, the vacuum cleaners 200 and 300 may include a first vacuum cleaner 200 and a second vacuum cleaner 300. On the other hand, in this embodiment, some of the components may be removed for implementation, and additional components are not excluded.

[0066] The dust removal system 10 may include a vacuum cleaner base station 100. The first vacuum cleaner 200 and the second vacuum cleaner 300 may be combined with the vacuum cleaner base station 100. The first vacuum cleaner 200 may be combined with the side surface of the vacuum cleaner base station 100. Specifically, the main body of the first vacuum cleaner 200 may be combined with the side surface of the vacuum cleaner base station 100. The second vacuum cleaner 300 may be combined with the lower part of the vacuum cleaner base station 100. The vacuum cleaner base station 100 may remove the dust from the dust bin 220 of the first vacuum cleaner 200. The vacuum cleaner base station 100 may remove the dust from the dust bin 310 of the second vacuum cleaner 300.

[0067] On the other hand, Figure 2 FIG. 21 shows a diagram for explaining the first vacuum cleaner in the dust removal system according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 FIG. 23 shows a diagram for explaining the weight distribution of the first vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention by using virtual lines and virtual planes. Figure 4 FIG. 25 shows a diagram for explaining the lower side surface of the dust bin of the first vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] First, referring to Figures 1 to 5 , the structure of the first vacuum cleaner 200 is described as follows.

[0069] The first vacuum cleaner 200 may refer to a vacuum cleaner manually operated by a user. For example, the first vacuum cleaner 200 may refer to a handheld vacuum cleaner or a stick vacuum cleaner.

[0070] The first vacuum cleaner 200 can be placed on the vacuum cleaner base station 100. The first vacuum cleaner 200 can be supported by the vacuum cleaner base station 100. The first vacuum cleaner 200 can be integrated with the vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0071] On the other hand, in an embodiment of the present invention, the direction can be defined based on the situation where the dust bin 220 and the bottom surface (lower side surface) of the battery cover 230 are placed on the ground.

[0072] At this time, the front can refer to the direction in which the suction part 212 is arranged based on the suction motor 214, and the rear can refer to the direction in which the handle 216 is arranged. And, the direction arranged on the right side based on the situation of observing the suction part 212 from the suction motor 214 can be called the right side, and the direction arranged on the left side can be called the left side. In addition, in an embodiment of the present invention, the upper side and the lower side can be defined in a direction perpendicular to the ground based on the situation where the bottom surface (lower side surface) of the dust bin 220 and the battery cover 230 are placed on the ground.

[0073] The first vacuum cleaner 200 may include a main body 210. The main body 210 may include a main body cover 211, a suction part 212, a dust separation part 213, a suction motor 214, an air discharge cover 215, a handle 216, and an operation part 218.

[0074] The main body cover 211 may form the appearance of the first vacuum cleaner 200. The main body cover 211 may provide a space capable of accommodating the suction motor 214 and a filter (not shown) inside. The main body cover 211 may be configured in a shape similar to a cylinder.

[0075] The suction part 212 may protrude outward from the main body cover 211. As an example, the suction part 212 may be formed in a cylindrical shape with an open interior. The suction part 212 may be coupled to the extension pipe 250. The suction part 212 may provide a flow path (hereinafter referred to as "suction flow path") for the air including dust to flow.

[0076] On the other hand, in this embodiment, a virtual line penetrating the inside of the suction part 212 formed in a cylindrical shape may be formed. That is, a virtual suction flow path penetration line a2 penetrating the suction flow path in the length direction may be formed.

[0077] As an example, the suction flow path penetration line a2 may be a virtual line connecting the origin of the circles shown when the cylindrical suction part 212 is radially cut in the length direction (axial direction).

[0078] The dust separation part 213 may communicate with the suction part 212. The dust separation part 213 may separate the dust sucked into the inside through the suction part 212. The space inside the dust separation part 213 may communicate with the space inside the dust bin 220.

[0079] For example, the dust separation unit 213 may have at least two cyclone units that can separate dust using cyclone flow. Also, the space inside the dust separation unit 213 may communicate with the suction flow path. Therefore, the air and dust sucked in by the suction unit 212 can flow spirally along the inner peripheral surface of the dust separation unit 213. Accordingly, a cyclone flow can be generated in the internal space of the dust separation unit 213.

[0080] On the other hand, in the present embodiment, a virtual cyclone line a4 extending in the vertical direction of the dust separation unit 213 where the cyclone flow is generated may be formed.

[0081] The suction motor 214 can generate a suction force for sucking air. The suction motor 214 may be accommodated in the main body cover 211. The suction motor 214 may include an impeller that generates suction force by rotation. As an example, the suction motor 214 may have a shape similar to a cylinder.

[0082] On the other hand, in the embodiment, a virtual suction motor axis a1 extending the rotation axis of the suction motor 214 may be formed.

[0083] The air discharge cover 215 may be disposed on the axial side of the main body cover 211. A filter for filtering air may be accommodated in the air discharge cover 215. As an example, a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter may be accommodated in the air discharge cover 215.

[0084] An air discharge port (215a) for discharging the air sucked by the suction force of the suction motor 214 may be formed in the air discharge cover 215.

[0085] A flow guide member may be disposed in the air discharge cover 215. The flow guide member may guide the flow of the air discharged through the air discharge port 215a.

[0086] The handle 216 can be held by the user. The handle 216 may be disposed behind the suction motor 214. As an example, the handle 216 may be formed in a shape similar to a cylinder. Or, the handle 216 may be formed in a curved cylindrical shape. The handle 216 may form a specified angle with the main body cover 211 or the suction motor 214 or the dust separation unit 213.

[0087] The handle 216 may include: a grip portion 216a formed in a column shape so that the user can hold it; a first extension portion 216b connected to one end portion in the length direction (axial direction) of the grip portion 216a and extending toward the suction motor 214; and a second extension portion 216c connected to the other end portion in the length direction (axial direction) of the grip portion 216a and extending toward the dust bin 220.

[0088] On the other hand, in the present embodiment, a virtual grip portion penetration line a3 that extends along the length direction (axial direction of the column) of the grip portion 216a and penetrates the grip portion 216a may be formed.

[0089] As an example, the grip portion penetration line a3 may be a virtual line formed inside the cylindrical handle 216 and may be a virtual line formed parallel to at least a part of the outer side surface (outer peripheral surface) of the grip portion 216a.

[0090] The top surface of the handle 216 may form a part of the appearance of the top surface of the first vacuum cleaner 200. Thus, when the user holds the handle 216, contact between a part of the first vacuum cleaner 200 and the user's arm can be prevented.

[0091] The first extension portion 216b may extend from the grip portion 216a toward the main body cover 211 or the suction motor 214. At least a part of the first extension portion 216b may extend in the horizontal direction.

[0092] The second extension portion 216c may extend from the grip portion 216a toward the dust bin 220. At least a part of the second extension portion 216c may extend in the horizontal direction.

[0093] The operation portion 218 may be disposed on the handle 216. The operation portion 218 may be disposed on an inclined surface formed in the upper region of the handle 216. The user may input an operation or stop command for the first vacuum cleaner 200 through the operation portion 218.

[0094] The first vacuum cleaner 200 may include a dust bin 220. The dust bin 220 may communicate with the dust separation portion 213. The dust bin 220 may store the dust separated from the dust separation portion 213.

[0095] The dust bin 220 may include a dust bin main body 221, a discharge cover 222, a dust bin compression rod 223, and a compression member (not shown).

[0096] The dust bin main body 221 may provide a space capable of storing the dust separated from the dust separation portion 213. As an example, the dust bin main body 221 may be formed in a shape similar to a cylinder.

[0097] On the other hand, in the present embodiment, a virtual dust bin penetration line a5 that penetrates the inside (internal space) of the dust bin main body 221 and extends along the length direction of the dust bin main body 221 (referring to the axial direction of the cylindrical dust bin main body 221) may be formed.

[0098] At this time, the dust bin penetration line a5 includes points on the plane displayed when the dust bin 220 is radially cut in the length direction (axial direction in the cylindrical dust bin body 221), and the dust bin penetration line a5 can be a virtual line perpendicular to the plane.

[0099] As an example, the dust container penetration line a5 may be a virtual line that passes through the origin of a circle displayed when the dust container 220 is radially cut in the length direction and is perpendicular to the circle.

[0100] A portion of the lower side (bottom) of the dust bin body 221 may be open. In addition, a bottom surface extension portion 221a may be formed on the lower side (bottom) of the dust bin body 221. The bottom surface extension portion 221a may be formed to block a portion of the lower side of the dust bin body 221.

[0101] The dust bin 220 may include a discharge cover 222. The discharge cover 222 may be disposed on the lower side of the dust bin 220. The discharge cover 222 may selectively open and close the lower portion of the dust bin 220 that is open downward.

[0102] The discharge cover 222 may include a cover body 222a and a hinge portion 222b. The cover body 222a may be formed to block a portion of the lower side of the dust bin body 221. The cover body 222a may rotate downward with the hinge portion 222b as a reference. The hinge portion 222b may be arranged adjacent to the battery cover 230. A torsion spring 222d may be provided at the hinge portion 222b. Therefore, when the discharge cover 222 is separated from the dust bin body 221, due to the elastic force of the torsion spring 222d, the cover body 222a may be supported in a state of rotating more than a specified angle with the hinge portion 222b as an axis in the dust bin body 221.

[0103] The discharge cover 222 may be coupled with the dust container 220 by hook coupling.

[0104] On the other hand, the dust bin 220 may further include a coupling rod 222c. The discharge cover 222 may be separated from the dust bin 220 by the coupling rod 222c. The coupling rod 222c may be disposed in front of the dust bin. Specifically, the coupling rod 222c may be disposed on the outer side of the front side of the dust bin 220. When an external force is applied, the coupling rod 222c may elastically deform the hook extending from the cover body 222a to release the hook coupling between the cover body 222a and the dust bin body 221.

[0105] When the discharge cover 222 is in a closed state, the lower side of the dust container 220 can be blocked (sealed) by the discharge cover 222 and the bottom surface extension 221 a.

[0106] The dust bin 220 may include a dust bin compression rod 223. The dust bin compression rod 223 may be disposed outside the dust bin 220 or the dust separation unit 213. The dust bin compression rod 223 may be disposed outside the dust bin 220 or the dust separation unit 213 so as to be movable up and down. The dust bin compression rod 223 may be connected to a compression member (not shown). When the dust bin compression rod 223 is moved downward by an external force, the compression member (not shown) may also move downward together. Thereby, user convenience can be provided. The compression member (not shown) and the dust bin compression rod 223 may be reset to their original positions by an elastic member (not shown). Specifically, when the external force applied to the dust bin compression rod 223 is released, the elastic member may move the dust bin compression rod 223 and the compression member (not shown) upward.

[0107] The compression member (not shown) may be disposed inside the dust bin body 221. The compression member may move within the internal space of the dust bin body 221. Specifically, the compression member may move up and down within the dust bin body 221. Thus, the compression member can compress the dust inside the dust bin body 221 downward. In addition, when the discharge cover 222 is separated from the dust bin body 221 and the lower part of the dust bin 220 is opened, the compression member moves from the upper part to the lower part of the dust bin 220, so that foreign matters such as remaining dust inside the dust bin 220 can be removed. Thereby, the suction force of the vacuum cleaner can be improved by preventing the remaining dust from remaining inside the dust bin 220. Further, by preventing the remaining dust from remaining inside the dust bin 220, the odor generated by the residue can be removed.

[0108] The first vacuum cleaner 200 may include a battery cover 230. The battery 240 may be accommodated in the battery cover 230. The battery cover 230 may be disposed below the handle 216. As an example, the battery cover 230 may be in the shape of a hexahedron with an open bottom. The back surface of the battery cover 230 may be connected to the handle 216.

[0109] The battery cover 230 may include a receiving portion that opens downward. The battery 240 may be loaded and unloaded through the receiving portion of the battery cover 230.

[0110] The first vacuum cleaner 200 may include a battery 240.

[0111] For example, the battery 240 may be detachably coupled to the first vacuum cleaner 200. The battery 240 may be detachably coupled to the battery cover 230. As an example, the battery 240 may be inserted into the inside of the battery cover 230 from below the battery cover 230. According to this configuration, the portability of the first vacuum cleaner 200 can be improved.

[0112] Alternatively, the battery 240 may be integrally provided with the battery cover 230 inside the battery cover 230. At this time, the bottom surface of the battery 240 is not exposed to the outside.

[0113] The battery 240 can supply power to the suction motor 214 of the first vacuum cleaner 200. The battery 240 can be disposed at the lower part of the handle 216. The battery 240 can be disposed behind the dust bin 220. That is, the suction motor 214 and the battery 240 can be arranged so as not to overlap in the vertical direction, and their arrangement heights can also be different from each other. Based on the handle 216, the heavier suction motor 214 is disposed in front of the handle 216, and the heavier battery 240 is disposed below the handle 216, so that the overall weight of the first vacuum cleaner 200 can be evenly distributed. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the burden on the user's wrist when the user holds the handle 216 to perform cleaning.

[0114] According to an embodiment, when the battery 240 is coupled to the battery housing 230, the bottom surface of the battery 240 can be exposed to the outside. When the first vacuum cleaner 200 is placed on the floor surface, the battery 240 can be placed on the floor, so that the battery 240 can be directly detached from the battery housing 230. In addition, since the bottom surface of the battery 240 is exposed to the outside and is in direct contact with the outside air of the battery 240, the cooling performance of the battery 240 can be improved.

[0115] On the other hand, when the battery 240 is integrally fixed to the battery housing 230, the structure for loading and unloading the battery 240 and the battery housing 230 can be reduced, so that the overall size of the first vacuum cleaner 200 can be reduced and lightweight can be achieved.

[0116] The first vacuum cleaner 200 can include an extension tube 250. The extension tube 250 can communicate with the cleaning module 260. The extension tube 250 can communicate with the main body 210. The extension tube 250 can communicate with the suction part 212 of the main body 210. The extension tube 250 can be formed in a long cylindrical shape.

[0117] The main body 210 can be connected to the extension tube 250. The main body 210 can be connected to the cleaning module 260 through the extension tube 250. The main body 210 can generate suction force through the suction motor 214 and provide the suction force to the cleaning module 260 through the extension tube 250. External dust can flow into the main body 210 through the cleaning module 260 and the extension tube 250.

[0118] The first vacuum cleaner 200 can include a cleaning module 260. The cleaning module 260 can communicate with the extension tube 250. Therefore, external air can flow into the main body 210 of the first vacuum cleaner 200 via the cleaning module 260 and the extension tube 250 under the action of the suction force generated by the main body 210 of the first vacuum cleaner 200.

[0119] The dust in the dust bin 220 of the first vacuum cleaner 200 can be collected into the dust collection part 170 of the vacuum cleaner base station 100 by gravity and the suction force of the dust collection motor 191. Thus, the dust in the dust bin can be removed without additional operation by the user, thereby improving user convenience. In addition, the trouble for the user to empty the dust bin every time can be eliminated. In addition, the scattering of dust when emptying the dust bin can be prevented.

[0120] The first vacuum cleaner 200 can be combined with the side surface of the cover body 110. Specifically, the main body 210 of the first vacuum cleaner 200 can be placed on the upper coupling part 120. More specifically, the dust bin 220 and the battery cover body 230 of the first vacuum cleaner 200 can be combined with the coupling surface 121, the outer peripheral surface of the dust bin main body 221 can be combined with the dust bin guide surface 122, and the suction part 212 can be combined with the suction part guide surface 126 of the upper coupling part 120. In this case, the central axis of the dust bin 220 can be arranged in a direction parallel to the ground, and the extension pipe 250 can be arranged in a direction perpendicular to the ground.

[0121] On the other hand, Figure 5 The perspective view of the dust bin of the second vacuum cleaner for explaining the embodiment of the present invention is shown, Figure 6 The exploded Figure 5 The perspective view of the discharge cover of the second vacuum cleaner in the middle is shown.

[0122] Referring to Figures 1 to 7 , the description of the second vacuum cleaner 300 is as follows.

