Floor sweeping robot base station

Abstract

The present invention relates to a floor-sweeping robot base station, comprising: a washing water nozzle for spraying water for washing a cleaning cloth of a floor-sweeping robot; a sewage inlet for sucking water used when washing the cleaning cloth; and a flow path connection module through which the two kinds of water pass. Further, a water supply connection pipe for supplying water from an external water supply source and a water discharge connection pipe for treating the discharged water are included, the water supply connection pipe and the water discharge connection pipe are pivotally coupled to the flow path connection module so as to be able to select a connection position on the left side or the right side of the base station, thereby enabling the installation efficiency of the base station of the sweeping robot to be maximized.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a robot vacuum cleaner base station, and more specifically, to a built-in robot vacuum cleaner base station that, when integrated with a robot vacuum cleaner, can collect dust from the robot vacuum cleaner's dustbin, wash the robot vacuum cleaner's mop, and dry the mop. Background Technology

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

[0003] Such a robotic vacuum cleaner has 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 and moves while wiping the floor with the mop.

[0004] Robotic vacuum cleaners include dry-type vacuum cleaners that remove debris by sucking up spilled objects 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 and are configured to supply water contained in the tank to a damp cloth, allowing the cloth to effectively remove debris from the floor. Additionally, there are vacuum cleaners that combine an agitator and a cloth.

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

[0006] On the other hand, when the charging dock for a robot vacuum cleaner is placed indoors, it occupies a certain amount of indoor space. In this case, the space efficiency of the room may decrease. Additionally, when users or pets pass by, there is a possibility of collisions with the robot vacuum cleaner, resulting in injury to the user or pet, or damage to the robot vacuum cleaner.

[0007] In addition, when adding a base station with a dust collection function for robotic vacuum cleaners, the increased size may damage the interior decoration.

[0008] On the other hand, CN218922468U discloses a base station for a vacuum cleaner located on the lower side of a washing machine. When a robot vacuum cleaner is combined with this base station, it can charge the robot vacuum cleaner, collect dust, and wash the robot vacuum cleaner's wet mop.

[0009] However, the aforementioned vacuum cleaner base station has an open space below the washing machine that allows the robot vacuum to enter. A detergent and water supply device for washing wet mops are installed on the vertical upper side of the space where the robot vacuum enters, and a dust bag is arranged on the side of the space where the robot vacuum enters.

[0010] With this configuration, the overall height of the vacuum cleaner base station increases, which limits its installation because it cannot utilize the space under furniture, including sinks.

[0011] In addition, since the aforementioned vacuum cleaner base station needs to be installed below the washing machine, there must be space for installing the washing machine. Considering the height of the washing machine itself and the height of the vacuum cleaner base station, there is a limitation that a space exceeding this height is required.

[0012] On the other hand, Chinese utility model patent CN219846382U discloses a vacuum cleaner base station that integrates a sweeping robot on the underside of a washing machine to charge the sweeping robot, collect dust, and wash the sweeping robot's wet cloth.

[0013] The vacuum cleaner base station includes a water tank and a detergent tank for washing cloths. Furthermore, the water tank and detergent tank are detachably mounted.

[0014] However, the vacuum cleaner base station has the limitation that it needs to be replaced periodically when the contents of the water tank and detergent tank are completely consumed. Summary of the Invention

[0015] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0016] This invention addresses the problems of existing robotic vacuum cleaner base stations, aiming to provide a robotic vacuum cleaner base station that requires no additional installation space and can be built into the underside of a kitchen cabinet.

[0017] 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.

[0018] In addition, the purpose is to provide a robot vacuum station that can automatically collect dust from the dust bin of a robot vacuum when combined with a robot vacuum.

[0019] In addition, the purpose is to provide a robot vacuum station that can automatically wash the robot vacuum's mop when combined with a robot vacuum.

[0020] In addition, the purpose is to provide a robot vacuum cleaner base station that can automatically dry the mop cloth after washing it.

[0021] In addition, the purpose is to provide a robot vacuum cleaner base station that can be brought out for cleaning and repair as needed.

[0022] In addition, its purpose is to provide a robot vacuum station that can prevent dust from flying outwards when the robot vacuum is collecting dust.

[0023] In addition, the purpose is to provide a robot vacuum cleaner base station that can prevent wastewater from leaking to the outside when washing the robot vacuum cleaner's mop.

[0024] In addition, the purpose is to provide a robot vacuum cleaner base station with a water supply or drainage flow path structure that maximizes the installation efficiency of the robot vacuum cleaner base station.

[0025] Technical means to solve the problem

[0026] To achieve the above objectives, the sweeping robot base station of the present invention may include: a cover, including a pair of opposing outer walls; a mop washing section disposed on the cover for washing the mop of the sweeping robot; and a connector disposed on the side of the cover; the mop washing section includes: a washing water nozzle for discharging water for washing the mop; and a wastewater inlet for sucking in water used during washing the mop; the connector is connected to the washing water nozzle and the wastewater inlet.

[0027] Alternatively, the outer wall includes a left outer wall and a right outer wall. If the direction in which the sweeping robot is introduced is taken as the front, then when looking forward from inside the sweeping robot base station, the left outer wall is positioned on the left and the right outer wall is positioned on the right. The connector is formed on the left outer wall and the right outer wall respectively. The washing water nozzle and the sewage inlet can be selectively connected to either of the pair of connectors.

[0028] Alternatively, it may include: a flow path connection module through which water supplied to the washing water nozzle and water drawn into the sewage inlet pass respectively; a water supply connection pipe through which water flowing in from an external water source is supplied to the flow path connection module; and a drainage connection pipe through which water discharged from the flow path connection module passes; the water supply connection pipe and the drainage connection pipe are pivotally connected to the flow path connection module.

[0029] Alternatively, the water supply connection pipe and the drain connection pipe can be detachably connected to either of the pair of connectors.

[0030] Alternatively, the diameter of the drain connection pipe may be larger than the diameter of the water supply connection pipe.

[0031] Alternatively, the rag washing section may include an elbow joint having a bent shape to change the direction of internal fluid flow. One end of the elbow joint is pivotally connected to the flow path connection module, and the other end is configured to face the left or right outer wall of the cover.

[0032] Alternatively, it may include: a power supply terminal disposed within the housing and connected to the robotic vacuum cleaner for power supply; and a power cord supplying power to the power supply terminal from the outside; the power cord being detachably connected to either of the pair of connectors.

[0033] Alternatively, each of the pair of connectors may include: a water supply connector portion connected to the water supply connector; a drain connector portion connected to the drain connector; and a power connector portion connected to the power cord.

[0034] Alternatively, it may include a drawer extending from the cover, having a connection for mounting the robotic vacuum cleaner, the drawer engaging with a pair of the connectors.

[0035] Alternatively, the flow path connection module may include: a first space through which water supplied to the washing water nozzle passes; and a second space, separated from the first space, through which water drawn into the sewage inlet passes; the second space being larger than the first space.

[0036] Alternatively, the first space can be configured above the second space.

[0037] Alternatively, the robot vacuum cleaner base station of the present invention may include: a cover; a receiving space disposed within the cover to receive at least a portion of the robot vacuum cleaner; and an air exhaust section to exhaust air from the receiving space; the air exhaust section includes: an air intake port communicating with the receiving space; and an air exhaust pipe to exhaust air drawn in from the air intake port; the air exhaust pipe branches to the left and right sides and is respectively connected to a pair of the connector portions.

[0038] Alternatively, the robot vacuum cleaner base station of the present invention may include: a cover; a washing plate disposed under the mop of the robot vacuum cleaner for washing the mop; a water supply connection pipe disposed within the cover for supplying fluid from an external water source to the washing plate; a drain connection pipe disposed within the cover for discharging fluid that has passed through the washing plate; and a flow path connection module connected to the water supply connection pipe and the drain connection pipe; the water supply connection pipe and the drain connection pipe are pivotally connected to the flow path connection module.

[0039] Invention Effects

[0040] As described above, in the robot vacuum base station of the present invention, the modules for charging the robot vacuum, collecting dust, and washing the mop are arranged in a direction horizontal to the robot vacuum, thereby effectively utilizing the space under the kitchen cabinet.

[0041] In addition, the charging terminal, dust collection unit, mop washing unit, and mop drying unit are arranged around the robot vacuum cleaner, thus enabling the robot vacuum cleaner to perform multiple functions simultaneously.

[0042] In addition, by centrally arranging the washing water supply unit, washing plate, washing tank, sewage discharge path, external gas supply module and power supply module at the rear of the cleaning robot's cloth, it is possible to achieve the washing and drying effect of the cloth within a limited space.

[0043] In addition, since the other sides besides the front are covered by the kitchen cabinets, it provides an aesthetically pleasing effect to the user in terms of interior decoration.

[0044] In addition, since the dust is automatically collected from the dustbin of the robot vacuum after being integrated, the user only needs to remove the dust bag at predetermined intervals, thus reducing the burden on the user.

[0045] In addition, since the robot vacuum cleaner can automatically wash its mop cloth when combined with it, it reduces the hassle of separating the mop cloth and washing it separately.

[0046] In addition, since detergent can be added as needed, it can improve the washing effect of the cloth.

[0047] In addition, since the kitchen's water supply and drainage pipes are used to wash the dishcloths, it reduces the hassle for users to separately fill or drain water.

[0048] In addition, since the cleaning cloth of the robot vacuum cleaner can be automatically dried and discharged by supplying hot air to the cloth after washing, it has the effect of preventing the generation of bad odors.

[0049] In addition, during the drying process of the cloth, the dried air is discharged downstream of the water trap, which helps to prevent the backflow of foul odors.

[0050] In addition, since the door of the robot vacuum station is closed after the robot vacuum enters the station, it has the effect of preventing dust from flying outwards while collecting dust in the dust bin.

[0051] In addition, it has the effect of preventing wastewater from leaking to the outside when washing the mop cloth of the robot vacuum cleaner.

[0052] In addition, since the connection positions of the water supply pipe and the drain pipe can be selectively set on the left or right side of the base station when washing the mop of the robot vacuum cleaner, it can maximize the setting efficiency of the robot vacuum cleaner base station. Attached Figure Description

[0053] Figure 1 This diagram illustrates the state in which the vacuum cleaner system of an embodiment of the present invention is installed on the lower side of a kitchen cabinet.

[0054] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the piping and drain pipe connections of the vacuum cleaner system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Figure 3 This is a perspective view illustrating a vacuum cleaner system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Top view.

[0057] Figure 5 It is Figure 3 A sectional view cut along the front-to-back direction.

[0058] Figure 6 This is a perspective view illustrating the sweeping robot of an embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Side view.

[0060] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 A bottom view.

[0061] Figure 9 yes Figure 6 Rear view.

[0062] Figure 10 This is a perspective view illustrating the internal structure of the robot vacuum cleaner base station in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 Top view.

[0064] Figure 12 and Figure 13 This is a side view illustrating the dust collection section of the robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the dust collection flow path of the robot vacuum cleaner base station in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] Figure 15This is an enlarged view of the mop washing section of the robot vacuum cleaner base station used to illustrate an embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] Figure 16 This is an enlarged view of the washing water supply section of the mop washing unit of the robot vacuum cleaner base station, used to illustrate an embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] Figure 17 This diagram illustrates 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.

[0069] Figure 18 This is a perspective view illustrating the cloth drying section of a robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] Figure 19 This is an enlarged view of the cloth drying section of a robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] Figure 20 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the flow of air into the interior of an external gas supply module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] Figure 21 and Figure 22 This is a diagram illustrating the configuration relationship of the robot vacuum cleaner base station on a horizontal plane according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] Figure 23 This diagram illustrates the state in which a drawer is provided in the base station of a sweeping robot according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] Figure 24 This diagram illustrates the state of the drawer leading out from the base station of the sweeping robot according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0075] Figure 25 This is a block diagram illustrating the control configuration of the robot vacuum cleaner base station in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0076] Figure 26 This is a diagram showing how the water supply connection pipe and the drainage connection pipe of the sweeping robot base station according to an embodiment of the present invention are combined with the connector disposed on the right outer wall.

[0077] Figure 27 This is a diagram showing how the water supply connection pipe and the drainage connection pipe of the sweeping robot base station according to an embodiment of the present invention are combined with the connector portion disposed on the left outer wall.

[0078] Figure 28 This is a diagram illustrating the flow path connection module of the robot vacuum cleaner base station in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] Figure 29This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the internal space of the flow path connection module in the base station of the sweeping robot according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0080] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0081] 1: Robot vacuum cleaner base station 2: Kitchen cabinet

[0082] 100: Robot vacuum cleaner base station; 110: Cover.

[0083] 120: Joint 122: Washing plate

[0084] 128: Washing tank; 140: Dust collection section

[0085] 160: Cleaning cloth washing department 161: Washing water supply department

[0086] 161f: Water supply connection pipe; 164: Sewage discharge section

[0087] 164c: Sewage inlet; 164f: Drainage connection pipe

[0088] 165: Flow path connection module 165a: First space

[0089] 165b: Second space; 166: Elbow connector

[0090] 170: Cloth drying section; 172c: Air exhaust pipe

[0091] 192: Connector 200: Robotic Vacuum Cleaner Detailed Implementation

[0092] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0093] This invention can be modified in various ways and can have various embodiments; therefore, specific embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in detail in the accompanying description. This is not intended to limit the invention to specific embodiments, but should be interpreted as including all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions that fall within the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0094] Although terms such as "first" and "second" are used to describe various constituent elements in the description of this invention, the constituent elements are not necessarily limited by these terms. The terms are used only to distinguish one constituent element from others. 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.

