Robot cleaner base station

Abstract

A robotic cleaner base station may include a housing at a lower portion of a kitchen furniture; a base assembly in the housing, the base assembly configured to receive a robotic cleaner; a dust collector configured to empty dust of the robot cleaner; and a dust sweeper cleaner configured to clean a dust sweeper of the robot cleaner.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a robot cleaner base station, and more particularly to a built-in station that can collect dust in a dust box of a robot cleaner when the robot cleaner is coupled, wash a duster of the robot cleaner, and dry the duster. BACKGROUND

[0002] In recent years, with the development of industrial technology, a robot cleaner that cleans while traveling in a space to be cleaned without user intervention is being developed.

[0003] Such a robot cleaner is provided with a sensor for identifying a space to be cleaned, an agitator for sweeping and cleaning a floor, a duster for mopping a floor, etc., and can suck dust on a floor of a space identified by the sensor while traveling, and mop a floor using a duster, etc.

[0004] Among robot cleaners, including a dry robot cleaner capable of sucking and removing foreign substances scattered on a floor, and a wet robot cleaner capable of mopping a floor using a moisture-containing duster to effectively remove foreign substances attached to a floor. The dry robot cleaner is provided with a dust bin and sucks foreign substances on a floor using suction power of a suction motor. The wet robot cleaner is provided with a water container and is configured to effectively remove foreign substances attached to a floor by mopping the floor in a state where water stored in the water container is supplied to the duster and the duster contains moisture (moisture) that is then applied to the floor. In addition, there is also a robot cleaner in the form of having both an agitator and a duster.

[0005] A robot cleaner charging base station is a device that interfaces with a robot cleaner after the robot cleaner completes cleaning. In addition, the robot cleaner charging base station can charge a battery of the robot cleaner by supplying power to the battery installed in the robot cleaner. The charging base station has a power module therein. The charging base station has a charging terminal connected to the power module, and the robot cleaner has a corresponding terminal. When the charging terminal comes into contact with the corresponding terminal, the battery is charged by receiving power.

[0006] Meanwhile, when the robot cleaner charging base is installed in a building, the charging base occupies a predetermined range of indoor space. In this case, indoor space efficiency can be deteriorated. In addition, a user or a pet can collide with the robot cleaner while passing by, thereby causing a problem of injuring the user or the pet and damaging the robot cleaner.

[0007] In addition, a station having a dust collection function of the robot cleaner has a limitation in that, as the station space increases, it can damage the interior of the indoor.

[0008] In this regard, Chinese Utility Model Registration CN219206761U discloses an apparatus for washing a robot cleaner at a bottom of a washing machine.

[0009] The washing apparatus can use a lower space of the washing machine to wash the robot cleaner.

[0010] In addition, since the robot cleaner is washed using water supply and water discharge connected to the washing machine, a separate water supply and water discharge structure is not required.

[0011] However, the washing apparatus has a limitation in that it only washes the robot cleaner and does not have a function of charging the robot cleaner or collecting dust of the robot cleaner. More specifically, it has a limitation in that, when the robot cleaner is washed while being charged, electric leakage can occur.

[0012] Therefore, the washing apparatus has a limitation in that it can only be used when washing the robot cleaner, cannot provide a basic charging function or the like, and should provide a separate charging base.

[0013] Meanwhile, Japanese Patent JP4916266B2 discloses a building that collects dust in a dust box of a robot cleaner using a lower space of a wall.

[0014] The building has a dust collection device built in a lower space of a wall to collect dust in the dust box when the robot cleaner approaches.

[0015] However, since this building simply sucks air at a lower side of the wall, dust is emptied without maintaining an airtight state between the building and the dust box of the robot cleaner, and thus has a limitation in that dust can be dispersed into the indoor instead.

[0016] In addition, since the building cannot supply power to the robot cleaner and should provide a robot cleaner charging base, the effect of increasing indoor space efficiency is limited.

[0017] Meanwhile, Chinese Utility Model Registration CN2192708414U discloses a cleaner base station in which a robot cleaner is coupled to the lower side of a washing machine so as to be charged, collect dust, and wash a wet dust collector of the robot cleaner.

[0018] However, the cleaner base station has an open space in which the robot cleaner can enter the lower side of the washing machine, a detergent supply device and a water supply device for washing the wet dust collector are provided at the vertical upper side of the space in which the robot cleaner enters, and a dust bag is provided on the side surface of the space in which the robot cleaner enters.

[0019] In this arrangement, since the overall height of the cleaner base station is high, there is a limitation in that the base station cannot be installed using the lower space of a cabinet including a kitchen sink.

[0020] Further, since the cleaner base station should be installed at the lower side of the washing machine, there is a limitation in that a space in which the washing machine is installed must be basically provided, and considering the height of the washing machine and the height of the cleaner base station, the height of the installation space provided should exceed the height of the washing machine and the height of the cleaner base station.

[0021] Further, since the space in which the robot cleaner enters of the cleaner base station is always open, dust can be scattered in the process of collecting dust in the dust box of the robot cleaner, and waste water can be leaked in the process of washing the dust collector of the robot cleaner. SUMMARY

[0022] TECHNICAL PROBLEM

[0023] To achieve the above object, a robot cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the disclosure can be installed in the lower space of a kitchen furniture.

[0024] Further, the robot cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the disclosure, by including a dust collector configured to empty dust of a robot cleaner, and a dust collector washer configured to wash a dust collector of the robot cleaner, can collect dust in a dust box of the robot cleaner and wash the dust collector of the robot cleaner.

[0025] Further, the robot cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the disclosure can be connected to a water supply pipe and a drain pipe provided in a cabinet including a duct to supply water to a water container and a dust collector of the robot cleaner and wash the dust collector of the robot cleaner.

[0026] Meanwhile, specific components of the robot cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the disclosure can be provided in a horizontal direction to use a limited space formed on the lower portion of a cabinet including a duct.

[0027] In detail, the robot cleaner base station can include a housing disposed in a lower portion of a cabinet including a duct, a base assembly disposed in the housing and in which the robot cleaner is accommodated, an inlet into which the robot cleaner can be accommodated, and a dust collector configured to collect dust in a dust box of the robot cleaner, wherein the inlet is disposed on a front surface of the housing and the dust collector is disposed on a side surface of the inlet.

[0028] Further, the robot cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the disclosure can further include a sweeper washer configured to wash a sweeper of the robot cleaner, wherein the sweeper washer is disposed on a side surface of the inlet.

[0029] In this case, the base assembly is disposed between the dust collector and the sweeper washer.

[0030] Further, a dust bag of the dust collector can be disposed to be extractable forward from the housing.

[0031] Further, a detergent container of the sweeper washer can be disposed to be extractable forward from the housing.

[0032] Meanwhile, the robot cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the disclosure can further include a sweeper dryer configured to dry the sweeper of the robot cleaner, wherein the sweeper dryer is disposed behind the base assembly.

[0033] Meanwhile, the robot cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the disclosure can further include a door disposed in the housing to open and close the inlet, wherein the door is disposed on the front surface of the housing. Accordingly, it is possible to minimize exposure of the outside of the robot cleaner base station.

[0034] With this arrangement, at least a portion of the dust collector can be disposed lower than an uppermost end of the robot cleaner when the robot cleaner is coupled to the base assembly.

[0035] Further, at least a portion of the sweeper washer can be disposed lower than the uppermost end of the robot cleaner when the robot cleaner is coupled to the base assembly.

[0036] Further, at least a portion of the sweeper dryer can be disposed lower than the uppermost end of the robot cleaner when the robot cleaner is coupled to the base assembly.

[0037] Further, in a state in which the robot cleaner is coupled to the base assembly, the base assembly can be divided into three regions in a vertical direction. In this case, the base assembly can include a first region located on the same horizontal space as the detergent container, a second region disposed above the first region and located on the same horizontal space as at least a portion of the dust bag, and a third region disposed above the second region. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0038] Figure 1 is a view for describing a state in which a cleaner system according to an embodiment of the disclosure is installed on the lower side of a cabinet including a pipe.

[0039] Figure 2 is a view for describing a relationship in which a pipe of a cleaner system according to an embodiment of the disclosure is connected to a drain pipe.

[0040] Figure 3a and Figure 3b is a perspective view for describing a cleaner system according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0041] Figure 4 is Figure 3a a plan view.

[0042] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view in a front-rear direction of Figure 3b

[0043] Figure 6 is a perspective view for describing a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0044] Figure 7 is Figure 6 a side view.

[0045] Figure 8 is Figure 6 a bottom view.

[0046] Figure 9 is Figure 6 a rear view.

[0047] Figure 10 is a perspective view for describing a robot cleaner base according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0048] Figure 11 is Figure 10 a plan view.

[0049] Figure 12 is a side view for describing a dust collection flow path of a robot cleaner base according to an embodiment of the disclosure. ​

[0050] Figures 13 to 16 is a cross-sectional view for describing a dust collection flow path of a robot cleaner base according to the embodiment of the disclosure.

[0051] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view showing a discharge hole of a dust collection motor housing of a robot cleaner base according to the embodiment of the disclosure.

[0052] Figures 18 to 20 is a view for describing a circulation flow path of a robot cleaner base according to the embodiment of the disclosure.

[0053] Figure 21 and Figure 22 is a view showing a state in which a part of a bottom surface of a floor member body is removed to describe a circulation flow path of a robot cleaner base according to the embodiment of the disclosure.

[0054] Figure 23 is a perspective view for specifically describing the area A shown in Figure 22

[0055] Figure 24 is an enlarged view for describing a sweeper washer of a robot cleaner base according to the embodiment of the disclosure.

[0056] Figure 25 is an enlarged view for describing a washing water discharge unit of a sweeper washer of a robot cleaner base according to the embodiment of the disclosure.

[0057] Figure 26 is a cross-sectional perspective view for describing a space formed between a washing member coupling unit and a washing member of a robot cleaner base according to the embodiment of the disclosure.

[0058] Figure 27 is a perspective view for describing a sweeper dryer of a robot cleaner base according to the first embodiment of the disclosure.

[0059] Figure 28 and Figure 29 is an enlarged view of a sweeper dryer of a robot cleaner base according to the first embodiment of the disclosure.

[0060] Figure 30 is a cross-sectional view for describing a state in which air flows in a hot air supply module according to the first embodiment of the disclosure.

[0061] Figure 31 is a perspective view for describing a sweeper dryer of a robot cleaner base according to the second embodiment of the disclosure.

[0062] Figure 32a and Figure 32b ​is a view for describing an arrangement relationship of a robot cleaner base station according to the embodiment of the disclosure on a horizontal plane.

[0063] Figure 33 is a view showing a state in which a dust collector and a detergent container are extracted from a robot cleaner base station according to the embodiment of the disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0064] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0065] Since the disclosure can have various changes and various embodiments, specific embodiments are shown in the drawings and are specifically described in the detailed description. This is not intended to limit the disclosure to specific embodiments, but should be interpreted to include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions within the spirit and technical scope of the disclosure.

[0066] In the description of the disclosure, terms such as first and second can be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by the terms. The terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another component for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another component. For example, a second component can be referred to as a first component, and similarly, the first component can also be referred to as a second component without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

[0067] The term "and / or" includes a combination of a plurality of related listed items or any one of a plurality of related listed items.

[0068] When a first component is described as being "connected" or "coupled" to a second component, it can be understood that the first component can be directly connected or coupled to the second component, but a third component can be present therebetween. On the other hand, when a first component is described as being "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to a second component, it can be understood that there is no third component therebetween.

[0069] The terms used in the present application are only used to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the disclosure. The singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0070] In the present application, it can be understood that the term "include" or "have" is intended to mean that there is a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or a combination thereof described in the specification, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0071] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. Terms that are defined in commonly used dictionaries can be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined in this application.

[0072] In addition, the following examples are provided to give a more complete description of the application to those skilled in the art and to better describe the drawings, the shape, size, etc. of the elements in the drawings can be exaggerated.

[0073] Figure 1 is a view for describing a state in which the cleaner system according to an embodiment of the disclosure is installed at a lower side of a cabinet including a pipe, and Figure 2 is a view for describing a relationship in which a pipe of the cleaner system according to the embodiment of the disclosure is connected to a drain pipe.