[0123] The vacuum cleaner system 10 may include a second vacuum cleaner 300. The second vacuum cleaner 300 may represent a floor cleaning robot. The second vacuum cleaner 300 can automatically clean the area to be cleaned by sucking foreign matters such as dust from the floor while autonomously traveling in the area to be cleaned. The floor cleaning robot of the second vacuum cleaner 300 may include: a distance sensor that senses the distance to obstacles such as furniture, office supplies, or walls set in the cleaning area; and a left wheel and a right wheel for the movement of the floor cleaning robot. The second vacuum cleaner 300 can be combined with the vacuum cleaner base station. The dust in the second vacuum cleaner 300 can be collected into the dust collection part 170 through the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182.

[0124] The second vacuum cleaner 300 may include a dust bin 310. The dust bin 310 can collect foreign matters such as dust. As an example, the dust bin 310 can be formed in a cylindrical shape. At this time, the bottom surface (lower side surface) of the dust bin 310 can be selectively opened and closed. For example, a dust bin cover 340 can be hinge-coupled to the lower side of the dust bin 310, and when the dust bin cover 340 is opened, the internal space of the dust bin 310 can be opened. According to this configuration, the user can directly open the dust bin cover 340 to empty the dust collected in the dust bin 310.

[0125] Although not shown, a dust separation unit may be disposed inside the dust bin 310. For example, the dust separation unit may have at least two or more cyclone units, and the cyclone units may separate dust by means of cyclone flow. Therefore, the air and dust sucked into the inside of the dust bin may flow spirally along the inner circumferential surface of the dust separation unit and be separated.

[0126] On the other hand, the second vacuum cleaner 300 may be coupled to the lower coupling part 160 of the vacuum cleaner base station 100. The dust sucked into the inside of the dust bin 310 of the second vacuum cleaner 300 may be collected in the dust collection unit 170 through the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182.

[0127] The second vacuum cleaner 300 may include a dust discharge hole 320. At this time, the dust discharge hole 320 may be disposed on the side surface (outer circumferential surface) of the dust bin 310 of the second vacuum cleaner 300, whereby the dust bin 310 of the second vacuum cleaner 300 may communicate with the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182. As an example, the dust discharge hole 320 may be in the form of a square hole.

[0128] The second vacuum cleaner 300 may include a second vacuum cleaner discharge cover 330. At this time, the second vacuum cleaner discharge cover 330 is formed in a shape corresponding to the dust discharge hole 320 to close the dust discharge hole 320. To this end, the second vacuum cleaner discharge cover 330 may be disposed at the dust discharge hole 320.

[0129] In addition, the second vacuum cleaner discharge cover 330 may be hinge-coupled to the dust bin 310 and open and close the dust discharge hole 320 by rotating about the hinge pin 331. At this time, a torsion spring 332 is provided at the hinge pin 331, so that a restoring force can be applied when the second vacuum cleaner discharge cover 330 is opened.

[0130] With such a configuration, when the dust collection motor 191 generates suction, as the second vacuum cleaner discharge cover 330 rotates outward from the dust bin 310, the dust discharge hole 320 may be opened.

[0131] In addition, if the dust collection motor 191 stops driving, under the action of the restoring force of the torsion spring 332, the second vacuum cleaner discharge cover 330 may rotate toward the dust bin 310 to re-block the dust discharge hole 320. Thus, the second vacuum cleaner discharge cover 330 may rotate with the driving of the dust collection motor 191 to connect or block the dust bin 310 of the second vacuum cleaner 300 and the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182.

[0132] On the other hand, a seal 333 may be provided in the dust bin 310. The seal 333 may be disposed along the outer contour of the dust discharge hole 320. The seal 333 may contact the discharge cover 330. According to this configuration, in a state where the discharge cover 330 closes the dust discharge hole 320, the seal 333 makes the dust bin 310 and the discharge cover 330 airtight, thereby preventing dust from flowing out.

[0133] In addition, in a state where the second vacuum cleaner 300 is coupled to the lower coupling part 160, the seal 333 may contact the side wall of the lower coupling part 160. Therefore, under the action of the seal 333, the outer peripheral surface of the dust bin 310 of the second vacuum cleaner 300 and the lower coupling part 160 may be made airtight. With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent dust flowing into the dust suction hole 162 through the dust discharge hole 320 from scattering to the outside.

[0134] The second vacuum cleaner 300 may include corresponding terminals (not shown) for charging the battery when coupled to the lower coupling part 160. The corresponding terminals may be disposed at positions where they can be connected to the charging terminals (not shown) of the lower coupling part 160 in a state where the second vacuum cleaner 300 is coupled. As an example, the corresponding terminals may be arranged as a pair on the top surface of the second vacuum cleaner 300. If the corresponding terminals are electrically connected to the charging terminals (not shown) of the lower coupling part 160, the second vacuum cleaner 300 can be charged by supplying power to the second vacuum cleaner 300.

[0135] Refer to Figure 1 and Figure 7 , the description of the vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention is as follows.

[0136] The first vacuum cleaner 200 and the second vacuum cleaner 300 may be disposed in the vacuum cleaner base station 100. The first vacuum cleaner 200 may be coupled to the side surface of the vacuum cleaner base station 100. Specifically, the main body of the first vacuum cleaner 200 may be coupled to the side surface of the vacuum cleaner base station 100. The second vacuum cleaner 300 may be coupled to the lower part of the vacuum cleaner base station 100. The vacuum cleaner base station 100 can remove the dust from the dust bin 220 of the first vacuum cleaner 200. The vacuum cleaner base station 100 can remove the dust from the dust bin 310 of the second vacuum cleaner 300.

[0137] The vacuum cleaner base station 100 may include a cover body 110. The cover body 110 may form the appearance of the vacuum cleaner base station 100. Specifically, the cover body 110 may be formed in a columnar shape including at least one outer wall surface. As an example, the cover body 110 may be formed in a shape similar to a quadrangular prism.

[0138] The cover body 110 may form a space in which a dust collection part 170 for storing dust inside and a dust suction module 190 for generating a flow capacity for collecting dust into the dust collection part 170 can be accommodated.

[0139] The cover body 110 may include a bottom surface 111, an outer wall surface 112, and an upper surface 113.

[0140] The bottom surface 111 may support the lower side in the gravity direction of the dust suction module 190. That is, the bottom surface 111 may support the lower side of the dust collection motor 191 of the suction module 190.

[0141] At this time, the bottom surface 111 may be arranged facing the ground. The bottom surface 111 may be arranged parallel to the ground, and of course, it may also be arranged at a specified angle inclined to the ground. According to this configuration, there is an advantage that the dust collection motor 191 can be stably supported, and the overall weight can also be balanced when the first vacuum cleaner 200 is combined.

[0142] On the other hand, a lower coupling part 160 may be coupled to the lower side of the bottom surface 111. The second vacuum cleaner 300 may be coupled to the lower coupling part 160. An inclined part 161 for coupling the lower side surface of the second vacuum cleaner 300 may be provided on the lower coupling part 160. The lower coupling part 160 will be described later.

[0143] The outer wall surface 112 may refer to the surface formed in the gravity direction and may refer to the surface connected to the bottom surface 111. For example, the outer wall surface 112 may refer to the surface perpendicularly connected to the bottom surface 111. As a different embodiment, the outer wall surface 112 may also be arranged at a specified angle inclined to the bottom surface 111.

[0144] The outer wall surface 112 may include at least one surface. As an example, the outer wall surface 112 may include a first outer wall surface 112a, a second outer wall surface 112b, a third outer wall surface 112c, and a fourth outer wall surface 112d.

[0145] At this time, in the present embodiment, the first outer wall surface 112a may be arranged on the front of the vacuum cleaner base station 100. Among them, the front may indicate the surface where the first vacuum cleaner 200 or the second vacuum cleaner 300 is coupled. Therefore, the first outer wall surface 112a may form the appearance of the front of the vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0146] On the other hand, for understanding the present embodiment, the definition of directions is as follows. In the present embodiment, directions may be defined in a state where the first vacuum cleaner 200 is placed on the vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0147] When the first vacuum cleaner 200 is placed on the vacuum cleaner base station 100, the direction in which the first vacuum cleaner 200 is exposed to the outside of the vacuum cleaner base station 100 may be called the front.

[0148] From another perspective, the direction in which the suction motor 214 of the first vacuum cleaner 200 is disposed when the first vacuum cleaner 200 is placed on the vacuum cleaner base station 100 can be referred to as the front. And the opposite direction of the direction in which the suction motor 214 is disposed in the vacuum cleaner base station 100 can be referred to as the rear.

[0149] And the surface facing the front with respect to the internal space of the cover 110 can be referred to as the back surface of the vacuum cleaner base station 100. Therefore, the back surface can refer to the direction in which the second outer wall surface 112b is formed.

[0150] And the surface on the left side when observing the front with respect to the internal space of the cover 110 can be referred to as the left surface, and the surface on the right side can be referred to as the right surface. Therefore, the left surface can refer to the direction in which the third outer wall surface 112c is formed, and the right surface can refer to the direction in which the fourth outer wall surface 112d is formed.

[0151] The first outer wall surface 112a can be formed in a planar shape. Of course, it can also be formed in a curved surface shape as a whole and can be formed including a curved surface in part.

[0152] The first outer wall surface 112a can have an appearance corresponding to the shape of the first vacuum cleaner 200. Specifically, an upper coupling portion 120 can be disposed on the first outer wall surface 112a. According to this configuration, the first vacuum cleaner 200 can be coupled to the vacuum cleaner base station 100 and can be supported by the vacuum cleaner base station 100. The specific configuration of the upper coupling portion 120 will be described later.

[0153] On the other hand, a structure for additionally placing various types of cleaning modules 260 for the first vacuum cleaner 200 can also be added to the first outer wall surface 112a.

[0154] In this embodiment, the second outer wall surface 112b can be a surface facing the first outer wall surface 112a. That is, the second outer wall surface 112b can be disposed on the back surface of the vacuum cleaner base station 100. Here, the back surface can refer to the surface facing the surface to which the first vacuum cleaner 200 or the second vacuum cleaner 300 is coupled. Therefore, the second outer wall surface 112b can form the appearance of the back surface of the vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0155] As an example, the second outer wall surface 112b can be formed in a planar shape. According to this configuration, the vacuum cleaner base station 100 can be closely attached to the indoor wall, and the vacuum cleaner base station 100 can be stably supported.

[0156] As another example, a structure for additionally placing various types of cleaning modules 260 for the first vacuum cleaner 200 can also be added to the second outer wall surface 112b.

[0157] In this embodiment, the third outer wall surface 112c and the fourth outer wall surface 112d may refer to the surfaces connecting the first outer wall surface 112a and the second outer wall surface 112b. At this time, the third outer wall surface 112c may be disposed on the left side of the base station 100, and the fourth outer wall surface 112d may be disposed on the right side of the vacuum cleaner base station 100. Differently, it may also be that the third outer wall surface 112c is disposed on the right side of the vacuum cleaner base station 100, and the fourth outer wall surface 112d is disposed on the left side of the vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0158] The third outer wall surface 112c or the fourth outer wall surface 112d is formed in a planar shape. Of course, as a whole, it may also be formed in a curved surface shape, and may be formed to include a curved surface in part.

[0159] On the other hand, a structure for additionally placing various types of cleaning modules 260 for the first vacuum cleaner 200 may also be added to the third outer wall surface 112c or the fourth outer wall surface 112d.

[0160] The upper surface 113 may form the upper appearance of the vacuum cleaner base station. That is, the upper surface 113 may refer to the surface that is disposed on the uppermost side in the gravitational direction and is exposed to the outside in the vacuum cleaner base station.

[0161] As a reference, in this embodiment, the upper side and the lower side may respectively refer to the upper side and the lower side in the gravitational direction (the direction perpendicular to the ground) when the vacuum cleaner base station 100 is disposed on the ground.

[0162] At this time, the upper surface 113 may be disposed parallel to the ground. Of course, it may also be disposed at a specified angle inclined to the ground.

[0163] A display unit 410 may be disposed on the upper surface 113. As an example, the display unit 410 may display the status of the vacuum cleaner base station 100, the status of the first vacuum cleaner 200, and the status of the second vacuum cleaner 300. In addition to this, information such as the cleaning progress status and the map of the cleaning area may also be displayed.

[0164] On the other hand, according to an embodiment, the upper surface 113 may be detachably provided with the outer wall surface 112. At this time, if the upper surface 113 is separated, a battery separated from the vacuum cleaner 200 may be accommodated in the internal space surrounded by the outer wall surface 112, and terminals (not shown) capable of charging the separated battery may be provided.

[0165] Figure 8 The figure shows the joint part in the vacuum cleaner base station for explaining the embodiment of the present invention, Figure 9 The figure shows the configuration of the joint part and the fixing unit in the vacuum cleaner base station for explaining the embodiment of the present invention.

[0166] Refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9, the upper coupling portion 120 of the vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention will be described as follows.

[0167] The vacuum cleaner base station 100 may include an upper coupling portion 120 for coupling with the first vacuum cleaner 200. Specifically, the upper coupling portion 120 may be disposed on the first outer wall surface 112a and may couple the main body 210, the dust bin 220, and the battery cover 230 of the first vacuum cleaner 200.

[0168] The upper coupling portion 120 may be disposed above the dust collection portion 170.

[0169] The upper coupling portion 120 may include a coupling surface 121. The coupling surface 121 may be disposed on the side surface of the cover body 110. As an example, the coupling surface 121 may refer to a groove-shaped surface formed to be recessed from the first outer wall surface 112a toward the inside of the vacuum cleaner base station 100. That is, the coupling surface 121 may refer to a surface formed to form a step with the first outer wall surface 112a.

[0170] The first vacuum cleaner 200 may be coupled to the coupling surface 121. As an example, the coupling surface 121 may face the lower side surfaces of the dust bin 220 and the battery cover 230 of the first vacuum cleaner 200. Here, the lower side surface may refer to the surface facing the ground when the user uses the first vacuum cleaner 200 or places the first vacuum cleaner 200 on the ground.

[0171] As an example, the angle formed by the coupling surface 121 and the ground may be a right angle. Thus, when the first vacuum cleaner 200 is coupled to the coupling surface 121, the space of the vacuum cleaner base station 100 can be minimized.

[0172] As another example, the coupling surface 121 may be inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to the ground. Thus, when the first vacuum cleaner 200 is coupled to the coupling surface 121, the vacuum cleaner base station 100 can be stably supported.

[0173] A dust through hole 121a may be formed in the coupling surface 121 to allow air outside the cover body 110 to flow into the inside. The dust through hole 121a may be formed in a hole shape corresponding to the shape of the dust bin 220 so that the dust in the dust bin 220 can flow into the dust collection portion 170. The dust through hole 121a may be formed corresponding to the shape of the discharge cover 222 of the dust bin 220.

[0174] The dust through hole 121a may be formed to communicate with a first suction flow path 181 described later. In addition, in a state where the first vacuum cleaner 200 and the vacuum cleaner base station 100 are coupled and the discharge cover 222 is opened, the dust through hole 121a may communicate with the internal space of the dust bin 220.

[0175] On the other hand, on the dust through-hole 121a, the door 141 can rotate. The door 141 can be a rotating body that is hinge-coupled to the cover body 110 to rotate. Therefore, as the door 141 rotates, the dust through-hole 121a can be selectively opened and closed. In addition, in a state where the first vacuum cleaner 200 is combined with the vacuum cleaner base 100, on the dust through-hole 121a, the discharge cover 222 can rotate. In a state where the first vacuum cleaner 200 is combined with the vacuum cleaner base 100, the discharge cover 222 can rotate together in linkage with the rotation of the door 141. Therefore, as the discharge cover 222 rotates, the dust through-hole 121a can be selectively opened and closed.

[0176] The upper coupling part 120 may include a dust bin guiding surface 122. The dust bin guiding surface 122 may be disposed on the first outer wall surface 112a. The dust bin guiding surface 122 may be connected to the first outer wall surface 112a. In addition, the dust bin guiding surface 122 may be connected to the coupling surface 121.

[0177] The dust bin guiding surface 122 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the outer side surface of the dust bin 220. The front outer side surface of the dust bin 220 may be coupled to the dust bin guiding surface 122. Thus, the dust bin guiding surface 122 may be coupled to the dust bin 220 of the first vacuum cleaner to support the dust bin 220.