[0095] The term "and / or" may include a combination of a plurality of related recorded items or any one of a plurality of related recorded items.

[0096] When it is mentioned that a component is "connected" or "coupled" to another component, it should be understood that it may be directly connected or coupled to the other component, but there may also be other components between them. Conversely, when it is mentioned that a component is "directly connected" or "directly in contact" with another component, it should be understood that there are no other components between them.

[0097] The terminology used in this application is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the invention. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, singular expressions may include plural expressions.

[0098] In this application, the terms “comprising” or “having” should be understood as indicating the presence of features, figures, steps, actions, structural elements, components or combinations thereof disclosed in this specification, rather than as excluding in advance the presence or additional possibility of one or more other features, figures, steps, actions, structural elements, components or combinations thereof.

[0099] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in this description, 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 already defined in commonly used dictionaries may be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art, and unless expressly defined in this application, they may not be interpreted as having an idealized or overly formal meaning.

[0100] Furthermore, the following embodiments are provided to provide a more complete explanation to those skilled in the art, and the shapes and dimensions of the elements in the accompanying drawings may be exaggerated for clarity.

[0101] Kitchen cabinets and vacuum cleaner system

[0102] Figure 1 A diagram is shown illustrating the state in which the vacuum cleaner system of an embodiment of the present invention is installed on the underside of a kitchen cabinet. Figure 2 A diagram illustrating the relationship between the piping and drain pipe connections of a vacuum cleaner system according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0103] The vacuum cleaner system 1 of this embodiment can be installed on the underside of the kitchen cabinet 2. Specifically, the kitchen cabinet 2 can be installed in the kitchen to store bowls, plates, cups, etc., and can provide space for cooking food or washing dishes.

[0104] In addition, kitchen cabinet 2 can be equipped with a countertop (workbench) that can function as a dishwashing station, cooking station, or work station.

[0105] For example, kitchen cabinet 2 may include a sink on the countertop that provides space for washing dishes. Alternatively, kitchen cabinet 2 may include a cooking countertop for performing cooking operations. Alternatively, kitchen cabinet 2 may include a cooktop cabinet on the countertop with a gas stove, induction cooktop, infrared stove, or oven, etc.

[0106] Typically, kitchen cabinet 2 can use a standard cabinet with a front-to-back width of 600mm and a left-to-right width of 600mm.

[0107] In another embodiment of the present invention, a vacuum cleaner system 1 may 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 may represent a flow path connected to an external water supply source that supplies fluid to the structure, and the drain pipe may represent a flow path that discharges fluid from the structure into a sewer.

[0108] The lower part of such a kitchen cabinet 2 or the structure can be equipped with a storage cabinet for storing tableware and kitchen tools. That is, the kitchen cabinet 2 or the structure may include: a countertop 22 that provides space for cooking or washing dishes; a lower side panel 23 spaced apart from the ground at a predetermined height; and a storage space formed between the countertop 22 and the lower side panel 23 for storing tableware and kitchen tools. In this case, if the kitchen cabinet 2 is a sink, the countertop 22 may be equipped with a dishwashing station 22a.

[0109] Additionally, the lower side panel 23 can be supported by the base 21. The base 21 can be configured perpendicular to the kitchen floor and can support the load of the kitchen cabinet 2. At this time, depending on the height of the base 21, a space can be formed between the kitchen floor and the lower side panel 23.

[0110] In contrast, the kitchen cabinet 2 can also be fixed to the wall of the building without the need for a base 21. In this case, a space can also be formed between the kitchen floor and the lower side panel 23.

[0111] As described above, the vacuum cleaner system 1 of this embodiment is installed in the space between the kitchen floor and the lower side panel 23 (hereinafter referred to as the installation space).

[0112] For example, the installation space can be less than 200mm in height, and typically can be less than 160mm in height.

[0113] Therefore, according to the present invention, the vacuum cleaner system 1 is disposed in the lower space of the kitchen cabinet 2, thereby having the effect of minimizing the exposure of the vacuum cleaner system 1 to the outside.

[0114] In addition, compared to the case of setting up a charging dock for a robot vacuum cleaner in a specific space in the living room, bedroom or kitchen, the present invention does not occupy additional space, but instead sets up the vacuum cleaner system 1 in the unused space created by the kitchen cabinet 2, thereby maximizing space efficiency.

[0115] 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 for washing dishes. At least a portion of the drain pipe 25 can be configured in the storage space formed between the countertop 22 and the lower side panel 23. Typically, the drain pipe 25 can be connected to the drain outlet of the sink 22a formed in the sink. The drain pipe 25 includes a water trap 25a for preventing backflow of polluting gases or odors. The water trap 25a can be configured in the storage space. Liquid flowing in through the drain outlet can flow downwards due to gravity in the upstream 25b of the water trap, accumulating in the water trap 25a. If water accumulates above a predetermined level in the water trap 25a, it can flow downwards along the downstream 25c of the water trap and be discharged into the sewer.

[0116] The vacuum cleaner system 1 of this embodiment can use the drain pipe 25 as described above to wash and dry the mop 242 of the sweeping robot 200.

[0117] Additionally, although not shown in the diagram, the kitchen cabinet 2 may be equipped with a water supply pipe. Tap water (or purified water) can be supplied to the vacuum cleaner system 1 through the water supply pipe.

[0118] The following describes the specific structure of vacuum cleaner system 1.

[0119] Vacuum Cleaner System

[0120] on the other hand, Figures 3 to 5 A diagram illustrating a vacuum cleaner system for demonstrating an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0121] The vacuum cleaner system 1 of this embodiment may include a robot vacuum base station 100 and a robot vacuum 200.

[0122] The vacuum cleaner system 1 includes a robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100. The robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 can be integrated with a robotic vacuum cleaner 200. Specifically, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can enter from the front of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 and can be housed inside the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100. The robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 can remove dust from the dustbin 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 can wash the rotating cleaning section 240 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 can dry the rotating cleaning section 240 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 can supply power to the robotic vacuum cleaner 200.

[0123] robot vacuum

[0124] on the other hand, Figures 6 to 9 A diagram illustrating a sweeping robot system according to an embodiment of the present invention is provided.

[0125] Reference Figures 6 to 9 The structure of the 200 robotic vacuum cleaner is described below.

[0126] The 200 robotic vacuum cleaner can automatically clean the area that needs cleaning by sucking up dust and other foreign objects from the ground while moving automatically in the area that needs cleaning.

[0127] The robotic vacuum cleaner 200 of this embodiment is configured to clean the floor while moving on the floor after being placed on it. Therefore, the vertical direction will be defined and explained below based on the state of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 placed on the floor.

[0128] Furthermore, taking a pair of wheels 260 as a reference, the side where the auxiliary wheel 270 (described later) is located is defined as the front, and the side where the rotating cleaning unit 240 (described later) is located is defined as the rear, and will be explained accordingly.

[0129] The “lowest part” of each configuration described in the embodiments of the present invention may be the part located at the lowest point in each configuration when the sweeping robot 200 of the embodiments of the present invention is placed on the ground and used, or it may be the part closest to the ground.

[0130] The sweeping robot 200 of this invention includes a main body 210, a dust bin 220, a water bin 230, a rotating cleaning unit 240, an agitator 250, wheels 260, auxiliary wheels 270, and a charging terminal 280.

[0131] The main body 210 can form the overall appearance of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The main body 210 can be combined with various components that constitute the robotic vacuum cleaner 200, and some of the components that constitute the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can be housed inside the main body 210.

[0132] Specifically, the space inside the main body 210 can house the components of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. For example, the space inside the main body 210 can accommodate a battery and at least one motor.

[0133] In this embodiment of the invention, the main body 210 can 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). Such a main body 210 helps to make the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 form a stable structure and can provide a structure that facilitates the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 in avoiding obstacles when moving (driving).

[0134] When viewed from above or below, the main body 210 can be formed into various shapes such as a circle, an oval, or a quadrilateral.

[0135] The main body 210 can be divided into a lower main body and an upper main body. By combining the lower main body and the upper main body, a space can be formed inside.

[0136] The lower body can be combined with the upper body to form an internal space that can accommodate a battery, at least one sensor, and at least one motor.

[0137] The lower body may have an intake section 211 for air to flow in and a hole for accommodating a pair of wheels 260.

[0138] The suction section 211 can be a passage for dust from the ground to flow in. In addition, 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.

[0139] On the other hand, the lower main body can also be provided with an exhaust flow path. 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. In this case, the exhaust port can be equipped with a filter.

[0140] With the above configuration, the air flowing in through the suction section 211 can flow into the dust bin 220 through the suction flow path, and then be discharged to the exhaust port through the exhaust flow path.

[0141] The agitator 250, described later, can be rotatably housed in the suction section 211. With the above configuration, dust around the suction section 211 can be drawn into the suction section 211 by the rotation of the agitator 250, thereby improving the efficiency of dust suction.

[0142] The upper body can form the upper appearance of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. Although not shown in the diagram, the upper body may be equipped with a display screen.

[0143] The robotic vacuum cleaner 200 of the present invention may include a bumper strip. The bumper strip is attached along the edge of the body 210 and is configured to move relative to the body 210.

[0144] The bumper strip can be attached to a portion of the edge of the main body 210, or to the entire edge of the main body 210. At least one elastic member (not shown) can be provided between the bumper strip and the main body 210. With this configuration, if the bumper strip comes into contact with an obstacle or the like and moves relative to the center of the main body 210, the bumper strip can return to its original position under the restoring force of the elastic member (not shown). This allows the bumper strip to absorb or disperse the impact applied to it, preventing and reducing the transmission of impact to the main body 210.

[0145] The dust bin 220 can be configured to draw in external dust and air and store the dust.

[0146] 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.

[0147] The dust bin 220 can be disposed inside the main body 210. In this case, the dust bin 220 can not only be fixedly attached to the main body 210, but can also be disposed detachably according to the embodiment.

[0148] On the other hand, the dust bin 220 of the present invention can be formed with a dust discharge path. 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. With this configuration, when dust is collected using the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100, the dust inside the dust bin 220 can be removed.

[0149] On the other hand, the dust bin 220 of this embodiment of the 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.

[0150] Furthermore, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 of this embodiment may be equipped 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 integrated with the main body 210 and may be positioned to block the dust outlet 221. As an example, the dust bin door 222 may be formed of rubber or resin material and be rotatable, with one side fixedly integrated with the main body 210.

[0151] With the above configuration, if the dust collection motor 145 of the robot vacuum base station 100 described later is running, the dust bin door 222 will be elastically deformed under the driving force of the dust collection motor 145, the dust discharge port 221 will open, and the dust in the dust bin 220 can be collected into the dust collection section 140 of the robot vacuum base station 100.

[0152] The bucket 230 is configured as a container with an internal space to store liquids such as water inside. The bucket 230 is disposed inside the main body 210 and can be fixedly attached to the main body 210 or detachably attached to the main body 210.

[0153] The water tank 230 includes a supply section 231 and a nozzle (not shown). The supply section 231 can be configured to supply liquids such as water from the outside. For example, the supply section 231 can have an inlet formed on the other side behind the outer side (or outer peripheral surface) of the main body 210, which can be connected to the storage space inside the water tank 230 via a water supply hose.

[0154] 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.

[0155] With the above configuration, when the robot vacuum cleaner 200 is combined with the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 can simultaneously perform dust collection and water injection.

[0156] On the other hand, the nozzle (not shown) can be formed in the shape of a tube or pipe and can be connected to the bucket 230 so that the liquid inside the bucket 230 flows through the inside of the nozzle. One side of the nozzle (not shown) is connected to the bucket 230, and the other end is configured to be located above or on the rotating plates 241 respectively, thereby enabling the liquid inside the bucket 230 to be supplied to the pair of cloths 242 respectively.

[0157] That is, the nozzle (not shown) can be configured as a tube branching into two, in which case either end of the branch can be located on the upper side of the left rag, and the other end of the branch can be located on the upper side of the right rag.

[0158] On the other hand, although not shown, the water tank 230 may be equipped with a pump to allow water inside the water tank 230 to flow 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 discharged through the nozzle (not shown) to the rotating cleaning unit 240.

[0159] The rotating cleaning unit 240 includes a rotating plate 241 and a cleaning cloth 242.

[0160] The rotating plate 241 can be configured as a pair including a left rotating plate and a right rotating plate, and the rag 242 can be configured as a pair including a left rag and a right rag.

[0161] 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.

[0162] The rotating plate 241 is configured with a specified area and is shaped as a flat plate or a flat frame. This rotating plate 241 is typically placed horizontally, thus its horizontal width (or diameter) is much greater than its vertical height. The rotating plate 241, attached to the main body 210, can be parallel to the ground B or inclined to it. The rotating plate 241 can be configured as a circular plate, with its bottom surface forming a roughly circular shape, and the rotating plate 241 can be configured as a whole with rotational symmetry.

