Floor sweeping robot base station

Abstract

The invention relates to a sweeping robot base station. The base station comprises a cover body; the placement part is arranged on the cover body and forms an accommodating space for accommodating at least one part of the sweeping robot; the cleaning cloth drying part is used for drying the cleaning cloth of the sweeping robot; the cleaning cloth drying part comprises an external air supply module which discharges hot air to the accommodating space; and a steam discharge part for discharging the air heated by the hot air. Therefore, the humidity of the space in which the sweeping robot is arranged can be prevented from being excessively increased.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a base station for a robotic vacuum cleaner, and more specifically, to an embedded base station for a robotic vacuum cleaner that can collect dust from the vacuum cleaner's dustbin, clean the vacuum cleaner's mop, and dry the mop when the robotic vacuum cleaner is in use. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, with the development of industrial technology, sweeping robots have been developed that can autonomously drive and clean areas that need cleaning without user intervention.

[0003] This type of robotic vacuum cleaner can be equipped with sensors that can identify the space to be cleaned, an agitator that can clean the floor, and a mop that can wipe the floor. It sucks up the dust on the floor in the space identified by the sensors, wipes it with the mop, and then moves around.

[0004] Robotic vacuum cleaners include dry-type vacuum cleaners that can suck up and remove debris scattered on the floor, and wet-type vacuum cleaners that use a damp cloth to wipe the floor to effectively remove debris. Dry-type vacuum cleaners have a dustbin and use a suction motor to suck up debris from the floor. Wet-type vacuum cleaners have a water tank; the water in the tank is supplied to a damp cloth, which then wipes the floor to effectively remove debris. There are also vacuum cleaners that incorporate both an agitator and a cloth.

[0005] A charging station for a robotic vacuum cleaner is a device that allows the robot to dock after cleaning and charges its battery by supplying power to the robot's internal battery. The charging station contains a power supply module. The charging station has charging terminals that connect to the power supply module, and the robotic vacuum cleaner has corresponding terminals. When the charging terminals and corresponding terminals are in contact, power is supplied to the battery and it is charged.

[0006] On the other hand, if the robot vacuum charging station is installed indoors, it will occupy a fixed area of ​​indoor space. In this case, it may reduce the space efficiency of the room. In addition, there is a risk of injury to the user or pet, or damage to the robot vacuum, if they collide with it while passing by.

[0007] In addition, in the case of base stations with dust collection functions attached to robotic vacuum cleaners, there is a limitation that the increased size they occupy may damage the interior decoration.

[0008] Relatedly, Chinese utility model patent CN219206761U discloses a device for cleaning a robot vacuum cleaner at the bottom of a washing machine.

[0009] The aforementioned cleaning device can utilize the space under the washing machine to clean the robot vacuum cleaner.

[0010] In addition, the robot vacuum cleaner is cleaned using the water supply and drainage system connected to the washing machine, so no additional water supply and drainage structure is required.

[0011] However, the aforementioned cleaning device only cleans the robot vacuum cleaner and has the limitation of not having the function of drying the robot vacuum cleaner.

[0012] Therefore, the above-mentioned cleaning device has the following limitations: it can only be used to clean the robot vacuum cleaner, and it cannot provide basic drying functions, so an additional module with drying function needs to be set up.

[0013] On the other hand, Chinese utility model patent CN2192708414U discloses a base station for a sweeper, which is combined with the sweeping robot on the lower side of the washing machine to charge the sweeping robot, collect dust, and clean the sweeping robot's wet cloth.

[0014] However, the aforementioned cleaning robot base station forms an open space below the washing machine that allows the cleaning robot to enter. A device for supplying detergent and water for cleaning wet cloths is installed on the vertical upper side of the space where the cleaning robot enters, and a dust bag is provided on the side of the space where the cleaning robot enters.

[0015] With this configuration, the overall height of the cleaning robot base station increases, which limits the use of the space under furniture, including sinks.

[0016] In addition, the aforementioned cleaning robot base station has the following limitations: the space where the cleaning robot enters and exits is always open. Therefore, when the cleaning robot's cloth is equipped with a drying function, hot air is exhausted to the outside, which may reduce the drying efficiency.

[0017] On the other hand, Chinese utility model CN218922468U discloses a base station for a sweeper, which is combined with the sweeping robot on the lower side of the washing machine to charge the sweeping robot, collect dust, and clean the sweeping robot's wet cloth.

[0018] The aforementioned cleaning robot base station is configured to supply dry air to the cleaning tank of the cleaning robot's rag to dry the rag disposed on the upper side of the cleaning tank.

[0019] However, the cleaning machine base station mentioned above has the following limitations: when drying the rags in an open indoor space, the indoor humidity may increase due to the water vapor generated during the drying process, and the odor may spread into the room as the wastewater from washing the rags dries.

[0020] In addition, during the drying of cloths in an open space, the heated air will diffuse to the outside, so a continuous supply of heated air is required for a long time, which leads to limitations in energy efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0021] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0022] The present invention is proposed to improve the problems existing in the existing robot vacuum base stations as described above, and its purpose is to provide a robot vacuum base station that can be embedded in the lower side of kitchen furniture cabinets without requiring additional installation space.

[0023] In addition, the purpose is to provide a robot vacuum station that can accommodate a robot vacuum in the space under a kitchen cabinet with a specified height limit.

[0024] In addition, the purpose is to provide a robot vacuum station that can automatically collect dust from the dustbin of the robot vacuum when combined with a robot vacuum.

[0025] In addition, the purpose is to provide a robot vacuum base station that can automatically clean the robot vacuum's mop when combined with a robot vacuum.

[0026] In addition, the purpose is to provide a robot vacuum cleaner base station that can automatically dry the mop cloth after cleaning it.

[0027] In addition, the problem to be solved is to provide a robot vacuum base station that can prevent the humidity of the housing space equipped with a robot vacuum from rising excessively due to the wet steam generated when drying the robot vacuum's mop, which could lead to malfunction of electronic components or decay in the collected dust.

[0028] In addition, the problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a robot vacuum cleaner base station that can improve drying efficiency during the drying of rags.

[0029] In addition, the purpose is to provide a robot vacuum base station that can prevent vaporized moisture from leaking into the kitchen during the drying process of the robot vacuum's mop.

[0030] In addition, the purpose is to provide a robot vacuum cleaner base station that can prevent odors that may be generated by the evaporation of wastewater from washing the mop during the drying process from entering the room.

[0031] Technical solutions to the problem

[0032] To address the aforementioned issues, the sweeping robot base station according to the present invention includes: a cover; a mounting portion disposed on the cover to form a receiving space for accommodating at least a portion of the sweeping robot; and a cloth drying portion for drying the cloth of the sweeping robot; the cloth drying portion includes: an external air supply module for discharging heated air into the receiving space; and an air intake port disposed inside the cover for drawing in air from inside the cover.

[0033] Therefore, the robot vacuum cleaner base station can supply heated air to the robot vacuum cleaner and dry the mop, and can also suck in the moisture that is vaporized during the drying process and diffuses into the inside of the cover and discharge it to the outside.

[0034] On the other hand, multiple air intakes may be configured at the same distance from the front end of the cover.

[0035] At this time, the cloth drying unit may also include an air exhaust pipe, the air exhaust pipe having the air intake, and an air exhaust flow path communicating with the air intake is formed inside the air exhaust pipe; one side of the air exhaust pipe may be connected to an exhaust fan, and the other side may branch into a plurality of fans.

[0036] Additionally, the external air supply module may include: an external air inlet for air from outside the enclosure to flow into; a heater for heating the air flowing in through the external air inlet; and an external air outlet for discharging the air heated by the heater into the accommodating space.

[0037] In addition, the external air supply module may also include a fan that provides flow force to the air flowing in through the external air inlet, thereby enabling it to expel hot air onto the cloth and disperse moisture to increase drying efficiency.

[0038] At this time, the temperature of the hot air emitted from the external air supply module can be above 65 degrees Celsius.

[0039] Using this configuration, the cleaning cloth of the robot vacuum cleaner can be dried by heating the outside air.

[0040] On the other hand, the robot vacuum cleaner base station according to the present invention may also include a door, which is disposed in the cover and opens and closes an entrance / exit for the robot vacuum cleaner to enter and exit the interior of the cover.

[0041] At this time, the external air supply module can release heated air while the door is closed. This raises the temperature of the space housing the robotic vacuum cleaner, thus drying the mop cloth.

[0042] On the other hand, the door can be opened when the humidity of the storage space is above a preset reference humidity. This prevents the humidity of the storage space from rising excessively.

[0043] On the other hand, the cloth drying unit may also include an exhaust fan that provides flow force to the air flowing in through the air intake.

[0044] At this time, if the humidity of the containment space is above the preset exhaust humidity, the exhaust fan can be driven.

[0045] Furthermore, the air flowing into the air intake can be discharged to the drain pipe disposed in the kitchen cabinet. Thus, in the event of increased humidity in the containment space, air can be discharged to the drain pipe.

[0046] Therefore, the hot and humid air generated during the drying process of the dishcloth can be exhausted into the drain pipe instead of the indoor space. Furthermore, any odors that might be generated during the drying process are expelled into the drain pipe, thus preventing unpleasant smells from forming in the kitchen.

[0047] On the other hand, when the robot vacuum is attached to the mounting unit, the air intake can be positioned at a higher point than the robot vacuum itself is above the ground. This increases the efficiency of drawing in the rising convection steam generated during the drying of the mop.

[0048] At this time, at least a portion of the air intake can be positioned vertically on the upper side of the sweeping robot at the position where its width is greatest in the left-right direction.

[0049] This prevents the steam generated during the drying process of the cloth from flowing forward and also prevents the sensors located in front of the robot vacuum from malfunctioning.

[0050] In addition, the distance from the external air outlet to the air inlet can be greater than the distance from the external air outlet to the cloth.

[0051] Additionally, the air intake can be positioned above the path along which the robotic vacuum cleaner moves within the enclosure. This prevents condensation from forming on the walls inside the enclosure.

[0052] On the other hand, the robot vacuum cleaner base station according to the present invention may further include a dust collection unit, which collects dust from the dust bin of the robot vacuum cleaner by operating a dust collection motor; the exhaust fan may be disposed between the dust collection motor and the external air supply module. Thus, components can be arranged in a limited space, and space can be ensured for configuring a flow path capable of venting steam.

[0053] On the other hand, according to an embodiment, the air flowing into the air intake can be resupplyed to the hot air supply module. This has the effect of improving energy efficiency by resupplying heated air to the heater.

[0054] On the other hand, the cover may include an upper cover that covers the upper side of the accommodating space and faces the lower side panel of the kitchen furniture cabinet; the air intake may be disposed on the upper cover.

[0055] That is, the air exhaust pipe having the air intake can be installed on the upper side cover.

[0056] Invention Effects

[0057] As described above, according to the present invention, the modules for charging the robot vacuum, collecting dust, and cleaning the mop are arranged in a direction horizontal to the robot vacuum, thereby utilizing the space under the kitchen cabinet.

[0058] In addition, the charging terminal, dust collection unit, mop cleaning unit, and mop drying unit are arranged in a configuration centered around the robot vacuum, enabling the robot vacuum to perform various functions simultaneously.

[0059] In addition, the other sides besides the front are covered by kitchen furniture cabinets, thus providing aesthetic appeal to the user in terms of decoration.

[0060] In addition, when the robot vacuum is in use, it automatically collects dust from the dustbin inside, so users only need to empty the dust bag at a constant interval, which reduces the user's workload.

[0061] In addition, when used with a robot vacuum cleaner, the robot vacuum cleaner's mop can be automatically cleaned, thus reducing the hassle of separating the mop and washing it separately.

[0062] In addition, detergent can be added as needed, thus improving the cleaning effect of the cloth.

[0063] In addition, the kitchen's water supply and drainage pipes are used to wash the dishcloths, thus reducing the hassle for users who need to separately add water or drain wastewater.

[0064] In addition, after cleaning the robot vacuum cleaner's mop, hot air can be supplied to the mop to automatically dry it, thus preventing odors from developing due to a wet mop.

[0065] In addition, the problem to be solved is to provide a robot vacuum base station that can prevent the humidity of the housing space equipped with a robot vacuum from rising excessively due to the wet steam generated when drying the robot vacuum's mop, which could lead to malfunction of electronic components or decay of collected dust.

[0066] In addition, the problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a robot vacuum cleaner base station that can improve drying efficiency during the drying of rags. Attached Figure Description

[0067] Figure 1 This diagram illustrates the state in which a cleaning system according to an embodiment of the present invention is installed on the underside of a kitchen furniture cabinet.

[0068] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the piping and drainage pipe connections of a sweeper system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] Figure 3 This is a perspective view illustrating a sweeper system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Top view.

[0071] Figure 5 It is a cut along the front and back direction. Figure 3 A sectional view.

[0072] Figure 6 This is a perspective view illustrating a sweeping robot according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Side view.

[0074] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 A bottom view.

[0075] Figure 9 yes Figure 6 Rear view.

[0076] Figure 10 This is a perspective view illustrating a robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 Top view.

[0078] Figure 12 This is a side view illustrating the dust collection flow path of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] Figures 13 to 16 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the dust collection flow path of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0080] Figure 17This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the discharge port of the dust collection motor cover of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] Figures 18 to 20 This is a diagram illustrating the exhaust flow path of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0082] Figure 21 and Figure 22 This diagram shows a state in which a portion of the bottom surface of the bottom component body has been removed in order to illustrate the exhaust flow path of the robot vacuum base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0083] Figure 23 It is used for detailed explanation Figure 22 The 3D view of region A shown.

[0084] Figure 24 This is an enlarged view illustrating the cloth cleaning section of a robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] Figure 25 This is an enlarged view illustrating the cleaning water discharge section of the mop cleaning unit of the robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0086] Figure 26 This is a cross-sectional perspective view illustrating the formation of a robot vacuum cleaner base station in the space between the cleaning plate and the cleaning tank according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0087] Figure 27 This is a perspective view illustrating the cloth drying section of a robot vacuum cleaner base station according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0088] Figure 28 and Figure 29 This is an enlarged view of the cloth drying section of the robot vacuum cleaner base station according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0089] Figure 30 This is a cross-sectional view used to illustrate the state of air flowing into the interior of the external air supply module according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0090] Figure 31 This is a diagram illustrating the cloth drying section of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0091] Figure 32a and Figure 32b This is a front view used to illustrate the configuration relationship of the robot vacuum cleaner base station on a horizontal plane according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0092] Figure 33 This diagram illustrates the state of the dust bag drawer and detergent container being extended from the base station of the robotic vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0093] Figure 34 This is a top view illustrating the cloth drying section of the robot vacuum cleaner base station according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0094] Figure 35 This is a perspective view showing the state of a robot vacuum cleaner base station with its top cover removed according to a third embodiment of the invention.

[0095] Figure 36 and Figure 37 This is a diagram illustrating the flow of air into the interior of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0096] Figure 38 This is a perspective view illustrating the air exhaust section of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0097] Figure 39 This is an enlarged view illustrating a portion of the steam exhaust section of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0098] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0099] This invention can be modified in various ways and can have various embodiments; therefore, specific embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings and are described in detail in the description. This is not intended to limit the invention to specific implementations, but should be interpreted as encompassing all modifications, equivalents, or substitutions included within the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0100] In describing this invention, terms such as "first" and "second" may be used to describe various constituent elements, but the constituent elements are not limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one constituent element from other constituent elements. For example, without departing from the scope of this invention, a first constituent element may be named a second constituent element, and similarly, a second constituent element may be named a first constituent element.

