Operation method of vacuum cleaning system and vacuum cleaning system

Abstract

The invention provides an operation method of a vacuum cleaning system and the vacuum cleaning system. The operation method of the vacuum cleaning system comprises the steps that the vacuum dust collector is in butt joint with the butt joint station, and a dust discharging opening of the dust collecting device is matched with a dust collecting opening of the butt joint station; starting a dust collection device emptying mode, in which a suction generator is started to generate an exhaust air flow towards the recycling box, so that the dirt stored in the dust collection device is discharged into the recycling box of the docking station; starting an internal circulation mode while keeping execution of an emptying mode of the dust collecting device, and enabling exhaust air flow to flow out of the vacuum dust collector from a dust discharging opening of the dust collecting device and enter a recycling box of the docking station; wherein the airflow discharge port of the docking station is docked with the vacuum cleaner in a sealed manner, so that the exhaust airflow discharged by the airflow discharge port is guided into the vacuum cleaner.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an operation method of a vacuum cleaning system and the vacuum cleaning system itself. Background Technology

[0002] Vacuum cleaners are suitable for cleaning hard floor surfaces such as tile and hardwood. After cleaning hard floor surfaces with a vacuum cleaner, users typically place the vacuum cleaner on a docking station to transfer the dirt inside the vacuum cleaner to the docking station.

[0003] Chinese patent document CN107405033A discloses a vacuum cleaner and docking station system. The docking station empties dirt and dust from the vacuum cleaner's dust collection chamber, achieving efficient dust chamber emptying and filter cleaning. Utilizing the docking station's airflow management and the vacuum cleaner's suction mechanism, combined with specific exhaust ports and sealing operations, the system ensures a rapid emptying process while preventing dust backflow, and simultaneously maintains filter cleanliness for long-term performance. A built-in fan generates suction airflow, drawing dirt into the dust collection chamber and separating it through the filter. After the docking station is connected to the vacuum cleaner, its suction pipes and airflow jet mechanism transfer dirt from the dust collection chamber to the docking station's collection device. The system uses multiple exhaust ports and airflow channels (such as slit nozzles) to achieve reverse blowing, cleaning the filter, while sealing operations prevent airflow backflow, ensuring emptying efficiency and long-term filter performance.

[0004] Chinese patent document CN118716932A describes a cleaning system including a handheld vacuum cleaner and a docking station, designed to achieve efficient cleaning and automatic dust removal, particularly by using a scraping mechanism to remove dirt from a tubular filter screen, eliminating the need for manual cleaning and improving user convenience. The patent focuses on the integrated design of an airflow converter and a drive unit, used to switch airflow paths, transferring dirt from the dust collection device to the dust storage space of the docking station, while simultaneously driving the scraping mechanism to remove the filter screen, thus improving cleaning efficiency and system automation.

[0005] Chinese patent document CN115444313A discloses an intelligent device and method that achieves efficient cleaning through a suction mode and a control mode. The device controls the opening and closing states of the air inlet and outlet by configuring first and second opening / closing components, and generates a suction airflow in conjunction with a negative pressure generator to collect waste into a first dust collection chamber. In the dust discharge mode, the synergistic action of pulsed airflow and the filter cleans the waste adhering to the filter. Locking components and valve mechanisms ensure precise switching of the airflow path, and the strength and airtightness design of the dust bag facilitates waste collection and discharge, reducing manual operation and improving system controllability and environmental friendliness.

[0006] Chinese patent document CN116509238A discloses a cleaning device and its self-cleaning method, which improves the efficiency and convenience of the cleaning device through an automated self-cleaning mechanism. It utilizes a fan assembly and an air duct switching mechanism to achieve the device's self-cleaning function. Specifically, self-cleaning is achieved by setting a dust collection port electrically connected to the cleaning device at the docking station. When the device docks at the docking station, it automatically enters charging and self-cleaning modes. The fan assembly controls the airflow direction through air duct switching, discharging debris from the dust collection chamber into a dust bag at the docking station, while simultaneously preventing dust leakage through filters and airflow management. The flexible design of the air duct switching component ensures efficient operation of the device in different modes (such as vacuuming and self-cleaning), reducing maintenance costs.

[0007] However, in the aforementioned existing technology, during base station dust collection mode, the high-speed airflow generated by the base station motor primarily draws dust into the base station dust bag through the dust collection port of the vacuum cleaner's dust collection device. However, the complex internal structure of the dust collection device (such as filter supports, cup wall grooves, and bottom corners) and the electrostatic adsorption effect of the dust itself easily lead to some dust not being effectively removed and remaining inside the dust collection device. Simultaneously, because the base station discharges some gas into the atmosphere, there is a risk of air pollution around the base station. Summary of the Invention

[0008] This disclosure provides an operation method for a vacuum cleaning system and the vacuum cleaning system itself.

[0009] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a method of operating a vacuum cleaning system is provided. The vacuum cleaning system includes a vacuum cleaner and a docking station for docking the vacuum cleaner. The docking station includes a collection bin and a dust collection port. The dust collection port is configured to dock with the exhaust port of the dust collection device of the vacuum cleaner, such that dirt in the dust collection device can be collected into the collection bin of the docking station via the exhaust port of the dust collection device. The docking station also includes a suction generator located downstream of the collection bin and configured to draw air from the collection bin when the vacuum cleaner docks with the docking station. The docking station further includes an airflow exhaust port through which the gas discharged by the suction generator is discharged to the outside of the docking station. The operation method of the vacuum cleaning system includes: Connect the vacuum cleaner to the docking station, and make the dust discharge port of the dust collection device match the dust collection port of the docking station; The dust collection device is activated in the emptying mode, wherein the suction generator is activated to generate an exhaust airflow toward the recycling bin, thereby discharging the dirt stored in the dust collection device into the recycling bin of the docking station. While maintaining the dust collection device in the emptying mode, the internal circulation mode is activated, causing the exhaust airflow to flow from the dust collection device's exhaust port out of the vacuum cleaner and into the collection bin of the docking station; wherein, the airflow exhaust port of the docking station is connected to the vacuum cleaner in a sealed manner, so as to guide the exhaust airflow discharged from the airflow exhaust port into the vacuum cleaner.

[0010] According to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the vacuum cleaner includes a cleaning head, the cleaning head including a suction port; when the vacuum cleaner cleans the surface to be cleaned, the suction port is located upstream of the dust collection device; the operation method of the vacuum cleaning system includes: when the dust collection device is activated in the emptying mode, allowing exhaust airflow to enter the vacuum cleaner through the suction port.

[0011] According to the operation method of the vacuum cleaning system according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the suction port is connected to the dust collection device.

[0012] According to the operation method of the vacuum cleaning system according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the vacuum cleaner includes a suction pipe, one end of which is connected to the cleaning head, and the other end of which is connected to the vacuum source of the vacuum cleaner.

[0013] According to the operation method of the vacuum cleaning system according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the airflow discharge port of the docking station is configured to be at least two; the operation method of the vacuum cleaning system further includes: in the dust collection device emptying mode, causing the exhaust airflow to be introduced into the vacuum cleaner from only one of the two or more airflow discharge ports, and closing the other airflow discharge ports.

[0014] According to the operation method of the vacuum cleaning system according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, in the internal circulation mode, the system switches between the two or more airflow outlets so that the exhaust airflow is introduced into the vacuum cleaner from only one of the two or more airflow outlets.