[0163] A pair of rotating plates 241 can be arranged to be symmetrical to each other.

[0164] The rag 242 can be attached to the underside of the rotating plate 241 so as to be opposite the ground B.

[0165] The bottom surface of the rag 242 facing the ground has a defined area, and the rag 242 is flat. The width (or diameter) of the rag 242 in the horizontal direction is much greater than its height in the vertical direction. As the rag 242 is attached to one side of the main body 210, the bottom surface of the rag 242 can be parallel to the ground B or can be inclined to the ground B.

[0166] The bottom surface of the rag 242 can be roughly circular, and the rag 242 can be configured as a whole in a rotationally symmetrical shape. In addition, the rag 242 can be attached to the bottom surface of the rotating plate 241, and can be combined with the rotating plate 241 to rotate together with the rotating plate 241.

[0167] On the other hand, although not shown in the figure, the rotary cleaning unit 240 may be provided with a drive unit that applies rotational force to the rotary plate 241. For example, the drive unit may have a motor and at least one gear. Therefore, when the drive unit is running, the rotary plate 241 and the mop 242 rotate while wiping the floor to perform cleaning.

[0168] The agitator 250 may be rotatably equipped with a plurality of brushes to direct external dust and air toward the dust bin 220. At this time, the agitator 250 may be equipped with at least one gear.

[0169] On the other hand, the agitator 250 of this embodiment can not only be provided with an additional agitator motor (not shown) to receive rotational power, but according to the embodiment, it can also receive rotational power from a driving motor or from the drive unit of the rotating cleaning unit 240.

[0170] 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 attached to main body 210.

[0171] Wheel 260 can be installed on the main body 210 and can roll on the ground.

[0172] Wheel 260 can be composed of a first driving wheel and a second driving wheel. In this case, the first driving wheel can be constructed in the same way as the second driving wheel, or 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 symmetrical to each other.

[0173] 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 and can provide power to the wheel 260. The travel motor may include a first travel motor and a second travel motor.

[0174] The travel motor can be an electric motor. A plurality of gears are configured to mesh 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.

[0175] With the above configuration, if the driving motor is running, the wheel 260 rotates, and the main body 210 can travel on the ground at a specified speed.

[0176] The auxiliary wheel 270 can be disposed on the underside of the main body 210 and can 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 above configuration, 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.

[0177] The suction motor (not shown) generates suction that draws in external dust and air via 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.

[0178] Although not shown, the battery is integrated into the main body 210 to power other components constituting the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The battery can power at least one or more motors provided in the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. For example, the battery can power motors provided in the rotary cleaning unit 240, agitator 250, wheels 260, and suction motor (not shown).

[0179] In addition, the battery can power the sensor unit (not shown) and the control unit (not shown).

[0180] The battery can be charged using an external power source, and for this purpose, a charging terminal 280 can be provided on one side of the main body 210. For example, the charging terminal 280 can be located on the rear side of the outer side of the main body 210. If the robot vacuum cleaner 200 is combined with the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100, the charging terminal 280 can contact and be powered by the power supply terminal 123b of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0181] Robot vacuum cleaner base station

[0182] Figure 10 A perspective view of a robot vacuum cleaner base station used to illustrate embodiments of the present invention is shown. Figure 11 It shows Figure 10 Top view.

[0183] Reference Figure 10 and Figure 11 The sweeping robot base station 100 of the present invention is described below.

[0184] 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.

[0185] The robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 may include a cover 110.

[0186] The cover 110 can form the appearance of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100. As an example, the cover 110 can be formed into a hexahedral-like shape including at least one or more outer wall surfaces.

[0187] The interior of the cover 110 can form a space that can accommodate the placement section 120, the dust collection path 130, the dust collection section 140, the dust collection motor 145, the cloth washing section 160, the cloth drying section 170, and the circulation path.

[0188] The cover 110 can be installed on the underside of the kitchen cabinet 2. Specifically, the cover 110 can be installed in the mounting space formed between the lower side panel 23 of the kitchen cabinet 2 and the kitchen floor.

[0189] The enclosure 110 includes a pair of outer walls 111 that are opposite each other. The outer walls 111 may represent surfaces formed along the direction of gravity.

[0190] As one example, a pair of outer walls 111 can be arranged at predetermined intervals on the lower side of the kitchen cabinet 2. As another example, the cover 110 may also include a bottom surface facing the kitchen floor, and the pair of outer walls can be connected through this bottom surface. A pair of outer walls 111 may include a left outer wall 111c and a right outer wall 111d. Taking a view forward from inside the robot vacuum base station 100 as a reference, the left outer wall 111c may refer to the outer wall 111 located on the left side. Taking a view forward from inside the robot vacuum base station 100 as a reference, the right outer wall 111 may refer to the outer wall 111 located on the right side.

[0191] As another example, the cover 110 may also include a bottom surface facing the kitchen floor and an upper surface 113 facing the lower side panel 23 of the kitchen cabinet 2. The upper and lower ends of a pair of outer walls 111 may be connected to each other by the bottom surface and the upper surface 113. Therefore, in the event of foreign objects falling from the kitchen cabinet 2 to the lower side, it is possible to prevent the components of the robot vacuum cleaner 200 and the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 from being contaminated. As yet another example, the cover 110 may also include the bottom surface, the upper surface 113, and the rear surface 111b facing the wall of the building.

[0192] With the above configuration, the components of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 can be accommodated inside the cover 110 (between one pair of outer walls).

[0193] Additionally, the enclosure 110 can accommodate the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The enclosure 110 can be configured such that the gap between its outer walls 111 is greater than the maximum horizontal width of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. With the above configuration, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can enter and exit the enclosure 110.

[0194] 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 131 is set with reference to the interior of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0195] 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 disposed behind the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0196] Furthermore, based on the view looking forward from inside the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100, the left side can be referred to as the left side and the right side can be referred to as the right side.

[0197] 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.

[0198] 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. Furthermore, although the left and right sides of the cover 110 are covered by the outer wall, they are located at the lower part of the kitchen cabinet 2. Since the lower part of the kitchen cabinet 2, except for the robot vacuum base station 100, is edged by the baseboard, only the front of the cover 110 can be exposed to the outside.

[0199] This minimizes the exposure of the robot vacuum base station 100 and the robot vacuum 200 to the outside.

[0200] With the above configuration, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention has the effect of providing aesthetic appeal to users in terms of decoration.

[0201] On the other hand, although not shown in the figure, 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 wastewater generated after washing the cloth 242, and a space for a hose to discharge water generated during the drying of the cloth 242. For example, at least one of the outer wall 111 and the upper side 112 of the cover 110 may have a space for the aforementioned hose to pass through.

[0202] Joint

[0203] like Figure 11 As shown, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 may include a mounting unit 120.

[0204] 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 unit 120.

[0205] The mounting section 120 can be installed inside the cover 110.

[0206] 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.

[0207] With the above configuration, the user can easily access and manage the installation section 120 when it needs to be washed or repaired, or when some parts need to be replaced.

[0208] The installation unit 120 can be configured with an entrance 127 for the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to enter. The entrance 127 can be defined as the space formed in front of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0209] The entrance / exit 127 can be sized to allow the robot vacuum cleaner 200 to pass through. That is, the height of the entrance / exit 127 can be greater than the height of the robot vacuum cleaner 200. In this case, the entrance / exit 127 can represent a space formed vertically upward from the front end of the base 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 cabinet 2 or the upper end of the cover 110.

[0210] Furthermore, the lateral width of the entrance / exit 127 is greater than the maximum width of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. In this case, at least one of the dust collection section 140 and the mop washing 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 washing section 160. When neither the dust collection section 140 nor the mop washing section 160 is present, the outer wall surface of the cover 110 can also form the boundary.

[0211] At this time, the entrance / exit 127 can be opened and closed by the door 126. The door 126 can be configured at the upper or lower end of the entrance / exit 127, and can be provided with a rotation axis in a direction parallel to the base 121. The door 126 can be hinged to the cover 110. Alternatively, the door 126 can be hinged to the inner wall 124 of the mounting part 120.

[0212] Door 126 can be rotated using door drive unit 126a. As an example, door drive unit 126a can be a motor.

[0213] For example, the door 126 can be formed as a rectangular flat plate, with a hinge portion 126b at the top, and a door drive portion 126a connected to one 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 to transmit power through at least one or more gears.

[0214] Door 126 can remain closed at the entrance / exit 127 while the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is housed in the mounting section 120. Alternatively, when the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 begins to move from the mounting section 120, door 126 can rotate to open the entrance / exit 127. Furthermore, door 126 can rotate to close the entrance / exit 127 after the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 has passed through it. Additionally, door 126 can rotate to open the entrance / exit 127 when the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 approaches the outside of the vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0215] The placement part 120 may include a receiving space S, a base 121, a connecting wall 123, and an inner wall 124.

[0216] The receiving space S of the placement section 120 can accommodate the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. As one example, the receiving space S can represent the space surrounded by the base 121, the connecting wall 123, and the inner wall 124. As another example, the receiving space S can represent the space surrounded by the base 121, the washing plate 122, the connecting wall 123, and the inner wall 124. As yet another example, the receiving space S can represent 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.

[0217] The base 121 can be configured to allow the robot vacuum base station 100 to contact the bottom surface, and can support the robot vacuum 200 when it is attached to the robot vacuum base station 100. The base 121 may include a base body 121a, an inclined part 121b, a wheel engagement part 121c, an agitator receiving part 121d, and a cleaning tank 128.

[0218] The base body 121a can form the overall appearance of the base 121. The base body 121a can be equipped with an inclined part 121b, a wheel engagement part 121c, an agitator receiving part 121d, and a cleaning tank 128.

[0219] The base body 121a can be shaped 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 robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 to be stably supported on the ground.

[0220] A circulation path can be provided inside the base body 121a. Therefore, the air discharged from the dust collection motor 145 can flow through the circulation path formed inside the base body 121a and be discharged to the air return port 125b.

[0221] The tilting part 121b can be configured in the base body 121a at the entrance for the robot vacuum cleaner 200 to climb.

[0222] The tilting portion 121b can tilt forward 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, but it tilts upward more and more towards the front in the direction in which the robot vacuum cleaner 200 enters. In this case, the front in the direction in which the robot vacuum cleaner 200 enters represents the rear when the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 is used as a reference. Therefore, the robot vacuum cleaner 200 can easily climb from the ground to the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0223] A wheel guide 121ba may be provided in the inclined section 121b.

[0224] 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 correspondingly to the surface of the wheel 260 to enable the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to move stably. Furthermore, the width of the groove in the wheel guide portion 121ba at the entry point where the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 climbs is greater than the width of the wheel 260, and the width of the groove can be narrowed towards the front of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200's climbing path compared to the entry point. Therefore, the wheels 260 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can easily enter the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100, and the gradually narrowing groove restricts lateral movement and guides the wheels 260 to the correct position.

[0225] An auxiliary wheel guide 121bb may be provided in the inclined section 121b.

[0226] The auxiliary wheel guide portion 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 portion 121bb can also be formed in a protruding shape so that when the wheel 260 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is placed on the wheel guide portion 121ba, it contacts the auxiliary wheel 270. Therefore, when the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 moves on the tilting portion 121b, not only the wheel 260, but also the auxiliary wheel 270 can be stably supported and used for movement.

[0227] The wheel 260 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200, which moves upward with the wheel guide 121ba, can be mounted in the wheel engagement portion 121c. If the wheel 260 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is mounted in the wheel engagement portion 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 engagement portion 121c can be formed correspondingly to the surface of the wheel 260, so that the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can stop stably. The wheel engagement portion 121c can extend from the upper end of the wheel guide 121ba. The wheel engagement portion 121c can connect to the wheel guide 121ba without forming a step. Therefore, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can easily move to the wheel engagement portion 121c via the tilting portion 121b.

[0228] The wheel engagement portion 121c can be configured at the stop position of the left and right side wheels 260 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 so that the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 stops in the correct position. Here, the stop position of the wheels 260 refers to the stop position specified for connecting the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to the power supply terminal 123b and / or the stop position specified for connecting the dustbin 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to the dust passage hole 123a.

[0229] The shape of the wheel engagement portion 121c can be formed into an arch shape that corresponds to the shape of the wheel 260 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. With this configuration, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can move with the wheel guide portion 121ba, and can stop when the wheel is inserted into the wheel engagement portion 121c, and the wheel 260 can be stably placed in the arch-shaped wheel engagement portion 121c.

[0230] The agitator receiving portion 121d can accommodate at least a portion of the agitator 250 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. Specifically, the agitator receiving portion 121d can provide space for the lower end of the agitator 250 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to be accommodated when the wheels 260 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 are mounted in the wheel engagement portion 121c.

[0231] An agitator receiving portion 121d can be formed between the wheel engagement portions 121c. The agitator receiving portion 121d can be shaped to correspond to the agitator 250 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The agitator receiving portion 121d can be shaped as a cuboid with an open upper portion. The bottom surface of the agitator receiving portion 121d can be sealed by the bottom surface of the base body 121a or the bottom surface of the cover 110. Therefore, the agitator 250 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200, which moves upward along the inclined portion 121b, can be placed in 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 less than the depth of the wheel engagement portion 121c.