[0101] The term "and / or" can include a combination of the contents of a plurality of related records or any one of the contents of a plurality of related records.

[0102] When it is mentioned that one constituent element is "connected" or "linked" to another constituent element, it should be understood that it can be directly connected or linked to another constituent element, or that there may be other constituent elements between them. Conversely, when it is mentioned that one constituent element is "directly connected" or "directly linked" to another constituent element, it should be understood that there are no other constituent elements between them.

[0103] The terminology used in this application is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the invention. Unless explicitly stated in the context, singular expressions may include plural expressions.

[0104] In this application, it should be understood that terms such as "comprising" or "having" are intended only to specify the presence of features, figures, steps, actions, constituent elements, components, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and do not preclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, figures, steps, actions, constituent elements, components, or combinations thereof.

[0105] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, may have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. Terms such as those defined in common dictionaries may be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the relevant technical context, and may not be construed as having an ideal or overly formal meaning unless expressly defined herein.

[0106] Furthermore, the following embodiments are provided to enable those skilled in the art to understand more fully, and for the purpose of clearer illustration, the shape and size of the elements in the drawings may be exaggerated.

[0107] Figure 1 A diagram is shown illustrating the state in which a cleaning system according to an embodiment of the present invention is disposed on the underside of a kitchen furniture cabinet. Figure 2 A diagram illustrating the piping and drainage pipe connections of a sweeper system according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0108] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the cleaning system 1 can be installed on the underside of the kitchen cabinet 2. Specifically, the kitchen cabinet 2 can be configured in the kitchen to store bowls, plates, cups, etc., and to provide space for cooking food or washing dishes.

[0109] In addition, kitchen cabinet 2 can be equipped with an upper panel (workbench) that can function as a sink, cooking table, or work surface.

[0110] For example, the kitchen cabinet 2 may include a sink on its upper panel to provide space for washing dishes. Alternatively, the kitchen cabinet 2 may include a cooking countertop for performing cooking tasks. Additionally, the kitchen cabinet 2 may include a gas stovetop on its upper panel for mounting a gas stove, induction cooktop, ceramic cooktop, or oven.

[0111] Typically, kitchen furniture cabinet 2 can be a standard cabinet with a front-to-back width of 600mm and a left-to-right width of 600mm.

[0112] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a sweeper system 1 can be disposed on the underside of a structure including at least one of a water supply pipe and a drain pipe. Specifically, the water supply pipe can refer to a flow path connected to an external water supply source that supplies fluid to the structure, and the drain pipe can refer to a flow path that discharges fluid discharged from the structure into a sewer.

[0113] A storage cabinet for storing tableware and kitchen utensils can be installed at the lower part of this kitchen furniture cabinet 2 or the structure described above. That is, the kitchen furniture cabinet 2 or the structure described above may include: an upper panel 22 providing space for cooking or washing dishes; a lower side panel 23 configured to be separated from the ground at a predetermined height; and a storage space formed between the upper panel 22 and the lower side panel 23 for storing tableware and kitchen utensils. In the case where the kitchen furniture cabinet 2 is a sink, a sink 22a can be installed on the upper panel 22.

[0114] Additionally, the lower side panel 23 can be supported by a support column 21. The support column 21 can be arranged perpendicular to the kitchen floor and can support the load of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2. At this time, depending on the height of the support column 21, a space can be formed between the kitchen floor and the lower side panel 23.

[0115] In contrast, the kitchen furniture cabinet 2 can also be fixed to the wall of the building without the need for the supporting column 21. In this case, a space can also be formed between the kitchen floor and the lower side panel 23.

[0116] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the cleaning machine system 1 is installed in the space between the floor and the lower side panel 23 of the kitchen as described above (hereinafter referred to as the installation space 24).

[0117] For example, the installation space 24 can be less than 200mm in height, and typically can be less than 160mm in height.

[0118] Therefore, according to the present invention, the cleaning system 1 is disposed in the lower space of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2, thus having the effect of minimizing the exposure of the cleaning system 1 to the outside.

[0119] Furthermore, compared to configuring a charging station for a robot vacuum cleaner in a constant space such as the living room, bedroom, or kitchen, this system does not occupy additional space and can be configured in unused space created by the kitchen cabinet 2, thus maximizing space efficiency.

[0120] On the other hand, the kitchen cabinet 2 or the structure is provided with a drain pipe 25 capable of draining liquids used in cooking or water used in washing dishes. At least a portion of the drain pipe 25 may be configured in the storage space formed between the upper panel 22 and the lower side panel 23. Typically, the drain pipe 25 may be connected to the drain outlet of the sink 22a formed in the sink. The drain pipe 25 includes a U-bend 25a for preventing backflow of contaminated gases or odors. The U-bend 25a may be configured in the storage space. Liquid flowing in through the drain outlet may flow downwards due to gravity at the upstream 25b of the U-bend and accumulate in the U-bend 25a. If the water overflows above a predetermined water level set by the U-bend 25a, it may flow downwards along the downstream 25c of the U-bend and be discharged into the sewer.

[0121] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the sweeping system 1 can use the drain pipe 25 as described above to wash and dry the mop 242 of the sweeping robot 200.

[0122] Additionally, although not shown in the diagram, a water supply pipe may be installed in the kitchen furniture cabinet 2. Tap water (or purified water) can be supplied to the cleaning system 1 through the water supply pipe.

[0123] The specific structure of the sweeper system 1 will be described below.

[0124] on the other hand, Figures 3 to 5 A diagram illustrating a sweeper system according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0125] According to embodiments of this specification, a sweeping system 1 may include a sweeping robot base station 100 and a sweeping robot 200.

[0126] The cleaning system 1 includes a robot vacuum base station 100. A robot vacuum 200 can be integrated into the robot vacuum base station 100. Specifically, the robot vacuum 200 can enter from the front of the robot vacuum base station 100 and can be housed inside the robot vacuum base station 100. The robot vacuum base station 100 can remove dust from the dustbin 220 of the robot vacuum 200. The robot vacuum base station 100 can clean the rotating cleaning section 240 of the robot vacuum 200. The robot vacuum base station 100 can dry the rotating cleaning section 240 of the robot vacuum 200. The robot vacuum base station 100 can supply power to the robot vacuum 200.

[0127] on the other hand, Figures 6 to 9 A diagram is disclosed to illustrate a sweeping robot in a sweeping system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0128] Reference Figures 6 to 9 The structure of the 200 robotic vacuum cleaner is described below.

[0129] The robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can autonomously drive in the area to be cleaned and suck up dust and other foreign objects from the ground, thus automatically cleaning the area.

[0130] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is placed on the ground and moves along the ground to clean the ground. Therefore, the following description will be based on the state of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 being placed on the ground, with the vertical direction set as a reference.

[0131] Furthermore, taking a pair of wheels 260 as a reference, the side with the auxiliary wheel 270 (described later) is designated as the front, and the side with the rotating cleaning unit 240 (described later) is designated as the rear, and will be described.

[0132] The “lowest part” of each component described in the embodiments of the present invention may be the part located at the lowest position in each component when the robot vacuum cleaner 200 according to the embodiments of the present invention is placed on the ground for use, or it may be the part closest to the ground.

[0133] The sweeping robot 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a main body 210, a dust bin 220, a water bin 230, a rotating sweeping unit 240, an agitator 250, wheels 260, auxiliary wheels 270, and a charging terminal 280.

[0134] The main body 210 can form the overall shape of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. Various components that make up the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can be integrated into the main body 210, and some of the components that make up the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can be housed inside the main body 210.

[0135] Specifically, the main body 210 may house the components of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 within its internal space. For example, the main body 210 may house a battery and at least one motor within its internal space.

[0136] In embodiments of the present invention, the main body 210 may be configured such that its width (or diameter) in the horizontal direction (parallel to X and Y) is greater than its height in the vertical direction (parallel to Z). This main body 210 helps the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 form a stable structure and provides a structure that facilitates the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 in avoiding obstacles during movement (driving).

[0137] When viewed from above or below, the main body 210 can take on various shapes such as circles, ovals, or quadrilaterals.

[0138] The main body 210 can be divided into a lower main body and an upper main body, and the lower main body and the upper main body can be combined to form a space inside.

[0139] The lower main body can be combined with the upper main body to form an internal space that can accommodate a battery, at least one sensor, and at least one motor.

[0140] The lower body may have an intake section 211 for air to flow in and a hole for accommodating a pair of wheels 260.

[0141] The suction section 211 can be a passage for dust from the ground to flow in. Furthermore, the suction section 211 can communicate with a suction flow path (not shown) formed inside the main body 210, and the suction flow path can communicate with the internal space of the dust bin 220.

[0142] On the other hand, an exhaust flow path can also be provided in the lower main body. One side of the exhaust flow path can communicate with the internal space of the dust bin 220, and the other side can communicate with the exhaust port. At this time, a filter can be installed at the exhaust port.

[0143] With the configuration described above, the air flowing in through the suction section 211 can flow into the dust bin 220 via the suction flow path, and then be discharged from the exhaust port via the exhaust flow path.

[0144] The agitator 250, described later, can be rotatably housed in the suction section 211. With the configuration described above, dust around the suction section 211 can be guided into the suction section 211 by the rotation of the agitator 250, and the efficiency of dust suction can be improved.

[0145] The upper body can form the upper appearance of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. Although not shown, a display can be installed on the upper body.

[0146] Although not illustrated, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 of the present invention may include a buffer. The buffer may be attached along the edge of the body 210 and configured to move relative to the body 210.

[0147] The buffer member can be attached to a portion of the edge of the body 210, or it can be attached to the entire edge of the body 210. At least one elastic member (not shown) can be provided between the buffer member and the body 210. With the configuration described above, if the buffer member comes into contact with an obstacle or the like and moves relative to the central side of the body 210, the buffer member can be reset to its original position by the restoring force of the elastic member (not shown), and can absorb or disperse the impact applied to the buffer member, thereby preventing and reducing the transmission of impact to the body 210.

[0148] The dust bin 220 can be configured to suck in external dust and air and store the dust.

[0149] The dust bin 220 can store dust that flows in through the suction flow path. The dust bin 220 can have a dust inlet communicating with the suction flow path, an internal space for storing dust, and an air outlet for discharging air.

[0150] The dust bin 220 can be disposed inside the main body 210. In this case, the dust bin 220 can be fixedly attached to the main body 210, or it can be configured to be detachable according to the embodiment.

[0151] On the other hand, in this invention, a dust discharge path can be formed in the dust bin 220. This dust discharge path allows the internal space of the dust bin 220 to communicate with the external space of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. Using the configuration described above, when dust is collected by the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100, the dust inside the dust bin 220 can be removed.

[0152] On the other hand, the dust bin 220 according to an embodiment of the present invention may have a dust outlet 221 communicating with the dust discharge flow path. As one example, the dust outlet 221 may be formed on the rear side of the outer side (or outer peripheral surface) of the main body 210. As another example, the dust outlet 221 may be formed on the outer side of the dust bin 220.

[0153] Furthermore, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention may be provided with a dust bin door 222 capable of selectively opening and closing the aforementioned dust outlet 221. Specifically, the dust bin door 222 may be attached to the main body 210 and positioned to block the dust outlet 221. As an example, the dust bin door 222 may be formed of rubber or resin material, configured to be flip-up, and one side of which may be fixedly attached to the main body 210.

[0154] With the configuration described above, if the dust collection motor 152 of the robot vacuum base station 100 described later is operated, the dust bin door 222 can be elastically deformed by the driving force of the dust collection motor 152, and the dust discharge port 221 is opened, so that the dust in the dust bin 220 can be collected into the dust collection section 140 of the robot vacuum base station 100.

[0155] The bucket 230 is shaped as a container with an internal space for storing liquids such as water. The bucket 230 can be disposed inside the body 210, fixedly attached to the body 210, or detachably attached to the body 210.

[0156] The water tank 230 includes a supply section 231 and a nozzle (not shown). The supply section 231 can be configured to receive liquids such as water from the outside. For example, the supply section 231 may have an inlet formed on the other side behind the outer side (or outer peripheral surface) of the main body 210, and be connected to the storage space inside the water tank 230 via a water supply hose.

[0157] At this time, the supply unit 231 can be configured on the opposite side of the sweeping robot 200 in the left-right direction in relation to the dust discharge port 221. For example, if the dust discharge port 221 is configured on the rear left side of the main body 210, the supply unit 231 can be configured on the rear right side of the main body 210.

[0158] With the configuration described above, when the robot vacuum cleaner 200 is combined with the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 can perform dust collection and water injection.

[0159] On the other hand, the nozzle (not shown) is formed in the shape of a tube or pipe and is connected to the bucket 230, allowing the liquid inside the bucket 230 to flow through it. The nozzle (not shown) is configured such that one side is connected to the bucket 230 and the other end is located above a pair of rotating plates 241, thereby allowing the liquid inside the bucket 230 to be supplied to a pair of cloths 242 respectively.

[0160] That is, the nozzle (not shown) can be formed into a tube that is branched into two. In this case, one end of the branch can be located on the upper side of the left rotating plate, and the other end of the branch can be located on the upper side of the right rotating plate.

[0161] On the other hand, although not shown, a pump may be provided in the water tank 230 to direct the water inside the water tank 230 to the nozzle (not shown). Therefore, if the pump in the water tank 230 is running, the liquid stored in the water tank 230 can be ejected through the nozzle (not shown) to the rotating cleaning unit 240.

[0162] The rotating cleaning unit 240 includes a rotating plate 241 and a cleaning cloth 242.

[0163] The rotating plate 241 can be configured as a pair including a left rotating plate and a right rotating plate, and the wiping cloth 242 can be configured as a pair including a left wiping cloth and a right wiping cloth.

[0164] The rotating plate 241 can be rotatably disposed on the bottom surface of the main body 210, and the rag 242 can be attached to the underside of the rotating plate 241.

[0165] The rotating plate 241 is formed with a specified area and is shaped as a flat plate or a flat frame. This rotating plate 241 is generally laid horizontally, thus forming a shape where the width (or diameter) in the horizontal direction is significantly greater than the height in the vertical direction. The rotating plate 241, combined with the main body 210, can be parallel to the ground or inclined to the ground. The rotating plate 241 can be formed into a circular plate shape, the bottom surface of the rotating plate 241 can be generally circular, and the rotating plate 241 as a whole can be rotationally symmetrical.

[0166] A pair of rotating plates 241 can be symmetrical to each other.

[0167] The rag 242 can be attached to the underside of the rotating plate 241 so that it faces the ground.

[0168] The bottom surface of the rag 242 facing the ground has a specified area, and the rag 242 is flat. The width (or diameter) of the rag 242 in the horizontal direction is sufficiently greater than its height in the vertical direction. When the rag 242 is attached to the side of the main body 210, the bottom surface of the rag 242 can be parallel to the ground or inclined to the ground.

[0169] The bottom surface of the cleaning cloth 242 can be roughly circular, and the cleaning cloth 242 as a whole can be formed in a rotationally symmetrical shape. In addition, the cleaning cloth 242 can be detachably attached to the bottom surface of the rotating plate 241, combined with the rotating plate 241, and rotates together with the rotating plate 241.

[0170] On the other hand, although not shown, the rotary cleaning unit 240 may be provided with a drive unit that applies rotational force to the rotating plate 241. For example, the drive unit may be provided with a motor and at least one gear. Therefore, if the drive unit is activated, the rotating plate 241 and the mop 242 can rotate and wipe the floor to perform cleaning.

[0171] The agitator 250 is rotatably equipped with a plurality of brushes that can guide external dust and air into the dust bin 220. At this time, at least one gear may be provided in the agitator 250.