[0074] The cleaner system 1 according to an embodiment of the disclosure can be disposed at a lower side of a cabinet 2 including a pipe. In an embodiment of the disclosure, the cabinet including a pipe can be kitchen furniture or bathroom furniture. As to the cabinet with a pipe, the pipe can be at least one of a sink pipe, a drain pipe, or a water supply pipe.

[0075] Specifically, when the cabinet including a pipe is the kitchen furniture 2, the kitchen furniture 2 can be disposed in a kitchen to store dishes, plates, cups, etc., and to provide a space in which food can be cooked or dishes can be washed. In addition, the kitchen furniture 2 can be provided with a top plate (a worktable) that can be used as a sink, a cooking table, or a worktable.

[0076] For example, the kitchen furniture 2 can include a kitchen sink located on the top plate, which provides a space in which dishes can be washed. Alternatively, the kitchen furniture 2 can include a cooking table on which a cooking operation is performed. In addition, the kitchen furniture 2 can include a gas stove bracket on which a gas stove, an inductor, a strong light, an oven, etc. are installed. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto. The cleaner system 1 can be disposed under any cabinet with a pipe.

[0077] In general, the kitchen furniture 2 can use a standard cabinet that is 600 mm wide in a left-right direction and 600 mm wide in a front-rear direction. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0078] The cleaner system 1 according to another embodiment of the disclosure can be disposed at a lower side of a structure including at least any one of a water supply pipe and a drain pipe. Specifically, the water supply pipe can be a flow path connected to an external water supply source to supply fluid to the structure, and the drain pipe can be a flow path that discharges fluid discharged from the structure to a sewer.

[0079] The lower portion of the kitchen furniture 2 or structure can be provided with a storage cabinet for storing dishes, kitchen tools, etc. That is, the kitchen furniture 2 or structure can include a top plate 22 providing a space in which an operation such as cooking or dish washing can be performed, a bottom plate 23 provided to be spaced apart from the floor by a predetermined height, and a storage space formed between the top plate 22 and the bottom plate 23 to store dishes, kitchen tools, etc. In this case, when the kitchen furniture 2 is a kitchen sink, a sink 22a can be provided on the top plate 22. However, in another embodiment, the cleaner system 1 can be provided under any cabinet with a sink.

[0080] Further, the bottom plate 23 can be supported by a pedestal 21. The pedestal 21 can be provided in a direction perpendicular to the floor of the kitchen to support the load of the kitchen furniture 2. In this case, according to the height of the pedestal 21, a space can be formed between the floor and the bottom plate 23.

[0081] Alternatively, without the pedestal 21, the kitchen furniture 2 can be fixed to the wall of the building. Even in this case, a space can be formed between the floor and the bottom plate 23.

[0082] As described above, the cleaner system 1 according to the embodiment of the disclosure is installed in a space (hereinafter referred to as an installation space 24) between the floor and the bottom plate 23.

[0083] For example, the installation space 24 can have a height of 200 mm or less, and generally have a height of 160 mm or less. However, the disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0084] Accordingly, according to an embodiment of the disclosure, since the cleaner system 1 is provided in the lower space of the kitchen furniture 2, it is possible to minimize the external exposure of the cleaner system 1.

[0085] Further, compared to a robot cleaner charging base provided in a predetermined space of a living room, a room, or a kitchen, the cleaner system 1 is provided in an unused space formed by the cabinet 2 with a duct without a separate space, and thus it is possible to maximize the space efficiency.

[0086] Meanwhile, the kitchen furniture 2 or structure is provided with a drain 25 through which cooking liquid or water for dish washing can be discharged. At least a portion of the drain 25 can be disposed in the storage space formed between the top plate 22 and the bottom plate 23. In general, the drain 25 can be connected to a drain port formed in the sink 22a of the kitchen sink. The drain 25 includes a U-shaped trap 25a for preventing contaminated gas or odor from flowing back. The U-shaped trap 25a can be disposed in the storage space. Liquid introduced through the drain port flows downward on the upstream side 25b of the U-shaped trap due to gravity, is accumulated in the U-shaped trap 25a, and when the water rises to a predetermined water level or higher set by the U-shaped trap 25a, the water can flow downward along the downstream side 25c of the U-shaped trap and can be discharged to a sewer. The cleaner system 1 according to the embodiment of the disclosure can wash and dry the dust collector 242 of the robot cleaner 200 using the drain 25.

[0087] In addition, the kitchen furniture 2 can be provided with a water supply pipe. Clean water (or purified water) can be supplied to the cleaner system 1 through the water supply pipe.

[0088] Hereinafter, a specific structure of the cleaner system 1 will be described.

[0089] Meanwhile, FIGS. 3 to Figure 5 are views for describing a robot cleaner according to the cleaner system according to the embodiment of the disclosure.

[0090] The cleaner system 1 according to the embodiment of the disclosure can include a robot cleaner base 100 and a robot cleaner 200.

[0091] The cleaner system 1 includes the robot cleaner base 100. The robot cleaner 200 can be coupled to the robot cleaner base 100. In particular, the robot cleaner 200 can enter a front entrance of the robot cleaner base 100, and the robot cleaner 200 can be accommodated within the robot cleaner base 100. Additionally, the robot cleaner base 100 can remove dust in a dust box 220 of the robot cleaner 200. Further, the robot cleaner base 100 can wash a rotary cleaning unit 240 of the robot cleaner 200. The robot cleaner base 100 can dry the rotary cleaning unit 240 of the robot cleaner 200. The robot cleaner base 100 can supply power to the robot cleaner 200.

[0092] Meanwhile, Figures 6 to 9 are views for describing a robot cleaner in the cleaner system according to the embodiment of the disclosure.

[0093] Hereinafter, a structure of the robot cleaner 200 will be described with reference to Figures 6 to 9 .

[0094] The robot cleaner 200 can automatically clean a to-be-cleaned area by sucking foreign substances such as dust from the floor while autonomously traveling in the to-be-cleaned area.

[0095] The robot cleaner 200 according to this embodiment of the disclosure is disposed on a floor to clean the floor while moving along a floor surface. Accordingly, the following description is made by setting a vertical direction based on a state in which the robot cleaner 200 is disposed on the floor.

[0096] Further, based on a pair of wheels 260, the description is made by setting a side on which an auxiliary wheel 270 to be described below is located as a front side, and setting a side on which a rotating cleaning unit 240 to be described below is located as a rear side.

[0097] The "lowest portion" of each component described in the plurality of embodiments of the disclosure can be a lowest portion of each component when the robot cleaner 200 according to this embodiment of the disclosure is used by being disposed on a floor, or can be a portion closest to the floor.

[0098] The robot cleaner 200 according to this embodiment of the disclosure includes a body 210, a dust box 220, a water container 230, a rotating cleaning unit 240, an agitator 250, a wheel 260, an auxiliary wheel 270, and a charging terminal 280. The body 210 can form an overall appearance of the robot cleaner 200. Components of the robot cleaner 200 can be coupled to the body 210, and some components of the robot cleaner 200 can be accommodated in the body 210.

[0099] Specifically, the body 210 can dispose components of the robot cleaner 200 in an inner space thereof. As an example, the body 210 can accommodate a battery and at least one motor in the inner space.

[0100] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the body 210 can have a shape in which a width (or diameter) in a horizontal direction (a direction parallel to X and Y) is greater than a height in a vertical direction (a direction parallel to Z). The body 210 can support the robot cleaner 200 to have a stable structure, and provide an advantageous structure to avoid obstacles while the robot cleaner 200 moves (travels).

[0101] The body 210 can have various shapes such as a circular shape, an elliptical shape, or a quadrangular shape when viewed from the top or the bottom, but the disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0102] Additionally, the body 210 can be divided into a lower body and an upper body, which can be coupled to form an internal space. The lower body can be coupled to the upper body to form a space in which a battery, at least one sensor, and at least one motor can be accommodated.

[0103] A hole for accommodating the suction unit 211 and the pair of wheels 260 can be formed in the lower body, through which air enters.

[0104] The suction unit 211 can be a passage through which dust on the floor is introduced into the robot cleaner 200. In addition, the suction unit 211 can be in communication with a suction flow path formed inside the body 210, and the suction flow path can be in communication with the internal space of the dust box 220.

[0105] Meanwhile, a discharge flow path can also be provided in the lower body. The discharge flow path can have one side in communication with the internal space of the dust box 220 and the other side in communication with a discharge port. In this case, a filter can be provided on the discharge port.

[0106] With this configuration, air introduced through the suction unit 211 can flow into the dust box 220 through the suction flow path, and can be discharged to the discharge port through the discharge flow path.

[0107] The agitator 250 to be described below can be rotatably accommodated in the suction unit 211. With this configuration, dust around the suction unit 211 can be guided into the suction unit 211 by rotation of the agitator 250, and the efficiency of sucking dust can be improved.

[0108] The upper body can form the upper appearance of the robot cleaner 200. Additionally, a display can be provided on the upper body.

[0109] Further, the robot cleaner 200 according to an embodiment of the disclosure can include a bumper. The bumper is coupled along the edge of the body 210 and is configured to be relatively movable with respect to the body 210.

[0110] The bumper can be coupled along a portion of the edge of the body 210, or coupled along the entire edge of the body 210. At least one elastic member can be provided between the bumper and the body 210. With this configuration, when the bumper comes into contact with an obstacle or the like to be relatively moved toward the center of the body 210, the bumper can return to the initial position by the restoring force of the elastic member, and the transmission of impact to the bumper can be prevented and reduced by absorbing or dispersing the impact applied to the bumper.

[0111] The dust box 220 can be provided to store dust suctioned by the suction unit 211. The dust box 220 can store dust introduced through the suction flow path. The dust box 220 can have a dust inlet communicating with the suction flow path, an internal space that can store dust, and an air outlet that can discharge air. The dust box 220 can be provided inside the body 210. In this case, according to an embodiment, the dust box 220 can not only be coupled to the body 210 but also be detachable.

[0112] Meanwhile, in the present disclosure, a dust discharge flow path can be formed in the dust box 220. The dust discharge flow path can allow the internal space of the dust box 220 to communicate with the external space of the robot cleaner 200. With this configuration, when dust is collected by the robot cleaner base 100, dust inside the dust box 220 can be removed.

[0113] Meanwhile, according to this embodiment of the present disclosure, a dust outlet 221 communicating with the dust discharge flow path can be formed in the dust box 220. As an example, the dust outlet 221 can be formed at one side of the rear outer surface (or the outer peripheral surface) of the body 210. As another example, the dust outlet 221 can be formed on the outer surface of the dust box 220.

[0114] Further, the robot cleaner 200 according to this embodiment of the present disclosure can be provided with a dust box door 222 that can selectively open and close the dust outlet 221. Specifically, the dust box door 222 can be coupled to the body 210 and provided at a position where the dust outlet 221 can be clogged. As an example, the dust box door 222 can be made of a rubber or resin material and provided in a reversible manner such that one side can be fixedly coupled to the body 210, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0115] With this configuration, when the dust collecting motor 152 of the robot cleaner base 100, which will be described hereinafter, is operated, the driving force of the dust collecting motor 152 can elastically deform the dust box door 222, and since the dust outlet 221 is open, dust in the dust box 220 can be collected in the dust collector 140 of the robot cleaner base 100.

[0116] Next, the water container 230 can be provided in the form of a container having an internal space so as to store a liquid such as water inside thereof. The water container 230 can be provided inside the body 210 and can be fixedly coupled to the body 210 or detachably coupled to the body 210.

[0117] The water container 230 includes a supply unit 231 and a nozzle. The supply unit 231 can be provided to supply an external liquid such as water. For example, the supply unit 231 can have an injection port formed at the other side of the rear outer surface (or the outer circumferential surface) of the body 210, and can be connected to a storage space inside the water container 230 through a water supply hose.

[0118] In this case, the supply unit 231 can be provided at the opposite side of the robot cleaner 200 in the left-right direction in relation to the dust outlet 221. For example, when the dust outlet 221 is provided at the left rear side of the body 210, the supply unit 231 can be provided at the right rear side of the body 210.