[0178] The upper coupling part 120 may include guiding protrusions 123. The guiding protrusions 123 may be disposed on the coupling surface 121. The guiding protrusions 123 may protrude from the coupling surface 121. Two guiding protrusions 123 may be disposed at intervals from each other. The distance between the two guiding protrusions 123 disposed at intervals from each other may correspond to the width of the battery cover body 230 of the first vacuum cleaner 200. Thus, the guiding protrusions 123 may guide the coupling direction of the first vacuum cleaner 200. In addition, the battery cover body 230 and the battery 240 of the first vacuum cleaner 200 may be accommodated between a pair of guiding protrusions 123.

[0179] The upper coupling part 120 may include side walls 124. The side walls 124 may refer to wall surfaces disposed on both side surfaces of the coupling surface 121 and may be perpendicularly connected to the coupling surface 121. The side walls 124 may be connected to the first outer wall surface 112a. In addition, the side walls 124 may be connected to the dust bin guiding surface 122, that is, the side walls 124 form a surface connected to the dust bin guiding surface 122. Thus, the first vacuum cleaner 200 can be stably accommodated.

[0180] The upper coupling part 120 may include a coupling sensor 125. The coupling sensor 125 may sense whether the first vacuum cleaner 200 is coupled to the upper coupling part 120.

[0181] The coupling sensor 125 may also include a contact sensor. As an example, the coupling sensor 125 may include a micro switch (refer to Figure 16 ). At this time, the coupling sensor 125 may be disposed on the guiding protrusion 123. Thus, if the battery cover 230 or the battery 240 of the first vacuum cleaner 200 is coupled between the pair of guiding protrusions 123, it will come into contact with the coupling sensor 125, and the coupling sensor 125 may sense that the first vacuum cleaner 200 has been coupled.

[0182] On the other hand, the coupling sensor 125 may also include a non-contact sensor. As an example, the coupling sensor 125 may include an infrared sensor unit (IR sensor). At this time, the coupling sensor 125 may be disposed on the side wall 124. Thus, if the dust bin 220 or the main body 210 of the first vacuum cleaner 200 reaches the coupling surface 121 via the side wall 124, the coupling sensor 125 may sense the presence of the dust bin 220 or the main body 210.

[0183] The coupling sensor 125 may face the dust bin 220 or the battery cover 230 of the first vacuum cleaner 200.

[0184] The coupling sensor 125 may be a device that determines whether power is being applied to the battery 240 of the first vacuum cleaner 200 and at the same time determines whether the first vacuum cleaner 200 has been coupled.

[0185] The upper coupling part 120 may include a suction part guiding surface 126. The suction part guiding surface 126 may be disposed on the first outer wall surface 112a. The suction part guiding surface 126 may be connected to the dust bin guiding surface 122. The suction part 212 may be coupled to the suction part guiding surface 126. The shape of the suction part guiding surface 126 may be formed to correspond to the shape of the suction part 212. Thus, it is possible to provide convenience for the main body 210 of the first vacuum cleaner 200 to be coupled to the coupling surface 121.

[0186] The upper coupling part 120 may include a fixing member access hole 127. The fixing member access hole 127 may be formed in a long hole shape along the side wall 124 to enable the fixing member 131 to access. As an example, the fixing member access hole 127 may be a rectangular hole formed along the side wall 124. The fixing member 131 will be described in detail later.

[0187] According to this configuration, when the user couples the first vacuum cleaner 200 to the upper coupling part 120 of the vacuum cleaner base 100, due to the dust bin guiding surface 122, the guiding protrusion 123, and the suction part guiding surface 126, the main body 210 of the first vacuum cleaner 200 may be stably disposed on the upper coupling part 120. Thus, it is possible to provide convenience for the dust bin 220 and the battery cover 230 of the first vacuum cleaner 200 to be coupled to the coupling surface 121.

[0188] Referring to Figure 9 , the fixing unit 130 of the present invention will be described as follows.

[0189] The vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention may include a fixing unit 130. The fixing unit 130 may be disposed on the side wall 124. In addition, at least a part of the fixing unit 130 may be disposed on the back surface of the joint surface 121. The fixing unit 130 may fix the first vacuum cleaner 200 coupled to the joint surface 121. Specifically, the fixing unit 130 may fix the dust bin 220 and the battery cover 230 of the first vacuum cleaner 200 coupled to the joint surface 121.

[0190] The fixing unit 130 may include: a fixing member 131 that fixes the dust bin 220 and the battery cover 230 of the first vacuum cleaner 200; and a fixing unit motor 133 that drives the fixing member 131. In addition, the fixing unit 130 may further include a fixing unit link 135 that transmits the power of the fixing unit motor 133 to the fixing member 131.

[0191] The fixing member 131 may be disposed on the side wall 124 of the upper joint portion 120 and may be reciprocally movably provided on the side wall 124 to fix the dust bin 220. Specifically, the fixing member 131 may be accommodated inside the fixing member access hole 127.

[0192] The fixing members 131 may be respectively disposed on both sides of the upper joint portion 120. As an example, two fixing members 131 may be symmetrically paired with the joint surface 121 as the center.

[0193] The fixing unit motor 133 may provide power to move the fixing member 131 (refer to Figure 16 ).

[0194] The fixing unit link 135 may convert the rotational force of the fixing unit motor 133 into the reciprocating movement of the fixing member 131.

[0195] The fixing seal 136 may be disposed on the dust bin guide surface 122 to airtight the dust bin 220 when the vacuum cleaner 200 is coupled. According to this configuration, when the dust bin 220 of the vacuum cleaner 200 is coupled, the fixing seal 136 may be pressed under the weight of the vacuum cleaner 200, and the dust bin 220 and the dust bin guide surface 122 may be sealed.

[0196] The fixing seal 136 may be disposed on the virtual extension line of the fixing member 131. According to this configuration, when the fixing unit motor 133 operates and the fixing member 131 presses the dust bin 220, the periphery at the same height of the dust bin 220 may be sealed.

[0197] According to an embodiment, the fixed seal 136 may be disposed in a line shape that can be bent corresponding to the configuration of the lid opening unit 150 described later on the dustbin guide surface 122.

[0198] Therefore, when the main body 210 of the vacuum cleaner 200 is disposed in the upper coupling portion 120, the fixing unit 130 can fix the main body 210 of the vacuum cleaner 200. Specifically, when the coupling sensor 125 senses that the main body 210 of the vacuum cleaner 200 is coupled to the upper coupling portion 120 of the vacuum cleaner base 100, the fixing portion motor 133 can fix the main body 210 of the vacuum cleaner 200 by moving the fixing member 131.

[0199] Thereby, the suction power of the vacuum cleaner can be improved by preventing residual dust from remaining in the dustbin. Further, by preventing residual dust from remaining in the dustbin, the odor generated by the residue can be removed.

[0200] Figure 10 and Figure 11 The figure shows the operation of opening and closing the door unit of the vacuum cleaner base for explaining the embodiment of the present invention.

[0201] Refer to Figures 7 to 11 , the door unit 140 of the present invention is described as follows.

[0202] The vacuum cleaner base 100 of the present invention may include a door unit 140. The door unit 140 may be configured to be able to open and close the dust through hole 121a.

[0203] The door unit 140 may include a door 141, a door motor 142, and a door arm 143.

[0204] The door 141 may be hinge-coupled to the coupling surface 121 and may selectively open and close the dust through hole 121a. The door 141 may include a door body 141a.

[0205] The door body 141a may be formed in a shape capable of blocking the dust through hole 121a. As an example, the door body 141a may be formed in a shape similar to a circular plate.

[0206] Based on the state where the door body 141a blocks the dust through hole 121a, a hinge portion may be disposed on the upper side of the door body 141a, and an arm coupling portion 141b may be disposed on the lower side of the door body 141a.

[0207] The door body 141a may be formed into a shape capable of making the dust hole 121a airtight. As an example, the outer side surface of the door body 141a exposed to the outside of the vacuum cleaner base station 100 is formed to have a diameter corresponding to the diameter of the dust hole 121a, and the inner side surface disposed inside the vacuum cleaner base station 100 is formed to have a diameter larger than the diameter of the dust hole 121a. In addition, a step may be generated between the outer side surface and the inner side surface. On the other hand, at least one reinforcing rib may be protrudingly formed on the inner side surface of the door body 141a, and the reinforcing rib connects the hinge portion and the arm joint 141b to strengthen the support force of the door body 141a.

[0208] The hinge part may be a component that hinges the door 141 to the coupling surface 121. The hinge part may be disposed at an upper end portion of the door body 141a and coupled to the coupling surface 121.

[0209] The arm coupling part 141b may be a part rotatably coupled to the door arm 143. The arm coupling part 141b may be disposed at the lower side of the door body 141a, rotatably coupled to the door body 141a, and rotatably coupled to the door arm 143.

[0210] According to this structure, when the door 141 closes the dust hole 121a, if the door arm 143 pulls the door body 141a, the door body 141a rotates toward the inside of the vacuum cleaner base station 100 with the hinge as the axis, and the dust hole 121a can be opened. On the other hand, when the dust hole 121a is open, if the door arm 143 pushes the door body 141a, the door body 141a rotates toward the outside of the vacuum cleaner base station 100 with the hinge as the axis, and the dust hole 121a can be blocked.

[0211] On the other hand, when the cleaner 200 is combined with the cleaner base station 100 and the discharge cover 222 is separated from the dust container body 210, the door 141 may contact the discharge cover 222. And, as the door 141 rotates, the discharge cover 222 may rotate in conjunction with the door 141.

[0212] The door motor 142 may provide power to rotate the door 141. Specifically, the door motor 142 may cause the door arm 143 to rotate in a forward direction or a reverse direction. Here, the forward direction may refer to the direction in which the door arm 143 pulls the door 141. Therefore, if the door arm 143 rotates in the forward direction, the dust hole 121a may be opened. In addition, the reverse direction may refer to the direction in which the door arm 143 pushes the door 141. Therefore, if the door arm 143 rotates in the reverse direction, at least a portion of the dust hole 121a may be closed. The forward direction may be the opposite direction to the reverse direction.

[0213] The door arm 143 may connect the door 141 and the door motor 142 , and may open and close the door 141 using power generated by the door motor 142 .

[0214] As an example, the door arm 143 may include a first door arm 143a and a second door arm 143b. One end of the first door arm 143a may be combined with the door motor 142. The first door arm 143a may be rotated by the power of the door motor 142. The other end of the first door arm 143a may be rotatably combined with the second door arm 143b. The first door arm 143a may transmit the force transmitted from the door motor 142 to the second door arm 143b. One end of the second door arm 143b may be combined with the first door arm 143a. The other end of the second door arm 143b may be combined with the door 141. The second door arm 143b may open and close the dust through hole 121a by pushing or pulling the door 141.

[0215] The door unit 140 may further include a door opening and closing sensor 144. The door opening and closing sensor 144 may be disposed inside the housing 110 and may sense whether the door 141 is in an open state (see Figure 16 ).

[0216] As an example, the door opening and closing sensors 144 may be disposed at both ends of the rotational movement region of the door arm 143. As another example, the door opening and closing sensors 144 may be disposed at both ends of the movement region of the door 141.

[0217] Therefore, if the door arm 143 moves to the preset door opening position DP1 or the door 141 opens to a predetermined position, the door opening and closing sensor 144 can sense that the door has been opened. In addition, if the door arm 143 moves to the preset door closing position DP2 or the door 141 opens to a predetermined position, the door opening and closing sensor 144 can sense that the door has been opened.

[0218] The door opening / closing sensor 144 may include a contact sensor. As an example, the door opening / closing sensor 144 may include a micro switch.

[0219] On the other hand, the door opening / closing sensor 144 may include a non-contact sensor. For example, the door opening / closing sensor 144 may include an infrared sensor (IR sensor).

[0220] According to this configuration, the door unit 140 can connect the outside of the first outer wall surface 112 a with the flow path portion 180 and / or the dust collecting portion 170 by selectively opening and closing at least a portion of the joint surface 121 .

[0221] The door unit 140 may be opened together with the discharge cover 222 of the cleaner 200. In addition, if the door unit 140 is closed, the discharge cover 222 of the cleaner 200 may be closed together with the door unit 140 in conjunction therewith.

[0222] When the dust in the dust bin 220 of the vacuum cleaner 200 is removed, the door motor 142 can rotate the door 141 to couple the discharge cover 222 to the dust bin body 221. Specifically, the door motor 142 can rotate the door 141 to rotate the door 141, and the rotated door 141 can push the discharge cover 222 toward the dust bin body 221.

[0223] Refer to Figures 7 to 12 , the cover opening unit 150 of the present invention will be described as follows.

[0224] The vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention may include a cover opening unit 150. The cover opening unit 150 may be disposed at the upper coupling portion 120 and may open the discharge cover 222 of the vacuum cleaner 200.

[0225] The cover opening unit 150 may include a pushing protrusion 151, a cover opening motor 152, a cover opening gear 153, a support plate 154, and a gear box 155.

[0226] When the vacuum cleaner 200 is coupled, the pushing protrusion 151 may move in a manner of pressing the coupling rod 222c.

[0227] The pushing protrusion 151 may be disposed on the dust bin guide surface 122. Specifically, a protrusion moving hole may be formed in the dust bin guide surface 122, and the pushing protrusion 151 may be exposed to the outside through the protrusion moving hole.

[0228] The pushing protrusion 151 may be disposed at a position where it can press the coupling rod 222c when the first vacuum cleaner 200 is coupled. That is, the coupling rod 222c may be disposed on the protrusion moving hole. In addition, the coupling rod 222c may be disposed in the moving area of the pushing protrusion 151.

[0229] The pushing protrusion 151 may linearly reciprocate to press the coupling rod 222c. Specifically, the pushing protrusion 151 may be coupled to the gear box 155 to guide linear movement. The pushing protrusion 151 may be coupled to the cover opening gear 153 and may move together with the movement of the cover opening gear 153.

[0230] The cover opening motor 152 may provide power to move the pushing protrusion 151. Specifically, the cover opening motor 152 may rotate the motor shaft (not shown) in the forward or reverse direction. Here, the forward direction may refer to the direction in which the pushing protrusion 151 presses the coupling rod 222c. In addition, the reverse direction may refer to the direction in which the pushing protrusion 151 pressing the coupling rod 222c is reset to the original position. The forward direction may be the direction opposite to the reverse direction.

[0231] The lid opening gear 153 is combined with the lid opening motor 152, and the power of the lid opening motor 152 can be utilized to move the pushing projection 151. Specifically, the lid opening gear 153 can be accommodated inside the gearbox 155. The driving gear 153a of the lid opening gear 153 can be combined with the motor shaft of the lid opening motor 152 to receive power. The driven gear 153b of the lid opening gear 153 can be combined with the pushing projection 151 to move the pushing projection 151. As an example, the driven gear 153b can be arranged in the form of a rack, engage with the driving gear 153a, and receive power from the driving gear 153a.

[0232] At this time, a torsion spring 222d can be provided on the discharge lid 222. Due to the elastic force of the torsion spring 222d, the discharge lid 222 can rotate by more than a specified angle and can be supported at the rotated position. Therefore, the discharge lid 222 can be opened, and the dust through hole 121a can be communicated with the inside of the dust bin 220.

[0233] The gearbox 155 can be provided inside the cover body 110, arranged on the lower side in the direction of gravity of the upper coupling part 120, and accommodate the lid opening gear 153 inside.

[0234] A lid opening sensing part 155f can be provided in the gearbox 155. At this time, the lid opening sensing part 155f can also include a contact sensor. As an example, the lid opening sensing part 155f can include a micro switch. On the other hand, the lid opening sensing part 155f can also include a non-contact sensor. As an example, the lid opening sensing part 155f can include an infrared sensor part (IR sensor).

[0235] The lid opening sensing part 155f can be arranged on at least one of the inner side surface and the outer side surface of the gearbox 155. As an example, one lid opening sensing part 155f can be arranged on the inner side surface of the gearbox 155. At this time, the lid opening sensing part 155f can sense that the pushing projection 151 is in the initial position.

[0236] As another example, two lid opening sensing parts 155f can also be arranged on the outer side surface of the gearbox 155. At this time, the lid opening sensing part 155f can sense the initial position and the lid opening position of the pushing projection 151.