[0172] On the other hand, the agitator 250 according to this embodiment can not only be provided with an additional agitator motor (not shown) to receive rotational power, but can also receive rotational power from a driving motor or from the drive unit of the rotating cleaning unit 240, depending on the embodiment.

[0173] Wheel 260 can be disposed on the bottom surface of main body 210 and can be connected to drive unit (not shown). At this time, drive unit (not shown) can be combined with main body 210.

[0174] Wheel 260 can be mounted on body 210 and roll on the ground.

[0175] Wheel 260 can be composed of a first driving wheel and a second driving wheel. In this case, the first driving wheel can be formed in the same way as the second driving wheel, or it can be formed symmetrically. As an example, if the first driving wheel is located on the left side of the sweeping robot 200, then the second driving wheel can be located on the right side of the sweeping robot 200. In this case, the first driving wheel and the second driving wheel can be left-right symmetrical to each other.

[0176] The drive unit (not shown) may include a travel motor and gears. In this case, the travel motor may be housed inside the main body 210, providing power to the wheel 260. The travel motor may include a first travel motor and a second travel motor.

[0177] The travel motor can be an electric motor. A plurality of gears mesh with each other and rotate, connecting the travel motor and the wheel 260, transmitting the rotational power of the travel motor to the wheel 260. Therefore, when the rotating shaft of the travel motor rotates, the wheel 260 can rotate.

[0178] With the configuration described above, if the driving motor is running, the wheel 260 can rotate, and the main body 210 can travel on the ground at a specified speed.

[0179] The auxiliary wheel 270 can be disposed on the underside of the main body 210 and roll on the ground (the surface to be cleaned). The auxiliary wheel 270, together with a pair of wheels 260, can support the main body 210 on the ground. With the configuration described above, the auxiliary wheel 270 can guide the movement of the robot vacuum cleaner 200 while minimizing friction between the robot vacuum cleaner 200 and the ground.

[0180] The suction motor (not shown) generates suction that draws in external dust and air through the suction section 211. For example, the suction motor (not shown) can be an electric motor. Under the suction generated by the suction motor (not shown), external dust and air flow into the suction section 211 and reach the dust bin 220 after passing through the suction flow path.

[0181] Although not shown, the battery is integrated with the main body 210 and supplies power to other components constituting the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The battery can power at least one motor disposed in the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. For example, the battery can power the rotating cleaning unit 240, the agitator 250, the wheels 260, and a motor disposed in the suction motor (not shown).

[0182] In addition, the battery can supply power to the sensor unit (not shown) and the control unit (not shown).

[0183] The battery can be charged by an external power source, and for this purpose, a charging terminal 280 for charging can be provided on one side of the main body 210. For example, the charging terminal 280 can be configured on the rear side of the outer surface of the main body 210. When the robot vacuum cleaner 200 is combined with the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100, the charging terminal 280 can contact the power supply terminal 123b of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 and receive power.

[0184] Figure 10 A perspective view is shown to illustrate a robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 11 It shows Figure 10 Top view.

[0185] Reference Figure 10 and Figure 11 The following describes the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention.

[0186] The robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 can accommodate a robot vacuum cleaner 200. The robot vacuum cleaner 200 can be integrated into the mounting section 120 of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0187] The robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 may include a cover 110.

[0188] The cover 110 can form the appearance of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100. As an example, the cover 110 can be formed in a shape similar to a hexahedron including at least one outer wall.

[0189] The cover 110 can have a space inside that can accommodate the placement part 120, the dust collection flow path 130, the dust collection part 140, the dust collection motor 52, the cloth washing part 160, the cloth drying part 170, and the exhaust flow path 125a.

[0190] The cover 110 can be installed on the underside of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2. Specifically, the cover 110 can be installed in the mounting space 24 formed between the lower side panel 23 of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2 and the kitchen floor.

[0191] The cover 110 includes an outer wall 111 that forms the appearance. The outer wall 111 may refer to a surface formed along the direction of gravity.

[0192] As one example, the outer wall 111 can be installed at predetermined intervals on the lower side of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2. As another example, the cover 110 can also include a bottom surface 112 facing the kitchen floor, and the outer wall 111 can be connected via the bottom surface 112. As yet another example, the cover 110 can also include a bottom surface 112 facing the kitchen floor and an upper cover 113 facing the lower side panel 23 of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2, and the upper and lower ends of the outer wall 111 can be connected to each other via the bottom surface 112 and the upper cover 113. As yet another example, the cover 110 can also include a bottom surface 112, an upper cover 113, and a third outer wall member 111c facing the wall of the building.

[0193] With this configuration, the cover 110 can block the upper and lower sides of the robot vacuum base station 100. Therefore, even if foreign objects fall from the kitchen furniture cabinet 2 to the lower side, the robot vacuum 200 and the components of the robot vacuum base station 100 can be prevented from being contaminated.

[0194] The outer wall 111 may be formed by a first outer wall member 111a, a second outer wall member 111b and a third outer wall member 111c.

[0195] The first outer wall member 111a may cover one of the two sides of the cover 110, and the second outer wall member 111b may cover the other side of the two sides of the cover 110. For example, the first outer wall member 111a may be disposed on the left side of the cover 110, and the second outer wall member 111b may be disposed on the right side of the cover 110.

[0196] The third outer wall member 111c can connect to the first outer wall member 111a and the second outer wall member 111b. Specifically, the third outer wall member 111c can be connected to the first outer wall member 111a and the second outer wall member 111b from the rear.

[0197] With the configuration described above, the components of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 can be accommodated inside the cover 110 (between the first outer wall component 111a, the second outer wall component 111b, and the third outer wall component 111c).

[0198] Additionally, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can be housed inside the enclosure 110. The enclosure 110 can be configured such that its outer wall 111 has a gap greater than the maximum horizontal width of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. With the configuration described above, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can enter and exit the interior of the enclosure 110.

[0199] In this embodiment, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can enter and exit from the front of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100. Here, "front" can refer to the direction in which the door 126 is set with reference to the interior of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0200] Additionally, "rear" can refer to the opposite direction from the front, based on the interior of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100. For example, a building wall (not shown) may be installed behind the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0201] In addition, based on the view from inside the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100, the left side can be called the left side and the right side can be called the right side.

[0202] That is, the outer wall 111 of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 can be configured on the left side and the right side respectively.

[0203] Therefore, the upper side of the cover 110 can be covered by the kitchen cabinet 2, and the lower side of the cover 110 can be covered by the kitchen floor. Additionally, the left and right sides of the cover 110 are covered by the outer wall 111, but are positioned at the bottom of the kitchen cabinet 2. At this time, the lower part of the kitchen cabinet 2, except for the portion containing the robot vacuum base station 100, is finished off by the baseboard 26; therefore, only the front of the cover 110 is exposed to the outside.

[0204] This minimizes the exposure of the robot vacuum base station 100 and the robot vacuum 200 to the outside.

[0205] With the configuration described above, the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention has the effect of bringing aesthetic appeal to users in terms of decoration.

[0206] On the other hand, although not shown, the cover 110 may have a space for a water supply hose connected to a water supply pipe to pass through, a space for a drainage hose to pass through for draining wastewater generated after washing the cloth 242, and a space for a hose to pass through for discharging moisture generated during the drying process of the cloth 242. For example, at least one of the outer wall 111, the third outer wall member 113c, and the upper cover 113 of the cover 110 may have a space for the aforementioned hoses to pass through.

[0207] The robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 may include a placement unit 120.

[0208] The sweeping robot 200 can connect to the sweeping robot base station 100 through the installation unit 120.

[0209] The robotic vacuum cleaner 200 and the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 can be physically connected, electrically connected, and / or connected via the mounting section 120. If the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is physically connected, electrically connected, and / or connected via the mounting section 120 to the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100, it can be expressed as the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 docking with the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0210] The placement part 120 can be disposed inside the cover 110. In this case, according to the embodiment, the placement part 120 can be configured to be drawn out from the cover 110 via the drawer 190.

[0211] With the configuration described above, when the mounting section 120 needs to be cleaned or repaired, or when some parts need to be replaced, the user can easily access and manage the mounting section 120.

[0212] An entrance 127 for the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to enter can be formed in the installation section 120. The entrance 127 may refer to the space formed in front of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0213] The entrance / exit 127 can be configured to allow the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to pass through. That is, the height of the entrance / exit 127 is greater than the height of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. In this case, the entrance / exit 127 can refer to the space formed vertically upward from the front end of the bottom member 121 (described later), and the upper end of the entrance / exit can be the same as the lower side of the lower side panel 23 of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2 or the upper end of the cover 110.

[0214] Furthermore, the left-right width of the entrance / exit 127 is greater than the maximum width of the sweeping robot 200. In this case, at least one of a dust collection section 140 and a mop cleaning section 160 can be arranged on the left and right sides of the entrance / exit 127. Therefore, the left and right ends of the entrance / exit 127 can form boundaries with the dust collection section 140 and the mop cleaning section 160. If neither the dust collection section 140 nor the mop cleaning section 160 is present, the outer wall 111 of the cover 110 can also serve as the boundary.

[0215] At this time, the entrance / exit 127 can be opened and closed by the door 126. The door 126 can be disposed at the upper end of the entrance / exit 127 and has a rotation axis provided in a direction parallel to the bottom member 121. The door 126 can be hinged relative to the cover 110. Alternatively, the door 126 can be hinged relative to the side wall 124 of the mounting portion 120. The door 126 can be rotated by the door drive unit 126a. As an example, the door drive unit 126a can be a motor.

[0216] For example, the door 126 can be formed as a rectangular flat plate, and a hinge portion 126b can be provided at the upper end. A door drive portion 126a can be connected to the axial end of the hinge portion 126b. In this case, the hinge portion 126b of the door 126 can be directly connected to the shaft of the door drive portion 126a, or it can be connected by at least one gear to transmit power.

[0217] Door 126 can remain closed (entrance / exit 127) while the robot vacuum 200 is housed in the mounting section 120. Furthermore, when the robot vacuum 200 begins to move from the mounting section 120, door 126 can rotate to open entrance / exit 127. Also, door 126 can rotate to close entrance / exit 127 after the robot vacuum 200 has passed through it. Additionally, door 126 can rotate to open entrance / exit 127 when the robot vacuum 200 approaches from outside the robot vacuum base station 100.

[0218] The placement part 120 may include a receiving space S, a bottom member 121, a connecting wall 123, and a side wall 124.

[0219] The receiving space S of the placement section 120 can accommodate the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. As one example, the receiving space S can refer to the space surrounded by the bottom member 121, the connecting wall 123, and the side wall 124. As another example, the receiving space S can refer to the space surrounded by the bottom member 121, the cleaning plate 122, the connecting wall 123, and the side wall 124. As yet another example, the receiving space S can refer to the space where the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is located when it is connected to the power supply terminal 123b, or the space where the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is located when its dustbin 220 is connected to the dust passage hole 123a.

[0220] The bottom component 121 can be configured to allow the robot vacuum base station 100 to contact the ground, and can support the robot vacuum 200 when the robot vacuum 200 and the robot vacuum base station 100 are combined.

[0221] The bottom member 121 may refer to a portion of the bottom 112 of the cover 110. Alternatively, the bottom member 121 may be a configuration included in the bottom 112 of the cover 110. Alternatively, the bottom member 121 may be a configuration formed on the top surface of the bottom 112 of the cover 110.

[0222] The bottom component 121 may include a bottom component body 121a, an inclined portion 121b, a wheel mounting portion 121c, an agitator receiving portion 121d, and a cleaning tank 121e.

[0223] The bottom component body 121a can form the overall shape of the bottom component 121. The bottom component body 121a can be provided with an inclined part 121b, a wheel mounting part 121c, an agitator receiving part 121d, and a cleaning tank 121e.

[0224] The bottom component body 121a can be formed such that its width (or diameter) in the horizontal direction (parallel to X and Y) is greater than its height in the vertical direction (parallel to Z). This structure allows the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 to be stably supported on the ground.

[0225] An exhaust flow path 125a may be provided inside the bottom component body 121a. Therefore, the air discharged from the dust collection motor 152 can flow in the exhaust flow path 125a formed inside the bottom component body 121a and be discharged from the exhaust port 125b.

[0226] The inclined part 121b can be configured in the bottom component body 121a as an entrance for the sweeping robot 200 to climb.

[0227] The tilting portion 121b can be tilted upwards in the direction in which the robot vacuum cleaner 200 enters. More specifically, the front end of the inlet side of the tilting portion 121b can be connected to the ground without any height difference, and tilts upwards in the direction in which the robot vacuum cleaner 200 enters. In this case, "in front" in the direction in which the robot vacuum cleaner 200 enters refers to the rear when the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 is used as a reference. As a result, the robot vacuum cleaner 200 can easily climb from the ground to the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0228] A wheel guide 121ba may be provided in the inclined section 121b.

[0229] The wheel guide portion 121ba can be formed in the shape of a groove to guide the movement of the wheels 260 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The surface of the wheel guide portion 121ba can be formed to correspond to the surface of the wheels 260 so that the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can move stably. In addition, the width of the groove of the wheel guide portion 121ba, which is the entrance for the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to climb, is greater than the width of the wheels 260, and the width of the groove can be formed to narrow relative to the entrance as it moves forward toward the climbing path of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. As a result, the wheels 260 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can easily enter the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 and are restricted from lateral movement by the groove whose width gradually narrows, thereby guiding the wheels 260 to an accurate position.

[0230] An auxiliary wheel guide 121bb may be provided in the inclined section 121b.

[0231] The auxiliary wheel guide 121bb can be formed in a groove shape to guide the movement of the auxiliary wheel 270 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. Alternatively, the auxiliary wheel guide 121bb can be formed in a protruding shape so that when the wheel 260 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is placed on the wheel guide 121bb, it connects with the auxiliary wheel 270. Thus, when the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 moves on the tilting section 121b, it can be stably supported and moved by the wheel 260 and the auxiliary wheel 270.

[0232] The wheels 260 of a robotic vacuum cleaner 200, which move upwards along the wheel guide 121ba, can be mounted in the wheel mounting section 121c. If the wheels 260 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 are mounted in the wheel mounting section 121c, a physical connection between the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 and the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 can be achieved. The surface of the wheel mounting section 121c can be formed to correspond to the surface of the wheels 260, so that the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can stop stably. The wheel mounting section 121c can extend from the upper end of the wheel guide 121ba. The wheel mounting section 121c can be connected to the wheel guide 121ba without steps. Therefore, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can easily move to the wheel mounting section 121c via the tilting section 121b.

[0233] The wheel mounting section 121c can be configured at the stop position of the left and right side wheels 260 of the sweeping robot 200 so that the sweeping robot 200 stops at an accurate position. Here, the stop position of the wheels 260 refers to the stop position set for connecting the sweeping robot 200 to the power supply terminal 123b and / or the stop position set for connecting the dustbin 220 and the dust passage hole 123a of the sweeping robot 200.

[0234] The shape of the wheel mounting part 121c can be formed to correspond to the shape of the wheel 260 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200, that is, an arc shape. With this configuration, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can move along the wheel guide part 121ba and then stop when the wheel 260 is inserted into the wheel mounting part 121c, and the wheel 260 can be stably mounted on the arc-shaped wheel mounting part 121c.

[0235] The agitator receiving portion 121d can accommodate the agitator 250 of the sweeping robot 200. Specifically, the agitator receiving portion 121d can provide space to accommodate the agitator 250 of the sweeping robot 200 while the wheels 260 of the sweeping robot 200 are mounted in the wheel mounting portion 121c.