[0232] The agitator receiving portion 121d may include a recessed portion 121da and a protruding portion 121db.

[0233] A recess 121da can be formed from the base 121. The recess 121da can form a receiving space for accommodating at least a portion of the agitator 250. In this way, with the wheels 260 of the sweeping robot 200 mounted in the wheel engagement portion 121c, at least a portion of the agitator 250 can be accommodated in the receiving space of the recess 121da.

[0234] The receiving space of the recess 121da can communicate with the receiving space S of the placement part 120.

[0235] The protrusion 121db can be formed by protruding from the base 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 of the recess 121da, the protrusion 121db can be arranged at a predetermined distance from the main body 210 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200.

[0236] The protrusion 121db can guide the air discharged through the air return port 125b to the suction section 211 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200. In this way, the air discharged into the receiving space of the recess 121da can be guided by the protrusion 121db to the suction section 211 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200.

[0237] An air return port 125b may be formed in the agitator housing 121d. The air return port 125b may be formed on the side of the agitator housing 121d. The air return port 125b may connect the recess 121da and the dust collection motor 145 through a circulation path. The recess 121da and the circulation path may be connected through the air return port 125b. Therefore, air discharged from the dust collection motor 145 may pass through the air return port 125b and be discharged into the recess 121da of the agitator housing 121d.

[0238] The connecting wall 123 is configured to accommodate the dust passage 123a, power supply terminal 123b, and water supply nozzle 123c of the robot vacuum base station 100. The connecting wall 123 spatially separates the accommodating space S and the components of the robot vacuum base station 100. The connecting wall 123 extends vertically from the rear side of the base 121. The connecting wall 123 can be formed to correspond to the shape of the robot vacuum 200. For example, if the main body 210 of the robot vacuum 200 is cylindrical, the connecting wall 123 can be formed as an arc shape with a predetermined radius. With this configuration, the outer contour of the robot vacuum 200 can be surrounded, increasing the area that can be opposite the outer surface of the robot vacuum 200. Furthermore, it can stably support the robot vacuum 200.

[0239] A dust passage hole 123a can be formed in the placement section 120 to allow air from outside the cover 110 to flow into the interior. Specifically, a dust passage hole 123a can be formed in the connecting wall 123 to allow air from outside the cover 110 to flow into the interior. 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 with a hole shape corresponding to the shape of the dust bin 220 to allow dust from the dust bin 220 to flow into the dust collection section 140. The dust passage hole 123a can be formed with 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 in through the dust passage hole 123a can flow through the dust collection flow path 130 and then be discharged through the air return section 125.

[0240] The robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 may include a power supply module for supplying power to the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The power supply module may include a power supply module housing and power supply terminals 123b. The power supply module housing may house circuit boards and components for power supply. Additionally, the power supply terminals 123b may be positioned forward from the power supply module housing to be exposed on the connecting wall 123.

[0241] 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 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.

[0242] The robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 may also include a water supply nozzle 123c.

[0243] 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.

[0244] The inner wall 124 is a component that spatially divides the accommodating space S of the placement section 120 and the robot vacuum base station 100. A pair of inner walls 124 can be arranged on the left and right sides of the base 121. The inner walls 124 can be connected to both ends of the connecting wall 123. The inner walls 124 can extend from the left and right sides of the base 121 in a direction intersecting with the base 121. Specifically, the inner walls 124 can extend vertically on the left and right sides of the base 121. The height of the inner wall 124 can be formed corresponding to the height of the platform 21. Specifically, the height of the inner wall 124 can be the same as the height of the platform 21.

[0245] On the other hand, various components such as a dust collection path 130, a dust collection unit 140, a dust collection motor 145, a detergent tank 163, and a wastewater tank 164d can be arranged on the outer side of the inner wall 124. Specifically, the space between the inner 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 164d.

[0246] The dust collection section 140 and the detergent container 163 can slide apart from the space between the inner wall 124 and the outer wall 111 of the cover 110. The left-right width of the dust collection section 140 and the detergent container 163 can be formed corresponding to the distance between the inner wall 124 and the outer wall 111 of the cover 110.

[0247] The washing plate 122 serves as a component for washing the cleaning cloth of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200, and can be placed in the washing tank 128 of the base 121. Furthermore, the washing plate 122 can contact the cleaning cloth 242 while the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is in place.

[0248] The washing board 122 can be a board that is sloping downwards towards the center.

[0249] Specifically, the washing plate 122 includes a flow guiding surface 122c formed in a curved shape. Furthermore, the flow guiding surface 122c may have at least one or more through holes 122b for fluid passage. Additionally, the flow guiding surface 122c may have protruding washing protrusions 122a.

[0250] At this time, a pair of washing protrusions 122a can be symmetrically formed on the flow guide surface 122c. Specifically, the pair of washing protrusions 122a can be disposed on the vertical lower side of the pair of mop pads 242 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200, disposed opposite to the pair of mop pads 242, and disposed to be able to contact at least a portion of the pair of mop pads 242.

[0251] Additionally, a plurality of through holes 122b may be formed on the flow guiding surface 122c and between a pair of washing protrusions 122a. For example, a plurality of through holes 122b may be formed on the flow guiding surface 122c at the lowest position from the ground (kitchen floor) and between a pair of washing protrusions 122a. In this way, fluid expelled between the pair of washing protrusions 122a can be guided to flow through the through holes 122b.

[0252] On the other hand, the flow guide surface 122c can be positioned further back from the location where the through hole 122b is formed, and its height above the kitchen floor can be increased. That is, the flow guide surface 122c can be positioned closer to the external gas outlet 171c, which will be described later, and its height above the kitchen floor can be increased.

[0253] With this configuration, the flow of washing water and / or air can be guided by the flow guide surface 122c and escape through the through hole 122b into the space formed between the washing plate 122 and the washing tank 128. Thus, heated air can be supplied to the washing tank 128 after passing through the through hole 122b.

[0254] Therefore, if the drive unit of the sweeping unit 240 is driven to rotate while the mop 242 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200 is positioned on the washing plate 122, the mop 242 will rotate. At this time, if the mop 242 rotates while water is being supplied to the washing plate, the mop 242 can be washed while rubbing against the stationary washing protrusions 122a.

[0255] The cleaning tank 128 is configured to house the washing plate 122. The cleaning tank 128 can be disposed on the rear side of the base body 121a. The cleaning tank 128 is disposed on the underside of the washing plate 122 and is detachably coupled to the washing plate 122. The cleaning tank 128 can be formed correspondingly to the washing plate 122 so that the washing plate 122 can be inserted. Liquid that has passed through the washing plate 122 can flow into the cleaning tank 128.

[0256] The cleaning tank 128 may include a base surface for fluid flow through the washing plate 122 and a cleaning tank wall extending vertically from the outer contour of the base surface. The closer the base surface is to the rear of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100, the lower its height above the ground (kitchen floor). This allows the fluid flowing through the washing plate 122 to be collected at the rear of the cleaning tank 128 and then discharged to the outside through the wastewater inlet 164c, described later.

[0257] Dust collection section

[0258] Figure 12 and Figure 13 A side view of the dust collection section of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station, used to illustrate an embodiment of the present invention, is shown. Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of the dust collection flow path of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station used to illustrate an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0259] Reference Figures 12 to 14 as well as Figure 17 The dust collection unit 140 is described below.

[0260] 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 cover 110. The dust collection unit 140 can also be disposed outside the placement part 120. In this case, the receiving space S can be disposed inside the placement part 120.

[0261] 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.

[0262] 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.

[0263] The dust collection unit cover 141 can be internally extended to form a dust bag drawer 144, which can store dust bags (not shown). For example, the dust collection unit cover 141 can be formed into a rectangular tube with an open front, and the rear internal space can be connected to the first dust collection flow path 147 and the second dust collection flow path 148.

[0264] One side of the interior of the dust collection hood 141 can be connected to the first dust collection flow path 147, and the other side can be connected to the second dust collection flow path 148. In addition, if a dust bag (not shown) is attached to the dust collection hood 141, the dust bag (not shown) can be connected to the first dust collection flow path 147 inside the dust collection hood 141.

[0265] A dust bag (not shown) can refer to a bag that collects dust sucked from inside the dust bin 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 using a dust collection motor 145. The dust bag (not shown) can be detachably attached to the dust collection cover 141. Therefore, after a dust bag (not shown) is detached from and discarded from the dust collection cover 141, a new dust bag (not shown) can be attached to the dust collection cover 141. That is, the dust bag (not shown) can be considered a consumable part.

[0266] The dust bag (not shown) can be configured to increase in size and contain the dust if suction is generated using the dust collection motor 145.

[0267] Therefore, the dust bag (not shown) can be made of a material that allows air to pass through but prevents foreign objects such as dust from passing through. For example, the dust bag (not shown) can be made of non-woven fabric, and when the volume increases, it can have a hexahedral shape corresponding to the shape of the dust collection unit cover 141.

[0268] Filter 142 can be configured between the dust collection hood 141 and the second dust collection flow path 148. 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 148 via filter 142.

[0269] The dust bag drawer 144 can be combined to be extended from the dust collection unit cover 141, and the dust bag (not shown) can be accommodated inside.

[0270] At this time, refer to Figure 17 The dust bag drawer 144 includes a dust bag drawer body 144a, a handle 144d, and a drawer slide 144e.

[0271] The dust bag drawer body 144a can provide internal space for dust bags (not shown) to be assembled. For example, the dust bag drawer body 144a can be formed as a box with an open upper side, and an inlet 144b and an outlet 144c can be formed at the rear to communicate with the first dust collection path 147 and the second dust collection path 148.

[0272] For example, the left-right width of the upper side of the dust bag drawer body 144a can be different from the left-right width of the lower side. For example, the left-right width of the upper side of the dust bag drawer body 144a can be greater than the left-right width of the lower side. That is, a step can be formed inside the dust bag drawer body 144a. In this way, the upper space where the dust bag (not shown) is installed can be maximized, and a flow path can be formed that allows the air passing through the dust bag (not shown) to be easily discharged to the lower side.

[0273] The upper side of the dust bag drawer body 144a can be connected to the first dust collection path 147 via the inlet 144b. The inlet 144b can be configured to guide the air flowing in the first dust collection path 147 into the interior of the dust bag (not shown). The inlet 144b allows the first dust collection path 147 to connect with 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 path 147 and the inlet 144b.

[0274] The dust bag drawer 144 can communicate with the second dust collection path 148 via an outlet 144c formed on its lower side. The outlet 144c can be configured to direct air passing through the dust bag drawer 144 to the second dust collection path 148. The outlet 144c and the inlet 144b can be configured at different heights. The outlet 144c can be configured to be lower than the inlet 144b. The outlet 144c allows the internal space of the dust bag drawer 144 to communicate with the second dust collection path 148. Therefore, air that has had dust filtered out while passing through the dust bag (not shown) can move to the second dust collection path 148 via the outlet 144c.

[0275] 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.

[0276] With this configuration, if the user grasps the handle and pulls it forward, the dust bag drawer body 144a can be pulled forward and extended together. Therefore, according to the present invention, the user can easily pull the dust bag drawer 144 forward and then lift it upward to easily remove and replace the dust bag (not shown).

[0277] The left and right sides of the dust bag drawer body 144a can be provided with drawer slides 144e. The drawer slides 144e can guide the movement of the dust bag drawer body 144a.

[0278] For example, drawer slides 144e can be formed in the form of grooves or ribs on the left and right sides of the dust bag drawer body 144a along the front and back directions.

[0279] With the above configuration, when the user attaches the dust bag drawer 144 to the dust collection unit cover 141, it can be attached to the correct position, so that the dust collection unit 140, the first dust collection flow path 147 and the second dust collection flow path 148 are connected in the correct position, thereby reducing flow loss.

[0280] On the other hand, corresponding to the drawer slide 144e, a slide 141a may also be formed on the inner side of the dust collection cover 141. The slide 141a of the dust collection cover 141 can be formed in a shape and position corresponding to the drawer slide 144e. For example, if the drawer slide 144e is formed in the shape of a groove, the slide 141a of the dust collection cover 141 can be formed in the shape of a rib or a protruding sill.

[0281] On the other hand, the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 may include a dust collection path. The dust collection path can refer to the path through which air drawn in through the dust through-hole 123a flows via a dust bag to the dust collection motor 145.

[0282] Specifically, the dust collection path may include a first dust collection path 147 and a second dust collection path 148. 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 147 connects the dust bin 220 with the internal space of the dust collection part cover 141, and the second dust collection path 148 connects the internal space of the dust collection part cover 141 with the dust collection motor 145.

[0283] The first dust collection path 147 can connect the dust bin 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 with the internal space of the dust collection cover 141. The first dust collection path 147 can connect the dust bin 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 with the internal space of the dust collection cover 141. The first dust collection path 147 can also connect the dust passage hole 123a of the placement part 120 with the internal space of the dust collection cover 141. The first dust collection path 147 can represent the space between the dust bin 220 and the dust collection cover 141 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The first dust collection path 147 can be formed in a near-horizontal direction. The first dust collection path 147 can be a space formed rearward from the dust passage hole 123a, or it can be a flow path formed by bending laterally from the dust passage hole 123a to allow dust and air to flow. Through the first dust collection path 147, dust in the dust bin 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can move into the internal space of the dust collection cover 141.