[0119] With this configuration, the robot cleaner base 100 can simultaneously collect dust and spray water in a state in which the robot cleaner 200 is coupled to the robot cleaner base 100.

[0120] Meanwhile, the nozzle is formed in the form of a tube or a pipe and is connected to the water container 230 so that the liquid inside the water container 230 can flow through the inside of the nozzle. The nozzle can have one side connected to the water container 230 and the other end portion provided to be located above the pair of rotating plates 241, so that the liquid inside the water container 230 can be supplied to each of the pair of dust sweepers 242.

[0121] That is, the nozzle can be formed in the form of one pipe in two branches, and in this case, one end portion of any one branch can be located above the left rotating plate, and one end portion of the other branch can be located above the right rotating plate.

[0122] Meanwhile, although not shown, the water container 230 can be provided with a pump to flow water inside the water container 230 to the nozzle. Thus, when the pump of the water container 230 is operated, the liquid stored in the water container 230 can be discharged to the rotating cleaning unit 240 through the nozzle.

[0123] The rotating cleaning unit 240 includes rotating plates 241 and dust sweepers 242. The rotating plates 241 can be provided as a pair of left and right rotating plates, and the dust sweepers 242 can be provided as a pair of left and right dust sweepers. Further, the rotating plates 241 can be rotatably provided on the bottom surface of the body 210, and the dust sweepers 242 can be coupled to the lower side thereof.

[0124] The rotating plate 241 is configured to have a predetermined area, and is configured in the form of a flat plate, a flat frame, or the like. The rotating plate 241 is generally placed horizontally, and thus has a shape in which a width (or diameter) in a horizontal direction is substantially greater than a height in a vertical direction. The rotating plate 241 coupled to the body 210 can be parallel to the floor surface B or can be inclined to the floor surface B. The rotating plate 241 can be formed in a circular plate shape, a bottom surface of the rotating plate 241 can be substantially circular, and the rotating plate 241 can be completely rotationally symmetrical, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Also, the pair of rotating plates 241 can be symmetrical.

[0125] The sweeper 242 can be coupled to a lower side of the rotating plate 241 to face the floor surface B. The sweeper 242 is formed such that a bottom surface facing the floor has a predetermined area, and the sweeper 242 is formed in a flat shape. The sweeper 242 is formed in a shape in which a width (or diameter) in a horizontal direction is substantially greater than a height in a vertical direction. When the sweeper 242 is coupled to the body 210 side, the bottom surface of the sweeper 242 can be parallel to the floor surface B or can be inclined to the floor surface B.

[0126] The bottom surface of the sweeper 242 can be substantially circular, and the sweeper 242 can be completely rotationally symmetrical. Also, the sweeper 242 can be detachably attached to a bottom surface of the rotating plate 241 and coupled to the rotating plate 241 to rotate together with the rotating plate 241.

[0127] Meanwhile, although not shown, the rotating cleaning unit 240 can be provided with a driving unit to provide a rotating force to the rotating plate 241. For example, the driving unit can include a motor and at least one gear. Thus, when the driving unit is operated, the rotating plate 241 and the sweeper 242 rotate to wipe and clean the floor surface B.

[0128] Next, the agitator 250 can be rotatably provided with a plurality of brushes to guide external dust and air to the dust box 220. In this case, the agitator 250 can be provided with at least one gear.

[0129] Meanwhile, the agitator 250 according to the present embodiment can be provided with a separate agitator motor to receive a rotating power, and according to an embodiment, it can receive a rotating power from a driving motor, and can receive a rotating power from a driving unit of the rotating cleaning unit 240.

[0130] The wheel 260 can be provided on a bottom surface of the body 210 and connected to the driving unit. In this case, the driving unit can be coupled to the body 210. The wheel 260 can be provided on the body 210 and can roll on the floor surface B.

[0131] The wheels 260 can be composed of a first driving wheel and a second driving wheel. In this case, the first driving wheel can be configured to be identical or symmetrical to the second driving wheel. As an example, when the first driving wheel is located at the left side of the robot cleaner 200, the second driving wheel can be located at the right side of the robot cleaner 200, and in this case, the first driving wheel and the second driving wheel can be symmetrical in the left-right direction.

[0132] The driving unit can include a driving motor and a gear. In this case, the driving motor can be accommodated within the body 210 and can power the wheels 260. The driving motor can include a first driving motor and a second driving motor.

[0133] The driving motor can be configured as an electric motor. The plurality of gears are configured to rotate by being engaged, connecting the driving motor to the wheels 260, and transmitting the rotational power of the driving motor to the wheels 260. Accordingly, when the rotational shaft of the driving motor rotates, the wheels 260 can rotate.

[0134] With this configuration, when the driving motor operates, the wheels 260 can rotate, and the body 210 can travel on the floor surface B at a predetermined travel speed.

[0135] The auxiliary wheels 270 can be provided on the lower surface of the body 210 and can roll on the floor surface B (the surface to be cleaned). The auxiliary wheels 270 can support the body 210 on the floor surface B together with the pair of wheels 260. With this configuration, the auxiliary wheels 270 can minimize the friction between the robot cleaner 200 and the floor surface B and can simultaneously guide the movement of the robot cleaner 200.

[0136] The suction motor can generate a suction force capable of sucking external dust and air through the suction unit 211. As an example, the suction motor can be an electric motor. The external dust and air can flow into the suction unit 211 by the suction force generated by the suction motor and reach the dust box 220 after passing through the suction flow path.

[0137] Although not shown, a battery is coupled to the body 210 in order to power other components of the robot cleaner 200. The battery can power at least one motor provided in the robot cleaner 200. For example, the battery can power the motors provided in the rotating cleaning unit 240, the agitator 250, the wheels 260, and the suction motor. In addition, the battery can power the sensor unit and the control unit.

[0138] The battery can be charged by an external power source, and for this, a charging terminal 280 for charging can be provided at a side of the body 210. For example, the charging terminal 280 can be provided on a rear outer surface of the body 210. When the robot cleaner 200 is coupled to the robot cleaner base 100, the charging terminal 280 can receive power by being in contact with the power terminal 123b of the robot cleaner base 100.

[0139] Figure 10 is a perspective view of a robot cleaner base according to an embodiment of the disclosure, and Figure 11 is Figure 10 a plan view of the robot cleaner base of

[0140] A robot cleaner base 100 according to an embodiment of the disclosure will be described below with reference to Figure 10 and Figure 11

[0141] The robot cleaner 200 can be accommodated in the robot cleaner base 100. The robot cleaner 200 can be coupled to the base assembly 120 of the robot cleaner base 100. Further, the base assembly 120 can also be referred to as a seat unit.

[0142] The robot cleaner base 100 can include a housing 110. The housing 110 can form an appearance of the robot cleaner base 100. As an example, the housing 110 can be formed in a shape similar to a hexahedron including at least one outer wall surface.

[0143] The housing 110 can include the base assembly 120, a dust collection flow path 130, a dust collector 140, a dust collector motor 152, a sweeper cleaner washer 160, a sweeper cleaner dryer 170, and a circulation flow path 125a.

[0144] The housing 110 can be installed at a lower side of the ducted cabinet 2. In particular, the housing 110 can be installed in the installation space 24 formed between the floor panel 23 of the ducted cabinet 2 and the floor.

[0145] The housing 110 includes a pair of outer wall surfaces 111 facing each other. The outer wall surface 111 can be a surface formed in a direction of gravity.

[0146] ​As an example, the pair of outer wall surfaces can be installed at a predetermined interval on the lower side of the cabinet 2 with a duct. As another example, the housing 110 can further include a bottom surface facing a floor, and the pair of outer wall surfaces can be connected through the bottom surface. As another example, the housing 110 can further include a bottom surface facing a floor and a top surface facing the lower panel 23 of the cabinet 2 with a duct, and the pair of outer wall surfaces can be connected through the bottom surface and the top surface. As another example, the housing 110 can further include a bottom surface facing a building wall, a top surface, and a rear surface.

[0147] With this configuration, the components of the robot cleaner base 100 can be accommodated within the housing 110 (between the pair of outer wall surfaces).

[0148] Meanwhile, the housing 110 can be provided in a form in which the upper and lower surfaces of the pair of outer wall surfaces 111 are closed by a housing cover. With this configuration, even when foreign matter falls from the cabinet 2 with a duct, the robot cleaner 200 and the components of the robot cleaner base 100 are not affected by the foreign matter, and contamination can be prevented.

[0149] Further, the robot cleaner 200 can be accommodated within the housing 110. The housing 110 can be provided such that the pair of outer wall surfaces has a gap that is greater than the maximum width of the robot cleaner 200 in a horizontal direction. With this configuration, the robot cleaner 200 can enter and exit the housing 110.

[0150] In this case, in the present embodiment, the robot cleaner 200 can enter and exit the front of the robot cleaner base 100. Here, the front can be a direction in which the door 126 is provided with respect to the inside of the robot cleaner base 100.

[0151] Further, the rear can be a direction opposite to the front with respect to the inside of the robot cleaner base 100. For example, a building wall can be provided at the rear of the robot cleaner base 100. Additionally, the rear of the cabinet 2 with a duct can correspond to the rear of the robot cleaner base 100.

[0152] Further, when the front is viewed from the inside of the robot cleaner base 100, the left side can be referred to as a left chamber, and the right side can be referred to as a right chamber. That is, the outer wall surfaces of the robot cleaner base 100 can be provided in each of the left and right chambers.

[0153] Accordingly, the top side of the housing 110 can be covered by the cabinet 2 with a duct, and the bottom side of the housing 110 can be covered by a floor. Also, the left and right surfaces of the housing 110 exist in a state covered by the outer wall, but are disposed in the lower portion of the cabinet 2 with a duct. In this case, since the portion of the lower portion of the cabinet 2 with a duct other than the robot cleaner base 100 is completed by the base plate 26, as a result, only the front surface of the housing 110 can be exposed to the outside of the cabinet with a duct. Accordingly, it is possible to minimize the exposure of the outside of the robot cleaner base 100 and the robot cleaner 200. With this configuration, the robot cleaner base 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure can provide a user with aesthetic sense in terms of internal design.

[0154] Meanwhile, a space through which a water supply hose connected to a water supply pipe passes and a space through which a drain hose discharging waste water generated after cleaning the dust collector 242 passes can be provided in the housing 110, and a space through which a hose for discharging moisture generated in the drying process of the dust collector 242 passes can be provided therein. For example, the spaces through which the hoses pass can be formed in at least one of the top surface, the rear surface, and the outer wall surface of the housing 110.

[0155] Also, the robot cleaner base 100 can include a base assembly 120. The robot cleaner 200 and the robot cleaner base 100 can be connected in a physical, electrical, and / or flow path manner through the base assembly 120. The base assembly 120 can be disposed in the housing 110. In this case, according to an embodiment, the base assembly 120 can be disposed to be drawn out of the housing 110 by the drawer 190. With this configuration, when the base assembly 120 needs to be cleaned or repaired, or some components thereof need to be replaced, a user can easily draw out and manage the base assembly 120.

[0156] The entrance 127 through which the robot cleaner 200 can enter or exit the base assembly 120 can be provided in the front of the housing 110.

[0157] The size of the entrance 127 can be set to allow the robot cleaner 200 to pass therethrough. That is, the height of the entrance 127 is set to be greater than the height of the robot cleaner 200. In this case, the entrance 127 can be a space provided upward in a vertical direction from the front end portion of the bottom member 121, which will be described below, and the upper end of the entrance can be the upper end of the housing 110 or the bottom surface of the floor 23 of the cabinet 2 with a duct.

[0158] Further, the entrance 127 is provided to have a width in the left-right direction greater than a maximum width of the robot cleaner 200. In this case, at least one of the dust collector 140 and the dusting cleaner 160 can be provided at left and right sides of the entrance 127. Accordingly, left and right end portions of the entrance 127 can form boundaries with the dust collector 140 and the dusting cleaner 160. When either of the dust collector 140 and the dusting cleaner 160 is not present, an outer wall surface of the housing 110 can become a boundary. Further, the dust collector 140 can also be referred to as a dust collecting unit.