[0236] The agitator receiving portion 121d may include a recessed portion 121da and a protruding portion 121db.

[0237] The recess 121da can be formed to be recessed from the bottom member 121. The recess 121da can form a receiving space 121dc for accommodating at least a portion of the agitator 250. Thus, with the wheels 260 of the sweeping robot 200 mounted in the wheel mounting portion 121c, at least a portion of the agitator 250 can be accommodated in the receiving space of the recess 121da.

[0238] The receiving space of the recess 121da can communicate with the receiving space S of the placement part 120.

[0239] An exhaust port 125b may be formed on one side of the recess 121da. Specifically, the exhaust port 125b may be formed on the side of the recess 121da. Therefore, air discharged from the dust collection motor 152 and passing through the exhaust flow path 125a can be discharged through the exhaust port 125b into the receiving space 121dc of the recess 121da.

[0240] The protrusion 121db can be formed to protrude from the bottom member 121. The protrusion 121db can be arranged along the edge of the recess 121da. In addition, when the agitator 250 is accommodated in the accommodating space 121dc of the recess 121da, the protrusion 121db can be configured to separate from the main body 210 of the sweeping robot 200 by a predetermined distance.

[0241] The protrusion 121db can guide the air expelled through the air exchange port 125b to the suction section 211 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200. Thus, the air discharged into the receiving space 121dc of the recess 121da can be guided by the protrusion 121db to the suction section 211 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200.

[0242] An agitator receiving portion 121d can be formed between the wheel mounting portions 121c. The agitator receiving portion 121d can be shaped to correspond to the agitator 250 of the sweeping robot 200. The agitator receiving portion 121d can be shaped as a cuboid with an open top. The bottom surface of the agitator receiving portion 121d can be sealed by the bottom 112. Therefore, the agitator 250 of the sweeping robot 200, which moves upward along the inclined portion 121b, can be mounted on the recessed portion 121da through the open top surface of the agitator receiving portion 121d. At this time, the depth of the recessed portion 121da can be made shallower than the depth of the wheel mounting portion 121c.

[0243] An exhaust port 125b may be formed in the agitator housing 121d. The exhaust port 125b may be formed on the side of the agitator housing 121d. The exhaust port 125b is connected to the recess 121da of the agitator housing 121d and the dust collection motor 152 through the exhaust flow path 125a. The recess 121da of the agitator housing 121d and the exhaust flow path 125a are connected through the exhaust port 125b. Therefore, air discharged from the dust collection motor 152 can be discharged into the recess 121da of the agitator housing 121d through the exhaust port 125b.

[0244] The cleaning tank 121e is configured to house the cleaning plate 122, which will be described later. The cleaning tank 121e can be disposed on the rear side of the bottom component body 121a. The cleaning tank 121e can be formed to correspond to the cleaning plate 122 so that the cleaning plate 122 can be inserted.

[0245] The cleaning plate 122 is a component for cleaning the cleaning cloth of the sweeping robot 200. The cleaning plate 122 can be placed in the cleaning tank 121e of the bottom component 121.

[0246] The cleaning plate 122 may have protrusions 122a and drainage holes 122b. When the mop 242 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is placed on the cleaning plate 122, if the drive unit of the rotating cleaning unit 240 is driven, the mop 242 will rotate. At this time, with cleaning water supplied to the cleaning plate 122, if the mop 242 rotates, the mop 242 can be cleaned by friction against the stationary protrusions 122a.

[0247] Additionally, the cleaning plate 122 can be configured to slope downwards toward the center. Therefore, the cleaning water flowing along the inclined cleaning plate 122 can flow out through the drain hole 122b into the space formed between the cleaning plate 122 and the cleaning tank 121e after cleaning the cloth 242.

[0248] The connecting wall 123 is configured with the dust passage 123a, power supply terminal 123b, and water nozzle 123c of the robot vacuum base station 100. The connecting wall 123 spatially separates the accommodating space S from the components of the robot vacuum base station 100. The connecting wall 123 extends along a direction intersecting the bottom member 121 at the rear side. The connecting wall 123 extends vertically at the rear side of the bottom member 121. The connecting wall 123 can be formed to correspond to the shape of the robot vacuum 200. For example, the connecting wall 123 can be formed as an arc shape with a predetermined radius. Using the configuration described above, it can surround the outer contour of the robot vacuum 200 and increase the area of ​​the outer surface facing the robot vacuum 200. Furthermore, it can stably support the robot vacuum 200.

[0249] A dust passage hole 123a can be formed in the mounting section 120 to allow air from outside the cover 110 to flow inwards. Specifically, a dust passage hole 123a can be formed in the connecting wall 123 of the mounting section 120 to allow air from outside the cover 110 to flow inwards. The dust passage hole 123a can communicate with the dust bin 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The dust passage hole 123a can communicate with the dust outlet 221 of the dust bin 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The dust passage hole 123a can be formed in a hole shape corresponding to the shape of the dust bin 220 so that the dust in the dust bin 220 flows into the dust collection section 140. The dust passage hole 123a can be formed in a shape corresponding to the dust outlet 221 of the dust bin 220. The dust passage hole 123a can be formed to communicate with the dust collection flow path 130. Air drawn into the dust through the hole 123a can be discharged through the exhaust section 125 after flowing through the dust collection path 130.

[0250] The power supply terminal 123b can supply power to the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 attached to the mounting section 120. The power supply terminal 123b can contact and be electrically connected to the charging terminal 280 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The power supply terminal 123b can be disposed in the mounting section 120. Specifically, the power supply terminal 123b can be disposed in the mounting wall 123. The power supply terminal 123b can be electrically connected to the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 attached to the mounting wall 123. The power supply terminal 123b can supply power to the battery of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 attached to the mounting wall 123.

[0251] The robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 may also include a water supply nozzle 123c.

[0252] The water supply nozzle 123c can be connected to the supply section 231 of the water tank 230 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. Specifically, the water supply nozzle 123c can be connected to the inlet of the water tank 230. The inlet is configured to connect to the water tank 230 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The water supply nozzle 123c can supply water supplied from the water supply pipe of the kitchen cabinet 2 to the storage space inside the water tank 230 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200.

[0253] If the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 docks with the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100, the electrode sensor (not shown) installed on the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can detect the docking. Therefore, if the electrode sensor detects the docking, water supplied from the water supply pipe of the kitchen cabinet 2 can be supplied to the water tank 230 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 through the water supply nozzle 123c. Here, water supplied from the water supply pipe of the kitchen cabinet 2 and passing through the regulator 162 can be supplied to the water supply nozzle 123c according to the selective opening of the flow path of the switching valve 166 described later.

[0254] The side wall 124 is a structure that spatially separates the housing space S of the placement part 120 from the components of the robot vacuum base station 100.

[0255] A pair of sidewalls 124 may be arranged on the left and right sides of the bottom member 121. The sidewalls 124 may be connected to both ends of the connecting wall 123.

[0256] Specifically, the sidewall 124 may be formed by a first sidewall member 124a and a second sidewall member 124b.

[0257] The first sidewall member 124a may be disposed on one of the two sides of the bottom member 121, and the second sidewall member 124b may be disposed on the other side of the two sides of the bottom member 121. For example, the first sidewall member 124a may be disposed on the left side of the bottom member 121, and the second sidewall member 124b may be disposed on the right side of the bottom member 121.

[0258] The sidewall 124 may extend on the left and right sides of the bottom member 121 in a direction intersecting the bottom member 121. Specifically, the sidewall 124 may extend vertically on the left and right sides of the bottom member 121. The height of the sidewall 124 may be configured to correspond to the height of the support column 21. Specifically, the height of the sidewall 124 may be configured to be the same as the height of the support column 21.

[0259] On the other hand, various components such as a dust collection path 130, a dust collection unit 140, a dust collection motor 152, a detergent tank 163, and a wastewater tank 164 can be arranged on the outer side of the side wall 124. Specifically, the space between the side wall 124 and the outer wall 111 of the cover 110 can accommodate the dust collection unit 140, the detergent tank 163, and the wastewater tank 164.

[0260] The dust collection section 140 and the detergent tank 163 can be slidably separated from the space between the side wall 124 and the outer wall 111 of the cover 110. The left-right width of the dust collection section 140 and the detergent tank 163 can be configured to correspond to the distance between the side wall 124 and the outer wall 111 of the cover 110.

[0261] The dust collection unit 140 can collect dust from the dust bin 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The dust collection unit 140 can be disposed inside the housing 110. The dust collection unit 140 can also be disposed outside the mounting portion 120. In this case, the receiving space S can be disposed inside the mounting portion 120.

[0262] The dust collection unit 140 may include a dust collection unit cover 141, a dust bag (not shown), a filter 142, and a dust bag drawer 144.

[0263] The dust collection unit cover 141 can form a space inside that can accommodate a dust bag (not shown), a filter 142, and a dust bag drawer 144.

[0264] The dust collection unit cover 141 may have a dust bag drawer 144 that can be extended outwards inside, and a dust bag (not shown) can be stored inside the dust bag drawer 144. For example, the dust collection unit cover 141 may be formed into a rectangular tube shape with an open front, and the rear internal space may be connected to the first dust collection flow path 131 and the second dust collection flow path 132.

[0265] The dust collection unit cover 141 may have a dust bag drawer 144 that can be extended outwards inside, and a dust bag (not shown) can be stored inside the dust bag drawer 144. For example, the dust collection unit cover 141 may be formed into a rectangular tube shape with an open front, and the rear internal space may be connected to the first dust collection flow path 131 and the second dust collection flow path 132.

[0266] One side of the interior of the dust collection hood 141 can be connected to the first dust collection flow path 131, and the other side can be connected to the second dust collection flow path 132. In addition, if a dust bag (not shown) is combined with the dust collection hood 141, the dust bag (not shown) can be connected to the first dust collection flow path 131 inside the dust collection hood 141.

[0267] The dust collection cover 141 can be connected to the first dust collection flow path 131 via an inlet 141a formed on its upper side. The inlet 141a can be configured to guide air flowing in the first dust collection flow path 131 into the interior of a dust bag (not shown). The inlet 141a can connect the first dust collection flow path 131 and the dust bag (not shown). Therefore, dust sucked in from the dust bin 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can move into the interior of the dust bag (not shown) via the first dust collection flow path 131 and the inlet 141a.

[0268] The dust collection hood 141 can communicate with the second dust collection flow path 132 through an outlet 141b formed on its lower side. The outlet 141b can be configured to guide air passing through the dust collection hood 141 to the second dust collection flow path 132. The outlet 141b and the inlet 141a can be arranged at different heights. The outlet 141b can be arranged at a position lower than the inlet 141a. The outlet 141b can communicate the internal space of the dust collection hood 141 with the second dust collection flow path 132. Therefore, air that has been filtered of dust while passing through the dust bag (not shown) can move to the second dust collection flow path 132 through the outlet 141b.

[0269] A dust bag (not shown) can refer to a bag that collects dust sucked in from the dust bin 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 by the dust collection motor 152. The dust bag (not shown) can be detachably attached to the dust collection cover 141. Therefore, the dust bag (not shown) can be separated from the dust collection cover 141 and discarded, and a new dust bag (not shown) can be attached to the dust collection cover 141. That is, the dust bag (not shown) can be defined as a consumable part.

[0270] The dust bag (not shown) can be configured to increase its volume and contain dust when suction is generated by the dust collection motor 152.

[0271] Therefore, the dust bag (not shown) can be made of a material through which air can pass but which foreign objects such as dust cannot. For example, the dust bag (not shown) can be formed of a non-woven fabric material, and based on the increase in volume, it can have a cuboid shape corresponding to the shape of the dust collection unit cover 141.

[0272] In contrast, the dust bag (not shown) can be formed of an impermeable material. For example, the dust bag (not shown) may include a roll of plastic (not shown). With the configuration described above, if the dust bag (not shown) is sealed or joined, it is possible to prevent dust or odors captured inside the dust bag (not shown) from leaking to the outside of the dust bag (not shown). In this case, the dust bag (not shown) can be installed on the dust collection unit cover 141 via a dust bag holder (not shown). The dust bag (not shown) can be replaced via the dust bag holder as needed.

[0273] Filter 142 can be configured between the dust collection hood 141 and the second dust collection flow path 132. Filter 142 can be configured at the outlet 141b. Filter 142 can be a pre-filter or a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. Air that has passed through the dust bag (not shown) can flow into the second dust collection flow path 132 through filter 142.

[0274] The dust bag drawer 144 can be combined to be extended from the dust collection unit cover 141 and to house a dust bag (not shown).

[0275] At this time, the dust bag drawer 144 includes a dust bag drawer body 144a, a handle 144d, and a drawer slide 144e.

[0276] The dust bag drawer body 144a can provide internal space for assembling a dust bag (not shown). For example, the dust bag drawer body 144a can be formed as a box with an open top, and an inlet 144b and an outlet 144c can be formed at the rear to communicate with the first dust collection path 131 and the second dust collection path 132.

[0277] For example, the dust bag drawer body 144a can be configured such that the width of the upper side in the left-right direction is different from the width of the lower side in the left-right direction. For example, the width of the upper side in the left-right direction of the dust bag drawer body 144a can be larger than the width of the lower side in the left-right direction. That is, steps can be formed inside the dust bag drawer body 144a. As a result, the upper space for placing the dust bag (not shown) can be maximized, and an airflow path can be formed to facilitate the downward flow of air passing through the dust bag (not shown).

[0278] The upper side of the dust bag drawer body 144a can be connected to the first dust collection path 131 through the inlet 144b. The inlet 144b can be configured to guide the air flowing through the first dust collection path 131 into the dust bag (not shown). The inlet 144b can connect the first dust collection path 131 and the dust bag (not shown). Therefore, dust sucked in from the dust bin 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can move into the dust bag (not shown) through the first dust collection path 131 and the inlet 144b.

[0279] The dust bag drawer 144 can communicate with the second dust collection path 132 via an outlet 144c formed on its lower side. The outlet 144c can be configured to guide air passing through the dust bag drawer 144 to the second dust collection path 132. The outlet 144c and the inlet 144b can be configured at different heights. The outlet 144c can be configured at a position lower than the inlet 144b. The outlet 144c can connect the internal space of the dust bag drawer 144 and the second dust collection path 132. Therefore, air filtered of dust when passing through the dust bag (not shown) can move to the second dust collection path 132 through the outlet 144c.

[0280] A handle 144d may be provided on the front of the dust bag drawer body 144a. The handle 144d may be configured to be gripped by a user. For example, the handle 144d may include a pair of connecting parts that are hinged to the front of the dust bag drawer body 144a and a gripping part that connects the pair of connecting parts and is formed to be gripped by a user.

[0281] With this configuration, if the user grips the handle and pulls it forward, the dust bag drawer body 144a can also be pulled forward and extended. Therefore, according to the present invention, the user can easily pull the dust bag drawer 144 forward, and then lift the dust bag (not shown) upward to remove and replace it.

[0282] Drawer slides 144e can be formed on the left and right sides of the dust bag drawer body 144a. The drawer slides 144e can guide the movement of the dust bag drawer body 144a.

[0283] For example, the drawer slide 144e can be formed as a groove or rib on the left and right sides of the dust bag drawer body 144a along the front and back directions.

[0284] With the configuration described above, when the user attaches the dust bag drawer 144 to the dust collection unit cover 141, it can be attached to the correct position, and the dust collection unit 140, the first dust collection flow path 131 and the second dust collection flow path 132 can be connected to the correct position, thereby reducing flow loss.