[0237] Therefore, according to the present invention, due to the lid opening unit 150, the user can open the dust bin 220 without separately opening the discharge lid 222 of the first vacuum cleaner, thereby improving convenience.

[0238] In addition, in the state where the vacuum cleaner 200 is combined with the vacuum cleaner base station 100, the discharge lid 222 is opened, so there is an effect of preventing dust from scattering.

[0239] Reference Figure 7 The vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a lower coupling part 160.

[0240] The lower coupling part 160 is a component for coupling with the second vacuum cleaner 300.

[0241] The lower coupling part 160 is disposed below the dust collection part 170.

[0242] The vacuum cleaners 200 and 300 can be coupled to the lower coupling part 160. Specifically, the second vacuum cleaner 300 can be coupled to the lower coupling part 160. In a state where the second vacuum cleaner 300 is coupled to the lower coupling part 160, the dust stored inside the second vacuum cleaner 300 can be collected by the vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0243] The lower coupling part 160 may include an inclined part 161, and the second vacuum cleaner 300 climbs the inclined part 161 for coupling. The inclined part 161 may be composed of a plurality of inclined surfaces having different inclinations from each other, and each of the plurality of inclined surfaces can determine its own inclination degree according to the outer shape of the bottom surface part of the second vacuum cleaner 300.

[0244] The lower coupling part 160 may include a dust suction hole 162, and the dust suction hole 162 is provided at a position corresponding to the position where the dust bucket 310 of the second vacuum cleaner 300 is disposed, based on the state where the second vacuum cleaner 300 is coupled. More specifically, the dust suction hole 162 may be formed on the side wall of the lower coupling part 160. At this time, the side wall may be formed in a direction perpendicular to the ground and may be configured to face the dust bucket 310 of the second vacuum cleaner 300. Therefore, the dust suction hole 162 may be disposed at a position facing the dust discharge hole 320 based on the state where the second vacuum cleaner 300 is coupled. For example, the dust suction hole 162 may be disposed at a position farther from the ground than the inclined part 161.

[0245] The dust suction hole 162 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the dust discharge hole 320. As an example, the dust suction hole 162 may be in the form of a square hole. At this time, the dust suction hole 162 can accommodate at least a part of the second vacuum cleaner discharge cover 330 when the second vacuum cleaner discharge cover 330 is opened. According to this configuration, even if the dust collection motor 191 operates to open the second vacuum cleaner discharge cover 330, the dust discharge hole 320 and the dust suction hole 162 can be disposed adjacent to each other and communicate with each other.

[0246] In addition, the lower coupling part 160 may include charging terminals (not shown) for power supply, and the charging terminals are electrically connected to the second vacuum cleaner 300 to charge the second vacuum cleaner 300. When the second vacuum cleaner 300 is coupled, corresponding terminals of the second vacuum cleaner 300 may be electrically connected to the charging terminals (not shown) of the lower coupling part 160, and the second vacuum cleaner 300 can be charged by supplying power from the lower coupling part 160 to the second vacuum cleaner 300.

[0247] On the other hand, a second vacuum cleaner flow path 182 may be formed in the lower coupling part 160. The second vacuum cleaner flow path 182 may be formed to communicate with the dust suction hole 162.

[0248] On the other hand, with reference to Figure 7 and Figure 16 , the dust collecting part 170 will be described as follows.

[0249] The dust collecting part 170 is a component for collecting dust inside the dust bins of the vacuum cleaners 200 and 300.

[0250] The vacuum cleaner base station 100 may include the dust collecting part 170. The dust collecting part 170 may be disposed inside the cover 110. The dust collecting part 170 may be disposed on the lower side in the direction of gravity of the upper coupling part 120.

[0251] As an example, the dust collecting part 170 may refer to a dust bag that collects the sucked dust from inside the dust bin 220 of the vacuum cleaner 200 by the dust collecting motor 191.

[0252] The dust collecting part 170 may be detachably coupled to the cover 110.

[0253] Therefore, the dust collecting part 170 can be separated from the cover 110 and discarded, and a new dust collecting part 170 can be coupled to the cover 110. That is, the dust collecting part 170 can be defined as a consumable part.

[0254] When suction force is generated by the dust collecting motor 191, the dust bag can increase in volume while accommodating dust inside.

[0255] For this purpose, the dust bag may be formed of a material that allows air to pass through and prevents foreign substances such as dust from passing through. As an example, the dust bag may be formed of a non-woven fabric material and may have a hexahedral shape based on when the volume increases.

[0256] Therefore, the user does not need to bundle the bag for collecting dust separately, etc., so the convenience of the user can be improved.

[0257] In contrast, the dust bag can be formed of a non-permeable material. For example, the dust bag can include a roll of plastic (not shown). At this time, the dust bag can be joined by a joining machine. According to this configuration, if the dust bag is sealed or joined, it is possible to prevent the dust or odor trapped inside the dust bag from leaking to the outside of the dust bag. At this time, the dust bag can be installed in the cover body 110 through a dust bag case (not shown). If necessary, the dust bag can be replaced through the dust bag case.

[0258] On the other hand, the vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a sterilization module (not shown).

[0259] The sterilization module (not shown) can be provided on the flow path portion 180, or at least one sterilization module (not shown) can be provided around the dust collection portion 170.

[0260] The sterilization module (not shown) is configured to sterilize the dust collected in the dust collection portion 170. The sterilization module (not shown) can include a light source that irradiates sterilizing light and a protection panel disposed below the light source to protect the light source.

[0261] Here, the light source can include at least one light-emitting diode (LED), and the light-emitting diode can irradiate sterilizing light having bactericidal power capable of removing bacteria. The sterilizing light irradiated by the light source can have different wavelengths according to the type of the light-emitting diode.

[0262] As an example, the light source can be a light-emitting diode that irradiates ultraviolet light in the range of UV-C wavelength. Or as another example, the light source can be a light-emitting diode that irradiates visible light having a wavelength of 405 nm.

[0263] In order to prevent damage to the light source, the protection panel can be disposed at a predetermined distance below the light source. At this time, the protection panel can be made of a material with the maximum transmittance of the light source. As an example, the protection panel can be made of quartz.

[0264] The vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention has a sterilization module (not shown) for sterilization to prevent bacteria from multiplying in the dust collection portion 170, so that it is possible to perform sanitary management on the dust collection portion 170 that stores the inhaled dust for a long time.

[0265] Figure 13 A diagram showing a flow path switching module in the flow path portion of a vacuum cleaner base station for explaining an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 14 A diagram showing the configuration relationship between a first vacuum cleaner flow path and a dust collection flow path in the flow path portion of a vacuum cleaner base station for explaining an embodiment of the present invention, Figure 15 A diagram showing the configuration relationship between a second vacuum cleaner flow path and a dust collection flow path in the flow path portion of a vacuum cleaner base station for explaining an embodiment of the present invention.

[0266] Refer to Figures 7 to 15 , and the flow path portion 180 of the vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described as follows.

[0267] The vacuum cleaner base station 100 may include a flow path portion 180. The flow path portion 180 may connect the dust bins 220, 310 of the vacuum cleaners 200, 300 to the dust collection portion 170. That is, the flow path portion 180 may connect the dust bin 220 of the first vacuum cleaner 200 or the dust bin 310 of the second vacuum cleaner 300 to the dust collection portion 170.

[0268] The flow path portion 180 may include a first vacuum cleaner flow path 181, a second vacuum cleaner flow path 182, a flow path switching module 183, and a dust collection flow path 184.

[0269] The first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 is disposed inside the cover body 110 and is fluidly connected to the dust bin 220 of the first vacuum cleaner 200.

[0270] The first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 may connect the dust bin 220 of the first vacuum cleaner 200 to the dust collection portion 170. The first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 may be disposed at the rear side of the upper coupling portion 120. The first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 may represent the space between the dust bin 220 of the first vacuum cleaner 200 and the dust collection portion 170.

[0271] The first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 may be formed to extend rearward from the upper coupling portion 120 and then bend and extend downward.

[0272] Specifically, the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 includes a first flow path 181a. The first flow path 181a may communicate with the dust through hole 121a and may be formed at the rear of the upper coupling portion 120 along the front-rear direction of the vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0273] In a state where the first vacuum cleaner 200 is coupled to the vacuum cleaner base station 100 and the door 141 and the discharge cover 222 are open, the space inside the dust bin 220, the dust through hole 121a, and the first flow path 181a may communicate with each other.

[0274] As the first flow path 181a is formed along the front-rear direction of the vacuum cleaner base station 100, sufficient space may be provided for the air and foreign substances inside the dust bin 220 to flow into the inside of the vacuum cleaner base station 100 when the dust collection motor 191 operates.

[0275] In addition, the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 includes a second flow path 181b. The second flow path 181b may communicate with the first flow path 181a and may be formed along the up-down direction of the vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0276] At this time, the vertical length of the second flow path 181b can be greater than the front-rear length of the first flow path 181a. With this configuration, the flow path loss can be minimized to the greatest extent.

[0277] The diameter of the upper side of the second flow path 181b can be greater than the diameter of the lower side. That is, the second flow path 181b can be formed in a shape where the diameter gradually decreases from the upper side to the lower side. With this configuration, there is the following effect: The air and foreign objects flowing into the inside of the dust bin 220 can be concentrated and sucked into the dust collection part 170, and the flow velocity increases as it approaches the lower part of the second flow path 181b, thereby increasing the suction force.

[0278] On the other hand, in the vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention, the second flow path 181b can be formed perpendicular to the ground or form a specified angle with the ground.

[0279] Specifically, in this embodiment, a virtual line passing through the inside of the second flow path 181b can be formed. That is, the vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention can include a virtual first vacuum cleaner flow path penetration line P1 that penetrates the second flow path 181b in the length direction.

[0280] The first vacuum cleaner flow path penetration line P1 can be formed along the length direction (axial direction) of the second flow path 181b and can be formed to penetrate the inside of the second flow path 181b.

[0281] On the other hand, the lower part of the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 can be connected to the flow path switching module 183. Specifically, the lower part of the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 can be communicated with the connecting pipe 1832 provided in the flow path switching module 183. That is, the lower part of the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 can be communicated with the flow path (hereinafter referred to as "connecting flow path") formed inside the connecting pipe 1832.

[0282] With this configuration, the dust in the dust bin 220 of the first vacuum cleaner 200 can move to the dust collection part 170 through the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 via the connecting flow path and the dust collection flow path 184.

[0283] The second vacuum cleaner flow path 182 is arranged inside the cover body 110 and is connected to the dust bin 310 of the second vacuum cleaner 300.

[0284] The second vacuum cleaner flow path 182 can connect the dust bin 310 of the second vacuum cleaner 300 and the dust collection part 170.

[0285] The second vacuum cleaner flow path 182 can be formed from the lower coupling part 160 toward the rear, and after being bent, it can be formed upward.

[0286] Specifically, the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182 includes a third flow path 182a. The third flow path 182a can communicate with the dust suction hole 162 and is formed rearward from the dust suction hole 162 in the front-rear direction of the vacuum cleaner base 100. For example, the third flow path 182a can be formed rearward from the dust suction hole 162 in a direction parallel to the ground.

[0287] The space inside the dust bin 310 of the second vacuum cleaner 300 can communicate with the dust suction hole 162 and the third flow path 182a. That is, when the dust collection motor 191 operates, the discharge cover 330 of the second vacuum cleaner can be opened under the suction force of the dust collection motor 191. At this time, the space inside the dust bin 310 of the second vacuum cleaner 300 can communicate with the dust suction hole 162 and the third flow path 182a, and the dust stored inside the dust bin 310 can pass through the dust suction hole 162 and the third flow path 182a.

[0288] In addition, the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182 includes a fourth flow path 182b. The fourth flow path 182b can communicate with the third flow path 182a and can be formed in the up-down direction of the vacuum cleaner base 100. That is, the fourth flow path 182b can be bent upward from the third flow path 182a and can be formed in a direction perpendicular to the ground. When the dust collection motor 191 operates, the dust stored inside the dust bin 310 can flow upward against gravity under the suction force of the dust collection motor 191.

[0289] In addition, the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182 includes a fifth flow path 182c. The fifth flow path 182c can communicate with the fourth flow path 182b and is formed at a specified angle with the ground.

[0290] The fifth flow path 182c can be arranged between the first flow path 181a and the dust collection flow path 184.

[0291] Since the fifth flow path 182c is arranged to be farther from the ground than the dust collection flow path 184, it can prevent foreign objects (dust) flowing into the dust collection flow path 184 from flowing back to the second vacuum cleaner flow path 181. At the same time, since the fifth flow path 182c is arranged to be closer to the ground than the first flow path 181a, it has the effect of minimizing the distance that foreign objects in the dust bin 310 of the second vacuum cleaner 300 rise against gravity by using the operation of the dust collection motor 191.

[0292] The fifth flow path 182c can represent a flow path formed by bending from the fourth flow path 182b at a specified angle.

[0293] One end of the fifth flow path 182c in the axial direction is connected to the fourth flow path 182b. In addition, the other end of the fifth flow path 182c in the axial direction can be connected to the connecting pipe 1832 provided in the flow path switching module 183.

[0294] At this time, at least a part of one end portion of the fifth flow path 182c can be disposed at a position higher than the other end portion. According to this configuration, the air and foreign matters passing through the fourth flow path 182b can move toward the dust collection flow path 184 under the action of gravity.

[0295] On the other hand, in the present embodiment, a virtual line penetrating the inside of the fifth flow path 182c can be formed. That is, the vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention can include a virtual second vacuum cleaner flow path penetration line P2 penetrating the fifth flow path 182c in the longitudinal direction.

[0296] The second vacuum cleaner flow path penetration line P2 is formed along the longitudinal direction (axial direction) of the fifth flow path 182c and is formed to penetrate the inside of the fifth flow path 182c.

[0297] On the other hand, the diameter of the fourth flow path 182b can be smaller than the diameter of the fifth flow path 182c. At this time, the flow velocity of the air and foreign matters flowing in the fourth flow path 182b can be faster than the flow velocity of the air and foreign matters flowing in the fifth flow path 182c. Therefore, the dust stored in the dust bin 310 of the second vacuum cleaner 300 can rise and flow along the fourth flow path 182b against gravity and then descend and flow along the fifth flow path 182c.

[0298] According to this configuration, the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182 can collect the dust stored in the second vacuum cleaner 300, and the second vacuum cleaner 300 is disposed at a position closer to the ground than the dust collection unit 170.

[0299] The fifth flow path 182c can communicate with the fourth flow path 182b and the dust collection flow path 184.

[0300] On the other hand, the lower part of the fifth flow path 182c can be connected to the flow path switching module 183. Specifically, the lower part of the fifth flow path 182c can be communicated with a connection pipe 1832 provided in the flow path switching module 183. That is, the lower part of the fifth flow path 181 can be communicated with a flow path (connection flow path) formed inside the connection pipe 1832.

[0301] According to this configuration, the dust in the dust bin 310 of the second vacuum cleaner 300 can move toward the dust collection unit 170 through the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182 via the connection flow path and the dust collection flow path 184.

[0302] The flow path switching module 183 is a component that selectively connects the dust collection flow path 184 to the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 or the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182.

[0303] The flow path switching module 183 can selectively connect the dust collection unit 170 disposed in the cover body 110 to the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 or the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182.

[0304] The flow path switching module 183 can be configured between the dust collection unit 170 and the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 and the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182. The flow path switching module 183 can selectively open or close the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 or the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182. Thereby, it is possible to prevent a decrease in suction force due to the simultaneous opening of the plurality of flow paths 181 and 182.

[0305] For example, when only the first vacuum cleaner 200 is coupled to the vacuum cleaner base station 100, the flow path switching module 183 can connect the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 to the dust collection unit 170 and block the connection between the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182 and the dust collection unit 170.

[0306] In addition, when only the second vacuum cleaner 300 is coupled to the vacuum cleaner base station 100, the flow path switching module 183 can connect the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182 to the dust collection unit 170 and block the connection between the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 and the dust collection unit 170.

[0307] For easy understanding, the directions of the flow path switching module 183 are defined as follows. Centering on the housing 1831, the direction in which the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182 is provided can be defined as the rear. Centering on the housing 1831, the direction in which the drive cam 1836 is provided can be defined as the front. Centering on the housing 1831, the direction in which the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 is provided can be defined as the upper side. Centering on the housing 1831, the direction in which the dust collection unit 170 is provided can be defined as the lower side.