[0159] In this case, the entrance 127 can be opened and closed by a door 126. The door 126 can be provided at an upper end of the entrance 127 and provided with a rotation shaft in a direction parallel to the bottom member 121. The door 126 can be hingedly coupled to the housing 110. Alternatively, the door 126 can be hingedly coupled to the side wall 124 of the base assembly 120. The door 126 can be rotated by a door driving unit 126a. As an example, the door driving unit 126a can be a motor.

[0160] For example, the door 126 can be provided as a rectangular flat plate and can have an upper end provided with a hinge unit 126b, and the door driving unit 126a can be connected to one end of the hinge unit 126b in an axial direction. In this case, the hinge unit 126b of the door 126 can be directly connected to a shaft of the door driving unit 126a and connected to transmit power through at least one gear.

[0161] The door 126 can maintain a closed state of the entrance 127 in a state in which the robot cleaner 200 is accommodated in the base assembly 120. Further, when the robot cleaner 200 starts to travel from the base assembly 120, the robot cleaner 200 can be rotated to open the entrance 127. Further, after the robot cleaner 200 passes through the entrance 127, the door 126 can be rotated to close the entrance 127. Further, when the robot cleaner 200 approaches the cleaner base 100 from the outside, the door 126 can be rotated to open the entrance 127.

[0162] The base assembly 120 can include an accommodation space S, a bottom member 121, a coupling wall 123, and a side wall 124.

[0163] The robot cleaner 200 can be accommodated in the accommodation space S of the base assembly 120. As an example, the accommodation space S can be a space surrounded by the bottom member 121, the coupling wall 123, and the side wall 124. As another example, the accommodation space S can be a space surrounded by the bottom member 121, the washing member 122, the coupling wall 123, and the side wall 124. As another example, the accommodation space S can be a space in which the robot cleaner 200 is positioned in a state in which the robot cleaner 200 is coupled to the power terminal 123b, or a space in which the robot cleaner 200 is positioned in a state in which the dust box 220 of the robot cleaner 200 is in communication with the dust passage hole 123a.

[0164] The bottom member 121 is a component that can be disposed to bring the robot cleaner base 100 into contact with the floor surface B, and can support the robot cleaner 200 when the robot cleaner 200 is coupled to the robot cleaner base 100. The bottom member 121 can include a bottom member body 121a, an inclined portion 121b, a wheel coupling portion 121c, an agitator accommodation portion 121d, and a washing member coupling portion 121e.

[0165] The bottom member body 121a can form the overall appearance of the bottom member 121. The inclined portion 121b, the wheel coupling portion 121c, the agitator accommodation portion 121d, and the washing member coupling portion 121e can be disposed on the bottom member body 121a.

[0166] The bottom member body 121a can have a shape in which the width (or diameter) in the horizontal direction (a direction parallel to X and Y) is greater than the height in the vertical direction (a direction parallel to Z). With this structure, the robot cleaner base 100 can be stably supported on the floor surface B.

[0167] The circulation flow path 125a can be disposed inside the bottom member body 121a. Accordingly, air discharged from the dust collecting motor 152 can flow through the circulation flow path 125a formed inside the bottom member body 121a, and can be discharged through the discharge port 125b.

[0168] The inclined portion 121b can be disposed at an entrance of the bottom member body 121a, at which the robot cleaner 200 moves upward. The inclined portion 121b can have a shape inclined upward in front along the direction in which the robot cleaner 200 enters. More specifically, the inclined portion 121b can be connected such that the front end portion of the entrance side has no height difference from the ground, and can have a shape inclined upward in front along the direction in which the robot cleaner 200 enters. Accordingly, the robot cleaner 200 can easily move upward from the ground to the robot cleaner base 100.

[0169] The inclined portion 121b can be provided with a wheel guide portion 121ba. The wheel guide portion 121ba can be formed in the form of a groove to guide movement of the wheel 260 of the robot cleaner 200. A surface of the wheel guide portion 121ba can be provided to correspond to a surface of the wheel 260 so that the robot cleaner 200 can stably travel. Also, the wheel guide portion 121ba can be provided to have a groove width greater than a width of the wheel 260 at an entrance of an upward movement of the robot cleaner 200, and to have a groove of a smaller width than the entrance forward from the upward movement path of the robot cleaner 200. Thus, the wheel 260 of the robot cleaner 200 can easily enter the robot cleaner base 100, and the wheel 260 can be guided to a correct position due to the restriction of left and right movement by the groove of which the width is gradually reduced.

[0170] The inclined portion 121b can be provided with an auxiliary wheel guide portion 121bb. The auxiliary wheel guide portion 121bb can be provided as a groove to guide movement of the auxiliary wheel 270 of the robot cleaner 200. Also, the auxiliary wheel guide portion 121bb can be provided to protrude to be in contact with the auxiliary wheel 270 when the wheel 260 of the robot cleaner 200 is seated on the wheel guide portion 121ba. Thus, the robot cleaner 200 can travel while being stably supported by both the wheel 260 and the auxiliary wheel 270 when the robot cleaner 200 travels on the inclined portion 121b.

[0171] The wheel 260 of the robot cleaner 200 moving upward along the wheel guide portion 121ba can be seated on a wheel coupling portion 121c. When the wheel 260 of the robot cleaner 200 is seated on the wheel coupling portion 121c, the robot cleaner 200 and the robot cleaner base 100 can be physically coupled. A surface of the wheel coupling portion 121c can be provided to correspond to a surface of the wheel 260 so that the robot cleaner 200 can stably stop. The wheel coupling portion 121c can extend from an upper end of the wheel guide portion 121ba. The wheel coupling portion 121c can be connected to the wheel guide portion 121ba without any step. Thus, the robot cleaner 200 can easily move to the wheel coupling portion 121c through the inclined portion 121b.

[0172] The wheel coupling portion 121c can be provided at a stop position of the left and right wheels 260 of the robot cleaner 200 so that the robot cleaner 200 stops at a correct position. Here, the stop position of the wheel 260 is a position determined so that the robot cleaner 200 stops to be coupled to the power terminal 123b, and / or a position determined so that the dust box 220 of the robot cleaner 200 stops to be in communication with the dust passage 123a.

[0173] The shape of the wheel coupling portion 121c can be set to a shape corresponding to the shape of the wheel 260 of the robot cleaner 200, that is, an arc shape. With this configuration, the robot cleaner 200 can move along the wheel guide portion 121ba and then stop while the wheel 260 is inserted into the wheel coupling portion 121c, and the wheel 260 can be stably seated on the arc-shaped wheel coupling portion 121c.

[0174] The agitator 250 of the robot cleaner 200 can be accommodated in the agitator accommodation portion 121d. Specifically, the agitator accommodation portion 121d can provide a space to accommodate the agitator 250 of the robot cleaner 200 in a state in which the wheel 260 of the robot cleaner 200 is seated on the wheel coupling portion 121c.

[0175] The agitator accommodation portion 121d can include a recessed portion 121da and a protruded portion 121db. The recessed portion 121da can be formed to be recessed in the bottom member 121. The recessed portion 121da can form an accommodation space 121dc to accommodate at least a portion of the agitator 250. Accordingly, at least a portion of the agitator 250 can be accommodated in the accommodation space 121dc of the recessed portion 121da in a state in which the wheel 260 of the robot cleaner 200 is seated on the wheel coupling portion 121c.

[0176] The accommodation space 121dc of the recessed portion 121da can communicate with the accommodation space S of the base assembly 120.

[0177] The discharge port 125b can be provided at one side of the recessed portion 121da. Specifically, the discharge port 125b can be provided on one side surface of the recessed portion 121da. Accordingly, air discharged from the dust collecting motor 152 and passing through the circulation flow path 125a can be discharged to the accommodation space 121dc of the recessed portion 121da through the discharge port 125b.

[0178] Further, the protruded portion 121db can be provided to protrude from the bottom member 121. The protruded portion 121db can be provided along an edge of the recessed portion 121da. Also, in a state in which the agitator 250 is accommodated in the accommodation space 121dc of the recessed portion 121da, the protruded portion 121db can be disposed to be spaced apart from the body 210 of the robot cleaner 200 by a predetermined distance.

[0179] The protruded portion 121db can guide air discharged to the suction unit 211 of the robot cleaner 200 through the discharge port 125b. Accordingly, air discharged to the accommodation space 121dc of the recessed portion 121da can be guided to the suction unit 211 of the robot cleaner 200 through the protruded portion 121db.

[0180] Further, an agitator accommodation portion 121d can be disposed between the wheel coupling portions 121c. The agitator accommodation portion 121d can be disposed to correspond to a shape of an agitator 250 of the robot cleaner 200. The agitator accommodation portion 121d can be disposed to have a cuboid shape with an open top, however, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. A lower surface of the agitator accommodation portion 121d can be sealed by a bottom surface of the bottom member body 121a or a bottom surface of the housing 110. Accordingly, the agitator 250 of the robot cleaner 200 moving upward along the inclined portion 121b can be seated in a recess 121da passing through an open upper surface of the agitator accommodation portion 121d. In this case, a depth of the recess 121da can be formed to be smaller than a depth of the wheel coupling portion 121c.

[0181] The discharge port 125b can be disposed in the agitator accommodation portion 121d. The discharge port 125b can be disposed on a side surface of the agitator accommodation portion 121d. The discharge port 125b can connect the recess 121da of the agitator accommodation portion 121d to the dust collecting motor 152 through the circulation flow path 125a. The recess 121da of the agitator accommodation portion 121d can be in communication with the circulation flow path 125a through the discharge port 125b. Accordingly, air discharged from the dust collecting motor 152 can pass through the discharge port 125b and can be discharged to the recess 121da of the agitator accommodation portion 121d.

[0182] Next, the coupling wall 123 is a member on which a dust passage hole 123a of the robot cleaner base 100, a power terminal 123b, and a water supply nozzle 123c are disposed. The coupling wall 123 can spatially separate the accommodation space S from the members of the robot cleaner base 100. The coupling wall 123 can extend from the rear side of the bottom member 121 in a direction intersecting the bottom member 121. Further, the coupling wall 123 can extend from the rear side of the bottom member 121 in a vertical direction. The coupling wall 123 can be disposed to correspond to a shape of the robot cleaner 200. For example, the coupling wall 123 can be disposed to have an arc shape with a predetermined radius. With this configuration, an outer side of the robot cleaner 200 can be encircled, and an area capable of facing an outer surface of the robot cleaner 200 can be increased. Further, the robot cleaner 200 can be stably supported.

[0183] A dust passage hole 123a can be provided in the base assembly 120 so that external air of the housing 110 can flow therein. In particular, the dust passage hole 123a can be provided in the coupling wall 123 of the base assembly 120 so that external air of the housing 110 can flow therein. The dust passage hole 123a can communicate with the dust box 220 of the robot cleaner 200. The dust passage hole 123a can communicate with the dust outlet 221 of the dust box 220 of the robot cleaner 200. Further, the dust passage hole 123a can be provided in a hole shape corresponding to a shape of the dust box 220 so that dust in the dust box 220 flows into the dust collector 140. The dust passage hole 123a can be provided in a shape corresponding to the dust outlet 221 of the dust box 220. In addition, the dust passage hole 123a can be provided to communicate with the dust collection flow path 130. Air suctioned into the dust passage hole 123a can flow through the dust collection flow path 130 and then can be discharged through the discharge unit 125.

[0184] The power terminal 123b can supply power to the robot cleaner 200 coupled to the base assembly 120. The power terminal 123b can be electrically connected by contacting the charging terminal 280 of the robot cleaner 200. The power terminal 123b can be provided in the base assembly 120. In particular, the power terminal 123b can be provided on the coupling wall 123.

[0185] The robot cleaner base station 100 can further include a water supply nozzle 123c. The water supply nozzle 123c can be connected to the supply unit 231 of the water container 230 of the robot cleaner 200. In particular, the water supply nozzle 123c can be connected to the injection port of the water container 230. The injection port is a component connected to the water container 230 of the robot cleaner 200. The water supply nozzle 123c can supply water supplied from a water supply pipe of the cabinet 2 including a duct to a storage space within the water container 230 of the robot cleaner 200.