[0015] According to at least one embodiment of the vacuum cleaning system operation method of the present disclosure, the airflow discharge port includes a first airflow discharge port and a second airflow discharge port; the first airflow discharge port is configured to be in airflow communication with the dust collection device of the vacuum cleaner in a sealed connection manner; the second airflow discharge port is in communication with the atmosphere; the operation method of the vacuum cleaning system further includes: when the internal circulation mode is started, closing the second airflow discharge port and opening the first airflow discharge port to introduce exhaust airflow into the vacuum cleaner through the first airflow discharge port; when the internal circulation mode is closed, opening the second airflow discharge port and closing the first airflow discharge port to discharge exhaust airflow to the atmosphere outside the vacuum cleaning system through the second airflow discharge port.

[0016] According to at least one embodiment of the vacuum cleaning system of this disclosure, the docking station includes a manifold assembly connected to a suction generator, a first airflow outlet, and a second airflow outlet, wherein the manifold assembly is configured to couple downstream airflow from the suction generator to the first airflow outlet or the second airflow outlet; the operation method of the vacuum cleaning system includes: in a dust collection device emptying mode, activating an internal circulation mode by coupling the manifold assembly to the first airflow outlet.

[0017] According to the operation method of the vacuum cleaning system according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the manifold assembly is provided with an air valve to guide the exhaust air flow to a first airflow discharge port or a second airflow discharge port under the switching action of the air valve.

[0018] According to at least one embodiment of the vacuum cleaning system operation method of this disclosure, the manifold assembly includes a main pipe, a first branch pipe, and a second branch pipe. The main pipe is connected to the suction generator, the first branch pipe is connected to a first airflow discharge port, and the second branch pipe is connected to a second airflow discharge port. The air valve is arranged at the intersection of the main pipe, the first branch pipe, and the second branch pipe. The operation method of the vacuum cleaning system further includes: by rotating the air valve, connecting the main pipe to the first airflow discharge port, or connecting the main pipe to the second airflow discharge port, to guide the exhaust airflow to the first airflow discharge port or the second airflow discharge port.

[0019] The method of operating a vacuum cleaning system according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure further includes: Receive a second input signal to start the inner loop mode.

[0020] According to the operation method of the vacuum cleaning system according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second input signal includes information related to the evacuated dirt particles.

[0021] According to the operation method of the vacuum cleaning system according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the second input signal includes time-related information of the vacuum cleaner.

[0022] According to the operation method of the vacuum cleaning system according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, the characteristics of the dirt particles are determined based on the second input signal. If the characteristics of the dirt particles meet the dirt particles signal characteristic criteria, an instruction output signal including switching the air valve is issued to switch the direction of the exhaust air flow of the docking station to the dust collection device.

[0023] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a vacuum cleaning system is provided, the vacuum cleaning system including a vacuum cleaner and a docking station for docking the vacuum cleaner, the docking station including a collection bin and a dust collection port; the dust collection port of the docking station is configured to dock with the dust discharge port of the dust collection device of the vacuum cleaner, such that dirt in the dust collection device can be collected into the collection bin of the docking station through the dust discharge port of the dust collection device. The docking station also includes a suction generator located downstream of the recycling bin, configured to draw air from the recycling bin when the vacuum cleaner docks with the docking station, and discharge it to the outside of the docking station through a first airflow outlet or a second airflow outlet; The docking station also includes a control device configured to simultaneously execute an internal circulation mode during operation in the dust collection device emptying mode. In the internal circulation mode, exhaust air flows out of the dust collection device from the dust collection device of the vacuum cleaner and enters the recycling bin of the docking station. The airflow outlet of the docking station is sealed to the vacuum cleaner to guide the exhaust airflow discharged from the airflow outlet into the vacuum cleaner.

[0024] According to at least one embodiment of the vacuum cleaning system of the present disclosure, when in the internal circulation mode, the dust collection device of the vacuum cleaner is located in the exhaust airflow circulation path.

[0025] According to at least one embodiment of the vacuum cleaning system of the present disclosure, the vacuum cleaner includes a suction port formed on the cleaning head of the vacuum cleaner, the suction port being used to introduce exhaust airflow into the dust collection device in an internal circulation mode.

[0026] According to at least one embodiment of the vacuum cleaning system of this disclosure, the docking station further includes: a manifold assembly located downstream of the suction generator, configured to couple the downstream airflow of the suction generator to different airflow outlets of the docking station, so as to direct the airflow to the outside atmosphere or to the interior of the vacuum cleaner under the switching action of the air valve. Attached Figure Description

[0027] The accompanying drawings illustrate exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description thereof, serve to explain the principles of the present disclosure. These drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification.

[0028] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a vacuum cleaning system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a docking station according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 4 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of a docking station according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional structural schematic diagram of a vacuum cleaning system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 6 This is a flowchart of an operation method of a vacuum cleaning system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 7 This is a flowchart of an operation method of a vacuum cleaning system according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Figure 8 This is a flowchart of an operation method of a vacuum cleaning system according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] The specific labels in the attached figures are as follows: 100 Vacuum Cleaners 110 Main Body 120 Inhalation Tube 130 Cleaning Head 131 Base 132 roller brush 133 Follower wheel 140 Dust Collection Device 150 handle part 160 suction nozzle 170 HEPA 180 Vacuum Source 190 Cyclone Separator 200 docking stations 210 Base part 211 Dust collection port 220 Suction Generator 230 Recycling Bin 240 base 251 Air Valve 252 Main Pipeline 253 First Pipeline 254 The second branch pipe. Detailed Implementation

[0037] The present disclosure will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. Furthermore, it should be noted that, for ease of description, only the parts relevant to the present disclosure are shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0038] It should be noted that, where there is no conflict, the embodiments and features described in this disclosure can be combined with each other. The technical solutions of this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.

[0039] Unless otherwise stated, the exemplary implementations / embodiments shown are to be understood as providing exemplary features of various details that provide ways in which the technical concepts of this disclosure can be implemented in practice. Therefore, unless otherwise stated, the features of various implementations / embodiments may be additionally combined, separated, interchanged and / or rearranged without departing from the technical concepts of this disclosure.

[0040] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a vacuum cleaning system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] like Figure 1 As shown, the vacuum cleaning system disclosed herein may include a vacuum cleaner 100 and a docking station 200 for docking (connecting) the vacuum cleaner 100. This vacuum cleaning system provides users with an efficient and convenient cleaning solution. By combining the vacuum cleaner 100 with the docking station 200, it not only achieves cleaning of the indoor environment but also optimizes the maintenance and user experience of the vacuum cleaner 100 through the auxiliary functions of the docking station 200.

[0042] The vacuum cleaner 100, as the executing component of the vacuum cleaning system, is responsible for sucking up and collecting dust, dirt, and other foreign objects from the surface to be cleaned. The docking station 200, as its supporting facility, is used for the vacuum cleaner 100 to dock and store it. When the vacuum cleaner 100 docks at the docking station 200, the docking station 200 can charge the vacuum cleaner 100 and automatically process the dirt particles in the dust collection device 140, thereby reducing the user's operational burden and improving overall cleaning efficiency.

[0043] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] like Figure 2As shown, the vacuum cleaner 100 of this disclosure may include components such as a main body 110, a suction pipe 120, a cleaning head 130, and a dust collection device 140. The main body 110 is connected to the dust collection device 140. The cleaning head 130 is detachably connected to the lower end of the suction pipe 120, and the upper end of the suction pipe 120 is detachably connected to the main body 110 and communicates with the dust collection device 140. Thus, a mixture of dirt and air on the surface to be cleaned can enter the suction pipe 120 from the cleaning head 130 and then enter the dust collection device 140 through the suction pipe 120. After gas-solid separation is completed in the dust collection device 140, the dirt is retained in the dust collection device 140, and the gas is discharged through an opening on the side of the main body 110.