[0284] The second dust collection path 148 can connect the internal space of the dust collection unit cover 141 to the dust collection motor 145. The second dust collection path 148 can be formed in a near-horizontal direction. In this case, the first dust collection path 147 and the second dust collection path 148 can be formed at different heights. The first dust collection path 147 and the second dust collection path 148 can be formed in a stacked structure. The second dust collection path 148 can be configured to be lower than the first dust collection path 147. With the above configuration, the lateral width and overall volume of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 can be minimized.

[0285] The dust collection module can provide suction airflow to the dust collection path.

[0286] Specifically, the dust collection module may include a dust collection motor cover 146 and a dust collection motor 145.

[0287] The dust collection motor housing 146 can be configured inside the housing 110. The dust collection motor housing 146 can house the dust collection motor 145 inside.

[0288] The internal space of the dust collection motor housing 146 can be connected to the second dust collection flow path 148. Therefore, the air flowing in the second dust collection flow path 148 can be directed to the dust collection motor 145.

[0289] The internal space of the dust collection motor housing 146 can be connected to the circulation path. Therefore, air that has passed through the dust collection motor 145 can be directed to the circulation path.

[0290] The dust collection motor 145 can generate suction in the dust collection flow path.

[0291] The dust collection motor 145 can be configured behind the dust collection unit cover 141. In this way, the dust collection motor 145 can provide suction power to suck up dust from the dust bin 220 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200.

[0292] The dust collection motor 145 can generate suction by rotating. As an example, the dust collection motor 145 can be formed in a shape similar to a cylinder.

[0293] One side of the dust collection motor 145 can be connected to the second dust collection flow path 148, and the other side can be connected to the circulation flow path. When the dust collection motor 145 is driven, the air flowing in the second dust collection flow path 148 can flow into the interior of the dust collection motor housing 146. In addition, the air flowing into the interior of the dust collection motor housing 146 can be discharged to the air return port 125b after flowing through the circulation flow path via the dust collection motor 145.

[0294] On the other hand, the rotation axis of the dust collection motor 145 can be configured to be nearly horizontal. With the above configuration, the overall volume of the robot vacuum base station 100, which is installed in the cabinet 2 or the installation space 21a of the structure, can be minimized.

[0295] On the other hand, according to an embodiment, the rotation axis of the dust collection motor 145 can be configured in the vertical direction. In this case, the horizontal space occupied by the dust collection motor 145 can be minimized.

[0296] The air return section 125 can direct the air expelled from the dust collection motor 145 to the robot vacuum cleaner 200.

[0297] The air return section 125 can be composed of a circulation path and an air return port 125b.

[0298] The circulation path provides a flow path for the air discharged from the dust collection motor 145. The circulation path can be configured inside the base body 121a.

[0299] The circulation path can be connected to the flow path of the dust collection motor 145. The circulation path can refer to the flow path connecting the internal space of the dust collection motor housing 146 and the air return port 125b. One end of the circulation path can communicate with the internal space of the dust collection motor housing 146, and the other end of the circulation path can communicate with the receiving space of the recess 121da.

[0300] The circulation path can be a horizontally formed path inside the housing 110. The circulation path can be connected to the flow path of the dust collection motor 145. Specifically, one end of the circulation path can communicate with the internal space of the dust collection motor housing 146, and the other end of the circulation path can communicate with the air return port 125b.

[0301] The air return port 125b can serve as an outlet to guide the air discharged from the dust collection motor 145 to the receiving space of the recess 121da.

[0302] An air return port 125b may be formed on the base 121. An air return port 125b may be formed on the agitator housing 121d. An air return port 125b may be formed on the side wall of the recess 121da.

[0303] The circulating flow path of this embodiment of the invention can direct the air discharged from the dust collection motor 145 to the suction section 211 of the sweeping robot 200.

[0304] The circulating flow path directs the air expelled from the dust collection motor 145 to the suction section 211 of the robot vacuum 200 instead of expelling it to the outside, thus creating a structure that allows air to continuously circulate between the robot vacuum 200 and the robot vacuum base station 100. Therefore, the hot air expelled from the dust collection motor 145 is not discharged into the cabinet 2, but instead flows back into the interior of the robot vacuum 200 and circulates, thereby preventing damage to the interior of the cabinet 2.

[0305] Air passing through the dust collection motor 145 can be discharged into the receiving space S through the air return port 125b. The air discharged into the receiving space S can then flow back into the suction section 211 using the suction force of the dust collection motor 145. Therefore, air drawn into the dust bin 220 using the suction force of the dust collection motor 145 can flow sequentially through the dust passage hole 123a, the first dust collection flow path 147, the dust collection section cover 141, the second dust collection flow path 148, the dust collection motor 145, the circulation flow path, and the air return port 125b before being discharged into the receiving space S.

[0306] At this time, if the suction motor (not shown) of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is driven, the dust collection motor 145 can also be driven. The air discharged through the air return port 125b is sucked into the suction unit 211 by the suction of the dust collection motor 145 and the suction motor (not shown), thus improving the dust collection efficiency.

[0307] Cleaning cloth washing section

[0308] Figure 15 An enlarged view of the mop washing unit of the robot vacuum cleaner base station used to illustrate an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 16 An enlarged view of the washing water supply unit of the mop washing section of the robot vacuum cleaner base station, used to illustrate an embodiment of the present invention, is shown. Figure 17 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.

[0309] Reference Figures 15 to 17 The following is a description of the mop washing unit 160 of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0310] The robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of this embodiment may include a mop washing unit 160. The mop washing unit 160 can wash the mop 242 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200 attached to the mounting unit 120.

[0311] The rag washing unit 160 may include: a washing water supply unit 161 that discharges washing water to the washing plate 122; a detergent tank 163 that stores liquid containing detergent; and a wastewater tank 164d that stores the washing water after the rags 242 have been washed.

[0312] The washing water supply unit 161 can generate washing water for washing the rags 242 by mixing purified water and detergent.

[0313] The washing water supply unit 161 includes a branch flow path 161a, a clean water inlet 161b, a detergent inlet 161c, a detergent pump 161d, and a washing water nozzle (not shown).

[0314] At this time, a pair of washing water nozzles (not shown) can be arranged spaced apart on the rear side of the connecting wall 123. The washing water nozzles (not shown) can discharge washing water from the upper side of the washing plate 122. For example, a pair of washing water nozzles (not shown) can be arranged on the upper side of a pair of washing protrusions 122a.

[0315] At this time, purified water supplied from the water supply pipe of the kitchen cabinet 2 and passing through the regulator 162 can be connected to the individual washing water nozzles (not shown) that are arranged separately on both sides through the branch flow path 161a. That is, the branch flow path 161a can be formed into a single pipe branching into two, in which case either end of the branch can be connected to either of the pair of washing water nozzles (not shown), and the other end of the branch can be connected to the other of the pair of washing water nozzles (not shown). Thus, the branch flow path 161a can supply washing water to the pair of washing water nozzles (not shown).

[0316] The washing water nozzle (not shown) can be integrally formed with the connecting wall 123 on the rear side of the connecting wall 123, or it can be detachably connected to the connecting wall 123.

[0317] The purified water inlet 161b is configured to direct purified water supplied from the water supply pipe of the kitchen cabinet 2 to the washing water supply section 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 passing 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 another portion can flow into a pair of washing water supply sections 161 arranged separately from each other through the purified water inlet 161b.

[0318] The detergent inlet 161c is configured to direct the detergent-containing liquid supplied from the detergent tank 163 to the wash water supply unit 161. Specifically, the detergent-containing liquid stored in the detergent tank 163 can be supplied to the wash water supply unit 161 via the detergent pump 161d.

[0319] Additionally, the detergent and purified water flowing into the washing water supply unit 161 can be mixed and used as washing water. The washing water supply unit 161 can dispense washing water onto the top surface of the washing plate 122 through a washing water nozzle (not shown). The washing water nozzle (not shown) can be opened towards the top surface of the dishcloth 242 placed on the washing plate 122.

[0320] Detergent container 163 can store liquid containing detergent.

[0321] Detergent container 163 includes detergent container body 163a, handle 163b and detergent container track 163c (see reference). Figure 17 ).

[0322] The detergent container body 163a can provide a space for storing liquid containing detergent. For example, the detergent container body 163a can be formed as a box with an open top, and can be connected to the washing water supply unit 161 at the rear.

[0323] 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 the pair of connecting parts and is formed to be gripped by a user.

[0324] With this configuration, if the user grasps the handle and pulls it 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 and then dispense detergent.

[0325] Detergent tub body 163a may have detergent tub tracks 163c formed on its left and right sides. Detergent tub tracks 163c can guide the movement of detergent tub body 163a.

[0326] 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.

[0327] With the above configuration, when the user attaches the detergent container 163 to the cover 110, the detergent container 163 can be attached to the correct position to prevent washing water leakage.

[0328] On the other hand, although not shown in the figure, 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.

[0329] The wastewater tank 164d provides space for storing the washing water from washing the cloths 242. The washing water discharged onto the top surface of the washing plate 122 can be discharged through the through hole 122b after the washing of the cloths 242 is finished, descending along the slope of the washing plate 122. The washing water passing through the through hole 122b can accumulate in the washing tank 128. Additionally, the washing water accumulated in the washing tank 128 can flow into the wastewater suction flow path 164b through the wastewater inlet 164c, and then into the wastewater tank 164d through the wastewater inlet 164b. In other words, the liquid passing through the washing plate 122 can flow along the washing tank 128 and be discharged through the wastewater inlet 164c.

[0330] On the other hand, a sewage suction flow path 164b is formed in a sewage suction pipe, with one end of the sewage suction pipe connected to a sewage inlet 164c and the other end connected to a sewage tank 164d. In this case, the sewage suction pipe can be configured to pass under the external gas supply module 171. That is, the sewage suction flow path 164b can be configured under the external gas supply module 171. Additionally, the sewage suction flow path 164b can be configured under the external gas supply flow path 171a.

[0331] Washing water stored in the wastewater tank 164d 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 a connector 192 disposed on the outer wall 111 of the cover 110. The connector 192 can be connected to the wastewater tank 164d via the drain connection pipe 164f and the flow path connection module 165. The other end of the wastewater discharge path 164a can be connected to the drain pipe 25. At this time, the washing water stored in the wastewater tank 164d can flow through the wastewater discharge path 164a using a centrifugal pump (not shown) and be discharged to the drain pipe.

[0332] The sewage discharge path 164a, which is connected to the sewage tank 164d, can be connected to the upstream 25b of the drain pipe 25 of the kitchen cabinet 2, based on the water trap 25a. This is because if the sewage discharge path 164a is connected to the downstream 25c of the drain pipe 25, based on the water trap 25a, foul odors or fluids inside the drain pipe 25 may flow back into the sewage discharge path 164a.

[0333] Additionally, the cloth washing unit 160 may include a check valve (not shown). The check valve prevents fluid inside the drain pipe 25 from flowing back into the sewage discharge path 164a. The check valve may be located at the other end of the sewage discharge path 164a connected to the drain pipe 25.

[0334] On the other hand, the detergent tank 163 and the wastewater tank 164d can be accommodated in the space formed between the inner 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 inner wall 124 and the outer wall 111 of the cover, and the wastewater tank 164d can be disposed on the upper side of the detergent tank 163 in the space between the inner wall 124 and the outer wall 111 of the cover.

[0335] Cloth Drying Section

[0336] Figure 18 A perspective view of the cloth drying unit of the robot vacuum cleaner base station, used to illustrate an embodiment of the present invention, is shown. Figure 19 An enlarged view of the cloth drying section of the robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 20 A cross-sectional view is shown to illustrate the flow of air into the hot gas supply module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0337] Reference Figures 18 to 20 In one 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 that has been washed by the cloth washing unit 160 or the cloth 242 that is wet after completing a wet cleaning operation.

[0338] The cloth drying unit 170 of one embodiment of the present invention may include an external gas supply module 171, an air exhaust unit 172, an exhaust fan 173, and a check valve 175.

[0339] The external gas supply module 171 can supply hot gas to the accommodating space S, and may include an external gas supply flow path 171a, an external gas inlet 171b, an external gas outlet 171c, a heater 171d, and a blower fan 171e.

[0340] The external gas supply module 171 has an external gas supply flow path 171a. The external gas supply flow path 171a allows external air to flow to the external gas discharge section 171c.

[0341] The external gas supply path 171a can connect the external space of the enclosure 110 with the containment space S. One side of the external gas supply path 171a can be connected to the external space through the external gas inlet 171b, and the other side of the external gas supply path 171a can be connected to the containment space S through the external gas outlet 171c.

[0342] An external gas inlet 171b may be formed on the rear side of the enclosure 110. Multiple external gas inlets 171b may be formed on the rear side of the enclosure 110. Air from outside the enclosure 110 can flow into the external gas supply path 171a through the external gas inlets 171b. Therefore, air from outside the enclosure 110 can flow into the interior of the enclosure 110.