[0285] On the other hand, corresponding to the drawer slide 144e, a slide 141c may also be formed on the inner side of the dust collection cover 141. The slide 141c of the dust collection cover 141 can be formed to correspond to the shape and position of the drawer slide 144e. For example, if the drawer slide 144e is formed in the shape of a groove, the slide 141c of the dust collection cover 141 can be formed in the shape of a rib or a protruding platform.

[0286] Figure 12 A side view is shown to illustrate the dust collection flow path of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figures 13 to 16 A cross-sectional view is shown to illustrate the dust collection flow path of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 17 A cross-sectional view of the discharge port of the dust collection motor housing of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0287] Reference Figures 12 to 17 The following describes the dust collection path 130.

[0288] The robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 may include a dust collection flow path 130. The dust collection flow path 130 may refer to a flow path that allows air drawn in through the dust passage hole 123a to flow through the dust collection section 140 to the dust collection motor 152.

[0289] Specifically, the dust collection path 130 may include a first dust collection path 131 and a second dust collection path 132. If the robot vacuum cleaner 200 is combined with the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 and the dust is connected to the dust bin 220 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200 through the hole 123a, then the first dust collection path 131 connects the dust bin 220 and the dust collection part 140, and the second dust collection path 132 connects the dust collection part 140 and the dust collection motor 152.

[0290] On the other hand, in this specification, the first dust collection flow path 131 can also be referred to as the suction flow path 131. Hereinafter, for ease of explanation, both the first dust collection flow path 131 and the suction flow path 131 will be referred to as the first dust collection flow path 131.

[0291] The first dust collection path 131 can connect the dust bin 220 and the dust collection section 140 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The first dust collection path 131 can connect the dust bin 220 and the dust collection section 140 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The first dust collection path 131 can connect the dust passage hole 123a of the placement section 120 and the dust collection section 140. The first dust collection path 131 can refer to the space between the dust bin 220 and the dust collection section 140 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The first dust collection path 131 can be formed in a near-horizontal direction. The first dust collection path 131 can be a space formed rearward from the dust passage hole 123a, and can be a flow path that bends laterally from the dust passage hole 123a and allows for the flow of dust and air. Dust in the dust bin 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can move to the dust collection section 140 through the first dust collection path 131.

[0292] The second dust collection path 132 can connect the dust collection unit 140 and the dust collection motor 152. The second dust collection path 132 can be formed in a near-horizontal direction. In this case, the first dust collection path 131 and the second dust collection path 132 can be formed at different heights. The first dust collection path 131 and the second dust collection path 132 can be formed in a stacked structure. The second dust collection path 132 can be positioned lower than the first dust collection path 131. With the configuration described above, the lateral width and overall volume of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 can be minimized.

[0293] The dust collection module 150 can provide suction airflow to the dust collection flow path 130.

[0294] Specifically, the dust collection module 150 may include a dust collection motor cover 151 and a dust collection motor 152.

[0295] The dust collection motor housing 151 can be configured inside the housing 110. The dust collection motor housing 151 can house the dust collection motor 152 inside.

[0296] The dust collection motor housing 151 may have an inlet 151a and an outlet 151b.

[0297] The internal space of the dust collection motor housing 151 can be connected to the second dust collection flow path 132 through the inlet hole 151a. Therefore, the inlet hole 151a can guide the air flowing through the second dust collection flow path 132 to the dust collection motor 152.

[0298] The internal space of the dust collection motor housing 151 can be connected to the exhaust flow path 125a through the discharge port 151b. Therefore, the discharge port 151b can guide the air that has passed through the dust collection motor 152 to the exhaust flow path 125a.

[0299] The dust collection motor 152 can generate suction on the dust collection flow path 130. The dust collection motor 152 can be configured inside the dust collection motor housing 151.

[0300] The dust collection motor 152 can be configured behind the dust collection section 140. Thus, the dust collection motor 152 can provide suction power to suck up dust from the dust bin 220 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200.

[0301] The dust collection motor 152 can generate suction by rotating. As an example, the dust collection motor 152 can be formed in a shape similar to a cylinder.

[0302] One side of the dust collection motor 152 can be connected to the second dust collection flow path 132, and the other side can be connected to the exhaust flow path 125a. When the dust collection motor 152 is driven, the air flowing through the second dust collection flow path 132 can flow into the interior of the dust collection motor housing 151 through the inlet hole 151a. Furthermore, the air flowing into the interior of the dust collection motor housing 151 can be discharged through the outlet hole 151b after passing through the dust collection motor 152. Additionally, the air discharged through the outlet hole 151b can flow through the exhaust flow path 125a and be discharged through the exhaust port 125b.

[0303] On the other hand, the imaginary dust motor axis AC, which extends the rotation axis of the dust collection motor 152, can be formed in a near-horizontal direction. Furthermore, the inlet 151a and outlet 151b of the dust collection motor housing 151 can also be opened in a horizontal direction. Additionally, the outlet 151b can be located at the same height as the exhaust port 125b. Using the configuration described above, the overall volume of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100, which is installed in the mounting space 21a of the kitchen cabinet 2 or structure, can be minimized.

[0304] The exhaust section 125 can guide the air discharged from the dust collection motor 152 to the outside of the enclosure 110. The exhaust section 125 connects the internal space and the external space of the enclosure 110.

[0305] The exhaust section 125 may consist of an exhaust flow path 125a and an exhaust port 125b.

[0306] The exhaust flow path 125a provides a flow path for air discharged from the dust collection motor 152. The exhaust flow path 125a can be configured inside the bottom component body 121a.

[0307] The exhaust flow path 125a can be connected to the flow path of the dust collection motor 152. The exhaust flow path 125a can refer to the flow path connecting the discharge hole 151b and the exhaust port 125b. One end of the exhaust flow path 125a can communicate with the internal space of the dust collection motor housing 151, and the other end of the exhaust flow path 125a can communicate with the receiving space 121dc of the recess 121da. Specifically, one end of the exhaust flow path 125a can be connected to the discharge hole 151b, and the other end of the exhaust flow path 125a can be connected to the exhaust port 125b.

[0308] The exhaust flow path 125a can be a horizontal flow path formed inside the housing 110. The exhaust flow path 125a can be connected to the flow path of the dust collection motor 152. Specifically, one end of the exhaust flow path 125a can be connected to the dust collection section 140, and the other end of the exhaust flow path 125a can be connected to the exhaust port 125b.

[0309] The exhaust port 125b serves as an outlet for guiding the air discharged from the dust collection motor 152 into the receiving space 121dc of the recess 121da. Therefore, the air discharged from the dust collection motor 152 and flowing through the exhaust flow path 125a can be discharged to the outside of the cover 110 through the exhaust port 125b.

[0310] The vent 125b may be formed on the bottom member 121. The vent 125b may be formed on the agitator housing 121d. The vent 125b may be formed on the recess 121da of the agitator housing 121d. The vent 125b may be formed on the side of the recess 121da.

[0311] Figures 18 to 20 A diagram illustrating the exhaust flow path of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 21 and Figure 22 A diagram shows a state in which a portion of the bottom surface of the bottom component body has been removed to illustrate the exhaust flow path of the robot vacuum base station according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 23 A detailed description is shown. Figure 22 The 3D view of region A shown.

[0312] Reference Figures 18 to 23 The exhaust flow path of the robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below.

[0313] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the exhaust flow path 125a can guide the air expelled from the dust collection motor 152 to the suction section 211 of the sweeping robot 200.

[0314] The exhaust path 125a guides the air expelled from the dust collection motor 145 towards the suction section 211 of the robot vacuum 200 instead of expelling it to the outside, thus creating a structure that allows air to continue circulating between the robot vacuum 200 and the robot vacuum base station 100. As a result, the hot air expelled from the dust collection motor 152 can flow back into the robot vacuum 200 to form an exhaust path instead of being expelled into the installation space 24 of the kitchen cabinet 2, thus preventing damage to the interior of the kitchen cabinet 2.

[0315] The exhaust flow path 125a can refer to the space between the exhaust port 125b of the robot vacuum base station 100 and the suction section 211 of the robot vacuum 200. The exhaust flow path 125a can also refer to the recess 121da of the agitator receiving section 121d. Furthermore, the exhaust flow path 125a can refer to a connecting pipe (not shown) with one end connected to the suction section 211 of the robot vacuum 200 and the other end connected to the exhaust port 125b of the robot vacuum base station 100.

[0316] Air passing through the dust collection motor 152 can be discharged into the receiving space S through the exhaust port 125b. The air discharged into the receiving space S can flow back into the suction section 211 due to the suction of the dust collection motor 152. Therefore, the air drawn in from the dust bin 220 by the suction of the dust collection motor 152 can be discharged into the receiving space S after passing through the dust passage 123a, the first dust collection path 131, the dust collection section 140, the second dust collection path 132, the dust collection motor 152, the exhaust path 125a, and the exhaust port 125b in sequence.

[0317] With the dustbin 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 connected to the suction section 211 of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100, air can be drawn in through the suction section 211 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 if the dust collection motor 152 is driven. Furthermore, an agitator 250 is housed inside the suction section 211, so air discharged from the dust collection motor 152 towards the exhaust port 125b can be drawn into the suction section 211 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 by the suction force of the dust collection motor 152.

[0318] At this time, the dust collection motor 152 can be driven together with the suction motor (not shown) of the robot vacuum cleaner 200. The air discharged through the exhaust port 125b can be sucked into the suction unit 211 by the suction of the dust collection motor 152 and the suction motor (not shown), thus improving the dust collection efficiency.

[0319] On the other hand, refer to again Figures 12 to 23 as well as Figure 31 The flow path structure of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is described below.

[0320] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the inlet 141a and outlet 141b can be formed at different heights on the side of the dust collection section 140. In other words, the inlet 141a and outlet 141b can be formed in the vertical direction on the side of the dust collection section 140.

[0321] Specifically, the inlet 141a and the outlet 141b can be formed at different heights on the side of the dust collection unit cover 141.

[0322] like Figure 15 As shown, the side of the dust collection unit cover 141 can also be formed in a stepped shape.

[0323] Specifically, the dust collection unit cover 141 may include a top part 1411, a first side part 1412, a second side part 1413, and a bottom part 1414.

[0324] The top surface 1411 can cover the upper side of the dust collection cover 141. The first side surface 1412 and the second side surface 1413 can cover the rear side of the dust collection cover 141. The bottom surface 1414 can cover the lower side of the dust collection cover 141.

[0325] An inlet 141a may be formed on a first side portion 1412, and an outlet 141b may be formed on a second side portion 1413. The first side portion 1412 may extend downward from the top portion 1411, and the second side portion 1413 may extend upward from the bottom portion 1414.

[0326] The first side portion 1412 and the second side portion 1413 can be formed to have a step difference from each other. That is, the outlet 141b formed on the second side portion 1413 can be positioned further rearward than the inlet 141a formed on the first side portion 1412.

[0327] In contrast, the side surface of the dust collection hood 141 can be formed flat. When the side surface of the dust collection hood 141 is formed flat, the first side surface portion 1412 and the second side surface portion 1413 can be configured to overlap vertically. Therefore, when the side surface of the dust collection hood 141 is formed flat, the inlet 141a and the outlet 141b can be configured to overlap vertically.

[0328] The inlet 141a and outlet 141b can open in the same direction with respect to the dust collection section 140.

[0329] Specifically, in this specification, when the direction in which the dust bag drawer 144 is led out is referred to as the front and the direction in which the dust bag drawer 144 is led in is referred to as the rear, the inlet 141a and the outlet 141b can be opened to the rear.

[0330] The opening directions of the inlet 141a and the outlet 141b can be aligned vertically.

[0331] The inlet 141a and the outlet 141b can be formed on the same side of the dust collection section 140. Specifically, the inlet 141a and the outlet 141b can be formed on the rear side of the dust collection section cover 141.

[0332] Reference Figure 31 According to an embodiment of the present invention, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 may further include a dust collection motor axis AC that extends the rotation axis of the dust collection motor 152.

[0333] The dust collector motor axis AC can be configured to be parallel to the bottom 112. In other words, the dust collector motor axis AC can be configured in the horizontal direction.

[0334] In addition, the dust collection motor 152 and the dust collection unit 140 can be configured in a horizontal direction.

[0335] Therefore, the vertical height of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 is minimized to the greatest extent, thus enabling a compact configuration of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0336] Therefore, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention can minimize the space occupied in the horizontal direction while minimizing the space occupied in the vertical direction, thereby enabling it to be installed in narrow spaces such as the space under the kitchen cabinet including the sink.

[0337] At least a portion of the first dust collection path 131 and at least a portion of the second dust collection path 132 can be configured to overlap in the vertical direction. This minimizes the length of the dust collection path 130, thereby reducing flow resistance. Furthermore, it minimizes the space required to install the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100, thus maximizing space efficiency.

[0338] At least a portion of the first dust collection path 131 and at least a portion of the second dust collection path 132 may be arranged in the same direction with respect to the dust collection section 140.

[0339] Specifically, when the direction in which the dust bag drawer 144 is led out is referred to as the front and the direction in which the dust bag drawer 144 is led in is referred to as the rear, at least a portion of the first dust collection path 131 and at least a portion of the second dust collection path 132 can be arranged at the rear of the dust collection section 140.

[0340] The inlet 141a and the dust collection motor 152 can be arranged in the same direction with reference to the internal space of the dust collection unit 140. Therefore, the inlet 141a and the dust collection motor 152 can be arranged at the rear with reference to the internal space of the dust collection unit 140.

[0341] At least a portion of the first dust collection flow path 131 and at least a portion of the exhaust flow path 125a can overlap in the vertical direction. This minimizes the overall flow path length of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100, including the dust collection flow path 130 and the exhaust flow path 125a. Therefore, as described above, flow path resistance can be reduced, and the space required to install the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 can be minimized, thus maximizing space efficiency.

[0342] At least a portion of the first dust collection flow path 131 and at least a portion of the exhaust flow path 125a can be arranged in the same direction with reference to the dust collection section 140. At least a portion of the second dust collection flow path 132 and at least a portion of the exhaust flow path 125a can be arranged in the same direction with reference to the dust collection section 140. Therefore, at least a portion of the first dust collection flow path 131 and at least a portion of the second dust collection flow path 132 can be arranged behind the dust collection section 140.

[0343] Figure 24 An enlarged view is shown to illustrate the mop cleaning section of a robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 25 An enlarged view of the cleaning water discharge section of the mop cleaning unit of the robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 26 A cross-sectional perspective view is shown illustrating the formation of a robot vacuum cleaner base station in the space between the cleaning plate and the cleaning tank according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0344] Reference Figures 24 to 26 The following describes the mop cleaning unit 160 of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0345] The robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a cloth cleaning unit 160. The cloth cleaning unit 160 can clean the cloth 242 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 which is combined with the placement unit 120.

[0346] The rag cleaning unit 160 may include: a cleaning water supply unit 161 that dispenses cleaning water to the cleaning plate 122; a detergent tank 163 that stores liquid containing detergent; and a wastewater tank 164 that stores the cleaning water after cleaning the rags 242.

[0347] Clean water and detergent can be mixed in the cleaning water supply unit 161 to generate cleaning water for cleaning the rag 242.

[0348] A pair of cleaning water supply units 161 can be separately arranged on the rear side of the connecting wall 123. The cleaning water supply units 161 can discharge cleaning water towards the cleaning plate 122 from both ends of the upper side. At this time, the clean water supplied from the water supply pipe of the kitchen cabinet 2 and passing through the regulator 162 can branch to both sides through the branch flow path 161a and connect to the separately arranged cleaning water supply units 161. That is, the branch flow path 161a can be formed in the form of one pipe branching into two, in which case one end of the branch can be connected to one of the pair of cleaning water supply units 161, and the other end of the branch can be connected to the other of the pair of cleaning water supply units 161.