[0045] Therefore, the vacuum cleaner 100 disclosed herein is designed to be lightweight and flexible, suitable for use in various scenarios such as home and office.

[0046] Specifically, the main body 110 may include a vacuum source (not shown), which generates the suction force required to remove foreign objects from the surface to be cleaned. The vacuum source is the core power source of the vacuum cleaner 100, and its performance directly affects the vacuuming effect. It typically uses a high-efficiency brushless motor, which features low noise, high suction power, and long lifespan.

[0047] The main body 110 may include a handle 150 for the user to grip and operate the vacuum cleaner 100. The user can hold the handle 150 and move the vacuum cleaner 100 in the back-and-forth direction. The handle 150 is ergonomically designed, typically using non-slip materials and a streamlined shape to ensure a comfortable operating experience for the user even during extended use.

[0048] The main body 110 may include a suction nozzle 160, which is used to connect to the suction tube 120 or the cleaning head 130. The suction nozzle 160 is a key component of the airflow channel, and its internal structure is optimized to ensure that foreign objects can enter the dust collection device 140 smoothly and efficiently, avoiding blockage or suction loss.

[0049] The suction tube 120 can be detachably connected to the nozzle 160, thereby extending the cleaning range. Specifically, users can choose whether to use the suction tube 120 according to their actual cleaning needs. For example, when cleaning higher areas (such as the top of curtains or the ceiling), the suction tube 120 can extend the working range of the vacuum cleaner 100, while when cleaning narrow spaces (such as sofa crevices), the nozzle 160 can be directly connected to the cleaning head 130, increasing operational flexibility.

[0050] Furthermore, the nozzle 160 can be configured to connect directly to the cleaning head 130 instead of the suction tube 120, or the nozzle 160 can be connected to other components, such as an auxiliary suction unit. This versatility in connection allows the vacuum cleaner 100 to be compatible with a variety of cleaning attachments, such as crevice tools, soft brushes, or mite-removal tools, thereby expanding its functionality and meeting users' cleaning needs in different scenarios.

[0051] The suction tube 120 can be extended to have an extension axis extending in one direction. This extension axis is generally aligned with the overall longitudinal direction of the vacuum cleaner 100. Therefore, users can increase cleaning convenience by connecting various components to the nozzle 160 according to the cleaning situation. For example, when cleaning large floor areas, users can choose a longer suction tube 120 and a wide-mouth floor brush combination, while when cleaning furniture surfaces, they can switch to a shorter tube and a soft-bristled brush to improve cleaning efficiency and precision.

[0052] The cleaning head 130 can be selectively configured as a floor brush or a bed brush according to cleaning needs to adapt to the cleaning requirements of different surfaces (such as floors, carpets, and mattresses). Taking cleaning a floor surface as an example, the cleaning head 130 may include a base 131, a roller brush 132, and a follower wheel 133. The base 131 has a receiving space with a downward opening, and the roller brush 132 is rotatably disposed on the base 131 and located within the receiving space.

[0053] A gas flow path is also formed on the base 131, which is connected to the accommodating space. The connection point between the gas flow path and the accommodating space (i.e., the dust suction port) is located at the rear of the roller brush 132. Thus, the connection point forms the starting point of the gas flow path. The mixture of dirt and air will enter the gas flow path from here and be guided to the dust collection device 140.

[0054] The follower wheel 133 is rotatably mounted on the base 131. In a preferred embodiment, two follower wheels 133 are provided, located on the left and right sides of the base 131 respectively. Thus, when the user uses the vacuum cleaner 100 to clean the floor, the cleaning head 130 can move on the surface to be cleaned and bear most of the weight of the vacuum cleaner 100. In a preferred embodiment, the follower wheels 133 are typically made of wear-resistant rubber or plastic, with a diameter of 20-40 mm, and there are two of them to provide a stable support point.

[0055] The dust collection device 140 can be configured in a cylindrical shape, having an extension axis extending substantially parallel to the direction of extension of the suction pipe 120. This design ensures that the airflow path of the dust collection device 140 is consistent with that of the suction pipe 120, reducing airflow resistance and improving dust collection efficiency.

[0056] Specifically, the suction tube 120 can be connected to the nozzle 160 such that the extension axis of the suction tube 120 faces a direction substantially parallel to the extension direction of the dust collection device 140. This axial parallelism helps optimize airflow from the cleaning head 130 to the dust collection device 140, avoiding suction loss or debris accumulation due to angular deviations.

[0057] The dust collection device 140 can be arranged upstream of the vacuum source (not shown) in the airflow to filter out dust or dirt from the air introduced through the cleaning head 130 and collect the filtered dust or dirt. As a component for collecting dirt particles from the vacuum cleaner 100, the dust collection device 140 performs the functions of filtering and storing dirt during the vacuuming process. Its position upstream of the vacuum source effectively protects the motor from dust and extends the service life of the equipment.

[0058] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a docking station according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0059] like Figure 3 As shown, the docking station 200 disclosed herein includes structures such as a base 210, a suction generator 220, a recovery box 230, and a base 240.

[0060] The base 240 of this disclosure is formed as a support component for the entire docking station 200. The base 240 is connected to the lower end of the base portion 210 to support the base portion 210. In a preferred embodiment, the base 240 of this disclosure is positioned closer to the ground than the suction generator 220, and is configured to be adapted to attach the vacuum cleaner 100 to the base 240.

[0061] The base portion 210 of this disclosure has an internal space formed inside, and a suction generator 220 is disposed inside the base portion 210 and configured to remove dirt collected in the dust collection device 140 of the vacuum cleaner 100 when the vacuum cleaner 100 is docked at the docking station 200.

[0062] Specifically, the negative pressure provided by the suction generator 220 allows dirt from the dust collection device 140 of the vacuum cleaner 100 to be transferred to the docking station 200. Those skilled in the art will understand that the recovery bin 230 can be located upstream of the suction generator 220, and the dirt transferred from the dust collection device 140 to the docking station 200 can be stored in the recovery bin 230. In other words, the suction generator 220 is located downstream of the recovery bin 230 and is configured to draw air from the recovery bin 230 when the vacuum cleaner 100 docks with the docking station 200.

[0063] The upper end of the base portion 210 of this disclosure has a recessed portion, into which the dust collection device 140 of the vacuum cleaner 100 can be placed, thereby supporting the vacuum cleaner 100 by the base portion 210. In addition, the base 240 of this disclosure can also support the cleaning head 130 of the vacuum cleaner 100, thereby stably supporting the vacuum cleaner 100 by the base portion 210.

[0064] The base portion 210 of this disclosure has a dust collection port 211. In one embodiment, the dust collection port 211 can be formed on the bottom wall of the recess. Of course, in order to adapt to vacuum cleaners 100 with different structures, the dust collection port 211 can also be provided on the side wall of the recess. This disclosure does not limit the position of the dust collection port 211.

[0065] The dust collection port 211 of the docking station 200 is configured to dock with the dust discharge port of the dust collection device 140 of the vacuum cleaner 100, that is, the dust collection port 211 is configured to be combined with at least a part of the vacuum cleaner 100 so that dirt in the dust collection device 140 can be collected into the recycling bin 230 of the docking station 200 through the dust discharge port of the dust collection device 140.