[0343] At least a portion of the external gas discharge section 171c may be disposed on the upper side of the washing plate 122. The external gas discharge section 171c may open in a direction opposite to the washing plate 122. A pair of external gas discharge sections 171c may be provided in a downward-opening state.

[0344] The external gas discharge section 171c can discharge air that has passed through the external gas supply flow path 171a. The external gas discharge section 171c can also discharge air heated by the heater 171d. For example, the external gas discharge section 171c can be formed with an external gas discharge port.

[0345] With the cloth 242 placed on the washing plate 122, the external gas discharge section 171c can open to the upper side of the cloth 242. Therefore, the external gas discharge section 171c can be arranged adjacent to the cloth 242 and open downward, allowing the air discharged from the external gas discharge section 171c to flow towards the cloth 242.

[0346] The blower fan 171e can be configured on the external gas supply flow path 171a to blow air into the containment space S. If the blower fan 171e is driven, the air flowing in through the external gas inlet 171b can be heated by the heater 171d and then discharged into the containment space S through the external gas outlet 171c.

[0347] The heater 171d can be configured on the external gas supply flow path 171a to heat the air flowing in the external gas supply flow path 171a. The heater 171d can also heat the air discharged through the external gas discharge section 171c.

[0348] The heater 171d may include a heater housing and a heating element. The heater housing may be positioned on the external gas supply path 171a, and an internal space may be provided to accommodate the heating element. Furthermore, the heating element can heat 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 gas outlet 171c, drying the damp cloth 242.

[0349] The air exhaust unit 172 can discharge the hot and humid air generated inside the robot vacuum base station 100 during the drying of the mop 242 to the drain pipe 25. Specifically, the air exhaust unit 172 can be connected to the drain pipe 25 of the accommodating space S and the kitchen cabinet 2. The air exhaust unit 172 can discharge the air in the accommodating space S to the outside.

[0350] The air discharge section 172 can be formed with an air discharge flow path. One end of the air discharge flow path can be connected to the receiving space S, and the other end can be connected to the drain pipe 25. Specifically, one end of the air discharge flow path, the air intake 172a, can be connected to the receiving space S, and the other end can be connected to the drain pipe 25. The air discharge flow path can discharge the air drawn in from the air intake 172a.

[0351] On the other hand, the air intake 172a can be disposed at various positions on the receiving space S. The air intake 172a can communicate with the receiving space S. As one example, the air intake 172a can be disposed on the connecting wall 123. As another example, the air intake 172a can be disposed on the inner wall 124. As yet another example, the air intake 172a can be disposed at a position higher than the cloth 242 above the ground, and can be disposed closer to the front than the external gas exhaust section 171c. In this way, air containing steam generated during the drying of the cloth 242 can be discharged.

[0352] The air exhaust section 172 can be connected to the downstream 25c of the drain pipe 25 of the kitchen cabinet 2, based on the water trap 25a. This is because, if the air exhaust section 172 is connected to the upstream 25b of the drain pipe 25, based on the water trap 25a, the hot air exhausted through the air exhaust section 172 may be unable to pass through the drain pipe 25 due to the water accumulated in the water trap 25a.

[0353] On the other hand, in one embodiment of the present invention, the air exhaust pipe 172c can branch into two inside the cover 110, penetrating both sides of the cover 110. In this case, either branch can penetrate the left outer wall 111c of the cover 110, and the other branch can penetrate the right outer wall 111d of the cover 110. The air exhaust portion 172 penetrating the outer walls 111 of both sides of the cover 110 can be connected to the drain pipe 25. Therefore, air drawn in from the air exhaust portion 172 can flow to the branched air exhaust pipes 172c and then be discharged downstream 25c relative to the water trap 25a of the drain pipe 25. More specifically, when the drain pipe 25 is located on the left side of the robot vacuum base station 100, air can flow along the side of the branched air exhaust pipe 172c that passes through the left outer wall 111c. Conversely, when the drain pipe 25 is located on the right side of the robot vacuum base station 100, air can flow along the side of the branched air exhaust pipe 172c that passes through the right outer wall 111d. The unused side of the branch air exhaust pipe 172c can be sealed with a cap.

[0354] The exhaust fan 173 can discharge air flowing in through the air intake 172a to the drain pipe 25. The exhaust fan 173 can circulate the air flowing into the air exhaust section 172. The exhaust fan 173 can be configured in the air exhaust flow path.

[0355] If the exhaust fan 173 is driven, air in the accommodating space S can flow into the air intake 172a. The air flowing into the air intake 172a can flow through the air exhaust section 172 and then be discharged into the drain pipe 25. Specifically, by driving the exhaust fan 173, the air flowing in the air exhaust section 172 can be discharged downstream 25c relative to the water trap 25a of the drain pipe 25.

[0356] The cloth drying unit 170 may include a check valve 175. The check valve 175 may be located at the other end of the air discharge pipe 172c connected to the drain pipe 25. This prevents fluid inside the drain pipe 25 from flowing back to the air discharge unit 172.

[0357] layout

[0358] Figure 21 and Figure 22 A diagram illustrating the configuration relationship of the robot vacuum cleaner base station on a horizontal plane is shown.

[0359] Reference Figure 4 , Figure 21 as well as Figure 22 The configuration of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 in this embodiment of the invention is described below.

[0360] The feature of this embodiment of the invention is that the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 is installed in the lower space of the kitchen cabinet 2.

[0361] Therefore, the present invention is characterized in that the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 is configured horizontally in a space matching the space between the lower side panel 23 of the kitchen cabinet 2 and the kitchen floor.

[0362] Specifically, in the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of this embodiment, the dust collection unit 140 and / or the mop washing unit 160 can be configured on the side of the entrance 127.

[0363] At this time, when both the dust collection unit 140 and the cloth washing unit 160 are provided, the placement unit 120 can be arranged between the dust collection unit 140 and the cloth washing unit 160.

[0364] For example, an entrance / exit 127 and a door 126 can be configured at the front of the robot vacuum base station 100. Additionally, a mounting section 120 can be configured for the robot vacuum 200 to connect to the rear from the entrance / exit 127. In this case, the dust collection section 140 can be configured from the front to the rear of the robot vacuum base station 100 for a predetermined length. Furthermore, the mop washing section 160 can also be configured from the front to the rear of the robot vacuum base station 100 for a predetermined length.

[0365] Therefore, when looking at the robot vacuum station 100 from the front outside, the front end of the dust collection unit 140 and / or the front end of the mop washing unit 160 can be arranged on the left and right sides of the entrance 127.

[0366] 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 container 163 of the cloth washing unit 160 can be configured to extend forward of the cover.

[0367] 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 pulled.

[0368] The above configuration provides the convenience that when a user wants to pull out the dust bag (not shown) or detergent container 163, the pull-out position can be immediately identified, and the dust bag (not shown) or detergent container 163 can be pulled out with a simple action of pulling the handle.

[0369] On the other hand, the rear ends of the dust collection hood 141 and the detergent tank 163 can be arranged at a predetermined interval from the rear end of the hood 110. Furthermore, a dust collection motor 145 can be arranged between the rear end of the dust collection hood 141 and the rear end of the hood 110. With the above configuration, a power cord supplying power to the dust collection motor 145 can be easily connected. Additionally, it has the effect of minimizing the overall space occupied by the mounting section 120, the dust collection hood 141, and the dust collection motor 145 within a limited space.

[0370] Furthermore, at least a portion of a flow path for the flow of washing water for washing the cloth 242 and a pump that provides the flow force for the washing water can be configured between the rear end of the cover 110 and the rear end of the detergent tank 163. With this configuration, the path of the washing water flowing in from the water supply pipe can be minimized. Additionally, it has the effect of minimizing the overall space occupied by the housing 120, the detergent tank 163, and the flow path for the washing water within a limited space.

[0371] On the other hand, in the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100, the cloth drying unit 170 can be configured closer to the rear 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.

[0372] Therefore, in the sweeping robot base station 100 of the present invention, a dust collection unit 140 and a cloth washing unit 160 can be arranged on the left and right sides with the placement unit 120 as the reference, and a cloth drying unit 170 can be arranged on the rear side.

[0373] That is, in the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention, the dust collection unit 140, the cloth washing unit 160 and the cloth drying unit 170 can all be arranged within a specified distance range from the outer contour of the placement unit 120.

[0374] With this configuration, the placement unit 120, dust collection unit 140, cloth washing unit 160, and cloth drying unit 170 can all be arranged in the narrowest space on the horizontal plane.

[0375] 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, it minimizes the distance between the mop 242 and the mop washing unit 160, as well as the distance between the mop 242 and the mop drying unit 170, thus restricting the area where washing water and wastewater from washing are present.

[0376] Furthermore, with this configuration, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention can have all its components arranged within a limited height.

[0377] Specifically, based on the state where the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is integrated with the mounting section 120, at least a portion of the dust collection section 140 can be configured to be lower than the uppermost point of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. Additionally, at least a portion of the mop washing section 160 can be configured to be lower than the uppermost point of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. Furthermore, at least a portion of the mop drying section 170 can be configured to be lower than the uppermost point of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200.

[0378] Furthermore, based on the state where the robot vacuum cleaner 200 is integrated with the mounting section 120, the top of the robot vacuum cleaner 200 can be configured to be higher than the dust bag drawer 144. Additionally, the top of the robot vacuum cleaner 200 can be configured to be higher than the detergent dispenser 163. Furthermore, the top of the dust bag drawer 144 can be configured to be higher than the detergent dispenser 163.

[0379] As a result, the robot vacuum base station 100 of this embodiment can be equipped with a dust collection unit 140, a mop washing unit 160, and a mop drying unit 170 on three sides of the surrounding placement part 120, excluding the front side where the robot vacuum 200 enters. This configuration has the following advantages: even with limited vertical height, it can not only charge the robot vacuum 200 using minimal horizontal space, but also collect dust from the robot vacuum 200, wash the mop 242, and dry the mop 242.

[0380] drawer

[0381] While placing the robot vacuum's charging dock under a kitchen cabinet can provide a decorative effect by minimizing external exposure, it can also be difficult for the user to remove and repair the robot if it malfunctions while inside the cabinet or if the charging dock itself fails. To address this issue, the present invention adds a drawer 190 to the robot vacuum base station 100.

[0382] In this regard, Figure 23 A diagram is shown illustrating the state in which a drawer is provided in the base station of a sweeping robot according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 24 A diagram is shown illustrating the state of the drawer extending from the base station of the robotic vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0383] Reference Figure 23 and Figure 24 The drawer 190 of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is described below.

[0384] The robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of one embodiment of the present invention may further include a drawer 190 extending from the cover 110.

[0385] With drawer 190 introduced into cover 110, if robot vacuum 200 enters placement section 120, door 126 can be closed. In this case, robot vacuum 200 can be blocked from the inside and outside of cover 110 by door 126.

[0386] This prevents dust from scattering to the outside of the robot vacuum base station 100 during the dust collection process of the robot vacuum 200 inside the dust bin 220. Additionally, it prevents wastewater from leaking to the outside of the robot vacuum base station 100 during the washing of the mop cloth 242.

[0387] The drawer 190 can move relative to the cover 110. For example, the cover 110 can be fixedly attached to the kitchen cabinet 2, and the drawer 190 can be extended forward from the cover 110.

[0388] At this time, drawer 190 can be extended with the internal storage unit 120 installed. With the above configuration, if drawer 190 is extended, the storage unit 120 and / or the robot vacuum cleaner 200 can be extended from the kitchen cabinet 2 to the outside.

[0389] At this time, with the door 126 closing the entrance 127, if the drawer 190 is pulled out from the cover 110, the robot vacuum cleaner 200 located in the placement section 120 can be exposed to the outside.

[0390] Therefore, according to this embodiment, in the event of maintenance or warranty of the robot vacuum base station 100, such as repair or cleaning, the user can easily pull out the installation part 120 and / or the robot vacuum 200 through the drawer 190, thereby exposing the internal components of the robot vacuum base station 100 or the robot vacuum 200.

[0391] On the other hand, in one embodiment of the present invention, the drawer 190 can be drawn out with a dust collection section 140 provided inside. That is, the drawer 190 can be drawn out together with the dust collection section 140.

[0392] Conversely, the dust collection section 140 of the present invention can be separately extended from the cover 110 and the drawer 190. In this case, the extension direction of the dust collection section 140 can be parallel to the extension direction of the drawer 190. For example, the extension direction of the dust bag drawer 144 can be parallel to the extension direction of the drawer 190.

[0393] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the drawer 190 can be drawn out with at least a portion of the cloth washing section 160 disposed inside. That is, the drawer 190 can be drawn out together with at least a portion of the cloth washing section 160. For example, the drawer 190 can be drawn out together with the detergent container 163 and the wastewater container 164d.

[0394] Conversely, the detergent dispenser 163 of the present invention can be drawn out separately from the cover 110 and the drawer 190. In this case, the direction in which the detergent dispenser 163 is drawn out can be parallel to the direction in which the drawer 190 is drawn out.

[0395] With the above configuration, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of an embodiment of the present invention can be configured such that the drawer 190, the dust collection part 140 and the detergent bucket 163 are all parallel in their outward directions.

[0396] Therefore, it has the effect that users can easily identify the lead-out direction of the constituent elements of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention, and can easily lead out for repair and maintenance of warranty.