[0349] The cleaning water supply unit 161 can be integrally formed with the connecting wall 123 on the rear side of the connecting wall 123, or it can be detachably connected with the connecting wall 123.

[0350] The cleaning water supply section 161 may include a clean water inlet 161b, a detergent inlet 161c, and a cleaning water outlet (not shown).

[0351] The purified water inlet 161b is configured to guide purified water supplied from the water supply pipe of the kitchen cabinet 2 to the cleaning water supply unit 161. Specifically, the water supply pipe of the kitchen cabinet 2 can be connected to a regulator 162 to regulate the flow rate supplied from the water supply pipe. In addition, a portion of the purified water that has passed through the regulator 162 can be supplied to the water tank 230 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200 through the water supply nozzle 123c, while the remainder can flow into a pair of separately configured cleaning water supply units 161 through the purified water inlet 161b.

[0352] The detergent inlet 161c is configured to guide liquid containing detergent supplied from the detergent tank 163 to the cleaning water supply unit 161. Specifically, liquid containing detergent stored in the detergent tank 163 can be supplied to the cleaning water supply unit 161 by a pump (not shown).

[0353] Additionally, the detergent and purified water flowing into the cleaning water supply unit 161 can be mixed and used as cleaning water. The cleaning water supply unit 161 can discharge the cleaning water onto the upper surface of the cleaning plate 122 through the cleaning water discharge port. The cleaning water discharge port can be formed on the bottom surface of the cleaning water supply unit 161. The cleaning water discharge port can be open towards the upper surface of the cloth 242 placed on the cleaning plate 122.

[0354] Detergent container 163 can store liquid containing detergent.

[0355] The detergent container 163 includes a detergent container body 163a, a handle 163b, and a detergent container track 163c.

[0356] The detergent container body 163a can provide a space for storing liquid containing detergent. For example, the detergent container body 163a can be formed into a box shape with an open top, and can be connected to the washing water supply unit 161 at the rear.

[0357] A handle 163b may be provided at the front of the detergent container body 163a. ​​The handle 163b may be configured to be gripped by a user. For example, the handle 163b may include: a pair of connecting parts that are hinged to the front of the detergent container body 163a; and a gripping part that connects to the pair of connecting parts to be gripped by a user.

[0358] With this configuration, if the user grasps the handle and pulls forward, the detergent tub body 163a can also be pulled forward and extended. Therefore, according to the present invention, the user can easily pull the detergent tub 163 forward to dispense detergent.

[0359] Detergent tub tracks 163c can be formed on the left and right sides of the detergent tub body 163a. ​​The detergent tub tracks 163c can guide the movement of the detergent tub body 163a.

[0360] For example, the detergent tub track 163c can be formed as a groove or rib on the left and right sides of the detergent tub body 163a along the front and back directions.

[0361] With the configuration described above, when the user attaches the detergent container 163 to the cover 110, it can be attached to the correct position and the washing water can be prevented from overflowing.

[0362] On the other hand, although not shown, a track can be formed on the cover 110 corresponding to the detergent tub track 163c. The aforementioned track can be formed in a shape and position corresponding to the detergent tub track 163c.

[0363] The wastewater tank 164 provides space for storing the washing water used to clean the rags 242. The washing water discharged onto the upper surface of the washing plate 122 can descend along the slope of the washing plate 122 and drain out through the drain hole 122b after the rags 242 has been cleaned. The washing water passing through the drain hole 122b can collect between the washing tank 121e and the washing plate 122. Additionally, the washing water collected between the washing tank 121e and the washing plate 122 can flow into the wastewater tank 164 through the wastewater suction flow path 164b.

[0364] The cleaning water stored in the wastewater tank 164 can be discharged to the drain pipe 25 of the kitchen cabinet 2 through the wastewater discharge path 164a. One end of the wastewater discharge path 164a can be connected to the wastewater tank 164, and the other end can be connected to the drain pipe 25. At this time, the cleaning water stored in the wastewater tank 164 can flow through the wastewater discharge path 164a and be discharged to the drain pipe 25 under the action of the centrifugal pump 168.

[0365] The sewage discharge path 164a connected to the sewage tank 164 can be connected to the upstream 25b of the drain pipe 25 of the kitchen cabinet 2, based on the U-bend 25a. This is because, if the sewage discharge path 164a is connected to the downstream 25c of the drain pipe 25, based on the U-bend 25a, odors or fluids inside the drain pipe 25 may flow back into the sewage discharge path 164a.

[0366] Additionally, the cloth washing unit 160 may include a check valve 165. The check valve 165 prevents fluid inside the drain pipe 25 from flowing back into the sewage discharge path 164a. The check valve 165 may be located at the other end of the sewage discharge path 164a connected to the drain pipe 25.

[0367] On the other hand, the detergent tank 163 and the wastewater tank 164 can be accommodated in the space formed between the side wall 124 and the outer wall 111 of the cover. The detergent tank 163 can be disposed on the lower side of the space between the side wall 124 and the outer wall 111 of the cover, and the wastewater tank 164 can be disposed on the upper side of the detergent tank 163 in the space between the side wall 124 and the outer wall 111 of the cover.

[0368] On the other hand, refer to again Figures 24 to 26 The horizontal configuration of the mop cleaning unit of the robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below.

[0369] The cleaning unit 160 can be disposed between the outer wall 111 and the mounting part 120. At this time, the outer wall 111 can be disposed between the robot vacuum cleaner 200 mounted on the bottom 112 and the outer wall 111.

[0370] In other words, the cloth cleaning section 160 can be disposed on the side of the placement section 120.

[0371] Specifically, the sewage tank 164 and the detergent tank 163 can be disposed between the first outer wall member 111a and the first side wall member 124a.

[0372] The cleaning water supply unit 161 can be disposed on the rear side of the mounting section 120. Specifically, the cleaning water supply unit 161 can be disposed on the rear side of the connecting wall 123.

[0373] The sewage tank 164 can be disposed on the side of the mounting portion 120. Specifically, the sewage tank 164 can be disposed on the side of the first sidewall member 124a.

[0374] The detergent tank 163, which is arranged vertically with the wastewater tank 164, can be disposed on the side of the mounting portion 120. Specifically, the detergent tank 163 can be disposed on the side of the first sidewall member 124a.

[0375] In the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the configuration of the mop cleaning unit 160 can be arranged horizontally with the accommodating space S that accommodates the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. Therefore, the space required to install the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 is minimized, and it can be installed in the lower space of a low-height kitchen cabinet or the like.

[0376] On the other hand, the cloth washing unit 160 may also include a heater (not shown). The heater can heat the water supplied to the cloth 242 through the washing water supply unit 161. Therefore, warm water can be supplied to the cloth 242 through the heater, thereby increasing the cleaning power of the cloth 242.

[0377] A switching valve 166 may be provided on the outlet side of the regulator 162. The switching valve 166 may be configured to selectively supply purified water passing through the regulator 162 to the water supply nozzle 123c or the heater. The switching valve 166 may be referred to as a two-position valve, a two-way valve, or a two-way valve.

[0378] The cloth washing unit 160 may include a diaphragm pump 167. The diaphragm pump 167 can draw in the washing water that accumulates between the washing tank 121e and the washing plate 122 and discharge it into the wastewater tank 164. At this time, the diaphragm pump 167 can cause the washing water that accumulates between the washing tank 121e and the washing plate 122 to flow into the wastewater tank 164 through the wastewater suction flow path 164b.

[0379] Figure 32a and Figure 32b A front view is shown to illustrate the configuration relationship of the robot vacuum cleaner base station on a horizontal plane according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 33 A diagram is shown illustrating the state of the dust collection unit and detergent tank extending from the base station of the sweeping robot according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0380] Reference Figure 4 , Figure 32a , Figure 32b as well as Figure 33 The configuration of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below.

[0381] The robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is characterized in that it is disposed in the lower space of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2.

[0382] Therefore, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention is characterized in that it is arranged horizontally according to the space formed between the lower side panel 23 of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2 and the kitchen floor.

[0383] Specifically, in the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the embodiment of the present invention, the dust collection unit 140 and / or the mop cleaning unit 160 may be arranged on the side of the entrance 127.

[0384] At this time, with both the dust collection section 140 and the cloth cleaning section 160 provided, the placement section 120 can be arranged between the dust collection section 140 and the cloth cleaning section 160.

[0385] For example, an entrance / exit 127 and a door 126 can be configured at the front of the robot vacuum base station 100. Furthermore, a mounting section 120 for the robot vacuum 200 to be attached can be configured from the entrance / exit 127 to the rear. In this case, the dust collection section 140 can be configured to a predetermined length from the front to the rear of the robot vacuum base station 100. Additionally, the mop cleaning section 160 can also be configured to a predetermined length from the front to the rear of the robot vacuum base station 100.

[0386] Therefore, when the robot vacuum station 100 is viewed from the front outside, the front end of the dust collection unit 140 and / or the front end of the mop cleaning unit 160 can be arranged on the left and right sides of the entrance 127.

[0387] At this time, the dust bag (not shown) of the dust collection unit 140 can be configured to extend forward of the cover 110. In addition, the detergent bucket 163 of the cloth washing unit 160 can be configured to extend forward of the cover 110.

[0388] That is, a handle 144d can be provided at the front end of the dust collection section 140 so that the user can hold the dust collection section cover 141. In addition, a handle 163b can also be provided at the front end of the cloth washing section 160 so that the detergent bucket 163 can be gripped and pulled.

[0389] With the configuration described above, when a user wants to pull out the dust bag (not shown) or detergent container 163, it provides the convenience of being able to immediately identify the pull-out location and pull out the dust bag (not shown) or detergent container 163 with a simple action of pulling the handle.

[0390] On the other hand, the rear ends of the dust collection section 140 and the cloth washing section 160 can be separated from the rear end of the cover 110 by a predetermined interval. Furthermore, a dust collection motor 152 can be arranged between the rear end of the cover 110 and the rear end of the dust collection section 140. With the configuration described above, the power supply wire to the dust collection motor 152 can be easily connected. In addition, it has the effect of minimizing the total space occupied by the mounting section 120, the dust collection section 140, and the dust collection motor 152 within a limited space.

[0391] Furthermore, between the rear end of the cover 110 and the rear end of the cloth washing section 160, at least a portion of a flow path for supplying washing water for washing the cloth 242 and a pump for providing the flow force of the washing water can be arranged. With the configuration described above, the path for the washing water to flow from the water supply pipe can be minimized. Additionally, it has the effect of minimizing the total space occupied by the placement section 120, the cloth washing section 160, and the flow path for supplying the washing water within a limited space.

[0392] On the other hand, in the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100, the cloth drying unit 170 can be configured further rearward than the mounting unit 120. In this case, the cloth drying unit 170 can be configured between the rear end of the mounting unit 120 and the rear end of the cover 110.

[0393] Therefore, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 may be provided with a dust collection unit 140 and a cloth washing unit 160 on the left and right sides based on the placement unit 120, and a cloth drying unit 170 may be provided on the rear side.

[0394] That is, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention may be equipped with all of the dust collection unit 140, the cloth washing unit 160 and the cloth drying unit 170 within a predetermined distance from the outer contour of the placement unit 120.

[0395] This configuration allows for the placement of the mounting section 120, the dust collection section 140, the cloth washing section 160, and the cloth drying section 170 within the narrowest possible space on a horizontal plane.

[0396] This shortens the distance between the dust bin 220 and the dust collection unit 140 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200, thereby minimizing flow path loss. Furthermore, by minimizing the distances between the mop 242 and the mop washing unit 160, and between the mop 242 and the mop drying unit 170, the area containing the washing water and wastewater is effectively limited.

[0397] In addition, by using this configuration, the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention can arrange all its components within a limited height.

[0398] Specifically, with the robot vacuum cleaner 200 integrated with the mounting section 120, at least a portion of the dust collection section 140 can be positioned below the uppermost point of the robot vacuum cleaner 200. Similarly, at least a portion of the mop washing section 160 can be positioned below the uppermost point of the robot vacuum cleaner 200. Furthermore, at least a portion of the mop drying section 170 can be positioned below the uppermost point of the robot vacuum cleaner 200. Also, at least a portion of the mop washing section 160 can be positioned below the uppermost point of the dust collection section 140.

[0399] Furthermore, based on the state where the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is integrated with the mounting section 120, the top of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can be positioned above the dust bag (not shown). Additionally, the top of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can be positioned above the detergent dispenser 163. Furthermore, the top of the dust bag (not shown) can be positioned above the detergent dispenser 163.

[0400] From another perspective, with the robot vacuum cleaner 200 and the mounting unit 120 combined, if an imaginary plane H is drawn parallel to the kitchen floor, then plane H can pass through the robot vacuum cleaner 200, the dust collection unit 140, the cloth washing unit 160, and the cloth drying unit 170. This means that all components can be arranged within a constant height range.

[0401] From another perspective, when the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is combined with the mounting section 120, the mounting section 120 can be divided into three areas along the vertical direction. In this case, the mounting section 120 can include: a first area (the space between B and H1), located in the same horizontal space as the detergent tank 163; a second area (the space between H1 and H2), positioned above the first area, located in the same horizontal space as at least a portion of the dust bag (not shown); and a third area (the space between H2 and H3), positioned above the second area. In this case, the dust bag (not shown) and detergent tank 163 can be arranged on both the left and right sides of the first area, the dust bag (not shown) and wastewater tank 164 can be arranged on both the left and right sides of the second area, and only the upper part of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can be arranged in the third area.

[0402] As a result, the robot vacuum base station 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention can be configured with a dust collection unit 140, a mop washing unit 160, and a mop drying unit 170 on three sides surrounding the mounting portion 120, excluding the front side where the robot vacuum 200 enters. With the configuration described above, the following effects are achieved: even when the vertical height is limited, the robot vacuum 200 can be charged using minimal horizontal space, and the dust from the robot vacuum 200 can be collected, the mop 242 can be washed, and the mop 242 can be dried.

[0403] Figure 27 A perspective view is shown illustrating the cloth drying section of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Figure 28 and Figure 29 An enlarged view of the cloth drying unit of the robot vacuum cleaner base station according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 30 A cross-sectional view is shown to illustrate the state of air flowing into the hot gas supply module according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0404] Reference Figures 27 to 30 According to the first embodiment of the present invention, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 may include a cloth drying unit 170. At this time, the cloth drying unit 170 can dry the cloth 242 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200 after it has been cleaned by the cloth washing unit 160 or the cloth 242 after the water cleaning operation has ended and is in a damp state.

[0405] The cloth drying unit 170 according to the first embodiment of the present invention may include an external air supply module 171, a steam exhaust unit 172, an exhaust fan 173, and a check valve (not shown).

[0406] The external air supply module 171 can supply heated air to the accommodating space S, and may include an external air supply flow path 171a, an external air inlet 171b, an external air outlet 171c, a heater 171d, and a blower fan (not shown).

[0407] The external air supply path 171a can form a hot air supply path internally, connecting the external space of the enclosure 110 and the receiving space S. An external air inlet 171b can be configured on one side of the external air supply path 171a, and an external air outlet 171c can be configured on the other side. The external air inlet 171b can communicate with the external space, and the external air outlet 171c can communicate with the receiving space S.

[0408] An external air inlet 171b may be formed on the third outer wall member 111c of the enclosure 110. The external air inlet 171b allows air from outside the enclosure 110 to flow in.