[0066] In a preferred embodiment, the recycling bin 230 includes a breathable soiled pellet bag. This bag allows gas to pass through, retaining the soiled pellets within it. When the amount of soiled pellets in the bag reaches a certain level, the user can open the cover of the docking station 200 and remove the entire bag from the station, replacing it with a new one. In this case, the soiled pellet bag is a single-use item. Of course, in another embodiment, the soiled pellet bag can also be reused; this disclosure is not limiting in this regard.

[0067] As a result, the gas in the dust collection port 211 can enter the recovery box 230, and the gas can enter the suction generator 220 through the recovery box 230, so that the dirt particles are retained inside the recovery box 230.

[0068] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the docking station 200 further includes an airflow passage forming an exhaust airflow that allows the suction generator 220 to discharge gas. The docking station 200 may also include a first airflow outlet and a second airflow outlet. The first airflow outlet is formed on the base 240 and configured to selectively communicate with the airflow passage, so that the exhaust airflow is discharged outside the docking station 200 when connected. Specifically, the first airflow outlet may be formed on the surface of the base 240, in which case the gas discharged through the first airflow outlet can enter a vacuum cleaner and form a circulating airflow. The second airflow outlet is formed on the base 240 or the base portion 210 and is configured to selectively communicate with the airflow passage, so that the exhaust airflow is discharged outside the docking station 200 when connected. Specifically, the second airflow outlet is formed inside the base 240, in which case the gas discharged through the second airflow outlet can be discharged into the atmosphere surrounding the docking station 200 through through holes on the outer surface of the docking station 200.

[0069] In one specific embodiment, the airflow passage includes a main airflow passage, a first branch airflow passage, and a second branch airflow passage. The main airflow passage is connected to the suction generator 220, thereby allowing all or at least most of the gas discharged by the suction generator 220 to enter the main airflow passage. The first branch airflow passage connects the main airflow passage and the first airflow outlet; the second airflow passage connects the main airflow passage and the second airflow outlet, thereby allowing the gas discharged by the suction generator 220 of this disclosure to be discharged via either the first or the second airflow outlet.

[0070] In this disclosure, the docking station will be able to operate in different operating modes when the gas is discharged through different gas flow outlets, as will be described in detail below.

[0071] In order to allow gas to flow out from the first gas discharge port or the second gas discharge port, the docking station 200 of this disclosure further includes a conversion unit that selectively connects the first gas discharge port or the second gas discharge port to the gas flow passage, and at the same time only one of the first gas discharge port and the second gas discharge port can be connected to the gas flow passage.

[0072] In order to introduce the gas in the main airflow passage into the first airflow passage or the second airflow passage, and accordingly allow the gas to flow out through the first airflow outlet or the second airflow outlet, the conversion unit of this disclosure includes an airflow converter that selectively connects the first airflow passage or the second airflow passage to the main airflow passage, and at the same time, only one of the first airflow passage and the second airflow passage can be connected to the main airflow passage.

[0073] Specifically, the airflow converter disclosed herein includes an air valve 251, which is configured to open and close a first airflow passage and a second airflow passage, and to selectively connect the first airflow passage or the second airflow passage to the main airflow passage by opening and closing the first airflow passage and the second airflow passage respectively.

[0074] The air valve 251 disclosed herein can be a three-way solenoid valve. In this case, one air valve 251 can be configured, and it is positioned at the connection between the main airflow passage, the first branch airflow passage, and the second branch airflow passage. In another embodiment, the air valve 251 can be a solenoid switch valve (e.g., a solenoid ball valve). In this case, two air valves 251 can be configured, and they can be respectively arranged in the first branch airflow passage and the second branch airflow passage. Of course, if there are more than two branch airflow passages, the number of air valves 251 will not exceed two. In this case, it is necessary to ensure that the number of branch airflow passages is the same as the number of air valves 251 and that they are configured in a one-to-one correspondence.

[0075] Furthermore, the air valve 251 is configured to operate automatically during continuous operation of the suction generator 220. Thus, the vacuum cleaning system of this disclosure can automatically switch between various operating modes during use, resulting in a higher level of intelligence for the vacuum cleaning system.

[0076] In some embodiments, the cross-sectional area of ​​the first airflow passage is larger than that of the second airflow passage. Therefore, when the vacuum cleaning system of this disclosure is in internal circulation mode, the gas flowing in the first airflow passage experiences less resistance, resulting in a higher flow velocity of the circulating gas throughout the vacuum cleaning system and improving the transfer effect of contaminants from the dust collection device. Furthermore, considering that the second airflow passage only exhausts to the outside, its smaller size facilitates its arrangement and allows the docking station 200 to have a smaller volume.

[0077] In this disclosure, the base 240 includes a seal associated with the first airflow outlet, configured for sealingly engaging with the cleaning head 130 of the vacuum cleaner 100. This seal reduces the amount of gas emitted from the docking station 200 as circulating gas flows through the first airflow path. Furthermore, since the gas emitted from the docking station 200 may contain fewer particulate matter, the solution of this disclosure also reduces the risk of the docking station 200 polluting the surrounding air.

[0078] When the vacuum cleaner 100 is docked with the docking station 200, the seal and the bottom of the cleaning head 130 abut against each other to seal the connection between the first airflow outlet and the suction port. In other words, the circulating gas of this disclosure, after flowing out from the first airflow outlet, can enter the vacuum cleaner through the suction port, thereby using the circulating gas to clean dirt inside the vacuum cleaner (not limited to cleaning dirt in the dust collection device, but also including cleaning dirt in the cleaning head 130 and the suction pipe 120).

[0079] Structurally, the docking station 200 of this disclosure also includes a manifold assembly, which is used to form a main airflow passage, a first branch airflow passage, and a second branch airflow passage. That is to say, the main airflow passage, the first branch airflow passage, and the second airflow passage of this disclosure are the internal spaces of the air duct assembly.

[0080] The manifold assembly includes a main pipe 252, a first branch pipe 253, and a second branch pipe 254. The main pipe 252 forms a main airflow passage, the first branch pipe 253 forms a first airflow passage, and the second branch pipe 254 forms a second airflow passage. An air valve 251 can be positioned at the junction of the main pipe 252 and the two branch pipes, specifically at the junction of the main pipe 252, the first branch pipe 253, and the second branch pipe 254.

[0081] Specifically, one end of the main pipe 252, one end of the first branch pipe 253, and one end of the second branch pipe 254 are connected, forming a T-shaped structure for the manifold assembly. The other end of the main pipe 252 is connected to the suction generator 220, placing the manifold assembly downstream of the suction generator 220. The other end of the first branch pipe 253 is connected to the first airflow outlet, and the other end of the second branch pipe 254 is suspended in the air.

[0082] The air valve 251 of this disclosure includes a ball valve, and the air valve 251 has a cross-sectional area configured to have a cross-sectional area not less than the minimum cross-sectional area at the junction. Thus, the air valve 251 of this disclosure can completely shut off the first branch pipe 253, allowing all gas to flow through the second branch pipe 254; or, the air valve 251 can completely shut off the second branch pipe 254, allowing all gas to flow through the first branch pipe 253. Therefore, in the dust collection device emptying mode, the circulating airflow of the vacuum cleaning system of this disclosure can flow within the vacuum cleaning system without overflowing.

[0083] Air valve 251 is configured to operate by turning at the junction to connect the main pipe and at least one of the two branch pipes, thereby making the operation of air valve 251 of this disclosure simple and easy to integrate into docking station 200.