[0186] Next, the side wall 124 is a component for spatially separating the accommodation space S of the base assembly 120 from components of the robot cleaner base station 100. A pair of side walls 124 can be provided on left and right sides of the bottom member 121. The side wall 124 can be connected to both ends of the coupling wall 123. The side wall 124 can extend from left and right sides of the bottom member 121 in a direction intersecting the bottom member 121. In particular, the side wall 124 can extend in a vertical direction from left and right sides of the bottom member 121. The height of the side wall 124 can be provided to correspond to the height of the leg 21. In particular, the height of the side wall 124 can be formed to be the same as the height of the leg 21.

[0187] Meanwhile, various components, such as the dust collection path 130, dust collector 140, dust collection motor 152, detergent container 163, and wastewater container 164, can be disposed outside the side wall 124. Specifically, the dust collector 140, detergent container 163, and wastewater container 164 can be accommodated in the space between the outer wall surface of the housing 110 and the side wall 124.

[0188] The dust collector 140 and detergent container 163 can be slidably separated from the space between the outer wall surface and side wall 124 of the housing 110 (see...). Figure 19 The widths of the dust collector 140 and the detergent container 163 in the left-right direction can be set to correspond to the distance between the outer wall surface of the housing 110 and the side wall 124.

[0189] The cleaning component connecting portion 121e is a component on which the cleaning component 122, which will be described below, is housed. The cleaning component connecting portion 121e may be located on the rear side of the bottom component body 121a. The cleaning component connecting portion 121e may be configured to correspond to the cleaning component 122, such that the cleaning component 122 can be inserted.

[0190] The cleaning component 122 is a component for cleaning the dust collector of the robot cleaner 200, and the cleaning component 122 can be mounted on the cleaning component connecting portion 121e of the bottom component 121.

[0191] The protrusion 122a and the drain hole 122b can be provided in the cleaning member 122. When the drive unit of the rotating cleaning unit 240 is driven while the vacuum cleaner 242 of the robot cleaner 200 is mounted on the cleaning member 122, the vacuum cleaner 242 rotates. In this case, when the vacuum cleaner 242 rotates while cleaning water is supplied to the cleaning member, the vacuum cleaner 242 can be cleaned while rubbing against the protrusion 122a, which remains stationary.

[0192] Furthermore, the cleaning member 122 can be configured to slope downward toward its center. Thus, the cleaning water flowing along the inclined cleaning member 122 can clean the dust collector 242 and can then be discharged through the drain hole 122b into the space formed between the cleaning member 122 and the cleaning member connection portion 121e.

[0193] The dust collector 140 can collect dust from the dust box 220 of the robot cleaner 200. The dust collection part 140 can be disposed inside the housing 110. The dust collector 140 can be disposed outside the base assembly 120. In this case, the receiving space S can be disposed inside the base assembly 120.

[0194] The dust collector 140 can include a dust collector housing 141, a dust bag, a filter 142, and a dust bag drawer 144. The dust collector housing 141 can form a space in which the dust bag, the filter 142, and the dust bag drawer 144 can be accommodated.

[0195] The dust collector housing 141 can be coupled to the dust bag drawer 144 therein such that the dust bag drawer 144 can be withdrawn therefrom, and the dust bag can be stored within the dust bag drawer 144. For example, the dust collector housing 141 can be formed in the form of a rectangular tube having an open front portion, and a rear inner space can communicate with the first flow path 131 and the second flow path 132.

[0196] The dust collector housing 141 can have one side inside communicating with the first flow path 131 and the other side communicating with the second flow path 132. Further, when the dust bag is coupled to the dust collector housing 141, the dust bag can communicate with the first flow path 131 inside the dust collector housing 141.

[0197] The dust bag can be a dust bag for collecting dust drawn from the inside of the dust box 220 of the robot cleaner 200 by the dust collecting motor 152. The dust bag can be detachably coupled to the dust collector housing 141. Accordingly, the dust bag can be separated from the dust collector housing 141 and discarded, and a new dust bag can be coupled to the dust collector housing 141. That is, the dust bag can be defined as a disposable component.

[0198] Further, the dust bag can be provided such that, when suction force is generated by the dust collecting motor 152, dust will be contained therein as the volume increases.

[0199] To this end, the dust bag can be made of a material that allows air to be filtered but does not allow foreign matter such as dust to be filtered. For example, the dust bag can be made of a non-woven material, and can have a hexahedral shape corresponding to the shape of the dust collector housing 141 as the volume increases. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0200] Alternatively, the dust bag can be made of a non-permeable material. For example, the dust bag can include a roll vinyl, however, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. With this configuration, when the dust bag is sealed or bonded, it is possible to prevent dust or odor collected in the dust bag from leaking from the dust bag. In this case, the dust bag can be mounted on the dust collector housing 141 through a dust cartridge. If necessary, the dust bag can be replaced through the dust cartridge.

[0201] The filter 142 can be provided between the dust collector housing 141 and the second flow path 132. The filter 142 can be provided at the outlet 141b. The filter 142 can be a pre-filter or a HEPA filter. Air passing through the dust bag can flow into the second flow path 132 through the filter 142.

[0202] The filter 142 can be provided between the dust collector housing 141 and the second flow path 132. The filter 142 can be provided at the outlet 141b. The filter 142 can be a pre-filter or a HEPA filter. The air passing through the dust bag can flow into the second flow path 132 through the filter 142.

[0203] The dust bag drawer 144 can be coupled to be drawn out from the dust collector housing 141, and the dust bag can be accommodated therein. In this case, the dust bag drawer 144 includes a dust bag drawer body 144a, a handle 144d, and a drawer guide rail 144e.

[0204] The dust bag drawer body 144a can provide a space in which the dust bag is coupled. For example, the dust bag drawer body 144a can be formed in the form of a box having an open top, and an inlet 144b and an outlet 144c can be formed to communicate with the first flow path 131 and the second flow path 132 at the rear of the dust bag drawer body 144a.

[0205] For example, the dust bag drawer body 144a can be formed to have upper and lower sides having different widths in the left-right direction. For example, the width of the upper side of the dust bag drawer body 144a in the left-right direction can be formed to be greater than the width of the lower side in the left-right direction. That is, the inside of the dust bag drawer body 144a can be formed to have a stage. Accordingly, an upper space in which the dust bag is disposed can be maximized, and a flow path can be formed so that the air passing through the dust bag can be easily discharged downward.

[0206] The upper side of the dust bag drawer body 144a can communicate with the first flow path 131 through the inlet 144b. The inlet 144b can be a means for guiding the air flowing through the first flow path 131 into the dust bag. The inlet 144b can communicate with the first flow path 131 and the dust bag. Accordingly, the dust sucked from the dust box 220 of the robot cleaner 200 can move into the dust bag through the first flow path 131 and the inlet 144b.

[0207] The dust bag drawer 144 can communicate with the second flow path 132 through the outlet 144c formed on the lower side surface thereof. The outlet 144c can be a means for guiding the air passing through the dust bag drawer 144 to the second flow path 132. The outlet 144c can be provided at a different height from the inlet 144b. The outlet 144c can be provided lower than the inlet 144b. The outlet 144c can allow the internal space of the dust bag drawer 144 to communicate with the second flow path 132. Accordingly, the air in which the dust has been filtered out while passing through the dust bag moves to the second flow path 132 through the outlet 144c.

[0208] The handle 144d can be provided at the front of the dust bag drawer body 144a. The handle 144d can be provided so as to be gripped by a user. For example, the handle 144d can include a pair of coupling portions which are hingedly coupled to the front surface of the dust bag drawer body 144a, and a grip portion which is formed by connecting the pair of coupling portions so as to be gripped by a user.

[0209] With this configuration, when a user grips the grip portion and pulls it forward, the dust bag drawer body 144a can be drawn out by being pulled forward together. Accordingly, according to an embodiment of the disclosure, a user can easily pull the dust bag drawer 144 forward, then move the dust bag upward, and remove and replace it.

[0210] Next, a drawer guide rail 144e can be provided on the side surface of the dust bag drawer body 144a in the left-right direction. The drawer guide rail 144e can guide the movement of the dust bag drawer body 144a. For example, the drawer guide rail 144e can be provided in the form of a groove or a rib in the front-rear direction on the side surface of the dust bag drawer body 144a in the left-right direction.

[0211] With this configuration, when a user couples the dust bag drawer 144 to the dust collector housing 141, the dust bag drawer 144 can be coupled in the correct position, and the dust collector 140 can be connected to the first flow path 131 and the second flow path 132 in the correct position, thereby reducing flow loss.

[0212] Meanwhile, a guide rail 141a can be provided on the inner surface of the dust collector housing 141 corresponding to the drawer guide rail 144e. The guide rail 141a of the dust collector housing 141 can be provided to correspond to the shape and position of the drawer guide rail 144e. For example, when the drawer guide rail 144e is provided in the form of a groove, the guide rail 141a of the dust collector housing 141 can be provided in the form of a rib or a protruding step.

[0213] Figure 12 FIG. 17 is a side view for describing a dust collection flow path of a robot cleaner base according to an embodiment of the disclosure, Figures 13 to 16 FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view for describing a dust collection flow path of a robot cleaner base according to an embodiment of the disclosure, and Figure 17 FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view showing a discharge hole of a dust collection motor housing of a robot cleaner base according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0214] Hereinafter, a dust collection flow path 130 will be described with reference to Figures 12 to 17 The dust collection flow path 130 will be described.

[0215] The robot cleaner base 100 can include a dust collection flow path 130. The dust collection flow path 130 can be a flow path through which air suctioned through the dust passage hole 123a flows toward the dust collection motor 152 through the dust collector 140.

[0216] Specifically, the dust collection flow path 130 can include a first flow path 131 allowing the dust box 220 to communicate with the dust collector 140, and a second flow path 132 allowing the dust collector 140 to communicate with the dust collection motor 152 when the robot cleaner 200 is coupled to the robot cleaner base 100 to allow the dust passage hole 123a to communicate with the dust box 220 of the robot cleaner 200.

[0217] Meanwhile, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the first flow path 131 can be referred to as a suction flow path 131. Hereinafter, both the first flow path 131 and the suction flow path 131 are referred to as the first flow path 131 for convenience of description.

[0218] The first flow path 131 can connect the dust box 220 of the robot cleaner 200 to the dust collector 140. The first flow path 131 can allow the dust box 220 of the robot cleaner 200 to communicate with the dust collector 140. The first flow path 131 can connect the dust passage hole 123a of the base assembly 120 to the dust collector 140. Further, the first flow path 131 can be a space between the dust box 220 of the robot cleaner 200 and the dust collector 140. The first flow path 131 can be formed close to the horizontal direction. The first flow path 131 can be a space formed rearward from the dust passage hole 123a, and can be a flow path formed to be curved from the dust passage hole 123a toward the side surface to allow dust and air to flow therethrough. Dust in the dust box 220 of the robot cleaner 200 can move to the dust collector 140 through the first flow path 131.

[0219] The second flow path 132 can connect the dust collector 140 to the dust collection motor 152. The second flow path 132 can be formed close to the horizontal direction. In this case, the first flow path 132 and the second flow path 131 can be located at different heights. The first flow path 131 and the second flow path 132 can be disposed to be stacked on each other. For example, the second flow path 132 can be disposed lower than the first flow path 131. With this configuration, the width of the robot cleaner base 100 in the left-right direction and the overall volume can be minimized. However, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, the second flow path 132 can be disposed higher than the first flow path 131.

[0220] The dust collection module 150 can supply a suction air flow to the dust collection flow path 130. Specifically, the dust collection module 150 can include a dust collection motor housing 151 and a dust collection motor 152.

[0221] The dust collection motor housing 151 can be disposed within the housing 110. The dust collection motor 152 can be accommodated in the dust collection motor housing 151.

[0222] An introduction hole 151a and a discharge hole 151b can be disposed in the dust collection motor housing 151.

[0223] The internal space of the dust collecting motor housing 151 can communicate with the second flow path 132 through the introduction hole 151a. Accordingly, the introduction hole 151a can guide air flowing through the second flow path 132 to the dust collecting motor 152.

[0224] The internal space of the dust collecting motor housing 151 can communicate with the circulation flow path 125 through the discharge hole 151b. Accordingly, the discharge hole 151b can guide air passing through the dust collecting motor 152 to the circulation flow path 125a.