[0409] An external air outlet 171c can be disposed on the upper side of the cleaning plate 122. The external air outlet 171c can be formed to slope downwards towards the front. That is, the external air outlet 171c can be formed to discharge air toward the cleaning plate 122 and is formed in a direction that traverses the cleaning plate 122. A pair of external air outlets 171c can be provided in a downward-open state.

[0410] With the mop 242 placed on the cleaning plate 122, the external air outlet 171c can open towards the cleaning plate 122. With the mop 242 placed on the cleaning plate 122, the external air outlet 171c can be located adjacent to the mop 242 and open downwards to allow the exhausted air to flow towards the mop 242. With the robot vacuum cleaner 200 combined with the placement unit 120, the external air outlet 171c can open towards the mop 242.

[0411] With this configuration, the external air discharge section 171c can discharge the air heated by the heater 171d into the containment space S.

[0412] A blower fan (not shown) can be configured on the external air supply path 171a and provide the flow force to blow air toward the receiving space S. If the blower fan (not shown) is driven, the air flowing in through the external air inlet 171b can be heated by the heater 171d and discharged into the receiving space S through the external air outlet 171c.

[0413] Therefore, an air blower (not shown) can be used to expel air from the cloth 242 and disperse the moisture, thereby improving drying efficiency.

[0414] The heater 171d can be disposed on the external air supply flow path 171a and heat the air flowing through the external air supply flow path 171a. The heater 171d can heat the air that flows in through the external air inlet 171b and is discharged through the external air outlet 171c. The heater 171d can be disposed on the external air supply flow path 171a, but unlike that, it can also be disposed on the external air outlet 171c. That is, its specific shape or arrangement is not limited as long as it can heat the air discharged into the accommodating space S.

[0415] The heater 171d may include a heater housing 171da and a heating element (not shown). The heater housing 110 may be configured on the external air supply flow path 171a and has an internal space capable of accommodating the heater 171d. The heating element can heat the external air flowing into the heater housing 110. Therefore, the air heated by the heating element can be discharged into the accommodating space S through the external air outlet 171c, thereby drying the damp cloth 242.

[0416] The steam exhaust unit 172 can exhaust the hot and humid air generated in the receiving space S during the drying of the dishcloth 242 to the drain pipe 25. The steam exhaust unit 172 can be connected to the drain pipe 25 of the receiving space S and the kitchen cabinet 2.

[0417] One end of the steam exhaust section 172 can be connected to the receiving space S, and the other end can be connected to the drain pipe 25. Specifically, the air intake 172a, which is one end of the steam exhaust section 172, can be connected to the receiving space S, and the air exhaust outlet, which is the other end, can be connected to the drain pipe 25.

[0418] The steam exhaust section 172 includes an air intake 172a disposed inside the hood 110 and drawing in air from inside the hood 110.

[0419] With the robot vacuum cleaner 200 positioned in the mounting section 120, the air intake 172a can be positioned higher than the mop 242 above the ground. This increases the efficiency of drawing in the rising convection steam generated during the drying of the mop 242.

[0420] The steam exhaust section 172 can be connected to the downstream 25c of the drain pipe 25 of the kitchen cabinet 2, based on the U-bend 25a. This is because, if the steam exhaust section 172 is connected to the upstream 25b of the drain pipe 25, based on the U-bend 25a, the hot air discharged through the steam exhaust section 172 may not be able to pass through the drain pipe 25 due to the water accumulating in the U-bend 25a.

[0421] On the other hand, the steam exhaust section 172 can be branched into two from a single pipe inside the housing 110, extending through both sides of the housing 110. In this case, one branch pipe can extend through the first outer wall member 111a of the housing 110, and the other branch pipe can extend through the second outer wall member 111b of the housing 110. The steam exhaust section 172 extending through the outer walls 111 on both sides of the housing 110 can be connected to the drain pipe 25. Therefore, the steam drawn into the containing space S from the steam exhaust section 172 can flow through the branched steam exhaust sections 172 and be discharged downstream 25c of the drain pipe 25, based on the U-shaped bend 25a.

[0422] The exhaust fan 173 can discharge air from the containing space S to the drain pipe 25 through the steam exhaust section 172. The exhaust fan 173 can generate airflow along the steam exhaust section 172. The exhaust fan 173 can be configured on the steam exhaust section 172.

[0423] If the exhaust fan 173 is activated, air in the containment space S can flow into the air intake 172a. The air flowing into the air intake 172a can then flow through the steam exhaust section 172 and be discharged into the drain pipe 25. Specifically, the air flowing through the steam exhaust section 172, driven by the exhaust fan 173, can be discharged into the downstream 25c of the drain pipe 25, based on the U-bend 25a. Thus, in the event of increased humidity in the containment space S, air can be discharged into the drain pipe 25.

[0424] Therefore, the hot and humid air generated during the drying process of the dishcloth 242 can be exhausted to the drain pipe 25 instead of the indoor space. Furthermore, any odors that may be generated during the drying process of the dishcloth 242 can be expelled to the drain pipe 25, thus preventing unpleasant smells from forming in the kitchen.

[0425] The cloth drying unit 170 may include a check valve (not shown). The check valve prevents fluid inside the drain pipe 25 from flowing back into the steam discharge unit 172. The check valve may be located at the other end of the steam discharge unit 172 connected to the drain pipe 25.

[0426] Therefore, according to the present invention, heated air can be supplied to the sweeping robot 200 to dry the mop 242, and the moisture that is vaporized during the drying process and diffuses into the housing 100 can be drawn in and discharged to the outside.

[0427] Figure 31 A diagram is shown illustrating the cloth drying section of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

[0428] The cloth drying unit 170 according to the second embodiment of the present invention may include an external air supply module, an air exhaust path, an exhaust fan, and a check valve.

[0429] To avoid repetitive descriptions, except for the configuration specifically mentioned in the second embodiment of the present invention, other configurations can refer to the content of the cloth drying unit 170 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0430] According to the second embodiment of the present invention, the steam discharge path of the cloth drying unit can discharge the hot and humid air generated in the containment space S during the drying of the cloth 242 to the outside of the cover 110.

[0431] According to the second embodiment of the present invention, the steam exhaust path of the cloth drying unit can be configured in the space formed between the side wall 124 and the outer wall 111 of the cover 110. Specifically, in the second embodiment of the present invention, the steam exhaust path can be configured on the upper side of the wastewater tank 164, or between the wastewater tank 164 and the detergent tank 163, or on the lower side of the detergent tank 163. In the second embodiment of the present invention, the air inlet of the air exhaust path can be formed on the side wall 124, and the air outlet of the air exhaust path can be formed on the front side of the cover 110. In the second embodiment of the present invention, the air outlet can be configured on the upper side of the wastewater tank 164, or between the wastewater tank 164 and the detergent tank 163, or on the lower side of the detergent tank 163. Therefore, in the second embodiment of the present invention, one end of the air exhaust path can communicate with the receiving space S, and the other end can communicate with the external space of the cover 110.

[0432] According to the second embodiment of the present invention, the exhaust fan of the cloth drying unit can exhaust air from the accommodating space S to the external space of the cover 110 through the air exhaust flow path. Furthermore, in the second embodiment of the present invention, the cloth 242 of the sweeping robot 200 can be disposed between the external air supply module and the exhaust fan. That is, the external air supply module is disposed in the rear space of the connecting wall 123, and the exhaust fan is disposed in the side wall 124; therefore, the cloth of the sweeping robot 200 can be disposed on a straight line connecting the external air supply module and the exhaust fan.

[0433] On the other hand, in a second embodiment of the invention, a guiding member may be provided at the outlet of the steam discharge path to guide air in a direction away from the outer wall 111 of the shroud 110. The direction away from the outer wall 111 of the shroud 110 may refer to the direction of the center of the front of the shroud 110. For example, the guiding member may guide the hot air discharged from the outlet of the steam discharge path toward the bottom member 121.

[0434] When the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to the present invention is configured in the installation space 24 of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2, the outer wall 111 of the cover 110 can contact the baseboard 26 of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2. At this time, the baseboard 26 is susceptible to moisture; therefore, if hot air emitted from the steam exhaust path flows towards the outer wall 111 of the cover 110, the baseboard 26 may be damaged. Therefore, if a guide member is provided at the outlet of the steam exhaust path according to the second embodiment of the present invention to guide the emitted hot air away from the outer wall 111 of the cover 110, damage to the baseboard 26 can be prevented.

[0435] In a second embodiment of the present invention, the guiding member may be a blade or louver that guides the hot air discharged from the outlet of the steam exhaust path in one direction. The guiding member can guide the hot air discharged from the outlet of the steam exhaust path toward the inside of the cover 110. The hot air discharged from the outlet of the steam exhaust path toward the outside of the cover 110 can flow away from the inner wall of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2 under the action of the guiding member.

[0436] The hot air discharged from the outlet of the steam discharge path toward the outside of the cover 110 can flow away from the outer wall 111 of the cover 110 under the action of the guiding member. For example, the hot air discharged from the outlet of the steam discharge path toward the outside of the cover 110 can flow toward the bottom member 121.

[0437] Figure 34 This is a top view illustrating the cloth drying section of the robot vacuum cleaner base station according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Figure 35 This is a perspective view illustrating the state of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station with its top cover removed according to a third embodiment of the invention. Figure 36 and Figure 37 This is a diagram illustrating the flow of air into the interior of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Figure 38 This is a lower perspective view illustrating the air exhaust port of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Figure 39 This is an enlarged view illustrating a portion of the air exhaust section of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

[0438] The following is for reference Figures 34 to 39 The cloth drying unit of the robot vacuum cleaner base station according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0439] On the other hand, to avoid repetitive explanation, except for the configuration specifically mentioned in the third embodiment of the present invention, other configurations can refer to the content of the cloth drying unit 170 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0440] The mop drying unit 170 of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to the third embodiment of the present invention may include an external air supply module 171 and an air exhaust unit 2172.

[0441] The external air supply module 171 can heat the air outside the enclosure 110 and supply it to the accommodating space S. The external air supply module 171 may include an external air supply flow path 171a, an external air inlet 171b, an external air outlet 171c, a heater 171d, and a blower fan (not shown).

[0442] An external air supply flow path 171a is formed in the external air supply module 171. The external air supply flow path 171a allows external air to flow to the external air discharge section 171c.

[0443] The external air supply path 171a can connect the external space of the enclosure 110 and the receiving space S. One side of the external air supply path 171a can be connected to the external space through the external air inlet 171b, and the other side of the external air supply path 171a can be connected to the receiving space S through the external air outlet 171c.

[0444] An external air inlet 171b may be formed on the rear side of the housing 110. Multiple external air inlets 171b may be formed on the rear side of the housing 110. Air from outside the housing 110 can flow into the external air supply path 171a through the external air inlets 171b. Therefore, air from outside the housing 110 can flow into the interior of the housing 110.

[0445] At least a portion of the external air outlet 171c may be disposed on the upper side of the cleaning plate 122. The external air outlet 171c may open in a direction facing the cleaning plate 122. A pair of external air outlets 171c may be provided in a downward-opening state.

[0446] The external air outlet 171c can discharge air that has passed through the external air supply path 171a. The external air outlet 171c can also discharge air that has been heated in the heater 171d. For example, an external air outlet can be formed in the external air outlet 171c.

[0447] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the lateral diameter of the external air discharge portion 171c can narrow as it approaches the front. That is, in this embodiment, the width of the rear end of the lateral diameter of the external air discharge portion 171c can be greater than the width of the front end. As a result, the dishcloth 242 can be dried evenly evenly when it rotates during the drying process.

[0448] On the other hand, a grille can be provided in the external air outlet 171c to guide the air outlet direction. This prevents the heated air from being concentrated and discharged to a specific location.

[0449] With the cloth 242 placed on the cleaning plate 122, the external air outlet 171c can open towards the upper side of the cloth 242. Therefore, the external air outlet 171c can be located adjacent to the cloth 242 and open downwards, allowing the air discharged from the external air outlet 171c to flow towards the cloth 242.

[0450] In particular, the external air discharge section 171c of this embodiment can be configured to tilt downwards as it approaches the front of the robot vacuum base station 100. Therefore, the end from which air is discharged from the external air discharge section 171c can be formed to tilt at a predetermined angle relative to the ground. This angle can be 90 degrees or less. Thus, the external air discharge section 171c can discharge air in a direction intersecting the direction in which the flow guide surface 122c is formed.

[0451] An air supply fan (not shown) can be configured on the external air supply path 171a and blow air toward the receiving space S. If the air supply fan (not shown) is driven, the air flowing in through the external air inlet 171b can be heated by the heater 171d and discharged into the receiving space S through the external air outlet 171c.

[0452] The heater 171d can be configured on the external air supply flow path 171a and heat the air flowing through the external air supply flow path 171a. The heater 171d can also heat the air discharged through the external air discharge section 171c.

[0453] The heater 171d may include a heater housing and a heating element. The heater housing may be positioned on the external air supply path 171a and have an internal space for accommodating the heating element. The heating element heats the air flowing into the heater housing. Therefore, the air heated by the heating element can be discharged into the accommodating space S through the external air outlet 171c, drying the damp cloth 242.

[0454] In this embodiment, the air heated by the hot air emitted from the external air supply module 171 can be discharged through the air exhaust section 2172.

[0455] At least a portion of the air exhaust section 2172 may be disposed on the upper part of the accommodating space S.

[0456] The air heated by the hot air emitted from the external air supply module 171 can supply heat to the mop 242 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. As a result, residual moisture absorbed by the mop 242 can absorb heat from the air and vaporize. This vaporized moisture can then flow within the containment space S. Therefore, the air within the containment space S can contain vaporized moisture, and the humidity within the containment space S can be increased (hereinafter, the air containing vaporized moisture within the containment space S can be referred to as "wet steam").

[0457] Specifically, at least a portion of the air exhaust section 2172 may be disposed on the upper cover 113, which may cover the upper part of the accommodating space S.

[0458] The air heated by the hot air emitted from the external air supply module 171 is in a state where the moisture in the rag 242 evaporates and the humidity increases. Therefore, if the humid steam comes into contact with various components of the kitchen cabinet 2, such as the baseboard 26, when the robot vacuum base station 100 is located under the kitchen cabinet 2, it will have an adverse effect on those components, as the humid steam comes into contact with them.

[0459] In this embodiment, the upper cover 113 covers the upper part of the accommodating space S, and the door 126 covers the front of the accommodating space S. Therefore, the upper cover 113 and the door 126 together prevent the humid steam in the accommodating space S from flowing out to the outside, thereby preventing the kitchen furniture cabinet 2 from coming into contact with the humid steam.

[0460] The air exhaust section 2172 may include an air intake 2172a, an air exhaust duct 2172b, and an exhaust fan 2172c.

[0461] Air intake 2172a can communicate with the containment space S. Air intake 2172a can be disposed on the upper side of the containment space S. Wet vapor in the containment space S can be discharged through air intake 2172a.

[0462] With the robot vacuum cleaner 200 positioned in the mounting section 120, the air intake 2172a can be positioned at a higher point than the robot vacuum cleaner 200 is above the ground. This increases the efficiency of drawing in the rising convection steam generated during the drying of the mop.

[0463] As an example, an air intake 2172a may be formed on the upper cover 113. In this case, the upper cover 113 may include a cover portion that covers the receiving space S and a pipe portion that is combined with the cover portion to form a flow path. In this case, an air intake 2172a may be formed in the pipe portion to form an air exhaust pipe 2172b.

[0464] As another example, the air intake 2172a can be formed on the circular or quadrilateral tubular air exhaust pipe 2172b, which can be combined with the upper side cover 113.