[0084] When the vacuum cleaner 100 is docked with the docking station 200, the dust outlet of the vacuum cleaner 100 can form an internal circulation path through the dust collection device 140 and the first airflow outlet under the action of the conversion unit. At this time, after the gas is discharged from the dust collection device 140, it passes through the docking station 200 and is discharged from the first airflow outlet of the docking station 200. The airflow discharged from the first airflow outlet will enter the vacuum cleaner from the suction port and further flow to the dust collection device 140 to realize the circulation of gas, and the dirt in the dust collection device 140 is cleaned by the circulating gas.

[0085] In addition, an external circulation path can be formed between the vacuum cleaner and the second airflow outlet under the action of the conversion unit. That is, when the gas is discharged from the second airflow outlet, the gas can be directly discharged into the atmosphere. At this time, the vacuum cleaner can draw in gas from the atmosphere and clean the components of the vacuum cleaner (such as the cyclone separator or HEPA filter) with the drawn-in gas.

[0086] In this disclosure, the vacuum cleaning system is configured to: in the dust collection device emptying mode, operate the suction generator 220 to generate an exhaust airflow, the exhaust airflow being configured to carry dirt particles from the dust collection device 140 through the dust outlet of the dust collection device 140 and retain the dirt particles in the collection bin 230; operate the airflow converter on the docking station 200 to selectively switch the direction of the exhaust airflow of the docking station 200, thereby allowing the exhaust airflow to pass through the collection bin 230 and be discharged to the atmosphere outside the docking station 200 or to the interior of the vacuum cleaner 100, the airflow converter being configured to operate automatically during continuous operation of the suction generator 220, and to allow the exhaust airflow to continuously flow through the dust collection device 140 during the switching of the exhaust airflow direction of the docking station 200.

[0087] Therefore, in the vacuum cleaning system disclosed herein, airflow passes through the dust collection device 140 in both internal and external circulation modes, thereby improving the self-cleaning effect of the dust collection device 140.

[0088] Based on this, the vacuum cleaning system disclosed herein can achieve automated selection and efficient execution of two functions through an intelligent switching airflow converter; moreover, the control logic of the vacuum cleaning system disclosed herein is simple and easy to integrate with the main controller.

[0089] The vacuum cleaner of this disclosure also includes a separation system, which may include at least one of a direct-suction filter (screen or HEPA filter) and a cyclone filter. Thus, during the dust collection device emptying mode, the vacuum cleaner 100 of this disclosure allows airflow to pass through at least one separation system of the vacuum cleaner 100 to remove dirt particles from the respective separation system.

[0090] In other words, during the process of transferring particles from the dust collection device to the docking station 200, some gas flows through the suction port and suction pipe to the cyclone separator, transferring the dirt in the cyclone separator to the dust collection device. Then, the gas carrying the dirt enters the docking station through the dust discharge port of the dust collection device. Additionally, some gas can enter the HEPA filter through the exhaust port on the vacuum cleaner's housing, and then enter the cyclone separator from the HEPA filter. After flowing through the cyclone separator, this gas enters the dust collection device and then enters the docking station from the dust discharge port of the dust collection device. Therefore, the vacuum cleaning system of this disclosure not only achieves self-cleaning of the dust collection device of the surface cleaning equipment, but also self-cleaning of the cyclone separator and HEPA filter of the vacuum cleaning system. Thus, the docking station of this disclosure can thoroughly self-clean the vacuum cleaner.

[0091] In embodiments of this disclosure, when the vacuum cleaner 100 operates independently (i.e., when the vacuum cleaner 100 is performing cleaning operations), a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter can be positioned upstream of the airflow at the vacuum source inlet. In other words, the gas discharged from the cyclone separator is filtered by the HEPA filter before entering the vacuum source, thereby effectively preventing dirt particles from entering the interior of the vacuum source and adsorbing onto the various components of the vacuum source.

[0092] In another embodiment of this disclosure, the vacuum cleaner 100 includes two or more suction ports, each suction port being configured to be sealed and connected to the docking station 200 in conjunction with different airflow discharge ports. Thus, the vacuum cleaner 100 and the docking station 200 of this disclosure can also cooperate with each other to form a circulating internal airflow.

[0093] According to another aspect of this disclosure, a method of operating a vacuum cleaning system is provided. The vacuum cleaning system is the aforementioned vacuum cleaning system. The method of operating the vacuum cleaning system includes: S1010, operating a suction generator 220 to generate an exhaust airflow, the exhaust airflow being configured to carry dirt particles from the dust collection device 140 through the dust outlet of the dust collection device 140 and retain the dirt particles in the collection bin 230; S1020, operating an airflow converter on the docking station 200 to selectively switch the direction of the exhaust airflow of the docking station 200, thereby allowing the exhaust airflow to pass through the collection bin 230 and be discharged to the atmosphere outside the docking station 200 or to the interior of the vacuum cleaner 100. The airflow converter is configured to operate automatically during continuous operation of the suction generator 220, and to allow the exhaust airflow to continuously flow through the dust collection device 140 during the switching of the direction of the exhaust airflow of the docking station 200.

[0094] In one embodiment, the operation method of the vacuum cleaning system further includes: receiving a first input signal related to the high-efficiency air filter of the vacuum source placed in front of the vacuum cleaner 100; determining time signal characteristics based on the first input signal; and if the time signal characteristics meet the time signal characteristic criteria, issuing a command output signal including the switching air valve 251 to switch the direction of the exhaust air flow of the docking station 200 to the outside atmosphere.

[0095] At this time, since no gas is discharged from the first airflow outlet, and the cleaning head of the vacuum cleaner 100 is sealed to the first airflow outlet, gas will not enter the vacuum cleaner from the cleaning head. Furthermore, because the docking station 200 continuously applies negative pressure to the vacuum cleaner, gas will enter the interior of the vacuum cleaner from the exhaust port of the vacuum cleaner housing, and flow sequentially through the vacuum source, HEPA filter, and cyclone separator, into the dust collection device, and then from the dust collection device into the docking station. Thus, the docking station 200 of this disclosure can perform a backwashing operation on the HEPA filter to regenerate it.

[0096] Those skilled in the art will understand that the cyclone separator of this disclosure can be partially disposed inside the dust collection device 140, thereby enabling the vacuum cleaner to have a smaller volume.

[0097] Furthermore, considering that HEPA filters typically cannot directly detect dirt particles, the operating method of the vacuum cleaning system disclosed herein estimates the degree of dirt on the HEPA filter based on the usage time of the vacuum cleaner. For example, if the HEPA filter has been used for a cumulative total of 20 hours, it can be inferred that the degree of dirt on the HEPA filter is relatively high. In this case, the HEPA filter can be reverse-cleaned once to keep the HEPA filter in a relatively clean state.

[0098] In this disclosure, the operation method of the vacuum cleaning system includes receiving a second input signal related to the dust collection device 140 of the vacuum cleaner 100; determining the characteristics of dirt particles based on the second input signal; and if the characteristics of dirt particles meet the dirt particle signal characteristic criteria, issuing a command output signal including a switching air valve 251 to switch the direction of the exhaust airflow of the docking station 200 to the dust collection device 140. That is, in the vacuum cleaning system of this disclosure, when the gas discharged from the dust collection device 140 contains a large amount of dirt, the gas can circulate between the vacuum cleaner 100 and the docking station 200 to clean the dirt in the dust collection device 140 through the circulating gas. Furthermore, because the gas circulates between the vacuum cleaner 100 and the docking station 200, less gas is discharged from the docking station 200, reducing the risk of contamination of the gas surrounding the docking station 200.