[0397] Drawer 190 may include drawer sidewall 191, joint 192, and drawer slide 193.

[0398] The drawer sidewalls 191 are configured to move relative to the outer wall surface of the cover 110. For example, a pair of drawer sidewalls 191 may be configured to face one pair of outer wall surfaces of the cover 110.

[0399] At this time, the pair of drawer sidewalls 191 can be positioned closer to the inner side of the robot vacuum base station 100 than one pair of outer walls of the cover 110. That is, the pair of drawer sidewalls 191 can be positioned closer to the mounting section 120 than one pair of outer walls of the cover 110.

[0400] At this time, the pair of drawer sidewalls 191 can be directly connected to the base 121 of the mounting part 120. In contrast, the pair of drawer sidewalls 191 can be connected by a drawer base (not shown), or they can be combined with the mounting part 120 on the upper side of the drawer base (not shown) and move together.

[0401] On the other hand, a dust collection section 140 and / or a cloth washing section 160 may be arranged between the drawer side wall 191 and the placement section 120. That is, based on the state in which the robot vacuum cleaner 200 is attached to the placement section 120, a dust collection section 140 and / or a cloth washing section 160 may be arranged between the robot vacuum cleaner 200 and the drawer side wall 191.

[0402] With the above configuration, the dust collection unit 140 and the cloth washing unit 160 can be arranged using minimal horizontal space.

[0403] A connector 192 is provided on the drawer side wall 191 and is detachably connected to at least one of a flexible hose and a power cord. For example, the connector 192 may be configured on the drawer side wall 191 and may be connected to a flexible hose and / or a power cord.

[0404] The connector 192 is attached to the drawer side wall 191. One side of the connector 192 can be positioned closer to the inner space of the drawer 190 than the drawer side wall 191, and the other side of the connector 192 is positioned on the outer side of the drawer side wall 191.

[0405] The connector 192 is detachably coupled with at least one of a hose and a power cord. For example, the connector 192 may be detachably coupled with at least one of a water supply pipe connection to a water supply pipe, a drain pipe connection to a drain pipe, an exhaust pipe connection to a steam exhaust pipe for venting air from inside the drawer 190, and a power connection to a power source.

[0406] At this time, water supply pipes for the dishcloth washing unit 160 and water supply pipes connected to an external water source can be connected to both sides of the water supply pipe connection. In addition, drain pipes for the dishcloth washing unit 160 and drain pipes connected to the upstream 25b of the water trap of the kitchen cabinet 2 can be connected to both sides of the drain pipe connection.

[0407] That is, the connector 192 of the present invention can be a structure in which the water supply pipe and the drain pipe that use the water supply and drain pipe provided in the kitchen cabinet 2 for direct drainage are detachably connected to the water supply and drain pipe inside the robot vacuum base station 100.

[0408] In addition, air exhaust pipes connected to the air outlet 172b of the cloth drying unit 170 can be attached to both sides of the exhaust pipe connection.

[0409] Therefore, the air discharged from the cloth drying section 170 can be discharged downstream 25c of the water trap.

[0410] In addition, the power connection part can be equipped with a power cord for connection to an external power source. In this case, the power connection part can be directly connected to the power cord, or the power cord can be connected using a connector or adapter or other power cord connection method.

[0411] Drawer slides 193 can be configured on the drawer sidewall 191 to guide the movement of the drawer sidewall 191. Drawer slides 193 can be fixedly attached to the drawer sidewall 191 or integrally formed with the drawer sidewall 191, engaging with the slides provided on the outer wall 111 of the cover 110 and guiding the movement path of the drawer sidewall 191. On the other hand, while the present invention describes the case where slides are provided on the drawer 190 and the cover 110, it is not necessarily limited to the form of the slides; it can include alternatives such as rollers, guide grooves, or guide ribs.

[0412] Control Structure

[0413] Figure 25 A block diagram illustrating the control configuration of a vacuum cleaner base station for explaining an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0414] Reference Figure 25 The control configuration of the sweeping robot base station 100 of the present invention is described below.

[0415] The vacuum cleaner base station 100 of this embodiment of the invention also includes a control unit 300 comprising a control placement unit 120, a dust collection motor 145, a cloth washing unit 160, and a cloth drying unit 170.

[0416] The control unit 300 may consist of a printed circuit board and a plurality of components mounted on the printed circuit board.

[0417] The control unit 300 can detect the approach of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 and control the door drive unit 126a to rotate the door 126. Specifically, if the distance between the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 and the door 126 is less than a preset distance, the control unit 300 can rotate the door 126 to open the entrance 127. In addition, the control unit 300 can also rotate the door 126 to close the entrance 127 when the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is attached to the mounting unit 120.

[0418] If power is supplied to the battery of the robot vacuum cleaner 200 from the power supply terminal 123b, the control unit 300 can determine that the robot vacuum cleaner 200 is attached to the mounting unit 120.

[0419] The control unit 300 can drive the dust collection motor 145 to suck up dust from inside the dust bin 220 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200.

[0420] On the other hand, the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 in this embodiment of the invention may include a memory (not shown). The memory may include various data for driving and operating the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0421] On the other hand, the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 of this embodiment may include a communication unit (not shown). The communication unit may support wireless communication with other devices located outside the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100, including the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 or a terminal (not shown). As a wireless communication module for supporting wireless communication, a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module may be provided.

[0422] Near-field communication can be, for example, Bluetooth communication, NFC (Near Field Communication) communication, etc.

[0423] Long-distance communication can include, for example, Wireless LAN (WLAN), DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance), Wireless Broadband (Wibro), World Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX), GSM (Global System for Mobile communication), CDMA (Code Division Multi Access), CDMA2000 (Code Division Multi Access 2000), EV-DO (Enhanced Voice-Data Optimized or Enhanced Voice-Data Only), WCDMA (Wideband CDMA), HSDPA (High Speed ​​Downlink Packet Access), HSUPA (High Speed ​​Uplink Packet Access), IEEE 802.16, Long Term Evolution (LTE), and LTE-A (Long Term Evolution). Evolution-Advanced (EAD), Wireless Mobile Broadband Service (WMBS), Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Zigbee, Radio Frequency (RF), LoRa (Long Range), etc.

[0424] The control unit 300 can control the cloth washing unit 160.

[0425] Specifically, the control unit 300 can control the detergent pump 161d. The control unit 300 can operate the detergent pump 161d to dispense detergent stored in the detergent tank 163 into the dishcloth 242.

[0426] Additionally, the control unit 300 can control the regulator 162. The control unit 300 can operate the regulator 162 to adjust the amount of clean water dispensed onto the wiping cloth 242.

[0427] Additionally, the control unit 300 can control the drain pump 168. The control unit 300 can operate the drain pump 168 to discharge the wastewater after washing the rags 242.

[0428] The control unit 300 can control the cloth drying unit 170.

[0429] Specifically, the control unit 300 can control the heater 171d. The control unit 300 can operate the heater 171d to heat the air expelled towards the rag 242.

[0430] Additionally, the control unit 300 can control the air supply fan 171e. The control unit 300 can make the air supply fan 171e operate to expel air to the rag 242.

[0431] Additionally, the control unit 300 can control the exhaust fan 173. The control unit 300 can operate the exhaust fan 173 to expel the air after the cloth 242 has been dried to the outside.

[0432] Additionally, the control unit 300 can receive signals from the temperature sensor 174. The control unit 300 can measure the temperature of the air inside the enclosure 110 using the temperature information received from the temperature sensor 174. Furthermore, the control unit 300 can control the operation of the heater 171d based on the temperature information received from the temperature sensor 174 to sterilize bacteria present in the cloth 242.

[0433] Water supply and drainage connection pipe rotating module structure

[0434] Figure 26 The diagram shows the connection between the water supply pipe and the drainage pipe in the base station of the sweeping robot according to an embodiment of the present invention and the connector located on the right outer wall. Figure 27 A diagram showing the water supply and drainage connection pipes of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention are connected to the connector portion disposed on the left outer wall. Additionally, Figure 28 This is a diagram illustrating the flow path connection module of the robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 29 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the internal space of the flow path connection module in the base station of the sweeping robot according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0435] Reference Figures 26 to 29 The following is a description of the mop washing section 160 of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0436] The cloth washing unit 160 can be disposed on the cover 110 and can wash the cloth 242 of the sweeping robot 200 attached to the mounting unit 120.

[0437] The rag washing unit 160 may include a washing water supply unit 161 that discharges water from an external water supply source to the washing plate 122, and a wastewater discharge unit 164 that discharges the washing water after washing the rags 242.

[0438] First, the washing water supply unit 161 may include a washing water nozzle (not shown), a branch flow path 161a, a regulator 162, and a water supply connection pipe 161f.

[0439] A washing water nozzle (not shown) can dispense water for washing the mop 242 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. That is, washing water can be sprayed onto the mop 242 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 through the washing water nozzle (not shown) to perform a washing operation on the mop 242. A pair of washing water nozzles (not shown) can be spaced apart on the rear side of the connecting wall 123. The washing water nozzles can dispense washing water onto the washing plate 122 from both ends of the washing plate 122.

[0440] At this time, purified water supplied from the water supply pipe of the kitchen cabinet 2 can flow to the regulator 162 via the water supply connection pipe 161f and the flow path connection module 165 (described later). The water flowing to the regulator 162 can be connected to the individual washing water nozzles (not shown) that are arranged separately and branched to both sides through the branch flow path 161a. That is, the branch flow path 161a can be configured as a single pipe branching into two. The branch flow path 161a may include a T-shaped connector. Either end of the connector can be connected to either of the pair of washing water nozzles (not shown), and the other end can be connected to the other of the pair of washing water nozzles (not shown).

[0441] The water supply connection pipe 161f can supply water from an external water source to the flow path connection module 165, which will be described later. Water can be supplied to the first space 165a of the flow path connection module 165 via the water supply connection pipe 161f. Alternatively, the water supply connection pipe 161f can be configured inside the housing 110 to supply fluid from an external water source to the washing plate 122.

[0442] The water supply connection pipe 161f can be pivotally coupled to the flow path connection module 165. More specifically, the water supply connection pipe 161f can be connected to an elbow connector 166 pivotally coupled to the flow path connection module 165. One end of the water supply connection pipe 161f can be connected to the flow path connection module 165 or the elbow connector 166, and the other end can be connected to a connector portion 192 disposed on the outer wall 111 of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0443] The other end of the water supply connection pipe 161f can be selectively connected to either the left outer wall 111c or the right outer wall 111d. That is, the water supply connection pipe 161f can be detachably connected to either of the mating heads 192. When the drain pipe 25 of the kitchen cabinet 2 is located on the left side of the robot vacuum base station 100, the other end of the water supply connection pipe 161f can be connected to the connector 192 located on the left outer wall 111c. Alternatively, when the drain pipe 25 of the kitchen cabinet 2 is located on the right side of the robot vacuum base station 100, the other end of the water supply connection pipe 161f can be connected to the connector 192 located on the right outer wall 111d.

[0444] In summary, water supplied from the water supply pipe of the kitchen cabinet 2 can flow into the water supply connection pipe 161f through the outer wall 111 of the robot vacuum base station 100. At this time, the outer wall 111 can be either the left outer wall 111c or the right outer wall 111d of the cover 110. Water moving through the water supply connection pipe 161f can flow into the flow path connection module 165. Water passing through the flow path connection module 165 can flow towards the regulator 162. Water flowing to the regulator 162 can be discharged through the washing water nozzle (not shown) along the branch flow path 161a.

[0445] That is, the water used to wash the dishcloth 242 can pass through the water supply pipe of the kitchen cabinet 2, the water supply connection pipe 161f, the flow path connection module 165, the regulator 162, and the branch flow path 161a in sequence, and then be discharged through the washing water nozzle (not shown). The discharged water can fall onto the washing plate 122 or the upper side of the dishcloth 242.

[0446] The sewage discharge section 164 may include a sewage inlet 164c, a sewage tank 164d, and a drainage connection pipe 164f.

[0447] Wastewater used in washing the cloth 242 can be drawn in through the wastewater inlet 164c. The wastewater inlet 164c can be configured to protrude from the wall of the washing tank 128. Furthermore, the open portion of the wastewater inlet 164c can be configured to face the bottom of the washing tank 128. Liquid passing through the washing plate 122 can collect in the washing tank 128, and the liquid accumulated in the washing tank 128 can be discharged to the outside through the wastewater inlet 164c. The water discharged through the wastewater inlet 164c can flow into the wastewater tank 164d. The water flowing into the wastewater tank 164d can flow back into the flow path connection module 165. The water flowing into the wastewater tank 164d can flow into the second space 165b of the flow path connection module 165.

[0448] The drain pipe 164f allows water discharged from the flow path connection module 165 to pass through. The drain pipe 164f can also discharge water flowing into the flow path connection module 165 to the outside. Furthermore, the drain pipe 164f can discharge water from the second space 165b of the flow path connection module 165 to the outside. Additionally, the drain pipe 164f can be configured within the enclosure to discharge fluid that has passed through the washing plate 122.