[0308] The flow path switching module 183 is disposed inside the cover 110.

[0309] The flow path switching module 183 includes a housing 1831, a connecting pipe 1832, a first link 1833, a second link 1834, a switching motor 1835, and a drive cam 1836.

[0310] The flow path switching module 183 includes a housing 1831. The housing 1831 is a component that forms the appearance and forms a framework for other plural components to be combined or supported by other plural components.

[0311] The housing 1831 is formed in a cylindrical shape with a space provided inside, and has a first vacuum cleaner flow path connection portion 1831b connected to the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 and a second vacuum cleaner flow path connection portion 1831c connected to the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182. In addition, the housing 1831 has a dust collection flow path connection portion 1831d connected to the dust collection flow path 184.

[0312] The housing 1831 can form an arc on the inner circumferential surface. The inner circumferential surface of the housing 1831 constitutes a part of a virtual circle centered on the central axis. Refer to Figure 11, the central axis 1831a of the housing is arranged along the left - right direction of the vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0313] The first vacuum cleaner flow path connection part 1831b can be formed to protrude radially outward from the housing 1831. The first vacuum cleaner flow path connection part 1831b can be formed to protrude upward. A flange can be formed at the end of the first vacuum cleaner flow path connection part 1831b. As the flange is inserted into the groove formed in the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181, the first vacuum cleaner flow path connection part 1831b can be connected to the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181.

[0314] The second vacuum cleaner flow path connection part 1831c can be formed to protrude radially outward from the housing 1831. The second vacuum cleaner flow path connection part 1831c can be formed to protrude rearward from the housing 1831. A flange can be formed at the end of the second vacuum cleaner flow path connection part 1831c. As the flange is inserted into the groove formed in the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182, the second vacuum cleaner flow path connection part 1831c can be connected to the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182.

[0315] The dust collection flow path connection part 1831d can be formed to protrude radially outward from the housing 1831. The dust collection flow path connection part 1831d can be formed to protrude downward. A flange can be formed at the end of the dust collection flow path connection part 1831d. As the flange is inserted into the groove formed in the dust collection flow path 184, the dust collection flow path connection part 1831d can be connected to the dust collection flow path 184.

[0316] The housing 1831 can be detachably coupled to the cover body 110. The housing 1831 is inserted into the cover body 110 and is fixed as the flange formed on the first vacuum cleaner flow path connection part 1831b is inserted into the groove of the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181, the flange formed on the second vacuum cleaner flow path connection part 1831c is inserted into the groove of the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182, and the flange formed on the dust collection flow path connection part 1831d is inserted into the groove of the dust collection flow path 184. Then, the housing 1831 can be threadedly coupled to the cover body 110 using at least one screw.

[0317] The flow path switching module 183 includes a connection pipe 1832. The connection pipe 1832 is a component that selectively communicates the dust collection flow path 184 with the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 or the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182.

[0318] As the inlet 1832a of the connection pipe 1832 moves along the inner circumferential surface of the housing 1831, the connection pipe 1832 is selectively coupled to either the first vacuum cleaner flow path connection part 1831b or the second vacuum cleaner flow path connection part 1831c. The outlet 1832b of the connection pipe is coupled to the dust collection flow path connection part 1831d.

[0319] That is, the connection pipe 1832 can be arranged inside the flow path switching module 183. One end of the connection pipe 1832 can be connected to the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 or the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182, and the other end of the connection pipe 1832 can be connected to the dust collection flow path 184.

[0320] The inlet 1832a of the connection pipe 1832 can be arranged at a position closer to the upper side than the outlet 1832b of the connection pipe. That is, one end of the connection pipe 1832 can be arranged farther from the ground than the other end of the connection pipe 1832.

[0321] According to this configuration, the air and dust flowing into the connection pipe 1832 from the inlet 1832a can be accelerated under the action of gravity and can flow out from the outlet 1832b of the connection pipe 1832. Therefore, even if the connection pipe 1832 is bent at a specified angle, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of flow path loss.

[0322] The connection pipe 1832 can be formed of a stretchable material. For example, the connection pipe 1832 can be made of rubber or resin material. Thus, the shape of the connection pipe 1832 can be deformed during movement.

[0323] Alternatively, wrinkles can be formed in at least a part of the connection pipe 1832. Thus, the connection pipe 1832 can be structurally deformed.

[0324] The inlet 1832a of the connection pipe 1832 can be selectively combined with either the first vacuum cleaner flow path connection part 1831b or the second vacuum cleaner flow path connection part 1831c. The connection pipe 1832 can be combined with the first vacuum cleaner flow path connection part 1831b to communicate the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 with the dust collection part 170. Or, the connection pipe 1832 can be combined with the second vacuum cleaner flow path connection part 1831c to communicate the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182 with the dust collection part 170.

[0325] The inlet 1832a of the connection pipe 1832 moves along the inner peripheral surface of the housing 1831. Specifically, the inlet 1832a of the connection pipe 1832 can move along the inner peripheral surface of the housing 1831 in a state of being separated from the housing 1831 by a specified distance or more. Therefore, there is an effect of preventing damage to the seal 1832c arranged at the inlet 1832a of the connection pipe 1832 during the movement of the connection pipe 1832 along the inner peripheral surface of the housing 1831.

[0326] The outlet 1832b of the connection pipe 1832 is combined with the dust collection flow path connection part 1831d. The outlet 1832b of the connection pipe 1832 is fixedly combined with the dust collection flow path connection part 1831d and is always in communication with the dust collection part 170.

[0327] The flow path switching module 183 includes a first link 1833. The first link 1833 is a component that transmits the power of the motor to the connecting pipe 1832 to move the connecting pipe 1832.

[0328] One side of the first link 1833 is rotatably coupled to the housing 1831, and the other side is coupled to the connecting pipe 1832.

[0329] The first link 1833 rotates about a rotation axis 1833a disposed on one side. The first link 1833 is rotatably coupled to the housing 1831 through the rotation axis 1833a of the first link 1833. The first link 1833 is rotatably coupled to the housing 1831.

[0330] The rotation axis 1833a of the first link becomes the rotation center for rotating the first link 1833. The rotation axis 1833a of the first link is rotatably coupled to the housing 1831.

[0331] A connecting portion 1833b of the first link 1833 extends in one direction from the rotation axis 1833a of the first link, is connected to the connecting pipe 1832, and is disposed at the end of the first link 1833.

[0332] The connecting portion 1833b of the first link is hinge-coupled to the inlet 1832a of the connecting pipe 1832. The first link 1833 is connected to the connecting pipe 1832 through the connecting portion 1833b of the first link. Therefore, when the first link 1833 rotates, the connecting pipe 1832 can move.

[0333] The first link 1833 extends from the rotation axis 1833a. The connecting portion 1833b of the first link is disposed at the rear end of the first link 1833. The connecting portion 1833b of the first link can be connected to the rear of the inlet 1832a of the connecting pipe 1832.

[0334] The first link 1833 includes a gear portion 1833c.

[0335] The gear portion 1833c of the first link 1833 can extend from the rotation axis 1833a of the first link in the opposite direction to the connecting portion 1833b. The first link 1833 can extend forward from the rotation axis 1833a of the first link, and the gear portion 1833c of the first link is disposed at the front end of the first link 1833.

[0336] Gear teeth are formed at the end of the gear portion 1833c of the first link. The gear portion 1833c of the first link 1833 is connected to the gear portion 1836c of the drive cam 1836. Specifically, the gear portion 1833c of the first link meshes with the gear portion 1836c of the drive cam.

[0337] The first link includes a partition wall 1833d.

[0338] The partition wall 1833d of the first link is a component that prevents the flow path switching module 183 from separating when the connecting pipe 1832 is in a specific position. Specifically, in the case where the connecting pipe 1832 is not coupled to the first vacuum cleaner flow path connection portion 1831b, but during the process of the connecting pipe 1832 being coupled to the second vacuum cleaner flow path portion 1831c, or when the connecting pipe 1832 is located between the first vacuum cleaner flow path portion 1831b and the second vacuum cleaner flow path portion 1831c, it can block the separation of the flow path switching module 183.

[0339] The partition wall 1833d of the first link extends radially outward of the gear portion 1833c of the first link.

[0340] That is, the partition wall 1833d of the first link is disposed at a part of the gear portion 1833c of the first link. The partition wall 1833d of the first link covers a part of the gear portion 1833c. That is, a part of the gear portion 1833c of the first link overlaps with the partition wall 1833d, and the remaining part does not overlap with the partition wall 1833d. In addition, as the drive cam 1836 rotates, a part of the gear portion 1836c of the drive cam that meshes with the gear portion 1833c of the first link may overlap with the partition wall 1833d.

[0341] Therefore, during the process of the assembly including the housing 1831 and the first link 1833 moving toward the side of the vacuum cleaner base station 100, as the drive cam 1836 rotates, the gear portion 1836c of the drive cam and the partition wall 1833d of the first link get stuck with each other, thereby being able to limit the separation of the assembly.

[0342] Specifically, if as the drive cam 1836 rotates, the gear portion 1836c of the drive cam and the partition wall 1833d are disposed at overlapping positions, the partition wall 1833d is stuck by the gear portion 1836c of the drive cam, making the assembly unable to separate. On the contrary, if as the drive cam rotates, the partition wall 1833d of the first link and the gear portion 1836c of the drive cam are disposed at non-overlapping positions, the flow path switching module 183 can be easily separated.

[0343] More specifically, when the connection pipe 1832 is combined with the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181, the partition wall 1833d of the first link and the drive cam 1836 are arranged not to overlap in the front-rear direction. In addition, when the connection pipe 1832 is combined with the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182, the partition wall 1833d of the first link and the drive cam 1836 are arranged to overlap in the front-rear direction. In addition, when the connection pipe 1832 is arranged between the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 and the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182, the partition wall 1833d of the first link and the drive cam 1836 are arranged to overlap in the front-rear direction. Therefore, the flow path switching module 183 can only be separated in the state where the connection pipe 1832 is connected to the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181, thereby having the effect of preventing the falling dust from scattering through the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 during the process of combination or separation.

[0344] The flow path switching module 183 includes a second link 1834. The second link 1834 is a component that moves the connection pipe 1832 together with the first link 1833.

[0345] One side of the second link 1834 is rotatably coupled to the housing 1831, and the other side is coupled to the connection pipe 1832.

[0346] The second link 1834 rotates about a rotation axis 1834a arranged on one side. One side of the second link 1834 is rotatably coupled to the housing 1831. The second link 1834 rotates about a rotation axis 1834a arranged on one side. The rotation axis 1834a of the second link can be arranged at the end of the second link 1834. The second link 1834 is rotatably coupled to the housing 1831.

[0347] The rotation axis 1834a of the second link becomes the rotation center for rotating the second link 1834. The rotation axis 1834a of the second link extends from the second link 1834 to the housing 1831. The rotation axis 1834a of the second link is rotatably coupled to the housing 1831.

[0348] The second link 1834 extends in one direction from the rotation axis 1834a of the second link, and a connection portion 1834b connected to the connection pipe 1832 is arranged at the end.

[0349] The connection portion 1834b of the second link is hinge-coupled to the inlet of the connection pipe 1832. The second link 1834 is connected to the connection pipe 1832 through the connection portion 1834b of the second link. Therefore, when the second link 1834 rotates, the connection pipe 1832 can move.

[0350] One side of the second link 1834 is coupled to the housing 1831, and the other side of the second link 1834 is coupled to the connection pipe 1832. Specifically, one end of the second link 1834 becomes a rotating shaft 1834a and is coupled to the housing 1831. The other end of the second link 1834 becomes a connection portion 1834b and is hinge-coupled to the inlet 1832a of the connection pipe 1832.

[0351] The rotating shaft 1834a of the second link is disposed at the lower portion of the second link 1834 and is rotatably coupled to the housing 1831. The second link 1834 extends upward from the rotating shaft 1834a of the second link. The connection portion 1834b of the second link is disposed at the upper end of the second link 1834. The connection portion 1834b of the second link can be connected to the inlet of the connection pipe 1832.

[0352] Accordingly, during the movement of the inlet of the connection pipe 1832, the inlet of the connection pipe 1832 can move while being spaced apart from the housing 1831 by a predetermined distance.

[0353] At least one of the rotating shaft 1833a of the first link and the rotating shaft 1834a of the second link is disposed spaced apart from the central axis 1831a of the housing 1831.

[0354] The rotating shaft 1833a of the first link can be disposed in front of the central axis 1831a of the housing 1831. The rotating shaft 1834a of the second link can be disposed below the central axis 1831a of the housing 1831. The rotating shaft 1833a of the first link can be disposed spaced apart from the rotating shaft 1834a of the second link.

[0355] Due to having such a configuration, the rotating shaft 1833a of the first link and the rotating shaft 1834a of the second link become two foci, and the connection pipe 1832 can move along an elliptical locus. That is, the locus of the movement of the connection portion 1833b of the first link is offset from the locus of the movement of the connection portion 1834b of the second link, and the inlet 1832a of the connection pipe has an elliptical locus and moves.

[0356] Accordingly, the inlet 1832a of the connection pipe can be spaced apart from the inner circumferential surface of the housing 1831 by more than a predetermined distance during the movement.

[0357] The connection pipe 1832 is in close contact with the inner circumferential surface of the housing 1831 when coupled to either the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 or the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182, and is spaced apart from the inner circumferential surface of the housing 1831 when moving from either the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 or the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182 to the other.

[0358] Therefore, the seal 1832c connecting the connecting pipe 1832 will not be damaged by friction during the movement between the first vacuum cleaner flow path connection portion 1831b and the second vacuum cleaner flow path connection portion 1831c.

[0359] In the flow path switching module 183, the radius of curvature of the inner peripheral surface of the housing 1831 may be smaller than the radius of curvature formed by the trajectory of the inlet 1832a of the connecting pipe 1832. The trajectory along which the inlet 1832a of the connecting pipe 1832 moves may be formed in a shape similar to an ellipse, and the radius of curvature of the ellipse may be larger than the radius of curvature of the inner peripheral surface of the housing 1831.

[0360] The trajectory of the inlet of the connecting pipe 1832 is an ellipse with the rotation axis 1833a of the first link and the rotation axis (1833b) of the second link as foci, and the radius of curvature formed by the trajectory of the inlet 1832a of the connecting pipe 1832 is clearly larger than the radius of curvature of the inner peripheral surface of the housing 1831.

[0361] Since the radius of curvature of the ellipse is larger than the radius of curvature of the inner peripheral surface of the housing 1831, the inlet 1832a of the connecting pipe 1832 can be spaced apart from the inner side of the inner peripheral surface of the housing 1831 when moving along the inner peripheral surface of the housing 1831.

[0362] The flow path switching module 183 includes a plurality of links. One side of the plurality of links is rotatably coupled to the housing 1831, and the other side is coupled to the connecting pipe 1832. The links may be a first link 1833 and a second link 1834.

[0363] In at least one of the plurality of links, the radius of curvature of the trajectory of the end portion connected to the housing 1831 may be larger than the radius of curvature of the inner peripheral surface of the housing 1831. The radius of curvature R2 of the second trajectory may be larger than the radius of curvature of the inner peripheral surface of the housing 1831, and the radius of curvature R1 of the first trajectory may be larger than the radius of curvature R2 of the second trajectory and the radius of curvature of the inner peripheral surface of the housing 1831.

[0364] The length of the first link 1833 may be greater than the length of the second link 1834.

[0365] When observing the flow path switching module 183 from one side, the first link 1833 may cross the second link 1834.

[0366] Since the length of the first link 1833 is formed to be different from the length of the second link 1834 and the first link 1833 and the second link 1834 are arranged in a crossed manner, the inlet 1832a of the connecting pipe 1832 can be spaced apart from the inner peripheral surface of the housing 1831 during the movement between the first vacuum cleaner flow path connection portion 1831b and the second vacuum cleaner flow path connection portion 1831c.

[0367] The flow path switching module 183 includes a switching motor 1835 and a drive cam 1836.

[0368] The switching motor 1835 is disposed on one side of the housing 1831 and generates power to move the connecting pipe 1832.