[0099] The external circulation mode of the vacuum cleaning system is explained in detail below.

[0100] The operation method of the vacuum cleaning system disclosed herein includes: S2010, docking the vacuum cleaner 100 to the docking station 200, and aligning the dust discharge port of the dust collection device 140 with the dust collection port 211 of the docking station 200; S2020, activating the dust collection device emptying mode, wherein, in the dust collection device emptying mode, the suction generator 220 is activated to generate an exhaust airflow toward the recovery box 230, discharging the dirt stored in the dust collection device 140 into the recovery box 230 of the docking station 200; S2030, while maintaining the dust collection device emptying mode, activating the external circulation mode, and causing the exhaust airflow to enter the dust collection device 140 downstream of the vacuum cleaner 100, and enter the docking station 200 through the dust discharge port of the dust collection device 140, wherein the airflow discharge port of the docking station 200 discharges the exhaust airflow into the atmosphere outside the vacuum cleaning system.

[0101] The downstream of the dust collection device 140 refers to the location downstream of the dust collection device 140 when the vacuum cleaner 100 is cleaning the surface to be cleaned, along the gas flow direction. Those skilled in the art will understand that, correspondingly, in this external circulation mode, the exhaust airflow can enter the dust collection device 140 from upstream along the gas flow direction. Specifically, the exhaust airflow will sequentially flow through the exhaust port, vacuum source, HEPA filter, and cyclone separator on the main body 110, then enter the dust collection device 140, and be discharged from the dust collection device 140 to the docking station 200.

[0102] Based on the above solution, the operation method of the vacuum cleaning system disclosed herein can not only clean the dust collection device 140, but also clean and regenerate the HEPA filter. Compared with the prior art, the operation method of the vacuum cleaning system disclosed herein has more functions and improves the user experience.

[0103] Overall, the core of the vacuum cleaning system disclosed herein lies in controlling the air intake path of the vacuum cleaner in the dust collection mode at the docking station. The powerful suction airflow generated by the docking station fan passes in the opposite direction through the vacuum source and its HEPA filter, thereby achieving self-cleaning of the HEPA filter.

[0104] In this disclosure, when the dust collection device emptying mode is activated, the operation method of the vacuum cleaning system of this disclosure will maintain the dust collection device emptying mode, so that the exhaust airflow can continuously flow through the dust collection device 140.

[0105] In one embodiment, when the external circulation mode is activated (i.e., when the external circulation mode is activated), the exhaust airflow enters the vacuum cleaner through the exhaust port, thereby backwashing the HEPA filter through the exhaust airflow entering through the exhaust port, so that the dirt deposited in the HEPA filter can be removed.

[0106] Accordingly, in the operation method of the vacuum cleaning system disclosed herein, by regenerating the HEPA, the user does not need to frequently replace the HEPA. On the one hand, the user does not have to frequently disassemble the vacuum cleaner to replace the HEPA, and on the other hand, it saves the user the cost of replacing the HEPA.

[0107] In one embodiment, the operation of the vacuum cleaning system further includes: in the dust collection device purging mode, allowing the exhaust airflow to exit outside the docking station 200 from only one of two or more airflow exhaust ports, while closing the other airflow exhaust ports. In other words, the vacuum cleaning system of this disclosure allows only one airflow exhaust port to discharge gas to the outside of the docking station, thereby enabling convenient selection of that airflow exhaust port.

[0108] More specifically, in the external circulation mode, it is possible to switch between two or more airflow outlets so that the exhaust airflow is discharged outside the vacuum cleaning system from only one of the two or more airflow outlets. Thus, when the vacuum cleaning system of this disclosure is working, gas is not allowed to enter the dust collection device through the cleaning head of the vacuum cleaner, but is only allowed to enter the vacuum cleaner through the exhaust airflow through the exhaust port of the main body. Therefore, the negative pressure of the docking station of this disclosure can allow as much gas as possible to enter the vacuum cleaner and backwash the HEPA, thereby improving the backwashing effect of the HEPA.

[0109] In this disclosure, when the external circulation mode is started, the first airflow outlet is closed and the second airflow outlet is opened so that the exhaust airflow is discharged into the atmosphere outside the vacuum cleaning system through the second airflow outlet; when the external circulation mode is closed, the first airflow outlet is opened and the second airflow outlet is closed so that the exhaust airflow is discharged into the dust collection device 140 of the vacuum cleaner 100 through the first airflow outlet.

[0110] In one embodiment, the operation method of the vacuum cleaning system includes: in the dust collection device emptying mode, keeping the suction port sealed and connected to the first airflow discharge port, so that when the first airflow discharge port discharges exhaust air, this exhaust air can enter the dust collection device, thereby using the internally circulated airflow to efficiently and quickly clean the dust collection device; when the first airflow discharge port is closed, gas is not allowed to enter the suction port, and at this time the negative pressure of the docking station 200 remains unchanged, and correspondingly the exhaust air can enter the vacuum cleaner from other components of the vacuum cleaner to clean part of the gas flow path inside the vacuum cleaner.

[0111] In this disclosure, the operation method of the vacuum cleaning system includes: in the dust collection device emptying mode, activating the external circulation mode by coupling the manifold assembly to the second airflow discharge port. Correspondingly, the internal circulation mode can be activated by coupling the manifold assembly to the first airflow discharge port. The manifold assembly is provided with an air valve 251, and by rotating the air valve 251, the exhaust airflow can be directed to either the first or second airflow discharge port under the switching action of the air valve 251.

[0112] Therefore, in the operation method of the vacuum cleaning system disclosed herein, the cleaning mode can be switched simply by controlling the air valve. The vacuum cleaning system not only has fewer parts and a smaller size, making it easier to assemble, but it is also less prone to failure and easier to maintain. Moreover, the control method is simple and highly reliable. Even when applied to humid or dusty environments, there will be no problems such as airflow leakage, interruption of cleaning, or failure of self-cleaning.

[0113] The operation method of the vacuum cleaning system disclosed herein also includes receiving a first input signal to initiate an external circulation mode. In one specific embodiment, the first input signal includes information related to user interaction. For example, the first input signal may be a signal obtained by a user triggering a button on the vacuum cleaner and / or docking station. Of course, the first input signal may also be a signal obtained by a user operating a smartphone application, and this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0114] In another specific embodiment, the first input signal includes time-related information of the vacuum cleaner 100. Specifically, a time signal characteristic is determined based on the first input signal. If the time signal characteristic meets the time signal characteristic standard (i.e., the HEPA filter's operating time is greater than a preset time threshold), an external circulation mode activation signal is issued, thereby regenerating the HEPA filter through exhaust airflow.

[0115] The docking station 200 disclosed herein also includes a control device configured to simultaneously execute an external circulation mode during operation in the dust collection device emptying mode. In the external circulation mode, exhaust air enters the vacuum cleaner 100 from downstream of the dust collection device 140, and after passing through the dust collection device 140, the exhaust air is discharged into the atmosphere outside the vacuum cleaning system through the airflow outlet of the docking station 200.

[0116] Therefore, the vacuum cleaning system disclosed herein can achieve active self-cleaning and is maintenance-free. Its core advantage lies in utilizing the powerful suction already present at the docking station for dust collection, automatically cleaning the vacuum cleaner's vacuum unit and HEPA filter without any additional user intervention or the addition of special cleaning components, truly achieving "maintenance-free" or "extremely low maintenance." Furthermore, through periodic reverse cleaning, accumulated dust is effectively removed, significantly extending the lifespan of the HEPA filter and reducing the cost and frequency of consumable replacement for users. Moreover, because fewer dirt particles are adsorbed on the HEPA filter, it maintains its unobstructed flow, ensuring smooth airflow in the vacuum source's independent operating mode, maintaining optimal suction power, reducing the motor load and overheating risk of the vacuum source, and improving overall machine performance and lifespan.