[0225] The dust collecting motor 152 can generate a suction force in the dust collecting flow path 130. The dust collecting motor 152 can be disposed within the dust collecting motor housing 151.

[0226] The dust collecting motor 152 can be disposed at the rear of the dust collector 140. Accordingly, the dust collecting motor 152 can provide a suction force that can suck dust in the dust box 220 of the robot cleaner 200.

[0227] The dust collecting motor 152 can generate a suction force by rotation. As an example, the dust collecting motor 152 can be disposed in a shape similar to a cylinder. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0228] The dust collecting motor 152 can have one side connected to the second flow path 132 and the other side connected to the circulation flow path 125a. When the dust collecting motor 152 is driven, air flowing through the second flow path 132 can flow into the dust collecting motor housing 151 through the introduction hole 151a. Further, the air flowing into the dust collecting motor housing 151 can be discharged through the discharge hole 151b after passing through the dust collecting motor 152. Further, the air discharged through the discharge hole 151b can flow through the circulation flow path 125a and can be discharged through the discharge port 125b.

[0229] Meanwhile, the rotation axis of the dust collecting motor 152 can be disposed to be close to the horizontal direction. Further, the introduction hole 151a and the discharge hole 151b of the dust collecting motor housing 151 can also be opened in the horizontal direction. Further, the discharge hole 151b can be located at the same height as the discharge port 125b. With this configuration, the overall volume of the robot cleaner base 100 disposed in the kitchen furniture 2 or the installation space 21a of the structure can be minimized.

[0230] The discharge unit 125 can guide air discharged from the dust collecting motor 152 to the outside of the housing 110. The discharge unit 125 can allow the internal space to communicate with the external space of the housing 110.

[0231] The discharge unit 125 can include the circulation flow path 125a and the discharge port 125b.

[0232] The circulation flow path 125a can provide a flow path through which air discharged from the dust collecting motor 152 flows. The circulation flow path 125a can be provided within the bottom member body 121a. The circulation flow path 125a can be connected to the dust collecting motor 152 to establish a flow path. The circulation flow path 125a can be a flow path connecting the discharge hole 151b to the discharge port 125b. One end of the circulation flow path 125a can communicate with the inner space of the dust collecting motor housing 151, and the other end of the circulation flow path 125a can communicate with the accommodation space 121dc of the recess 121da. Specifically, one end of the circulation flow path 125a can be connected to the discharge hole 151b, and the other end of the circulation flow path 125a can be connected to the discharge port 125b.

[0233] The circulation flow path 125a can be a flow path formed in the horizontal direction within the housing 110. The circulation flow path 125a can be connected to the dust collecting motor 152 to create a flow path. Specifically, one end of the circulation flow path 125a can communicate with the dust collector 140, and the other end of the circulation flow path 125a can communicate with the discharge port 125b.

[0234] The discharge port 125b can serve as an outlet that guides air discharged from the dust collecting motor 152 to the accommodation space 121dc of the recess 121da. Accordingly, air discharged from the dust collecting motor 152 and flowing through the circulation flow path 125a can be discharged to the outside of the housing 110 through the discharge port 125b.

[0235] The discharge port 125b can be formed on the bottom member 121. The discharge port 125b can be formed in the agitator accommodation portion 121d. Further, the discharge port 125b can be provided in the recess 121da of the agitator accommodation portion 121d. Additionally, the discharge port 125b can be provided on the side surface of the recess 121da.

[0236] Figures 18 to 20 FIG. 19 is a view for describing a circulation flow path of a robot cleaner base according to an embodiment of the disclosure, Figure 21 and Figure 22 FIG. 20 is a view showing a state in which a portion of a bottom surface of a bottom member body is removed in order to describe a circulation flow path of a robot cleaner base according to an embodiment of the disclosure, and Figure 23 FIG. 21 is a perspective view for specifically describing the area A shown in Figure 22 FIG. 19.

[0237] The circulation flow path of the robot cleaner base according to the embodiment of the disclosure will be described below with reference to Figures 18 to 23 FIG. 19.

[0238] The circulation flow path 125a according to this embodiment of the disclosure can guide air discharged from the dust collecting motor 152 to the suction unit 211 of the robot cleaner 200.

[0239] The circulation flow path 125a can form a structure in which air discharged from the dust collecting motor 152 is guided to the suction unit 211 of the robot cleaner 200 without being discharged to the outside, so that air continuously flows between the robot cleaner 200 and the robot cleaner base 100. Thus, since the hot air discharged from the dust collecting motor 152 is re-inflown into the robot cleaner 200 rather than being discharged to the installation space 24 of the kitchen furniture 2 to form the circulation flow path, damage to the inside of the cabinet 2 including the duct can be prevented.

[0240] The circulation flow path 125a can be a space between the discharge port 125b of the robot cleaner base 100 and the suction unit 211 of the robot cleaner 200. The circulation flow path 125a can be a recess 121da of the agitator accommodation portion 121d. Additionally, the circulation flow path 125a can be a connection tube that communicates with the suction unit 211 of the robot cleaner 200 and has the other end that communicates with the discharge port 125b of the robot cleaner base 100.

[0241] Air passing through the dust collecting motor 152 can be discharged to the accommodation space S through the discharge port 125b, and the air discharged to the accommodation space S can be re-inflown into the suction unit 211 due to the suction force of the dust collecting motor 152. Thus, the air sucked from the dust box 220 by the suction force of the dust collecting motor 152 can be discharged to the accommodation space S after sequentially flowing through the dust passage hole 123a, the first flow path 131, the dust collector 140, the second flow path 132, the dust collecting motor 152, the circulation flow path 125a, and the discharge port 125b.

[0242] When the dust collecting motor 152 is driven in a state in which the dust box 220 of the robot cleaner 200 communicates with the suction unit 211 of the robot cleaner base 100, air can be sucked by the suction unit 211 of the robot cleaner 200. In addition, since the agitator 250 is accommodated within the suction unit 211, the air discharged from the dust collecting motor 152 and through the discharge port 125b can be sucked into the suction unit 211 of the robot cleaner 200 by the suction force of the dust collecting motor 152.

[0243] In this case, when the suction motor of the robot cleaner 200 is driven, the dust collecting motor 152 can be driven together. Since the air discharged through the discharge port 125b is sucked into the suction unit 211 by the suction force of the suction motor other than the dust collecting motor 152, the dust collecting efficiency can be increased.

[0244] Figure 24 is an enlarged view for describing a dust sweeper washer of a robot cleaner base according to this embodiment of the disclosure, Figure 25 is an enlarged view for describing a washing water discharge unit of a dust sweeper washer of a robot cleaner base according to this embodiment of the disclosure, and Figure 26 is a cross-sectional perspective view for describing a space formed between a washing member coupling unit and a washing member of a robot cleaner base according to this embodiment of the disclosure. Further, the dust sweeper washer 160 can also be referred to as a dust sweeper washing unit.

[0245] Hereinafter, a dust sweeper washer 160 of a robot cleaner base 100 according to this embodiment of the disclosure will be described with reference to Figures 24 to 26

[0246] The robot cleaner base 100 according to this embodiment of the disclosure can include a dust sweeper washer 160. The dust sweeper washer 160 can wash a dust sweeper 242 of a robot cleaner 200 coupled to the base assembly 120.

[0247] The dust sweeper washer 160 can include a washing water discharge unit 161 for discharging washing water to a washing member 122, a detergent container 163 in which a detergent-containing liquid is stored, and a waste water container 164 in which water that has been used to wash the dust sweeper 242 is stored.

[0248] In the washing water discharge unit 161, purified water and a detergent are mixed to generate washing water for washing the dust sweeper 242.

[0249] A pair of washing water discharge units 161 can be disposed at the rear side of the coupling wall 123 spaced apart from each other. The washing water discharge units 161 can discharge washing water from both upper ends of the washing member 122 toward the washing member 122. In this case, the purified water supplied from the water supply pipe of the kitchen furniture 2 and passing through the regulator 162 can be branched to both sides through a branch flow path 161a and connected to each of the washing water discharge units 161 disposed spaced apart from each other. That is, the branch flow path 161a can be provided in the form of one pipe branched into two, and in this case, one end of either branch can be connected to any one of the pair of washing water discharge units 161, and one end of the other branch can be connected to the other of the pair of washing water discharge units 161.

[0250] The washing water discharge units 161 can be integrally provided at the rear side of the coupling wall 123 with the coupling wall 123, or be detachably coupled to the coupling wall 123.

[0251] A purified water inlet 161b, a detergent inlet 161c, and a washing water outlet can be provided on the washing water discharge unit 161.​

[0252] The purified water inlet 161b is a component that guides purified water supplied from a water supply pipe of the cabinet 2 including a pipe to the cleaning water discharge unit 161. Specifically, the water supply pipe of the cabinet 2 including a pipe can be connected to the regulator 162 to regulate the flow rate of the purified water supplied from the water supply pipe. In addition, some of the purified water passing through the regulator 162 can be supplied to the water container 230 of the robot cleaner 200 through the water supply nozzle 123c, and the remaining purified water can flow into the pair of cleaning water discharge units 161 disposed apart from each other through the purified water inlet 161b.

[0253] The detergent inlet 161c is a component for supplying a liquid containing a detergent supplied from the detergent container 163 to the cleaning water discharge unit 161. Specifically, the liquid containing the detergent stored in the detergent container 163 can be supplied to the cleaning water discharge unit 161 through a pump. However, in another embodiment of the disclosure, other types of detergents (i.e., powder detergents) can be used.

[0254] In addition, the detergent and the purified water flowing into the cleaning water discharge unit 161 can be used as cleaning water by being mixed. The cleaning water discharge unit 161 can discharge the cleaning water to the upper surface of the cleaning member 122 through a cleaning water outlet. The cleaning water outlet can be formed on the lower surface of the cleaning water discharge unit 161. The cleaning water outlet can be opened in a direction facing the upper surface of the dust collector 242 disposed on the cleaning member 122.

[0255] The detergent container 163 can store a liquid containing a detergent. The detergent container 163 includes a detergent container body 163a, a handle 163b, and a detergent container guide rail 163c.

[0256] The detergent container body 163a can provide a space in which a liquid containing a detergent can be stored. For example, the detergent container body 163a can be formed in the form of a box having an open top, and the rear portion thereof can be connected to the cleaning water discharge unit 161.

[0257] The handle 163b can be disposed at the front portion of the detergent container body 163a. The handle 163b can be disposed so that a user can hold it. For example, the handle 163b can include a pair of coupling portions hingedly coupled to the front surface of the detergent container body 163a, and a holding portion formed to be held by a user by connecting the pair of coupling portions.

[0258] With this configuration, when a user holds the holding portion and pulls it forward, the detergent container body 163a can be withdrawn by being pulled forward together. Accordingly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a user can easily pull the detergent container 163 forward, and then can supply new detergent into the detergent container 163.

[0259] The detergent container guide 163c can be provided on the side surface in the left-right direction of the detergent container body 163a. The detergent container guide 163c can guide the movement of the detergent container body 163a.

[0260] For example, the detergent container guide 163c can be provided in the form of a groove or a rib in the front-rear direction on the side surface in the left-right direction of the detergent container body 163a.

[0261] With this configuration, when a user couples the detergent container 163 to the housing 110, the detergent container 163 can be connected to the correct position, and leakage of washing water can be prevented.

[0262] Meanwhile, a guide corresponding to the detergent container guide 163c can be provided in the housing 110. The guide can be provided in a shape and position corresponding to the detergent container guide 163c.

[0263] The waste water container 164 can provide a space to store washing water used to wash the dust cleaner 242. After washing of the dust cleaner 242 is completed, washing water discharged to the upper surface of the washing member 122 can be drained into the drain hole 122b while moving downward along the inclined portion of the washing member 122. The washing water passing through the drain hole 122b is accumulated between the washing member coupling portion 121e and the washing member 122. In addition, the washing water accumulated between the washing member coupling portion 121e and the washing member 122 can flow into the waste water container 164 through the pump flow path 164b.

[0264] The washing water stored in the waste water container 164 can be drained into the drain pipe 25 of the cabinet 2 including a duct through the drain flow path 164a. One end of the drain flow path 164a is connected to the waste water container 164 and the other end is connected to the drain pipe 25. In this case, the washing water stored in the waste water container 164 can flow through the drain flow path 164a by a centrifugal pump and can be drained into the drain pipe 25.