[0369] The switching motor 1835 may be a bidirectional motor capable of rotating in both directions. That is, the switching motor 1835 can rotate in the clockwise direction or the counterclockwise direction. For example, when the switching motor 1835 rotates in the clockwise direction, the connecting pipe 1832 is connected to the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182. On the contrary, when the switching motor 1835 rotates in the counterclockwise direction, the connecting pipe 1832 is connected to the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181.

[0370] The drive cam 1836 is coupled to the switching motor 1835 and transmits the power of the switching motor 1835 to the first link 1833.

[0371] The drive cam 1836 is coupled to the switching motor 1835 and includes a detection portion 1836b protruding to one side, and transmits the power of the switching motor 1835 to the connecting pipe 1832.

[0372] The drive cam 1836 is coupled to the shaft of the switching motor 1835. Thus, the drive cam 1836 rotates integrally with the shaft of the switching motor 1835.

[0373] The drive cam 1836 includes a gear portion 1836c. The gear portion 1836c of the drive cam may be formed in a shape protruding radially outward of the drive cam.

[0374] The gear portion 1836c of the drive cam is connected to the gear portion 1833c of the first link. That is, the gear portion 1836c of the drive cam is meshed and connected to the gear portion 1833c of the first link. Therefore, if the drive cam 1836 rotates in the clockwise direction, the first link 1833 rotates in the counterclockwise direction, and if the drive cam 1836 rotates in the counterclockwise direction, the first link 1833 rotates in the clockwise direction.

[0375] Since the flow path switching module 183 includes the detection portion 1836b and the position sensor 1837, it is possible to determine the position of the connecting pipe 1832.

[0376] The detection portion 1836b is formed on the drive cam 1836 and protrudes radially outward of the shaft of the switching motor 1835.

[0377] The position sensor 1837 is disposed on one side of the detection portion 1836b, is turned on - off by the detection portion 1836b, and detects the position of the connecting pipe 1832.

[0378] As an example, the position sensor 1837 includes a microswitch. The microswitch is disposed on one side of the detection unit 1836b. Thus, when the microswitch is pressed by the detection unit 1836b (On), a signal is emitted. Conversely, when the microswitch is not pressed by the detection unit 1836b (Off), no signal is emitted.

[0379] The signal can be transmitted to the control unit 400, and the control unit 400 can determine the position of the connecting pipe 1832 based on whether there is a signal and the transmission time of the signal.

[0380] The detection unit 1836b can be composed of a plurality of surfaces. The plurality of surfaces can be outer peripheral surfaces formed on the radially outer side centered on the rotation axis 1836a of the drive cam 1836, and each of the plurality of surfaces can be formed with different radii centered on the rotation axis of the drive cam 1836.

[0381] Specifically, when the surface with a relatively larger radius in the detection unit 1836b contacts the switch of the position sensor 1837, the position sensor 1837 is turned on by pressing the switch of the position sensor 1837, and the position sensor 1837 transmits an on signal to the control unit 400. Conversely, when the surface with a relatively smaller radius in the detection unit 1836b faces the switch of the position sensor 1837, the switch of the position sensor 1837 is not pressed, and the position sensor 1837 is turned off, and the position sensor 1837 transmits an off signal to the control unit 400 or does not transmit a signal to the control unit 400.

[0382] The flow path switching module 183 may further include an elastic member 1838. The elastic member 1838 is a component that helps the movement of the inlet of the connecting pipe 1832.

[0383] One side of the elastic member 1838 is connected to the housing 1831, and the other side is connected to the second link 1834.

[0384] The elastic member 1838 can be a torsion spring.

[0385] The elastic member 1838 is stretched when the connecting pipe 1832 is connected to the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181. In addition, the elastic member 1838 is compressed when the connecting pipe 1832 is connected to the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182.

[0386] The elastic member 1838 helps the connecting pipe 1832 move toward the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 in a state where the connecting pipe 1832 is connected to the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182. The first link 1833 can easily guide the connecting pipe 1832 toward the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182 by pulling the connecting pipe 1832 connected to the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 backward. Differently, the first link 1833 guides the connecting pipe 1832 connected to the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182 toward the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 by pushing it forward and upward, and there may be a problem that a part of the connecting pipe 1832 gets stuck on the moving path of the connecting pipe 1832. At this time, the elastic force of the elastic member 1838 pulls the connecting portion 1834b of the second link 1834, so that the connecting pipe 1832 can be easily separated from the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182.

[0387] The flow path switching module 183 includes a stop sensor 1839 and a stopper 1836d, so as to be able to block the connecting pipe 1832 from moving above the limit position.

[0388] The stopper 1836d is arranged on one side of the drive cam 1836. The stopper 1836d protrudes radially outward from the drive cam 1835.

[0389] The stop sensor 1839 can be arranged adjacent to the drive cam 1836.

[0390] The stop sensor 1839 can be an infrared sensor or a contact sensor. The stop sensor 1839 can detect the position of the stopper 1836d and send a signal when the stopper 1836d is arranged at a position close to the stop sensor 1839. In addition, the signal sent by the stop sensor 1839 is transmitted to the control unit 400.

[0391] The control unit 400 can determine that the connecting pipe 1832 is completely combined with the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 and stop the operation of the switching motor 1835 when receiving a signal from the stop sensor 1839.

[0392] The flow path switching module 183 of the present invention can be detachably combined with the cover body 110. A chamber for arranging the flow path switching module 183 is formed in the cover body 110, and the flow path switching module 183 is arranged in the chamber and connected to the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181, the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182 and the dust collection flow path 184.

[0393] Air and dust flow through the flow path switching module 183, and there is a hidden danger of malfunction due to dust pollution or dust accumulation. Therefore, there is a need for easy separation and cleaning. According to the present invention, the flow path switching module 183 can be easily combined with or separated from the cover body 110, so it has the effect of being easily separated and cleaned.

[0394] The connecting pipe 1832, the first link 1833 and the housing 1831 are combined to form an assembly, and the assembly can be integrally combined with or separated from the cover 110. The housing 1831, the connecting pipe 1832, the first link 1833 and the second link 1834 can form an assembly. The assembly can be assembled before being combined with the cover 110 and can be combined with or separated from the cover 110 as a component.

[0395] Each flange of the assembly can be slidably inserted into a plurality of flange grooves and combined with the cover 110. After the assembly is combined with the cover 110, it can be more firmly fixed by screws or the like.

[0396] The flow path switching module 183 is separably combined with the cover 110 but is separated when connected to either the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 or the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182. As an example, the flow path switching module 183 can be separated when the connecting pipe 1832 is connected to the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181, and when the connecting pipe 1832 is connected to the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182, the partition wall 1833d can be caught by the gear portion 1836c of the drive cam and restricted from separating.

[0397] One side of the dust collection flow path 184 is selectively connected to either the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 or the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182, and the other side is connected to the dust collection unit 170. For example, the upper end of the dust collection flow path 184 is selectively connected to either the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 or the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182, and the lower end is connected to the dust collection unit 170.

[0398] On the other hand, in the present embodiment, a virtual line penetrating the inside of the dust collection flow path 184 can be formed. That is, the vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention can include a virtual dust collection flow path penetration line P3 penetrating the dust collection flow path 184 in the longitudinal direction.

[0399] The dust collection flow path penetration line P3 can be formed along the length direction (axial direction) of the dust collection flow path 184 and is formed to penetrate the inside of the dust collection flow path 184. The dust collection flow path penetration line P3 is arranged parallel to the vertical line V.

[0400] The inlet of the dust collection flow path 184 is combined with the housing 1831 and communicates with the connecting pipe 1832 combined with the housing 1831.

[0401] As Figure 14 described, in the case where the connecting pipe 1832 is connected to the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181, the dust collection flow path 184 is connected to the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181, and air can flow in the dust collection flow path 184. Differently, as Figure 15As shown, when the connecting pipe 1832 is connected to the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182, the dust collection flow path 184 is connected to the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182, and air can flow in the dust collection flow path 184.

[0402] On the other hand, referring to Figure 7 and Figure 16 , the dust suction module 190 is described as follows.

[0403] The vacuum cleaner base station 100 may include a dust suction module 190. The dust suction module 190 may include a dust collection motor 191, a first filter (not shown), and a second filter (not shown).

[0404] The dust collection motor 191 may be disposed below the dust collection unit 170. The dust collection motor 191 may generate suction force toward the flow path unit 180. Thus, the dust collection motor 191 may provide a suction force capable of sucking dust into the dust bin 220 of the vacuum cleaner 200.

[0405] The dust collection motor 191 may generate suction force by rotation. As an example, the dust collection motor 191 may be formed in a shape similar to a cylinder.

[0406] On the other hand, in the present embodiment, a virtual dust collection motor axis C extending the rotation axis of the dust collection motor 191 may be formed.

[0407] The first filter (not shown) may be disposed between the dust collection unit 170 and the dust collection motor 191. The first filter may be a pre-filter.

[0408] The second filter (not shown) may be disposed between the dust collection motor 191 and the outer wall surface 112. The second filter (not shown) may be a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter.

[0409] On the other hand, the vacuum cleaner base station 100 may further include a charging unit 128. The charging unit 128 may be disposed in the upper coupling part 120. The charging unit 128 may be electrically connected to the first vacuum cleaner 200 coupled to the upper coupling part 120. The charging unit 128 may supply power to the battery of the first vacuum cleaner 200 coupled to the upper coupling part 120.

[0410] In addition, the vacuum cleaner base station 100 may further include a side door (not shown). The side door may be disposed on the cover body 110. The side door may selectively expose the dust collection unit 170 to the outside. Thus, the user can easily remove the dust collection unit 170 from the vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0411] On the other hand, Figure 16 A block diagram for controlling components in a vacuum cleaner base station for explaining an embodiment of the present invention is disclosed.

[0412] Referring to Figure 16, the control structure of the vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention is described as follows.

[0413] The vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a control unit 400 for controlling the upper coupling unit 120, the fixing unit 130, the door unit 140, the lid opening unit 150, the lower coupling unit 160, the dust collection unit 170, the flow path unit 180, and the dust suction module 190.

[0414] The control unit 400 may be composed of a printed circuit board and a plurality of components mounted on the printed circuit board.

[0415] If the coupling sensor 125 senses the coupling of the first vacuum cleaner 200, the coupling sensor 125 may send a signal that the first vacuum cleaner 200 has been coupled to the upper coupling unit 120. At this time, the control unit 400 may receive the signal of the coupling sensor 125 and determine that the first vacuum cleaner 200 has been coupled to the upper coupling unit 120.

[0416] In addition, if power is supplied from the charging unit 128 to the battery 240 of the first vacuum cleaner 200, the control unit 400 may determine that the first vacuum cleaner 200 has been coupled to the upper coupling unit 120.

[0417] If it is determined that the first vacuum cleaner 200 has been coupled to the upper coupling unit 120, the control unit 400 may fix the first vacuum cleaner 200 by operating the fixing unit motor 133.

[0418] If the fixing member 131 or the fixing unit link 135 moves to the specified fixing position FP1, the fixing sensing unit 137 may send a signal that the first vacuum cleaner 200 has been fixed. The base station control unit 400 may receive the signal that the first vacuum cleaner 200 has been fixed from the fixing sensing unit 137 and determine that the first vacuum cleaner 200 has been fixed. If it is determined that the first vacuum cleaner 200 has been fixed, the base station control unit 400 may interrupt the operation of the fixing unit motor 133.

[0419] On the other hand, if the emptying of the dust bin 220 is completed, the control unit 400 may release the fixing of the first vacuum cleaner 200 by rotating the fixing unit motor 133 in the reverse direction.

[0420] If it is determined that the first vacuum cleaner 200 has been fixed to the upper coupling unit 120, the control unit 400 may open the door 141 of the vacuum cleaner base station 100 by operating the door motor 142.

[0421] If the door 141 or the door arm 143 reaches the specified open position DP1, the door opening and closing sensing unit 144 may send a signal indicating that the door 141 has been opened. The control unit 400 may receive the signal indicating that the door 141 has been opened from the door opening and closing sensing unit 137 and determine that the door 141 has been opened. If it is determined that the door 141 has been opened, the control unit 400 may interrupt the operation of the door motor 142.

[0422] On the other hand, if the emptying of the dust bin 220 is completed, the control unit 400 may close the door 141 by rotating the door motor 142 in the reverse direction.

[0423] If it is determined that the door 141 has been opened, the control unit 400 may open the discharge cover 222 of the first vacuum cleaner 200 by operating the cover opening motor 152.

[0424] The control unit 400 may receive a signal indicating that the discharge cover 222 has been opened from the cover opening sensing unit 155f and determine that the discharge cover 222 has been opened. If it is determined that the discharge cover 222 has been opened, the control unit 400 may interrupt the operation of the cover opening motor 152.

[0425] If the second vacuum cleaner 300 is coupled to the lower coupling portion 160, power may be applied to the second vacuum cleaner 300 through a charging terminal (not shown), whereby the control unit 400 may determine that the second vacuum cleaner 300 is coupled to the lower coupling portion 160.

[0426] The control unit 400 may control the sterilization module 175. As an example, the control unit 400 may operate the sterilization module 175 after the dust collection unit 170 has collected dust or at a predetermined time interval to sterilize viruses, microorganisms, etc. present inside or outside the dust collection unit 170.

[0427] The control unit 400 may control the flow path switching module 183 of the flow path unit 180. As an example, the control unit 400 may control the switching motor 1835 to move the connection pipe 1832. The connection pipe 1832 may be selectively connected to the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 or the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182. Therefore, the control unit 400 may selectively open or close the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 or the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182 by moving the connection pipe 1832.

[0428] The control unit 400 may suck the dust inside the dust bin 220 by driving the dust collection motor 191.

[0429] The control unit 400 may display the dust bin emptying status and charging status of the first vacuum cleaner 200 or the second vacuum cleaner 300 by operating the display unit 410.

[0430] On the other hand, the vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention may include a display unit 410.

[0431] The display unit 410 may be disposed on the cover 110. Of course, it may also be disposed on a separate display device and may be provided in a terminal including a mobile phone.

[0432] The display unit 410 may include at least one of a display panel capable of outputting text and / or graphics and a speaker capable of outputting a voice signal and sound. A user can easily grasp the status of a currently running program, remaining time, etc. through the information output via the display unit.

[0433] On the other hand, the vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a memory 430. The memory 430 may include various data for driving and operating the vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0434] On the other hand, the vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include an input unit 440. The input unit 440 generates key input data input by a user to control the operation of the vacuum cleaner base station 100. To this end, the input unit 440 may be composed of a keypad, a dome switch, a touchpad (static pressure / electrostatic), etc. In particular, when the touchpad and the display unit 410 form a layer structure with each other, it may be referred to as a touch screen.

[0435] Referring to Figure 7 、 Figure 14 and Figure 15 , the relationship between the vacuum cleaner base station and the flow path unit in a state where the first vacuum cleaner 200 is placed on the vacuum cleaner base station 100 is described as follows.

[0436] In the present invention, the first vacuum cleaner 200 may be placed on the outer wall surface 112 of the vacuum cleaner base station 100. As an example, the dust bin 220 and the battery cover 230 of the first vacuum cleaner 200 may be combined with the joint surface 121 of the vacuum cleaner base station 100. That is, the first vacuum cleaner 200 may be placed on the first outer wall surface 112a.

[0437] At this time, the suction motor axis a1 may be configured to be perpendicular to the first outer wall surface 112a. That is, the suction motor axis a1 may be formed parallel to the ground. The suction motor axis a1 may be formed in a plane perpendicular to the ground. In addition, the suction motor axis a1 may be formed in a plane perpendicular to and intersecting the first outer wall surface 112a. The suction motor axis a1 may represent the direction in which the suction force of the suction motor 214 is applied.

[0438] The intake flow path through-line a2 can be formed parallel to the first outer wall surface 112a. The intake flow path through-line a2 can be formed along the direction of gravity. That is, the intake flow path through-line a2 can be formed perpendicular to the ground. Additionally, the intake flow path through-line a2 can be formed in a plane that perpendicularly intersects the first outer wall surface 112a. The intake flow path through-line a2 can indicate the direction in which outside air flows in according to the operation of the intake motor 214 or the dust collection motor 191.