[0117] In other words, the vacuum cleaning system disclosed herein can fully utilize the functions of existing systems (dock station suction, body air duct structure), and achieve new functions through ingenious airflow path control logic, requiring no or only extremely low-cost additional hardware (such as simple valves / baffles), thus achieving high cost-effectiveness. Simultaneously, this disclosure efficiently completes the cleaning of the dust collection device and the HEPA filter in the same workflow, saving time.

[0118] The following explains the internal circulation mode of the vacuum cleaning system.

[0119] The operation method of the vacuum cleaning system disclosed herein includes: S3010, docking the vacuum cleaner 100 to the docking station 200, and aligning the dust discharge port of the dust collection device 140 with the dust collection port 211 of the docking station 200; S3020, activating the dust collection device emptying mode, wherein, in the dust collection device emptying mode, the suction generator 220 is activated to generate an exhaust airflow toward the recovery box 230, discharging the dirt stored in the dust collection device 140 into the recovery box 230 of the docking station 200; S3030, while maintaining the dust collection device emptying mode, activating the internal circulation mode, and causing the exhaust airflow to flow from the dust discharge port of the dust collection device 140 out of the vacuum cleaner 100 and into the recovery box 230 of the docking station 200; wherein, the airflow discharge port of the docking station 200 is sealed to the vacuum cleaner 100 to guide the exhaust airflow discharged from the airflow discharge port into the vacuum cleaner 100.

[0120] In this internal circulation mode, the gas can circulate between the vacuum cleaner 100 and the docking station 200. As a result, the vacuum cleaning system of this disclosure can emit as little exhaust air as possible, thereby reducing the possibility of the surrounding area of ​​the vacuum cleaning system being contaminated by dirt particles and improving the user experience.

[0121] The core of this solution lies in guiding the exhaust airflow from the docking station back to the cleaning head of the vacuum cleaner through a specific path, forming an additional auxiliary airflow within the dust collection device. This airflow works in conjunction with the main suction of the docking station to improve dust collection efficiency, thereby enhancing the self-cleaning efficiency of the dust collection device.

[0122] Overall, in the vacuum cleaning system disclosed herein, the auxiliary airflow formed by the recirculation of exhaust gas at the docking station actively agitates and stirs up the dust deposited and attached within the dust collection device, especially targeting dust in hard-to-reach corners and on the cup walls where the main suction is difficult to remove. This significantly reduces dust residue within the dust collection device, resulting in more thorough dust collection. In other words, the technical solution disclosed herein fully utilizes waste resources, improves energy efficiency, and innovatively uses the exhaust gas discharged from the docking station as a secondary energy source. It significantly enhances dust collection without requiring additional high-power auxiliary equipment (such as extra fans or vibrators), thereby improving the overall energy efficiency of the vacuum cleaning system.

[0123] The operation method of the vacuum cleaning system includes: when the dust collection device emptying mode is activated, the exhaust airflow enters the vacuum cleaner 100 through the suction port. In this disclosure, after the dust collection device emptying mode is activated, the operation method of the vacuum cleaning system of this disclosure will maintain the dust collection device emptying mode, so that the exhaust airflow can continuously flow through the dust collection device 140, thereby reducing the cleaning time of the dust collection device 140 and improving the cleaning efficiency of the dust collection device 140.

[0124] In one embodiment, the operation of the vacuum cleaning system further includes: in the dust collection device purging mode, allowing the exhaust airflow to exit outside the docking station 200 from only one of two or more airflow exhaust ports, while closing the other airflow exhaust ports. In other words, the vacuum cleaning system of this disclosure allows only one airflow exhaust port to discharge gas to the outside of the docking station, thereby enabling convenient selection of that airflow exhaust port.

[0125] More specifically, in the internal circulation mode, switching between two or more airflow outlets ensures that exhaust airflow is introduced into the vacuum cleaner 100 from only one of the two or more airflow outlets. Thus, during operation, the vacuum cleaning system of this disclosure only allows gas to enter the dust collection device through the cleaning head of the vacuum cleaner, thereby enabling the negative pressure of the docking station to allow as much gas as possible to enter the vacuum cleaner's dust collection device, correspondingly improving the cleaning efficiency of the dust collection device.

[0126] In one specific embodiment, the operation method of the vacuum cleaning system further includes: when the internal circulation mode is started, closing the second airflow outlet and opening the first airflow outlet to guide the exhaust airflow into the vacuum cleaner 100 through the first airflow outlet; when the internal circulation mode is closed, opening the second airflow outlet and closing the first airflow outlet to discharge the exhaust airflow into the atmosphere outside the vacuum cleaning system through the second airflow outlet.

[0127] In the implementation of this disclosure, starting the inner loop mode means that the outer loop mode is closed, and similarly, closing the inner loop mode means that the outer loop mode is started.

[0128] In this disclosure, the operation method of the vacuum cleaning system includes: in the dust collection device emptying mode, activating the internal circulation mode by coupling the manifold assembly to the first airflow discharge port. Correspondingly, the external circulation mode can be activated by coupling the manifold assembly to the second airflow discharge port. The manifold assembly is provided with an air valve 251, and by rotating the air valve 251, the exhaust airflow can be directed to either the first or second airflow discharge port under the switching action of the air valve 251.

[0129] Therefore, in the operation method of the vacuum cleaning system disclosed herein, the cleaning mode can be switched simply by controlling the air valve. The vacuum cleaning system not only has fewer parts and a smaller size, making it easier to assemble, but it is also less prone to failure and easier to maintain. Moreover, the control method is simple and highly reliable. Even when applied to humid or dusty environments, there will be no problems such as airflow leakage, interruption of cleaning, or failure of self-cleaning.

[0130] The operation method of the vacuum cleaning system disclosed herein also includes receiving a second input signal to initiate an internal circulation mode.

[0131] In one specific embodiment, the second input signal includes information related to user interaction. For example, the second input signal could be a signal obtained from a user triggering a button on a vacuum cleaner and / or docking station. Of course, the second input signal could also be a signal obtained from a user operating a smartphone application, and this disclosure is not limiting in this regard.

[0132] In another specific embodiment, the second input signal includes information related to the discharged dirt particles. Specifically, dirt particle signal characteristics are determined based on the second input signal. If the dirt particle signal characteristics meet the dirt particle signal characteristic criteria, a command output signal including a switching air valve 251 is issued to switch the direction of the exhaust airflow from the docking station 200 to the dust collection device 140.

[0133] In other words, in the vacuum cleaning system disclosed herein, when the gas discharged from the dust collection device 140 contains a lot of dirt, the gas can be circulated between the vacuum cleaner 100 and the docking station 200 to clean the dirt in the dust collection device 140 through the circulating gas. Moreover, since the gas circulates between the vacuum cleaner 100 and the docking station 200, less gas is discharged from the docking station 200 at this time, reducing the risk of the gas around the docking station 200 being contaminated.

[0134] In addition, the control device of the docking station disclosed herein is also configured to simultaneously execute an internal circulation mode during operation in the dust collection device emptying mode. When in the internal circulation mode, the exhaust air flows out of the dust collection device 140 of the vacuum cleaner 100 from the dust collection device 140 and enters the recycling bin 230 of the docking station 200. The airflow discharge port of the docking station 200 is connected to the vacuum cleaner 100 in a sealed manner so as to guide the exhaust airflow discharged from the airflow discharge port into the vacuum cleaner 100.