[0265] The drain flow path 164a connected to the waste water container 164 can be connected to the upstream side 25b based on the U-shaped trap 25a of the drain pipe 25 of the cabinet 2 including a duct. This is because when the drain flow path 164a is connected to the downstream side 25c based on the U-shaped trap 25a of the drain pipe 25, odor or fluid inside the drain pipe 25 can be backflowed into the drain flow path 164a.

[0266] Further, the dust cleaner washer 160 can include a check valve. The check valve can prevent fluid within the drain pipe 25 from flowing back into the drain flow path 164a. The check valve can be provided at the other end of the drain flow path 164a connected to the drain pipe 25.

[0267] Meanwhile, the detergent container 163 and the waste water container 164 can be accommodated in a space formed between the side wall 124 and the outer wall surface 111 of the housing. The detergent container 163 can be disposed at a lower side of the space between the outer wall surface 111 of the housing and the side wall 124, and the waste water container 164 can be disposed at an upper side of the space between the outer wall surface 111 of the housing and the side wall 124.

[0268] Figure 27 is a perspective view for describing a dust cleaner dryer of a robot cleaner base according to a first embodiment of the disclosure, Figure 28 and Figure 29 is an enlarged view of a dust cleaner dryer according to a first embodiment of the disclosure, and Figure 30 is a cross-sectional view for describing a state of air flow within a hot air supply module according to a first embodiment of the disclosure. Further, the dust cleaner dryer 170 can also be referred to as a dust cleaner drying unit.

[0269] Referring to Figures 27 to 30 , the robot cleaner base 100 according to the first embodiment of the disclosure can include a dust cleaner dryer 170. In this case, the dust cleaner dryer 170 can dry the dust cleaner 242 of the robot cleaner 200 washed by the dust cleaner washer 160, or the dust cleaner 242 in a wet state after a water washing operation has been completed.

[0270] The dust cleaner dryer 170 according to the first embodiment of the disclosure can include a hot air supply module 171, a steam discharge flow path 172, an exhaust fan 173, and a check valve.

[0271] The hot air supply module 171 can supply hot air to the accommodation space S, and includes a connection flow path 171a, a blowing fan, and a heater 171d.

[0272] The connection flow path 171a can connect an external space of the housing 110 to the accommodation space S. An air inlet 171b of the connection flow path 171a can communicate with the external space, and an air outlet 171c of the connection flow path 171a can communicate with the accommodation space S.

[0273] The air inlet 171b connected to the flow path 171a can be provided on the rear surface of the housing 110. The air outlet 171c connected to the flow path 171a can be provided on the upper side of the washing member 122. The air outlet 171c can be opened in a direction facing the washing member 122. A pair of air outlets 171c can be provided in a state of being opened downward.

[0274] In a state in which the duster 242 is seated on the washing member 122, the air outlet 171c can be opened toward the upper surface of the duster 242. In a state in which the duster 242 is seated on the washing member 122, the air outlet 171c can be positioned adjacent to the duster 242 and can be opened downward so that the discharged air can flow toward the duster 242. In a state in which the robot cleaner 200 is coupled to the base assembly 120, the air outlet 171c can be opened in a direction facing the duster 242.

[0275] The blowing fan can be provided on the connection flow path 171a and can blow air toward the accommodation space S. When the blowing fan is driven, the air introduced through the air inlet 171b can be heated by the heater 171d and discharged to the accommodation space S through the air outlet 171c.

[0276] The heater 171d can be provided on the connection flow path 171a and can heat the air flowing through the connection flow path 171a. The heater 171d can heat the air discharged through the air outlet 171c. The heater 171d can be provided on the connection flow path 171a, but can also be provided at the air outlet 171c. That is, as long as the air discharged into the accommodation space S can be heated, there is no limitation on the specific form, position, or arrangement of the heater 171d.

[0277] The heater 171d can include a heater housing 171da and a heating element. The heater housing 110 can be provided on the connection flow path 171a and can have a space in which the heater 171d can be accommodated therein. The heating element can heat the outside air flowing into the heater housing 110. Thus, the air heated by the heating element can be discharged into the accommodation space S through the air outlet 171c to dry the wet duster 242.

[0278] The steam discharge flow path 172 can discharge the moist hot air generated when drying the duster 242 in the accommodation space S to the drain 25. The steam discharge flow path 172 can connect the accommodation space S to the drain 25 of the kitchen furniture 2.

[0279] The steam discharge flow path 172 can have one end connected to the accommodation space S and the other end connected to the drain pipe 25. Specifically, the air inlet 172a, which is one end of the steam discharge flow path 172, can be connected to the accommodation space S, and the air outlet at the other end can be connected to the drain pipe 25.

[0280] The steam discharge flow path 172 can be connected to the downstream side 25c of the U-shaped trap 25a of the drain pipe 25 based on the cabinet 2 including the duct. This is because when the steam discharge flow path 172 is connected to the upstream side 25b of the U-shaped trap 25a based on the drain pipe 25, heat discharged through the steam discharge flow path 172 can not pass through the drain pipe 25 due to water accumulated in the U-shaped trap 25a.

[0281] Meanwhile, the steam discharge flow path 172 can have one tube branched into two tubes within the housing 110 to pass through both sides of the housing 110. In this case, either branch can pass through the left outer wall surface of the housing 110, and the other branch can pass through the right outer wall surface of the housing 110. The steam discharge flow path 172 passing through the outer wall surfaces 111 of both sides of the housing 110 can be connected to the drain pipe 25. Accordingly, steam in the accommodation space S drawn in from the steam discharge flow path 172 can flow through the steam discharge flow path 172 branched on both sides and can be discharged to the downstream side 25c of the U-shaped trap 25a based on the drain pipe 25.

[0282] The exhaust fan 173 can discharge air in the accommodation space S to the drain pipe 25 through the steam discharge flow path 172. The exhaust fan 173 can induce air to flow along the steam discharge flow path 172. The exhaust fan 173 can be provided on the steam discharge flow path 172.

[0283] When the exhaust fan 173 is driven, air in the accommodation space S can flow into the air inlet 172a. The air flowing into the air inlet 172a can flow through the steam discharge flow path 172 and can be discharged to the drain pipe 25. Specifically, the air flowing through the steam discharge flow path 172 by driving of the exhaust fan 173 can be discharged to the downstream side 25c of the U-shaped trap 25a based on the drain pipe 25.

[0284] The dust cleaner dryer 170 can include a check valve. The check valve can prevent fluid within the drain pipe 25 from flowing back into the steam discharge flow path 172. The check valve can be provided at the other end of the steam discharge flow path 172 connected to the drain pipe 25.

[0285] Figure 31 is a view for describing a dust cleaner dryer of a robot cleaner base according to a second embodiment of the disclosure.

[0286] The dust dryer 170 according to the second embodiment of this disclosure may include a hot air supply module, a steam discharge path, an exhaust fan, and a check valve.

[0287] To avoid repetition, the contents of the dust dryer 170 according to the first embodiment of this disclosure may be used in other configurations, except for those specifically described in the second embodiment of this disclosure.

[0288] According to the second embodiment of the present disclosure, the steam discharge path of the dust dryer can discharge the hot and humid air generated when drying the dust cleaner 242 in the housing space S to the outside of the housing 110.

[0289] According to the second embodiment of this disclosure, the steam discharge path of the dust collector dryer can be disposed in the space formed between the outer wall surface 111 and the side wall 124 of the outer casing 110. Specifically, in the second embodiment of this disclosure, the steam discharge path can be disposed above the wastewater container 164, between the wastewater container 164 and the detergent container 163, or below the detergent container 163. In the second embodiment of this disclosure, the air inlet of the steam discharge path can be disposed on the side wall 124, and the air outlet of the steam discharge path can be disposed on the front surface of the outer casing 110. In the second embodiment of this disclosure, the air outlet can be disposed above the wastewater container 164, between the wastewater container 164 and the detergent container 163, or below the detergent container 163. Therefore, in the second embodiment of this disclosure, one end of the steam discharge path can communicate with the receiving space S, and the other end can communicate with the external space of the outer casing 110.

[0290] According to the second embodiment of this disclosure, the exhaust fan of the vacuum cleaner dryer can discharge air from the housing S to the external space of the housing 110 through a steam discharge path. Furthermore, in the second embodiment of this disclosure, the vacuum cleaner 242 of the robotic cleaner 200 can be disposed between the hot air supply module and the exhaust fan. That is, because the hot air supply module is disposed in the rear space of the connecting wall 123, and the exhaust fan is disposed on the side wall 124, the vacuum cleaner of the robotic cleaner 200 can be disposed on a straight line connecting the hot air supply module to the exhaust fan.

[0291] Meanwhile, in the second embodiment of this disclosure, a guiding member for guiding air in a direction away from the outer wall surface 111 of the housing 110 can be provided at the outlet of the steam discharge path. The direction away from the outer wall surface 111 of the housing 110 can be a direction toward the center of the front surface of the housing 110. For example, the guiding member can guide hot air discharged through the outlet of the steam discharge path in a direction toward the bottom member 121.

[0292] When the robot cleaner base station 100 according to the embodiment of the disclosure is disposed in the installation space of the cabinet 2 including the duct, the outer wall surface 111 of the housing 110 can be in contact with the base plate 26 of the cabinet 2 including the duct. In this case, since the base plate 26 has a characteristic that is vulnerable to moisture, when the hot air discharged from the steam discharge flow path flows toward the outer wall surface of the housing 110, the base plate 26 can be damaged. Therefore, when the guide member for guiding the hot air discharged in a direction away from the outer wall surface 111 of the housing 110 is installed at the outlet of the steam discharge flow path according to the second embodiment of the disclosure, damage to the base plate 26 can be prevented.

[0293] In the second embodiment of the disclosure, the guide member can be a vane or louvers for guiding the hot air discharged through the outlet of the steam discharge flow path in one direction. The guide member can guide the hot air discharged to the outlet of the steam discharge flow path inward from the housing 110. The hot air discharged to the outside of the housing 110 through the outlet of the steam discharge flow path can flow in a direction away from the inner wall surface of the cabinet 2 including the duct by the guide member.

[0294] The hot air discharged to the outside of the housing 110 through the outlet of the steam discharge flow path can flow in a direction away from the outer wall surface of the housing 110 by the guide member. For example, the hot air discharged to the outside of the housing 110 through the outlet of the steam discharge flow path can flow in a direction toward the bottom member 121.

[0295] Figure 32a is a front view describing the arrangement relationship of the robot cleaner base station according to the embodiment of the disclosure on a horizontal plane, Figure 32b is Figure 32a a side view of Figure 33 is a view showing a state in which the dust collector and the detergent container are withdrawn from the robot cleaner base station according to the embodiment of the disclosure.

[0296] The arrangement of the robot cleaner base station 100 according to the embodiment of the disclosure will be described below with reference to Figure 4 , Figure 32a , Figure 32b and Figure 33 .

[0297] The robot cleaner base station 100 according to the embodiment of the disclosure is disposed in a lower space of the kitchen furniture 2.

[0298] To this end, the robot cleaner base station 100 according to the embodiment of the disclosure is disposed in a horizontal direction according to a space formed between the bottom plate 23 of the kitchen furniture 2 and the floor of the kitchen.

[0299] Specifically, the robot cleaner base station 100 according to the embodiment of the disclosure can have the dust collector 140 and / or the dust mopping cleaner 160 disposed on the side surface of the entrance 127.

[0300] In this case, when the dust collector 140 and the dust mopping cleaner 160 are provided at the same time, the base assembly 120 can be disposed between the dust collector 140 and the dust mopping cleaner 160.

[0301] For example, the entrance 127 and the door 126 can be disposed at the front of the robot cleaner base station 100. Also, the base assembly 120 coupled with the robot cleaner 200 can be disposed rearward from the entrance 127. In this case, the dust collector 140 can be disposed a predetermined length rearward from the front end of the robot cleaner base station 100. Also, the dust mopping cleaner 160 can also be disposed a predetermined length rearward from the front end of the robot cleaner base station 100.