[0439] The grip portion through-line a3 can be formed to be inclined at a specified angle with respect to the first outer wall surface 112a. Additionally, the grip portion through-line a3 can be formed to be inclined at a specified angle with respect to the ground. The grip portion through-line a3 can be formed in a plane that perpendicularly intersects the first outer wall surface 112a.

[0440] The cyclone line a4 can be formed perpendicular to the first outer wall surface 112a. That is, the cyclone line a4 can be formed parallel to the ground. The cyclone line a4 can be formed in a plane perpendicular to the ground. Additionally, the cyclone line a4 can be formed in a plane that perpendicularly intersects the first outer wall surface 112a. The cyclone line a4 can indicate the axis along which the air flowing into the first vacuum cleaner 200 swirls.

[0441] The dust bin through-line a5 can be formed perpendicular to the first outer wall surface 112a. That is, the dust bin through-line a5 can be formed parallel to the ground. The dust bin through-line a5 can be formed in a plane perpendicular to the ground. Additionally, the dust bin through-line a5 can be formed in a plane that perpendicularly intersects the first outer wall surface 112a. The dust bin through-line a5 can indicate the direction in which air and foreign objects flow into the first flow path 181a through the dust bin 220 according to the operation of the dust collection motor 191.

[0442] The dust collection motor axis C can be formed perpendicular to the ground. The dust collection motor axis C can be formed parallel to at least one of the first outer wall surface 112a, the second outer wall surface 112b, the third outer wall surface 112c, and the fourth outer wall surface 112d. The dust collection motor axis C can indicate the direction in which the suction force of the dust collection motor 191 is applied.

[0443] The first vacuum cleaner flow path through-line P1 can be arranged at an angular difference of a specified dust inflow angle (_) in relation to the vertical line V perpendicular to the ground.

[0444] Here, the vertical line V can be a virtual line formed along the direction perpendicular to the ground. And the vertical line V can be arranged parallel to the dust collection motor axis C. Therefore, the vertical line V can indicate the direction of the suction force applied to the dust collection flow path 184 when the dust collection motor 191 is operating. Additionally, the vertical line V can indicate the direction of gravity with respect to the reference of the vacuum cleaner base station 100 being placed on the ground.

[0445] In other words, the second flow path 181b of the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 and the dust collection flow path 184 can be arranged to have an inclination with the dust inflow angle (θ).

[0446] On the other hand, the second vacuum cleaner flow path penetration line P2 can be arranged to have an inclination with a specified dust suction angle (θ) in relation to the horizontal line H parallel to the ground.

[0447] Here, the horizontal line H can be a virtual line formed along the direction horizontal to the ground.

[0448] On the other hand, the dust collection flow path penetration line P3 can be arranged to be parallel to the vertical line V perpendicular to the ground.

[0449] Here, the dust collection flow path penetration line P3 can represent the direction of the air flowing into the dust collection unit 170 through the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 or the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182.

[0450] On the other hand, the relationships among the suction motor axis a1, the suction flow path penetration line a2, the grip portion penetration line a3, the cyclone line a4, the dust bin penetration line a5, the dust collection motor axis C, the vertical line V, the horizontal line H, the first vacuum cleaner flow path penetration line P1, and the second vacuum cleaner flow path penetration line P2 in the vacuum cleaner system according to the embodiments of the present invention are as follows.

[0451] The vertical line V can perpendicularly intersect the suction motor axis a1. Alternatively, the vertical line V can perpendicularly intersect the cyclone line a4. Alternatively, the vertical line V can perpendicularly intersect the dust bin penetration line a5.

[0452] The horizontal line H can be arranged to be parallel to the suction motor axis a1. Alternatively, the horizontal line H can be arranged to be parallel to the cyclone line a4. Alternatively, the horizontal line H can be arranged to be parallel to the dust bin penetration line a5.

[0453] The first vacuum cleaner flow path penetration line P1 can be arranged to have an inclination with the vertical line V at the dust inflow angle (θ). Here, as Figure 12 shown, the dust inflow angle (θ) can represent the angle at which the first vacuum cleaner flow path penetration line P1 rotates clockwise or counterclockwise with respect to the vertical line V.

[0454] When the dust inflow angle (θ) is 0 degree, the direction in which the suction force of the dust collection motor 191 is applied and the formation direction of the second flow path 181b are arranged in parallel, so that air and foreign matters can be collected without flow path loss.

[0455] On the other hand, as the dust inflow angle (θ) increases, the flow path loss may increase. That is, as the bending angle of the portion connecting the second flow path 181b to the dust collection flow path 184 becomes larger, the flow path loss may increase.

[0456] Therefore, the dust inflow angle (_) is preferably 0 degrees or more and 10 degrees or less. When the dust inflow angle (_) is 10 degrees or less, the flow path loss is 5% or less regardless of the diameter of the flow path. Therefore, when the dust inflow angle (_) is 10 degrees or less, the suction force for dust will not decrease.

[0457] On the other hand, when the dust inflow angle (_) exceeds 10 degrees, the flow path loss may increase. In particular, when the diameter of the flow path is small, the flow path loss may increase further sharply. For example, when the dust inflow angle (_) exceeds 10 degrees and the diameter D of the flow path is the same as the curvature radius R of the bent flow path, the flow path loss can be 14% or more. Therefore, when the dust inflow angle (_) exceeds 10 degrees, suction reduction caused by the flow path loss occurs.

[0458] Therefore, in this embodiment, the dust inflow angle (_) is set to 0 degrees or more and 10 degrees or less, thereby having the effect of preventing suction reduction during the dust collection process.

[0459] On the other hand, the dust bin penetration line a5 can intersect with the first vacuum cleaner flow path penetration line P1. At this time, the dust bin penetration line a5 and the first vacuum cleaner flow path penetration line P1 can intersect with each other within the flow path portion 180. In addition, the dust bin penetration line a5 can intersect with the first vacuum cleaner flow path penetration line P1 at an angle difference of a specified descent angle α.

[0460] At this time, the vertical line V and the dust bin penetration line a5 can intersect perpendicularly with each other, the vertical line V and the first vacuum cleaner flow path penetration line P1 can intersect at an angle difference of the dust inflow angle (_), and the descent angle α can have a magnitude of 90° - the dust inflow angle (_) (α = 90° - _). For example, the descent angle α can be 80 degrees or more and 90 degrees or less.

[0461] According to this configuration, there is an effect of collecting foreign matter in the dust bin 220 of the first vacuum cleaner 200 not only under the action of the suction force of the dust collection motor 191 but also under the action of gravity.

[0462] In particular, in this embodiment, the upper diameter of the second flow path 181b is formed to be larger than the lower diameter, so there is an effect that the air flow velocity gradually becomes faster while flowing downward.

[0463] Therefore, according to the present invention, there is an effect of minimizing the flow path loss and maximizing the dust collection ability during the process of collecting foreign matter in the dust bin 220 even though the dust bin penetration line a5 is perpendicular to the dust collection motor axis C.

[0464] On the other hand, the second vacuum cleaner flow path through line P2 can be disposed at an inclination of a dust suction angle (_) in relation to the horizontal line H. Here, as Figure 13 shown, the dust suction angle (_) can represent the angle by which the second vacuum cleaner flow path through line P2 rotates clockwise or counterclockwise with respect to the horizontal line H.

[0465] The dust suction angle (_) can represent the angle at which the air including the dust passing through the fourth flow path 182b descends. Additionally, the dust suction angle (_) can represent the angle at which the air present in the dust collection flow path 184 or the connecting pipe 1832 flows back against the fourth flow path 182b.

[0466] At this time, the dust suction angle (_) can exceed 0 degrees.

[0467] According to this configuration, even after the operation of the dust collection motor 191 ends, the dust passing through the fourth flow path 182b can flow into the dust collection flow path 184 under the action of gravity without remaining on the fifth flow path 182c. Therefore, according to the present invention, there is an effect of preventing the dust in the air from flowing back and scattering even after the operation of the dust collection motor 191 ends.

[0468] In addition, the dust suction angle (_) can be less than the descent angle α (_ < α).

[0469] This can indicate that the fifth flow path 182c is disposed between the first flow path 181a and the dust collection flow path 184. According to this configuration, the height of the upper end portion of the fourth flow path 182b in the direction of gravity can be closer to the ground than the first flow path 181a. This has the effect of minimizing the distance that the air discharged from the second vacuum cleaner 300 rises along the fourth flow path 182b against gravity.

[0470] In particular, in the present embodiment, the diameter of the fourth flow path 182b is formed to be smaller than the diameter of the fifth flow path 182c. Therefore, there is an effect that the flow velocity of the air passing through the fourth flow path 182b can be made faster than the flow velocity of the air passing through the fifth flow path 182c, and sufficient dust collection force can be provided to the second vacuum cleaner 300.

[0471] In a state where the first vacuum cleaner 200 and the vacuum cleaner base station 100 are combined, the suction motor axis a1 can intersect the dust collection motor axis C at a predetermined angle.

[0472] In addition, in a state where the first vacuum cleaner 200 and the vacuum cleaner base station 100 are combined, the suction motor axis a1 can intersect the vertical line V of the ground at a predetermined angle.

[0473] On the other hand, in the case where the first vacuum cleaner 200 is coupled to the vacuum cleaner base 100, a handle 216 may be disposed at a distance farther from the suction motor axis a1 with respect to the ground. According to this configuration, when the user holds the handle 216, the relatively heavy suction motor 214 can be located on the lower side in the direction of gravity, and the user can provide the convenience of coupling or separating the first vacuum cleaner 200 from the vacuum cleaner base 100 only by a simple action of moving the first vacuum cleaner 200 in a direction parallel to the ground.

[0474] The suction flow path penetration line a2 may intersect the suction flow path axis a1 or the grip portion penetration line a3 or the cyclone line a4 or the dust bin penetration line a5.

[0475] As an example, the suction flow path penetration line a2 may intersect the suction flow path axis a1 perpendicularly. In addition, the suction flow path penetration line a2 and the grip portion penetration line a3 may intersect at a predetermined angle. In addition, the suction flow path penetration line a2 may intersect the cyclone line a4 perpendicularly. In addition, the suction flow path penetration line a2 may intersect the dust bin penetration line a5 perpendicularly.

[0476] In the case where the first vacuum cleaner 200 is coupled to the vacuum cleaner base 100, the suction flow path penetration line a2 may be formed to be parallel to the dust collection motor axis C. According to this configuration, there is an effect of minimizing the space occupied on the horizontal plane in a state where the first vacuum cleaner 200 is coupled to the vacuum cleaner base 100.

[0477] At this time, an upper coupling portion 120 may be disposed between the suction flow path penetration line a2 and the dust collection motor axis C. A fixing member 131 may be disposed between the suction flow path penetration line a2 and the dust collection motor axis C. A lid opening unit 150 may be disposed between the suction flow path penetration line a2 and the dust collection motor axis C. According to this configuration, the user can provide the convenience of coupling or separating the first vacuum cleaner 200 from the vacuum cleaner base 100, fixing the dust bin 220, and opening the dust bin 220 only by a simple action of moving the first vacuum cleaner 200 in a direction parallel to the ground.

[0478] The grip portion penetration line a3 may intersect the suction flow path axis a1 or the suction flow path penetration line a2 or the cyclone line a4 or the dust bin penetration line a5.

[0479] In the case where the first vacuum cleaner 200 is coupled to the vacuum cleaner base 100, the height of the intersection point of the grip portion penetration line a3 and the suction flow path penetration line a2 from the ground may be below the maximum height of the cover 110. According to this configuration, the overall volume can be minimized in a state where the first vacuum cleaner 200 is coupled to the vacuum cleaner base 100.

[0480] The holding part through-line a3 can intersect the dust collection motor axis C at a specified angle. At this time, the intersection point P6 of the holding part through-line a3 and the dust collection motor axis C can be located inside the cover 110. With this configuration, when the user holds the first vacuum cleaner 200, there is an advantage that the first vacuum cleaner 200 can be coupled to the vacuum cleaner base 100 by a simple action of just reaching the arm into the side of the vacuum cleaner base 100. In addition, since the relatively heavy dust collection motor 191 is accommodated inside the cover 110, there is an effect that even if the user strongly pushes the first vacuum cleaner 200 into the vacuum cleaner base 100, the vacuum cleaner base 100 can be prevented from shaking.

[0481] The cyclone line a4 and the suction motor axis a1 or the dust bin through-line a5 can be formed coaxially. With this configuration, there is an effect of reducing the flow path loss during cleaning.

[0482] Although not shown, as another example, the cyclone line a4 can be formed parallel to the suction motor axis a1 or the dust bin through-line a5 with a specified interval therebetween. As still another example, the cyclone line a4 can be formed perpendicular to the suction motor axis a1 or the dust bin through-line a5.

[0483] When the first vacuum cleaner 200 is coupled to the vacuum cleaner base 100, the cyclone line a4 can intersect the longitudinal axis of the vacuum cleaner base 100. That is, the flow axis of the dust separation unit 213 can intersect the longitudinal axis of the vacuum cleaner base 100. At this time, the intersection point of the flow axis of the dust separation unit 213 and the longitudinal axis of the vacuum cleaner base 100 can be located inside the cover 110, and more specifically, inside the flow path unit 180.

[0484] When the first vacuum cleaner 200 is coupled to the vacuum cleaner base 100, the cyclone line a4 can intersect the dust collection motor axis C. At this time, there may be an intersection point between the cyclone line a4 and the dust collection motor axis C. The intersection point of the cyclone line a4 and the dust collection motor axis C can be located inside the cover 110, and more specifically, inside the flow path unit 180. With this configuration, when the first vacuum cleaner 200 and the vacuum cleaner base 100 are in a coupled state, the first vacuum cleaner 200 can be stably supported by the vacuum cleaner base 100, and there is an effect of reducing the flow path loss during the dust bin 220 emptying operation.

[0485] The cyclone line a4 can intersect the dust collection motor axis C at a specified angle.

[0486] The dust bin through-line a5 and the suction motor axis a1 or the cyclone line a4 can be formed coaxially. With this configuration, there is an effect of reducing the flow path loss during cleaning.

[0487] When the first vacuum cleaner 200 is coupled to the vacuum cleaner base 100, the dustbin through-line a5 may intersect the longitudinal axis of the vacuum cleaner base 100. That is, the longitudinal axis of the dustbin 220 may intersect the longitudinal axis of the vacuum cleaner base 100. At this time, the intersection point of the longitudinal axis of the dustbin 220 and the longitudinal axis of the vacuum cleaner base 100 may be located inside the cover 110, and more specifically, may be located inside the flow path portion 180.

[0488] The dustbin through-line a5 may intersect the dust collection motor axis C at a specified angle.

[0489] On the other hand, when the first vacuum cleaner 200 is coupled to the vacuum cleaner base 100, a handle 216 may be disposed at a distance farther from the dustbin through-line a5 with respect to the ground. With this configuration, when the user holds the handle 216, the user can provide the convenience of coupling or separating the first vacuum cleaner 200 from the vacuum cleaner base 100 by a simple action of moving the first vacuum cleaner 200 in a direction parallel to the ground.

[0490] In addition, when the first vacuum cleaner 200 is coupled to the vacuum cleaner base 100, a battery 240 may be disposed at a distance farther from the dustbin through-line a5 with respect to the ground. With this configuration, the battery 240 presses the main body 210 of the first vacuum cleaner 200 under the action of its own weight, so that the first vacuum cleaner 200 can be stably supported on the vacuum cleaner base 100.

[0491] On the other hand, the dustbin through-line a5 and the dust collection flow path through-line P3 may intersect each other. At this time, the dustbin through-line a5 and the dust collection flow path through-line P3 may intersect each other inside the flow path portion 180.

[0492] At this time, the dustbin through-line a5 and the dust collection flow path through-line P3 may intersect each other perpendicularly.

[0493] With this configuration, there is an effect of collecting foreign matter in the dustbin 220 of the first vacuum cleaner 200 not only under the suction force of the dust collection motor 191 but also under the action of gravity.

[0494] On the other hand, in the present embodiment, a virtual plane S1 in which the overall weight of the first vacuum cleaner 200 is concentrated may be formed along the long axis direction connecting the front and rear of the first vacuum cleaner 200.