[0135] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment / mode," "some embodiments / modes," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment / mode or example is included in at least one embodiment / mode or example of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment / mode or example. Moreover, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments / modes or examples. Furthermore, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments / modes or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments / modes or examples.

[0136] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0137] Those skilled in the art should understand that the above embodiments are merely for illustrating the present disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. Those skilled in the art can make other changes or modifications based on the above disclosure, and these changes or modifications still fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A method of operating a vacuum cleaning system, characterized by, The vacuum cleaning system comprises a vacuum cleaner and a docking station for the vacuum cleaner to dock with, the docking station comprising a recycling bin and a dust collection port; the dust collection port is configured to dock with a dust discharge port of a dust collection device of the vacuum cleaner, so that dirt in the dust collection device can be collected into the recycling bin of the docking station via the dust discharge port of the dust collection device; the docking station further comprises a suction generator, which is located downstream of the recycling bin and is configured to suck air from the recycling bin when the vacuum cleaner docks with the docking station; the docking station further comprises an air flow discharge port, through which air discharged by the suction generator is discharged to the outside of the docking station; The method for operating the vacuum cleaning system comprises: Docking the vacuum cleaner to the docking station, and making the dust discharge port of the dust collection device cooperate with the dust collection port of the docking station; Starting a dust collection device emptying mode, wherein in the dust collection device emptying mode, the suction generator is started to generate an emptying air flow towards the recycling bin, and dirt stored in the dust collection device is discharged into the recycling bin of the docking station; While keeping the dust collection device emptying mode executing, starting an internal circulation mode, and making the emptying air flow flow out of the vacuum cleaner from the dust discharge port of the dust collection device and into the recycling bin of the docking station; wherein the air flow discharge port of the docking station docks with the vacuum cleaner in a sealed manner to guide the emptying air flow discharged by the air flow discharge port into the vacuum cleaner.

2. The method of operating a vacuum cleaning system of claim 1, wherein, The vacuum cleaner comprises a cleaning head, and the cleaning head comprises a suction port; when the vacuum cleaner cleans a surface to be cleaned, the suction port is located upstream of the dust collection device; The method for operating the vacuum cleaning system comprises: when starting the dust collection device emptying mode, making the emptying air flow enter the vacuum cleaner through the suction port.

3. The method of operating a vacuum cleaning system of claim 2, wherein, The suction port is in communication with the dust collection device.

4. The method of operating a vacuum cleaning system of claim 2, wherein, The vacuum cleaner comprises a suction pipe, one end of the suction pipe being connected to the cleaning head, and the other end of the suction pipe being connected to a vacuum source of the vacuum cleaner.

5. The method of operating a vacuum cleaning system of claim 1, wherein, The air flow discharge port of the docking station is provided as at least two; the method for operating the vacuum cleaning system further comprises: in the dust collection device emptying mode, making the emptying air flow only guided into the vacuum cleaner from one of the two or more air flow discharge ports, and closing the other air flow discharge ports.

6. The method of operating a vacuum cleaning system of claim 5, wherein, In the internal circulation mode, switching among the two or more air flow discharge ports to make the emptying air flow only guided into the vacuum cleaner from one of the two or more air flow discharge ports.

7. The method of operating a vacuum cleaning system of claim 1, wherein, The air flow discharge port comprises a first air flow discharge port and a second air flow discharge port; the first air flow discharge port is configured to be in air flow communication with the dust collection device of the vacuum cleaner in a sealed docking manner; the second air flow discharge port is in communication with the atmosphere; the method for operating the vacuum cleaning system further comprises: when the internal circulation mode is started, closing the second air flow discharge port and opening the first air flow discharge port to guide the exhaust air flow into the vacuum cleaner through the first air flow discharge port; when the internal circulation mode is closed, opening the second air flow discharge port and closing the first air flow discharge port to guide the exhaust air flow out of the vacuum cleaning system to the atmosphere outside the vacuum cleaning system through the second air flow discharge port.

8. The method of operating a vacuum cleaning system of any of claims 1-7, wherein, The docking station comprises a manifold assembly connected to the suction generator, the first air flow discharge port and the second air flow discharge port respectively, wherein the manifold assembly is configured to couple the air flow downstream of the suction generator to the first air flow discharge port or the second air flow discharge port; the method for operating the vacuum cleaning system comprises: in the dust collection device emptying mode, starting the internal circulation mode by coupling the manifold assembly to the first air flow discharge port; Optionally, an air valve is arranged in the manifold assembly to guide the exhaust air flow to the first air flow discharge port or the second air flow discharge port under the switching action of the air valve; Optionally, the manifold assembly comprises a main pipe, a first branch pipe and a second branch pipe, the main pipe is connected to the suction generator, the first branch pipe is in communication with the first air flow discharge port, the second branch pipe is in communication with the second air flow discharge port, and the air valve is arranged at the intersection of the main pipe, the first branch pipe and the second branch pipe; the method for operating the vacuum cleaning system further comprises: by rotating the air valve, the main pipe is connected to the first air flow discharge port or the main pipe is connected to the second air flow discharge port to guide the exhaust air flow to the first air flow discharge port or the second air flow discharge port; Optionally, further comprising: receiving a second input signal to start the internal circulation mode; Optionally, the second input signal comprises information related to the exhaust dirt particles; Optionally, the second input signal comprises time-related information of the vacuum cleaner; Optionally, according to the second input signal, the dirt particle signal characteristics are determined, if the dirt particle signal characteristics meet the dirt particle signal characteristics standard, an instruction output signal including switching the air valve is sent to switch the direction of the exhaust air flow of the docking station to the dust collection device.

9. A vacuum cleaning system comprising a vacuum cleaner and a docking station for docking of the vacuum cleaner, characterized in that, The docking station comprises a recycling box and a dust collection port; the dust collection port of the docking station is configured to be docked with the dust discharge port of the dust collection device of the vacuum cleaner, so that the dirt in the dust collection device can be collected into the recycling box of the docking station through the dust discharge port of the dust collection device; The docking station further comprises a suction generator, which is located downstream of the recycling box and is configured to suck air from the recycling box when the vacuum cleaner is docked with the docking station, and is discharged to the outside of the docking station through the first air flow discharge port or the second air flow discharge port; The docking station further comprises a control device configured to simultaneously execute an inner circulation mode during operation of the dust collection device in the emptying mode, when in the inner circulation mode, the emptying air flow flows out of the dust collection device from the dust outlet of the dust collection device and into the recovery tank of the docking station; wherein the air flow discharge port of the docking station seals against the vacuum cleaner to direct the emptying air flow discharged from the air flow discharge port into the vacuum cleaner.

10. The vacuum cleaning system of claim 9, wherein, When in the inner circulation mode, the dust collection device of the vacuum cleaner is located in the emptying air flow circulation path; Optionally, the vacuum cleaner comprises a suction port formed on the cleaning head of the vacuum cleaner, in the inner circulation mode, the suction port is used to introduce the emptying air flow to the dust collection device; Optionally, the docking station further comprises a manifold assembly downstream of the suction force generator, configured to couple the suction force generator downstream air flow to different air flow discharge ports of the docking station, to direct the air flow to the external atmosphere or to the interior of the vacuum cleaner under the switching action of the air valve.

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