[0302] Therefore, when the robot cleaner base station 100 is viewed from the outside of the front of the robot cleaner base station 100, the front end of the dust collector 140 and / or the front end of the dust mopping cleaner 160 can be disposed at the left and right sides of the entrance 127.

[0303] In this case, the dust bag of the dust collector 140 can be disposed to be extractable from the housing 110. Also, the detergent container 163 of the dust mopping cleaner 160 can be disposed to be extractable from the housing.

[0304] That is, the front end of the dust collector 140 can be provided with a handle 144d allowing a user to hold the dust collector housing 141. Also, a handle 163b can be provided at the front end of the dust mopping cleaner 160 to pull the detergent container 163.

[0305] With this configuration, when a user intends to extract the dust bag or the detergent container 163, the user can immediately recognize this extraction position, providing convenience in that the dust bag or the detergent container 163 can be extracted by a simple action of pulling the handle.

[0306] Meanwhile, the rear ends of the dust collector 140 and the dust mopping cleaner 160 can be disposed to be spaced apart from the rear end of the housing 110 by a predetermined distance. Also, the dust collection motor 152 can be disposed between the rear end of the housing 110 and the rear end of the dust collector 140. With this configuration, an electric wire for supplying power to the dust collection motor 152 can be easily connected. Also, the total space of the base assembly 120, the dust collector 140, and the dust collection motor 152 can be minimized in a limited space.

[0307] In addition, at least a portion of a flow path through which the cleaning water for cleaning the sweeper 242 flows and a pump for providing a flow force of the cleaning water can be disposed between the rear end of the housing 110 and the rear end of the sweeper cleaner 160. With this configuration, a path through which the cleaning water flows from the water supply pipe can be minimized. In addition, the total space of the base assembly 120, the sweeper cleaner 160, and a flow path through which the cleaning water flows can be minimized in a limited space.

[0308] Meanwhile, the robotic cleaner base station 100 can have the sweeper dryer 170 disposed behind the base assembly 120. In this case, the sweeper dryer 170 can be disposed between the rear end of the base assembly 120 and the rear end of the housing 110.

[0309] Accordingly, in the robotic cleaner base station 100 according to this embodiment of the disclosure, the dust collector 140 and the sweeper cleaner 160 can be disposed on the left and right side surfaces with respect to the base assembly 120, and the sweeper dryer 170 can be disposed at the rear side of the robotic cleaner base station 100.

[0310] That is, in the robotic cleaner base station 100 according to this embodiment of the disclosure, the dust collector 140, the sweeper cleaner 160, and the sweeper dryer 170 can all be disposed within a predetermined distance range from the outer edge of the base assembly 120.

[0311] With this arrangement, the base assembly 120, the dust collector 140, the sweeper cleaner 160, and the sweeper dryer 170 can all be disposed within the narrowest space on a horizontal plane. Accordingly, the vertical height of the robotic cleaner base station 100 can be minimized.

[0312] Since this shortens the distance between the dust box 220 of the robotic cleaner 200 and the dust collector 140, flow path loss can be minimized. In addition, by minimizing the distance between the sweeper 242 of the robotic cleaner 200 and the sweeper cleaner 160, and minimizing the distance between the sweeper 242 of the robotic cleaner 200 and the sweeper dryer 170, the range in which the cleaning water and the waste water completed with cleaning exist can be limited.

[0313] In addition, with this arrangement, the components of the robotic cleaner base station 100 according to an embodiment of the disclosure can all be disposed within a limited height.

[0314] Specifically, based on the state in which the robot cleaner 200 is coupled to the base assembly 120, at least a portion of the dust collector 140 can be disposed lower than the uppermost end of the robot cleaner 200. Also, at least a portion of the duster washer 160 can be disposed lower than the uppermost end of the robot cleaner 200. Further, at least a portion of the duster dryer 170 can be disposed lower than the uppermost end of the robot cleaner 200. Additionally, at least a portion of the duster washer 160 can be disposed lower than the uppermost end of the dust collector 140.

[0315] Also, based on the state in which the robot cleaner 200 is coupled to the base assembly 120, the uppermost end of the robot cleaner 200 can be disposed higher than the dust bag. Also, the uppermost end of the robot cleaner 200 can be disposed higher than the detergent container 163. Additionally, the uppermost end of the dust bag can be disposed higher than the detergent container 163.

[0316] Viewed from another angle, when a parallel virtual plane H to the floor of the kitchen is drawn based on the state in which the robot cleaner 200 is coupled to the base assembly 120, the plane H can pass through the robot cleaner 200, the dust collector 140, the duster washer 160, and the duster dryer 170. This means that all the components can be disposed within a predetermined height range.

[0317] Viewed from still another angle, the base assembly 120 can be divided into three regions in the vertical direction in the state in which the robot cleaner 200 is coupled to the base assembly 120. In this case, the base assembly 120 can include a first region (a space between B and H1) located on the same horizontal space as the detergent container 163, a second region (a space between H1 and H2) disposed above the first region and located on the same horizontal space as at least a portion of the dust bag, and a third region (a space between H2 and H3) disposed above the second region. In this case, both the dust bag and the detergent container 163 can be disposed on both sides of the first region in the left-right direction, the dust bag and the wastewater container 164 can be disposed on both sides of the second region in the left-right direction, and only the upper end of the robot cleaner 200 can be disposed in the third region.

[0318] As a result, in the robot cleaner base station 100 according to this embodiment of the disclosure, the dust collector 140, the duster washer 160, and the duster dryer 170 can be disposed on three surfaces around the base assembly 120 except for the front surface through which the robot cleaner 200 enters. With this arrangement, even in the case where the vertical height is limited, the robot cleaner 200 can be charged, dust of the robot cleaner 200 can be collected, the duster 242 can be washed, and the duster 242 can be dried using a minimum horizontal space.

[0319] As described above, the robot cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the disclosure can utilize the lower space of the kitchen furniture by arranging modules capable of charging the robot cleaner, collecting dust, and washing the dust mop in a direction parallel to the robot cleaner.

[0320] In addition, the charging terminal, the dust collector, the dust mop washer, and the dust mop dryer can be disposed to surround the robot cleaner and simultaneously perform various functions on the robot cleaner.

[0321] In addition, since the kitchen furniture covers surfaces other than the front surface, the user can be provided with aesthetic sense in terms of interior design.

[0322] Additionally, since dust in the dust box of the robot cleaner is automatically collected when the robot cleaner is coupled, the user only has to periodically pull out the dust bag, thereby reducing the user's labor.

[0323] In addition, since the dust mop of the robot cleaner can be automatically washed when the robot cleaner is coupled, the inconvenience of disassembling and separately washing the dust mop can be reduced.

[0324] Also, since the detergent can be added as needed, the washing effect of the dust mop can be improved.

[0325] In addition, since the dust mop is washed using the water supply pipe and the drain pipe of the kitchen, the user's inconvenience of separately filling water or discharging waste water can be reduced.

[0326] Further, since the dust mop of the robot cleaner can be automatically dried by supplying hot air to the dust mop after being washed, the odor generated by the wet dust mop can be prevented.

[0327] In addition, the odor can be prevented from flowing back by discharging the air after drying to the downstream of the U-shaped trap.

[0328] Additionally, since the door of the robot cleaner base station is closed when the robot cleaner enters the robot cleaner base station, dust can be prevented from being scattered to the outside while collecting dust in the dust box.

[0329] In addition, when washing the dust mop of the robot cleaner, waste water can be prevented from leaking to the outside.

[0330] Although the disclosure has been described in detail by specific embodiments, it is intended to describe the disclosure in detail, and it is obvious that the disclosure is not limited thereto, and those skilled in the art can modify or improve the disclosure without departing from the technical idea of the disclosure.

[0331] All simple modifications or variations of the present disclosure fall within the scope of the present disclosure, and the specific scope of the present disclosure will be clarified by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A robot cleaner base station, comprising: a housing located under a kitchen furniture; a base assembly located in the housing, the base assembly configured to accommodate a robot cleaner; a dust collector configured to empty dust of the robot cleaner; and a sweeper washer configured to wash a sweeper of the robot cleaner. 2.The robot cleaner base station of claim 1, wherein the kitchen furniture includes a storage space located above the housing, and wherein a plurality of portions of a drain pipe are located in the storage space of the kitchen furniture. 3.The robot cleaner base station of claim 1, wherein the dust collector is located at a first side of the base assembly, and wherein the sweeper washer is located at a second side of the base assembly, the second side of the base assembly being opposite to the first side of the base assembly. 4.A robot cleaner base station, comprising: a housing located under a cabinet including a duct; a base assembly located in the housing, the base assembly configured to accommodate a robot cleaner; an entrance configured to allow the robot cleaner to enter the housing, the entrance located at a front surface of the housing, the entrance having an upper surface, a first side surface, and a second side surface, the second side surface being opposite to the first side surface; and a detergent container configured to store a detergent, the detergent container located at the first side surface of the entrance. 5.The robot cleaner base station of claim 4, further comprising a dust bag drawer configured to be coupled to a dust bag that collects dust of the robot cleaner, wherein the dust bag drawer is located at a second side surface of the entrance. 6.The robot cleaner base station of claim 4, further comprising a sweeper dryer configured to dry a sweeper of the robot cleaner, wherein the sweeper dryer is located at a rear of a coupling unit. 7.The robot cleaner base station of claim 4, further comprising a dust bag drawer configured to be coupled to a dust bag that collects dust of the robot cleaner, wherein the entrance is located between the dust bag drawer and the detergent container. At least a portion of the detergent container is located lower than an uppermost end of the robot cleaner when the robot cleaner is accommodated on the base assembly. 9.The robot cleaner base station of claim 4, further comprising a dust bag drawer configured to be coupled to a dust bag that collects dust of the robot cleaner, 8. The robotic cleaner base station of claim 4, wherein, At least a portion of the dust bag drawer is located lower than an uppermost end of the robot cleaner when the robot cleaner is accommodated on the base assembly. 10.The robot cleaner base station of claim 4, further comprising a dust bag drawer configured to be coupled to a dust bag that collects dust of the robot cleaner, wherein wherein the base assembly is located between the dust bag drawer and the detergent container. ​ ​ 11. The robotic cleaner base station of claim 4, further comprising a duster dryer configured to dry a duster of the robotic cleaner, wherein at least a portion of the duster dryer is located lower than an uppermost end of the robotic cleaner when the robotic cleaner is housed on the base assembly.

12. The robotic cleaner base station of claim 4, further comprising a dust bag configured to collect dust of the robotic cleaner, the dust bag being located within the housing, the dust bag being configured to be withdrawn from the housing.

13. The robotic cleaner base station of claim 4, wherein the detergent container is located within the housing, the detergent container being configured to be withdrawn from the housing.

14. The robotic cleaner base station of claim 4, further comprising a door located at the front surface of the housing, the door being configured to open and close the entrance.

15. The robotic cleaner base station of claim 4, wherein the plumbing comprises at least one of a sink pipe and a drain pipe.

16. The robotic cleaner base station of claim 15, wherein the robotic cleaner base station is connected to the plumbing.

17. A robotic cleaner base station, comprising: a housing located in a lower portion of a cabinet comprising plumbing; an entrance configured to allow a robotic cleaner to enter the housing; a detergent container configured to store a detergent, the detergent container being located at a first side of the entrance; and a dust bag drawer configured to be coupled to a dust bag that collects dust of the robotic cleaner, the dust bag drawer being located at a second side of the entrance, the second side of the entrance being opposite the first side of the entrance.

18. A robotic cleaner base station, comprising: a housing located in a lower portion of a cabinet comprising plumbing; a detergent container configured to store a detergent; and a base assembly located within the housing, the base assembly being configured to house a robotic cleaner, the base assembly comprising: a first area located in a same horizontal space as the detergent container; and a second area located above the first area.

19. The robotic cleaner base station of claim 18, further comprising a dust bag drawer configured to be coupled to a dust bag that collects dust of the robotic cleaner, wherein the base assembly further comprises a third area located above the second area, and wherein the second area is located in a same horizontal space as at least a portion of the dust bag drawer.

20. The robotic cleaner base station of claim 18, wherein the detergent container and dust bag are located on opposite sides of the base assembly. ​

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