[0495] Specifically, the virtual plane S1 may be formed by at least two of the inhalation motor axis a1, the inhalation flow path penetration line a2, the grip portion penetration line a3, the cyclone line a4, the dust bin penetration line a5, and the dust collection motor axis C. That is, the plane S1 may be a virtual plane formed by connecting two virtual straight lines to each other, and may include a virtual plane obtained by extending and stretching it.

[0496] The virtual extension plane of the plane S1 may penetrate the first vacuum cleaner 200.

[0497] As an example, the virtual extension plane of the plane S1 may penetrate the inhalation portion 212. Alternatively, the virtual extension plane of the plane S1 may penetrate the dust separation portion 213. Alternatively, the virtual extension plane of the plane S1 may penetrate the inhalation motor 214. Alternatively, the virtual extension plane of the plane S1 may penetrate the handle 216. Alternatively, the virtual extension plane of the plane S1 may penetrate the dust bin 220.

[0498] In addition, when the first vacuum cleaner 200 is placed on the vacuum cleaner base station 100, the virtual extension plane of the plane S1 may penetrate at least a part of the vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0499] Therefore, when the first vacuum cleaner 200 is placed on the vacuum cleaner base station 100, the plane S1 may penetrate (pass through) the cover 110.

[0500] The virtual extension plane of the plane S1 may penetrate the flow path portion 180. In this case, the loss of the flow path of the air connecting from the dust bin 220 to the dust collection portion 170 can be minimized.

[0501] On the other hand, when the first vacuum cleaner 200 is placed on the vacuum cleaner base station 100, at least a part of the outer peripheral surface of the dust bin 220 may be surrounded by the dust bin guide surface 122. A first flow path 181a may be arranged behind the dust bin 220. When the dust bin 220 is opened, the internal space of the dust bin 220 may communicate with the first flow path 181a. And, the second flow path 181b may be bent downward (toward the ground) from the first flow path 181a.

[0502] On the other hand, when the second vacuum cleaner 300 is coupled to the vacuum cleaner base station 100, the dust discharge hole 320 of the dust bin 310 may communicate with the dust suction hole 162 of the lower coupling portion 160. A third flow path 182a may be arranged behind the dust suction hole 162. When the dust collection motor 191 operates, the internal space of the dust bin 310 may communicate with the third flow path 182a. And, the fourth flow path 182b may be bent upward from the third flow path 182a. And, the fifth flow path 182c may be bent downward at a predetermined angle from the fourth flow path 182b.

[0503] In addition, the dust collection unit 170 may be configured to be closer to the ground than the second flow path 181b. And a flow path switching module 183 may be disposed between the second flow path 181b and the dust collection unit 170. And a fifth flow path 182c may be disposed between the first flow path 181a and the dust collection unit 170. And the dust suction module 190 may be configured to be closer to the ground than the dust collection unit 170. And the lower coupling part 160 may be configured to be closer to the ground than the dust suction module 190. And the third flow path 182a may be configured to be closer to the ground than the dust suction module 190.

[0504] Due to this configuration, according to the present invention, the first vacuum cleaner 200 may be coupled to the upper part of the vacuum cleaner base station 100, and the second vacuum cleaner 300 may be coupled to the lower part of the vacuum cleaner base station 100. Therefore, in a state where both the first vacuum cleaner 200 and the second vacuum cleaner 300 are coupled to the vacuum cleaner base station 100, the space occupied on the horizontal plane can be minimized.

[0505] In addition, according to the present invention, there is an effect of preventing a loss of the flow ability of collecting dust even if the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 communicating with the dust bin 220 of the first vacuum cleaner 200 is bent once.

[0506] In addition, according to the present invention, there are effects of preventing the backflow of dust (foreign matter) and sufficiently sucking dust into the dust collection unit 170 even if the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182 communicating with the dust bin 310 of the second vacuum cleaner 300 is disposed at a position lower than the dust collection motor 191 and the second vacuum cleaner flow path 192 is bent twice.

[0507] According to the present invention, the flow path unit 180 includes a cleaning hole 182d and a cleaning hole cover 185.

[0508] The cleaning hole 182d is a component that connects the internal space of the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182 to the outside. The fourth flow path 182b extends upward from the rear end of the third flow path 182a. At this time, dust with insufficient suction or high density accumulates at the connection portion of the third flow path 182a and the fourth flow path 182b and does not rise in the fourth flow path 182b. In addition, the third flow path 182a and the fourth flow path 182b are bent rather than curved, so that dust may collide with the inner surface of the fourth flow path 182b and does not rise and accumulates. In this case, there is an effect of being able to remove the accumulated dust through the cleaning hole 182d.

[0509] The cleaning hole cover 185 is a component that selectively opens and closes the cleaning hole 182d. When the cleaning hole 182d is always open, there is a problem that air cannot flow into the dust collection unit 170 due to leakage. Therefore, the cleaning hole cover 185 usually closes the cleaning hole 182d so that air can flow into the dust collection unit, and only opens the cleaning hole 182d when cleaning the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182.

[0510] Hereinafter, the shape of the cleaning hole cover 185 will be described.

[0511] The cleaning hole shielding part 1851 is a component that covers the cleaning hole 182d.

[0512] Refer to Figure 7 and Figure 21 , the cleaning hole shielding part 1851 closely adheres to the outer surface of the flow path part.

[0513] The cleaning hole shielding part 1851 is formed in a plate shape. The fourth flow path 182b can be a plane extending vertically at the back, and the cleaning hole shielding part 1851 is formed in a plate shape so as to be able to closely adhere to the back of the fourth flow path 182b. Alternatively, differently from the illustration, the back of the fourth flow path 182b can also be formed into a curved surface, and at this time, the cleaning hole shielding part 1851 can be formed into a curved surface corresponding to the back of the fourth flow path 182b.

[0514] The cleaning hole insertion part 1852 is a component that makes the cleaning hole 182d adhere more closely.

[0515] Refer to Figure 7 and Figure 21 , the cleaning hole insertion part 1852 further protrudes from the cleaning hole shielding part 1851 toward the flow path part, and at least a part of it is inserted into the cleaning hole 182d.

[0516] The front surface of the cleaning hole insertion part 1852 can be formed to protrude forward from the front surface of the cleaning hole shielding part 1851 toward the fourth flow path 182b, and the back surface of the cleaning hole insertion part 1852 can be formed to be recessed forward from the back surface of the cleaning hole shielding part 1851 toward the fourth flow path 182b.

[0517] At least a part of the cleaning hole insertion part 1852 is inserted into the cleaning hole 182d. The cleaning hole insertion part 1852 is inserted into the cleaning hole 182d, so that it can form a part of the fourth flow path 182b. Thus, it has the effect of minimizing the resistance of the air flowing in the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182.

[0518] The front surface of the cleaning hole insertion part 1852 and the inner surface of the fourth flow path 182b can be arranged on the same plane.

[0519] The area of the cleaning hole insertion part 1852 can be formed to be smaller than the area of the cleaning hole shielding part 1851. Thus, a step can be formed on the outer peripheral surface of the cleaning hole insertion part 1852, and the step is caught by the outer peripheral surface of the cleaning hole 182d, so that the cleaning hole insertion part 1852 can be more easily and firmly combined with the cleaning hole 182d.

[0520] The cleaning hole seal 1855 is a component that fills the gap between the cleaning hole shielding part 1851 and the flow path part 180.

[0521] The cleaning hole seal 1855 is arranged on the radially outer side of the cleaning hole insertion part 1852 and fills the gap between the outer surface of the cleaning hole shielding part 1851 and the flow path part. Thus, the cleaning hole seal 1855 prevents the air flowing inside the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182 from leaking through the cleaning hole 182d.

[0522] The cleaning hole seal 1855 can be arranged on the step formed on the outer peripheral surface of the cleaning hole insertion part 1852.

[0523] The cleaning hole cover 185 includes an extension part 1853.

[0524] The cleaning hole cover extension part 1853 extends outward from the outer peripheral surface of the cleaning hole shielding part 1851 toward the cover body 110.

[0525] Refer to Figure 20 , the cleaning hole cover extension part 1853 extends rearward from the outer peripheral surface of the cleaning hole shielding part 1851.

[0526] The rear end of the cleaning hole cover extension part 1853 is in close contact with the cover body 110 and is supported by the cover body 110. More specifically, the rear end of the cleaning hole cover extension part 1853 is arranged in the cleaning hole cover setting hole 1861.

[0527] The cleaning hole cover extension part 1853 can be formed in a hollow square tube shape inside.

[0528] Refer to Figure 18 , the cleaning hole cover 185 includes a coupling part 1854. The cleaning hole cover coupling part 1854 is a component that couples the cleaning hole cover 185 to the cover body.

[0529] The cleaning hole cover coupling part 1854 further protrudes radially outward from the end of the cleaning hole cover extension part 1853. Specifically, the cleaning hole cover coupling part 1854 further protrudes outward from the side end of the cleaning hole cover extension part 1853. For example, the left cleaning hole cover coupling part 1854 protrudes leftward from the left side surface of the cleaning hole cover extension part 1853, and the right cleaning hole cover coupling part 1854 protrudes rightward from the right side surface of the cleaning hole cover extension part 1853.

[0530] The cleaning hole cover joint part 1854 is joined to the cover body 110 by fastening members. If the fastening members of the cleaning hole cover joint part 1854 are removed and the cleaning hole cover 185 is separated from the cover body, the fourth flow path 182b is exposed, so that the internal dust can be removed.

[0531] Refer to Figure 17 , the flow path part includes an outer cover 187. The outer cover 187 is a component that shields the cleaning hole cover 185 and prevents air leakage.

[0532] The outer cover 187 is disposed outside the cleaning hole cover 185 and is detachably joined to the cover body 110 to selectively shield the cleaning hole cover 185.

[0533] The outer cover 187 is disposed in the outer cover setting hole 1862.

[0534] The outer cover 187 is joined to the cover body by fastening members. If the outer cover 187 is separated from the cover body, the cleaning hole cover 185 is exposed.

[0535] The cleaning hole cover setting part 186 is a component having a space for setting the cleaning hole cover 185.

[0536] The cleaning hole cover setting part 186 includes a cleaning hole cover setting hole 1861, an outer cover setting hole 1862, and a step 1863.

[0537] The cleaning hole cover setting hole 1861 is formed in the cover body 110, and the cleaning hole cover 185 is inserted into the cleaning hole cover setting hole 1861.

[0538] Refer to Figure 18 and Figure 23 , the cleaning hole cover setting hole 1861 is formed on the back surface of the cover body 110.

[0539] The outer cover setting hole 1862 is formed in the cover body 110, at least a part of which overlaps with the cleaning hole cover setting hole 1861, and the outer cover 187 is inserted into the outer cover setting hole 1862.

[0540] Refer to Figure 17 and Figure 23 , the outer cover setting hole 1862 is formed on the back surface of the cover body 110. The outer cover setting hole 1862 is disposed on the back surface of the cleaning hole cover setting hole 1861 and communicates with the cleaning hole cover setting hole 1861.

[0541] The step 1863 is formed between the outer peripheral surface of the cleaning hole cover setting hole 1861 and the outer peripheral surface of the outer cover setting hole 1862. The outer cover 187 is caught by the step 1863.

[0542] The cover body is provided with a cleaning hole cover setting hole 1861 and an outer cover setting hole 1862. The area of the outer cover setting hole 1862 is smaller than that of the cleaning hole cover setting hole 1861. Therefore, a step 1863 is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the outer cover setting hole 1862. The outer cover 187 is caught by the step 1863, and the outer cover 187 can be more easily and firmly coupled to the cover body.

[0543] As described above, the specific embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, but they are only used to specifically illustrate the present invention, and the present invention is not limited thereto. Obviously, the present invention can be deformed or improved by those of ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs within the technical idea of the present invention.

[0544] Simple deformations or changes of the present invention all belong to the scope of the present invention, and the specific protection scope of the present invention will become clearer through the appended claims.

Claims

1. A vacuum cleaner base station, wherein, Comprising: A housing to which a vacuum cleaner can be coupled on one side; A dust collection part, accommodated inside the housing, for collecting dust inside the dust bin of the vacuum cleaner; A lower coupling part, disposed on the housing, below the dust collection part, including a coupling surface for coupling at least a part of the vacuum cleaner; A dust collection motor, accommodated inside the housing, below the dust collection part, for generating a suction force to suck dust inside the dust bin; And A flow path part, connecting the internal space of the dust bin of the vacuum cleaner and the internal space of the dust collection part, with a flow path formed in at least a part of the flow path part to flow upward against gravity; The flow path part includes: A cleaning hole for communicating the internal space with the outside; A cleaning hole cover for selectively opening and closing the cleaning hole.

2. The vacuum cleaner base according to claim 1, wherein The cleaning hole cover includes a cleaning hole shielding part that closely adheres to the outer surface of the flow path part to cover the cleaning hole.

3. The vacuum cleaner base according to claim 2, wherein The cleaning hole cover includes a cleaning hole insertion part that further protrudes from the cleaning hole shielding part toward the flow path part and at least a part of which is inserted into the cleaning hole.

4. The vacuum cleaner base according to claim 3, wherein The cleaning hole cover includes a cleaning hole seal disposed radially outside the cleaning hole insertion part to fill the gap between the cleaning hole shielding part and the outer surface of the flow path part.

5. The vacuum cleaner base according to claim 2, wherein The cleaning hole cover includes an extension part that extends outward from the outer periphery of the cleaning hole shielding part toward the housing.

6. The vacuum cleaner base according to claim 5, wherein The cleaning hole cover includes a coupling part that further protrudes radially outward from the end of the extension part and is coupled to the housing.

7. The vacuum cleaner base according to claim 1, wherein The flow path part includes an outer cover disposed outside the cleaning hole cover, detachably coupled to the housing, for selectively shielding the cleaning hole cover.

8. The vacuum cleaner base according to claim 7, wherein The flow path part includes: A cleaning hole cover setting hole formed in the housing into which the cleaning hole cover is inserted; and An outer cover setting hole formed in the housing, at least a part of which overlaps with the cleaning hole cover setting hole, into which the outer cover is inserted; A step is formed between the outer peripheral surface of the cleaning hole cover setting hole and the outer peripheral surface of the outer cover setting hole; The outer cover is caught by the step.

9. The vacuum cleaner base according to claim 1, wherein The flow path part includes: An upper coupling part, disposed on the housing, above the dust collection part, including a coupling surface for coupling at least a part of another vacuum cleaner; A first vacuum cleaner flow path communicating with a dust through hole formed in the upper coupling part; and A second vacuum cleaner flow path communicating with a dust suction hole formed in the lower coupling part; The cleaning hole is formed in the second vacuum cleaner flow path.

10. The vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 9, wherein, The second vacuum cleaner flow path includes: A third flow path, communicating with the dust suction hole of the vacuum cleaner, extending rearward from the dust suction hole; and A fourth flow path, extending upward from the rear end of the third flow path; The cleaning hole is formed in the fourth flow path.

11. A vacuum cleaner base station, wherein, Comprising: A cover body; A coupling portion, disposed on the cover body, including a coupling surface for coupling at least a part of the first vacuum cleaner; A lower coupling portion, disposed closer to the ground than the coupling portion, and the second vacuum cleaner is coupled to the lower coupling portion; A dust collection portion, accommodated inside the cover body, disposed between the coupling portion and the lower coupling portion, for collecting dust; And A flow path portion, formed inside the cover body, and having a flow path formed to communicate the internal space of the dust bucket of the first vacuum cleaner or the internal space of the dust bucket of the second vacuum cleaner with the internal space of the dust collection portion; The flow path portion includes: A first vacuum cleaner flow path, communicating the dust through hole formed in the coupling portion with the internal space of the dust collection portion; A second vacuum cleaner flow path, communicating the dust suction hole formed in the lower coupling portion with the internal space of the dust collection portion; A cleaning hole, communicating the internal space of the second vacuum cleaner flow path with the outside; and A cleaning hole cover, selectively opening and closing the cleaning hole.

12. The vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 11, wherein, The cleaning hole cover includes a cleaning hole shielding portion, and the cleaning hole shielding portion closely adheres to the outer surface of the second vacuum cleaner flow path to cover the cleaning hole.

13. The vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 11, wherein, The flow path portion includes an outer cover, the outer cover is disposed outside the cleaning hole cover, is detachably coupled to the cover body, and selectively shields the cleaning hole cover.

Images