[0465] With this configuration, when the upper cover 113 is separated, the air exhaust pipe 2172b can be separated together with the upper cover 113. In the event that the upper part of the robot vacuum base station 100 needs to be opened for reasons such as repair, the operator can remove the air exhaust pipe 2172b together with the upper cover 113 with a simple action.

[0466] The air intake 2172a can be formed in the air exhaust duct 2172b as a hole. For example, the air intake 2172a can be formed in the air exhaust duct 2172b as a plurality of slits arranged side by side. Alternatively, the air intake 2172a can be formed in the air exhaust duct 2172b as an elongated hole.

[0467] On the other hand, a plurality of air intakes 2172a may be arranged at the same distance from the front end of the cover 110. For example, a pair of air intakes 2172a may be arranged at the same distance from the front end of the cover 110. That is, the air intakes 2172a may include a first intake and a second intake. In this case, the first intake may be arranged at the upper left front end of the receiving space S, and the second intake may be separately arranged from the first intake and arranged at the upper right front end of the receiving space S. In this case, the distance from the first intake to the first outer wall member 111a and the distance from the second intake to the second outer wall member 111b may be less than the distance between the first intake and the second intake.

[0468] The distance from the external air outlet 171c to the air inlet 2172a can be greater than the distance from the external air outlet 171c to the cloth 242. This is to prevent the heated air discharged from the external air outlet 171c from not being fully supplied to the cloth 242 and being directly sucked into the air inlet 2172a, thus avoiding energy waste.

[0469] Furthermore, the air intake 2172a can be positioned closer to the door 126 than the external air exhaust 171c. The air intake 2172a is positioned at the upper front of the accommodating space S, thereby widening the flow space for hot air expelled from the external air exhaust 171c, thus improving the drying efficiency of the mop 242. Therefore, after the hot air exhausted through the external air exhaust 171c flows forward and dries the mop 242 of the robot vacuum 200, it can be discharged into the air intake 2172a.

[0470] Additionally, the air intake 2172a can be positioned above the path along which the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 moves within the housing 110. This prevents condensation from forming on the walls inside the housing 110.

[0471] As an example, with the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 positioned in the mounting section 120, at least a portion of the air intake 2172a can be positioned vertically above the location where the width of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 in the left-right direction is greatest. That is, at least a portion of the air intake 2172a can be positioned above the location where the gap between the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 and the pair of sidewalls 124 is narrowest. In this case, at least a portion of the air intake 2172a can be positioned further forward than the cleaning plate 122.

[0472] This prevents steam generated during the drying process of the mop 242 from flowing towards the front of the robot vacuum base station 100, and also prevents moisture from seeping into the sensors located in front of the robot vacuum 200 and causing malfunctions.

[0473] The air exhaust duct 2172b can connect to the air intake 2172a and the exhaust fan 2172c and is connected to the drain pipe 25 of the kitchen cabinet 2. The air exhaust duct 2172b can guide the wet steam discharged through the air intake 2172a to the drain pipe 25.

[0474] One side of the air exhaust duct 2172b can be connected to the exhaust fan 2172c, and the other side can branch into multiple branches. Thus, even when using a single exhaust fan 2172c, humid steam can be drawn in from multiple locations, thereby achieving a stable exhaust of humid steam.

[0475] The air exhaust pipe 2172b may have an internal air exhaust flow path that communicates with the air intake 2172a.

[0476] An air exhaust path can refer to a path through which air flows in through an air intake 2172a. For example, an air exhaust path can be formed including the internal space of an air exhaust duct 2172b, the internal space of an exhaust fan housing (described later), and the internal space of a check valve (described later). One side of the air exhaust path can be connected to the air intake 2172a, and the other side can be connected to the air exhaust outlet 2172d.

[0477] The exhaust fan 2172c can generate airflow from the air intake 2172a toward the drain pipe 25. The exhaust fan 2172c can generate airflow so that after the wet vapor in the containing space S is drawn into the air intake 2172a, it can be discharged to the outside through the air exhaust pipe 2172b.

[0478] The exhaust fan 2172c may include an exhaust fan housing, a fan motor, and an impeller. The exhaust fan motor and the exhaust fan impeller can be housed inside the exhaust fan housing. The exhaust fan housing may have an internal flow path communicating with the air exhaust duct 2172b. Therefore, if the exhaust fan motor operates and rotates the exhaust fan impeller, air in the accommodating space S or the housing 110 can flow into the air exhaust duct 2172b and be discharged through the interior of the exhaust fan housing to the air exhaust port 2172d.

[0479] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the exhaust fan 2172c can be combined with the external air supply module 171. Specifically, the exhaust fan housing of the exhaust fan 2172c can be combined with the external air supply module 171 to form an assembly. This minimizes the space occupied by the external air supply module 171 and the air exhaust section 2172.

[0480] The exhaust fan 2172c can be configured on the left or right side of the external air supply module 171. Specifically, the exhaust fan 2172c can be configured between the dust collection motor 152 and the external air supply module 171. This allows for the arrangement of components within a limited space and ensures that there is space to configure a flow path capable of exhausting steam.

[0481] The cloth drying unit 170 may include a check valve to prevent backflow of fluid from inside the drain pipe 25 into the air discharge pipe 2172b. The check valve may be positioned downstream of the exhaust fan 2172c. The check valve may communicate with the internal space of the exhaust fan 2172c. That is, the check valve may be positioned downstream of the exhaust fan 2172c, based on the direction of airflow. An air outlet 2172d may be formed at the rear end of the check valve.

[0482] At this point, the lower end of the air outlet 2172d can be configured in a direction perpendicular to the ground. Specifically, the air outlet 2172d can be formed in an air discharge pipe configured in a direction perpendicular to the ground, and the aforementioned air discharge pipe can be connected to a check valve. This configuration is used to utilize the upward convection property of hot and humid air to prevent backflow of fluid discharged from the air outlet 2172d.

[0483] The air exhaust section 2172 can be connected downstream of the drain pipe 25, based on the U-bend 25a. Specifically, the air outlet 2172d of the air exhaust section 2172 can be connected to the drain pipe 25 via a flow path component. For example, the flow path component can be a flexible hose.

[0484] The wet steam that has been discharged from the air intake 2172a and passed through the exhaust fan 2172c can be discharged to the outside of the cover 110 through the air outlet 2172d and along the flow path component.

[0485] At this time, the flow path component can penetrate the first outer wall component 111a and connect to the drain pipe 25. In contrast, the flow path component can penetrate the second outer wall component 111b and connect to the drain pipe 25. With this configuration, the connection direction of the flow path component can be selected according to the installation environment of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to the present invention, thus offering the advantages of easy installation and management.

[0486] On the other hand, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention may include a cloth drying unit 170.

[0487] On the other hand, in order to avoid repetitive explanation, except for the configuration specifically mentioned in the fourth embodiment of the present invention, other configurations can refer to the content of the cloth drying unit 170 according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[0488] The mop drying unit of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention may include an external air supply module 171 and an air exhaust unit 2172.

[0489] Air heated by hot air emitted from the external air supply module 171 can be discharged through the air exhaust section 2172.

[0490] At least a portion of the air exhaust section 2172 may be disposed on the upper part of the accommodating space S.

[0491] The air heated by the hot air emitted from the external air supply module 171 can supply heat to the mop 242 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. As a result, residual moisture absorbed by the mop 242 can absorb heat from the air and vaporize. This vaporized moisture can then flow within the containment space S. Therefore, the air within the containment space S can contain vaporized moisture, and the humidity within the containment space S can be increased (hereinafter, the air containing vaporized moisture within the containment space S can be referred to as "wet steam").

[0492] In this embodiment, the air (wet steam) flowing into the air intake 2172a can be resupplyed to the external air supply module. That is, the wet steam flowing into the air intake 2172a can flow back into the external air supply module 171 through the air exhaust 2172. The wet steam flowing into the external air supply module 171 is reheated by the heater 171d, thereby reducing the relative humidity, and can be expelled back into the receiving space S by the blower fan (not shown).

[0493] Specifically, at least a portion of the air exhaust section 2172 may be disposed on the upper cover 113, which may cover the upper part of the accommodating space S.

[0494] The air exhaust section 2172 may include an air intake 2172a, an air exhaust duct 2172b, and an exhaust fan 2172c.

[0495] Air intake 2172a can communicate with the containment space S. Air intake 2172a can be positioned on the upper front side of the containment space S. Wet vapor in the containment space S can be discharged through air intake 2172a.

[0496] Air exhaust duct 2172b can connect air intake 2172a and external air supply module 171. Air exhaust duct 2172b can guide the wet vapor discharged through air intake 2172a to external air supply module 171.

[0497] The exhaust fan 2172c can generate airflow from the air intake 2172a toward the external air supply module 171. Specifically, the exhaust fan 2172c can generate airflow so that after the wet steam in the containment space S is drawn into the air intake 2172a, it can flow to the heater 171d through the air exhaust pipe 2172b.

[0498] The external air supply module 171 may include: an external air inlet 171b for supplying air from outside the enclosure 110; an external air outlet 171c for discharging air into the accommodating space S; an external air supply path 171a connecting the external air inlet 171b and the external air outlet 171c; a blower fan (not shown) disposed on the external air supply path 171a for blowing air into the accommodating space S; and a heater 171d for heating the air flowing in the external air supply path 171a.

[0499] The temperature of the hot gas heated by heater 171d and discharged into the containment space S can be above 65 degrees Celsius.

[0500] The air exhaust duct 2172b can be connected to the external air supply path 171a. Alternatively, the air exhaust duct 2172b can be connected to the heater housing on which the heater 171d is installed.

[0501] The wet steam flowing into the containment space S through the air intake 2172a can flow into the external air supply path 171a or the heater cover 171da through the air exhaust pipe 2172b. The wet steam can be discharged into the containment space S after being heated by the heater 171d.

[0502] On the other hand, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention may also include a door 126.

[0503] Door 126 can be rotatably configured in cover 110 to open and close the receiving space S.

[0504] The air heated by the hot air emitted from the external air supply module 171 is in a state of humid steam containing the moisture from the rag 242. Therefore, if the humid steam comes into contact with various components of the kitchen cabinet 2, such as the baseboard 26, when the robot vacuum base station 100 is positioned under the kitchen cabinet 2, it will have an adverse effect on those components.

[0505] Door 126 covers the front of the accommodating space S, thus preventing the humid steam in the accommodating space S from flowing out and thereby preventing the kitchen furniture cabinet 2 from coming into contact with the humid steam.

[0506] Therefore, the external air supply module 171 can expel hot air when the door 126 closes the receiving space S. The heater 171d of the external air supply module 171 is activated when the door 126 closes the receiving space S, so the wet steam generated during the drying of the mop 242 is not discharged to the outside. This allows the temperature of the space containing the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to be raised to dry the mop 242.

[0507] When the humidity of the containment space S is above a critical value (hereinafter referred to as "reference humidity"), the door 126 can be opened. The reference humidity refers to the humidity value at which the air in the containment space S is saturated with moisture. If the humidity of the containment space S is above the critical value, the air in the containment space S is unlikely to absorb moisture from the rag 242; therefore, the door 126 can be opened to expel a portion of the air from the containment space S to the outside. This prevents the humidity of the containment space S from rising excessively.

[0508] If the humidity of the containment space S drops below a critical value, the door 126 can be closed again, and the external air supply module 171 can once again expel hot air into the containment space S.

[0509] On the other hand, the mop drying unit 170 of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention may also include an exhaust fan 2172c.

[0510] The exhaust fan 2172c can generate airflow from the air intake 2172a toward the external air supply module 171.

[0511] When the humidity of the containment space S is above a critical value (hereinafter referred to as "exhaust humidity"), the exhaust fan 2172c can be driven. The exhaust humidity can refer to the humidity value at which the air in the containment space S is saturated with moisture. If the humidity of the containment space S is above the critical value, the air in the containment space S is unlikely to absorb moisture from the rag 242; therefore, the exhaust fan 2172c can be driven to allow air from the containment space S to flow into the air intake 2172a.

[0512] If the humidity of the containment space S drops below a critical value, the exhaust fan 2172c stops operating, and the external air supply module 171 can once again expel hot air into the containment space S.

[0513] On the other hand, according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 can, after the wiping cloth 242 has been completely dried, fully open the door 126 to discharge the wet steam in the containing space S to the outside, or drive the exhaust fan 2172c to discharge the wet steam in the containing space S through the air intake 2172a.

[0514] The present invention has been described in detail above through specific embodiments, but this is only for specific illustration of the present invention. The present invention is not limited thereto. Obviously, the present invention can be modified or improved by those skilled in the art within the technical concept of the present invention.

[0515] Simple variations or modifications of this invention are all within the scope of this invention, and the specific scope of protection of this invention will be clearly defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A base station for a robotic vacuum cleaner, wherein, include: Cover; A placement section is disposed on the cover to form a receiving space for accommodating at least a portion of the sweeping robot; as well as The cloth drying section dries the cloth of the sweeping robot. The cloth drying section includes: An external air supply module discharges heated air into the containing space; as well as An air intake is located inside the enclosure to draw in air from inside the enclosure.

2. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cloth drying unit also includes an air exhaust pipe, which has an air intake port and an air exhaust flow path communicating with the air intake port is formed inside the air exhaust pipe. One side of the air exhaust pipe is connected to an exhaust fan, and the other side branches into multiple branches.

3. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The external air supply module includes: An external air inlet allows air from outside the enclosure to flow in; A heater that heats the air flowing in through the external air inlet; and An external air outlet discharges air heated by the heater into the containment space.

4. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 3, characterized in that, The external air supply module also includes a blower fan that provides flow force to the air flowing in through the external air inlet.

5. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 3, characterized in that, The robot vacuum cleaner base station also includes a door, which is disposed in the enclosure and serves as an entrance / exit for the robot vacuum cleaner to enter and exit the enclosure.

6. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 5, characterized in that, The door is opened when the humidity of the containment space is above a preset baseline humidity.

7. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 5, characterized in that, The external air supply module discharges heated air when the door is closed.

8. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, wherein, The cloth drying unit also includes an exhaust fan that provides flow force to the air flowing in through the air intake.

9. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 8, characterized in that, When the humidity of the containment space is above a preset exhaust humidity, the exhaust fan is driven.

10. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The temperature of the hot air emitted from the external air supply module is above 65 degrees Celsius.

11. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, characterized in that, With the sweeping robot attached to the mounting unit, the air intake is positioned at a higher position than the sweeping robot is above the ground.

12. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 11, characterized in that, At least a portion of the air intake is positioned vertically on the upper side of the sweeping robot at its widest position in the left-right direction.

13. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 3, characterized in that, The distance from the external air outlet to the air inlet is greater than the distance from the external air outlet to the cloth.

14. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The air intake is positioned on the upper side of the path along which the sweeping robot moves within the enclosure.

15. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 8, characterized in that, The robot vacuum cleaner base station also includes a dust collection unit, which collects dust from the robot vacuum cleaner's dust bin by operating a dust collection motor. The exhaust fan is positioned between the dust collection motor and the external air supply module.

16. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The air intake is provided in multiples at the same distance from the front end of the cover.

17. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The air flowing into the air intake is then resupplyed to the external air supply module.

18. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, characterized in that, Air flowing into the air intake is discharged into a drain pipe located in the kitchen cabinet.

19. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cover includes an upper cover that covers the upper side of the accommodating space; The air intake is located on the upper side cover.

20. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 2, characterized in that, The cover includes an upper cover that covers the upper side of the accommodating space and faces the lower side panel of the kitchen furniture cabinet; The air exhaust pipe is located on the upper side cover.

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