[0449] The drain connection pipe 164f can be pivotally coupled to the flow path connection module 165. More specifically, the drain connection pipe 164f can be connected to an elbow connector 166 pivotally coupled to the flow path connection module 165. One end of the drain connection pipe 164f can be connected to the flow path connection module 165 or the elbow connector 166, and the other end can be coupled to a connector portion 192 disposed on the outer wall 111 of the robot vacuum cleaner base station. More specifically, the other end of the drain connection pipe 164f can be connected to the drain connection pipe joint portion 192b of the connector portion 192.

[0450] In summary, the water from washing the rag 242 can be collected in the washing tank 128 via the washing plate 122. The water accumulated in the washing tank 128 can be sucked into the wastewater inlet 164c and flow into the wastewater tank 164d. The water flowing into the wastewater tank 164d can flow back into the flow path connection module 165. The water flowing into the flow path connection module 165 can be discharged into the drain connection pipe 164f. The water passing through the drain connection pipe 164f can flow through the outer wall 111 of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 and then into the wastewater discharge flow path 164a.

[0451] At this time, the outer wall 111 can be either the left outer wall 111c or the right outer wall 111d of the cover 110. That is, the drain connection pipe 164f can be detachably connected to either of the mating heads 192. Water flowing into the sewage discharge path 164a can flow into the drain pipe 25 of the kitchen cabinet 2.

[0452] That is, the water from washing the rag 242 can pass sequentially through the sewage inlet 164c, the sewage tank 164d, the flow path connection module 165, the drain connection pipe 164f, and the sewage discharge flow path 164a before being discharged to the outside through the drain pipe 25 of the kitchen cabinet 2. In this way, the water from washing the rag 242 can be discharged to the outside of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0453] On the other hand, the diameter of the drain connection pipe 164f can be larger than the diameter of the water supply connection pipe 161f. The water flowing inside the water supply connection pipe 161f can connect to the drain pipe 25 of the kitchen cabinet 2 and have a relatively high water pressure. Conversely, the water flowing in the drain connection pipe 164f can have a relatively low water pressure. During drainage, to maintain smooth water flow, the diameter of the drain connection pipe 164f can be designed to be larger than that of the water supply connection pipe 161f. This allows the drain connection pipe 164f to drain smoothly even under low water pressure, thereby improving drainage efficiency.

[0454] On the other hand, existing robotic vacuum cleaner base stations use buckets to wash the cleaning cloths. However, the buckets can only hold a predetermined amount of water, which is inconvenient as they need to be refilled periodically. To solve this problem, the present invention can directly connect to the kitchen drain pipe 25 for direct water supply.

[0455] Furthermore, unlike existing robot vacuum base stations that use direct water supply connections, the robot vacuum base station 100 of this invention is located at the bottom of the kitchen cabinet 2. When operators set up the robot vacuum base station, space constraints may exist during the connection or disconnection of pipes or hoses.

[0456] In this invention, since the drain pipe and water supply pipe can be selectively configured on the left or right side of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100, the operator can install the water supply pipe and drain pipe in a suitable direction according to the installation environment. This possibility of directional conversion allows for flexible installation even in confined spaces, thus improving the installation efficiency of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100. Furthermore, since the connector 192 can be extended together with the drawer 190, the operator can extend the connector 192 of the connecting pipe or hose to an easily accessible position for configuration.

[0457] Relatedly, the mop washing section 160 of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 in this embodiment of the invention may also include a flow path connection module 165 and an elbow connector 166.

[0458] Water supplied to the washing water nozzle (not shown) and water drawn into the sewage inlet 164c can respectively pass through the flow path connection module 165. The flow path connection module 165, being a hollow internal structure, may include a pair of opposing surfaces. The pair of opposing surfaces of the flow path connection module 165 can be configured to be perpendicular to the ground. The internal space of the flow path connection module 165 can be configured to allow fluid passage. The flow path connection module 165 can be formed such that the lower left-right width is greater than the upper left-right width.

[0459] The flow path connection module 165 can have a shape that internally divides into two spaces. The interior of the flow path connection module 165 may include a partition wall horizontal to the ground. This allows the internal space of the flow path connection module 165 to be vertically divided. The flow path connection module 165 can be divided into a first space 165a and a second space 165b. The first space 165a can be positioned higher than the second space 165b. Water supplied to the washing water nozzle (not shown) can pass through the first space 165a. The second space 165b can be separated from the first space 165a and can allow water drawn into the sewage inlet 164c to pass through. The left-right width of the second space 165b can be greater than the left-right width of the first space 165a. That is, the second space 165b can be larger than the first space 165a.

[0460] Since the washing water nozzle (not shown) discharges water onto the washing plate 122 from above, the first space 165a through which water is supplied can be located on the opposite upper side. Conversely, since the wastewater inlet 164c is located on the lower side near the bottom of the washing tank 128, the second space 165b through which water is supplied can be located on the opposite lower side. Furthermore, since the water pressure during drainage is relatively lower than that during water supply, the second space 165b can have a larger space than the first space 165a in order to facilitate smooth water drainage.

[0461] The flow path connection module 165 may have an inlet hole and an outlet hole. At least one inlet hole may be formed in the first space 165a to allow fluid supplied from the outside to flow into the first space 165a. Additionally, at least one outlet hole may be formed in the first space 165a to allow the fluid flowing into the first space 165a to flow outwards. Specifically, water passing through the water supply connection pipe 161f can flow into the first space 165a via the inlet hole. The water flowing into the first space 165a can flow towards the regulator 162 through the outlet hole.

[0462] Additionally, at least one inlet and one outlet may be formed in the second space 165b. Water flowing into the wastewater tank 164d can flow into the second space 165b through the inlet formed in the flow path connection module 165. Water flowing into the second space 165b can flow into the drain connection pipe 164f through the outlet.

[0463] The flow path connection module 165 can be accommodated inside the housing 110. The flow path connection module 165 can be disposed between the connecting wall 123 and the rear surface 111b of the housing 110. The rear surface of the flow path connection module 165 can be pivotally fitted with an elbow connector 166. Here, the rearward side of a pair of opposing surfaces of the flow path connection module 165 can be referred to as the rear surface.

[0464] The rear side of the flow path connection module 165 can be pivotally connected to a water supply connection pipe 161f and a drain connection pipe 164f. A pair of elbow connectors 166 can be correspondingly connected to each connection pipe on the rear side of the flow path connection module 165. One elbow connector 166 can be connected to the water supply connection pipe 161f, and the other elbow connector 166 can be connected to the drain connection pipe 164f. More specifically, the elbow connectors 166 can be rotatably and pivotally connected to the rear side of the flow path connection module 165 about a virtual axis extending along the front-rear direction of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0465] The elbow joint 166 connected to the water supply connection pipe 161f can be configured at the same position as the inlet formed in the first space 165a. In this way, water flowing through the water supply connection pipe 161f can flow into the first space 165a via the elbow joint 166 to the inlet.

[0466] The elbow joint 166 connected to the drain connection pipe 164f can be configured at the same position as the outlet formed in the second space 165b. In this way, water flowing through the second space 165b can flow through the elbow joint 166 to the outlet and then to the drain connection pipe 164f.

[0467] Typically, when setting up a robot vacuum cleaner base station, the lengths of the water supply connection pipe 161f, the drain connection pipe 164f, and the power cord (not shown) vary depending on the installation location. With increased length, there is a risk that the connection pipes and power cord (not shown) may be bent or tangled. This could reduce the water flow rate during drainage or supply, or cause problems when supplying power.

[0468] To address these issues, the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention may include an elbow connector 166.

[0469] The elbow joint 166 can have a bent shape. Specifically, the elbow joint 166 can be designed to be... The tube has a bent shape. The elbow connector 166 can change the direction of the internal fluid by connecting different configurations at both ends.

[0470] Additionally, the elbow connector 166 can be attached to the rear side of the flow path connection module 165. The elbow connector 166 can be pivotally attached to the rear side of the flow path connection module 165 with a virtual axis extending along the front-rear direction of the robot vacuum base station 100 as its center. The elbow connector 166 can be connected to the water supply connection pipe 161f or the drain connection pipe 164f. The elbow connector 166 can be configured as a pair with each corresponding connection pipe.

[0471] One end of the elbow connector 166 can be pivotally coupled to the flow path connection module 165, and the other end can be configured to face the left outer wall 111c or the right outer wall 111d of the housing 110. Specifically, the elbow connector 166 can be pivotally configured around a virtual axis extending along the front-rear direction of the robot vacuum base station 100. Thus, water can move in a direction perpendicular to the rear side of the flow path connection module 165. The water flow path can be bent according to the structure of the elbow connector 166. Therefore, as the elbow connector 166 pivots, the water flow path can be converted to face the left outer wall 111c or the right outer wall 111d.

[0472] When the water supply connection pipe 161f or the drain connection pipe 164f passes through the left outer wall 111c and connects to the drain pipe 25 of the kitchen cabinet 2, the elbow joint 166 can be configured to pivot so that its other end faces the left outer wall 111c. In this case, the distance between the other end of the elbow joint 166 and the left outer wall 111c can be minimized.

[0473] When the water supply connection pipe 161f or the drain connection pipe 164f passes through the right outer wall 111d and connects to the drain pipe 25 of the kitchen cabinet 2, the elbow joint 166 can be configured to pivot so that its other end faces the right outer wall 111d. In this case, the distance between the other end of the elbow joint 166 and the right outer wall 111d can be minimized.

[0474] In summary, as the elbow joint 166 pivots, the distance between the other end of the elbow joint 166 and the outer wall surface can be minimized. This prevents the drain connection pipe 164f and the water supply connection pipe 161f from kinking, and their lengths can be minimized. Furthermore, since the straight-line distance between the other end of the elbow joint 166 and the outer wall remains constant, there is no need to prepare additional water supply connection pipes 161f and drain connection pipes 164f of different lengths. Additionally, it minimizes water pressure loss, ensuring smooth water flow.

[0475] On the other hand, the drawer 190 of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a connector 192.

[0476] The connector 192 can be disposed on the side of the housing 110. A pair of mating heads 192 can be disposed on the left outer wall 111c and the right outer wall 111d of the housing 110, respectively. The connector 192 can be connected to the washing water nozzle 161e and the wastewater inlet 164c. More specifically, the washing water nozzle 161e and the wastewater inlet 164c can be selectively connected to either of the mating heads 192. Water supplied from the kitchen drain pipe 25 can be discharged through the connector 192 located on the side of the housing 110 to the washing water nozzle 161e. Additionally, water inside the robot vacuum base station 100 can be re-inhaled into the wastewater inlet 164c and then discharged through the connector 192 to the kitchen drain pipe 25. Furthermore, the connector 192 can be detachably connected to at least one of the water supply connection pipe 161f, the drain connection pipe 164f, and the power cord (not shown), described later.

[0477] Furthermore, a connecting head 192 can be disposed on the drawer side wall 191. The pair of drawer side walls 191 can be configured to face the left outer wall 111c and the right outer wall 111d. With the drawer 190 engaged with the cover 110, the connecting head 192 can be disposed on the left outer wall 111c and the right outer wall 111d respectively. One side of the connecting portion 192 is disposed closer to the inner space of the drawer 190 than the drawer side wall 191, and the other side of the connecting portion 192 is disposed on the outer side of the drawer side wall 191. A water supply connection pipe 161f and a drain connection pipe 164f are detachably connected to the side of the connecting portion 192 configured to face the inner side of the drawer 190.

[0478] On the other hand, a connector 192 can be attached to the drawer 190. Therefore, if the drawer 190 is extended from the cover 110, the connector 192 can also be extended along with it. This allows the operator to easily separate the water supply pipe 161f, the drain pipe 164f, and the power cord (not shown) when setting up or disassembling the robot vacuum base station 100. Specifically, the operator can separate the water supply pipe 161f, the drain pipe 164f, and the power cord (not shown) attached to the connector 192 by pulling the drawer 190 forward. Then, if the operator continues to pull the drawer 190, the entire drawer 190 can be fully extended from the cover 110.

[0479] The water supply connection pipe 161f and the drain connection pipe 164f can be selectively combined with either one of the mating heads 192.

[0480] That is, when the drain pipe 25 of the kitchen cabinet 2 is located on the left side of the robot vacuum base station 100, the water supply connection pipe 161f and the drain connection pipe 164f can be connected to the connector 192 disposed on the left outer wall 111c.

[0481] Alternatively, if the drain pipe 25 of the kitchen cabinet 2 is located on the right side of the robot vacuum base station 100, the water supply connection pipe 161f and the drain connection pipe 164f can be combined with the connector 192 disposed on the right outer wall 111d.

[0482] On the other hand, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of one embodiment of the present invention may include a power cord (not shown).

[0483] The power supply terminal 123c can be connected to the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 for power supply. The power supply terminal 123c can be configured on the connecting wall 123.

[0484] The power cord (not shown) can receive power from an external source via power supply terminal 123c. One end of the power cord (not shown) can be connected to power supply terminal 123c, and the other end can be connected to connector 192. The power cord (not shown) can be detachably connected to either of the connectors 192.

[0485] Additionally, in one embodiment of the present invention, the air exhaust section 172 of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 may include an air exhaust pipe 172c. The air exhaust pipe 172c may branch to the left and right sides and be connected to a docking head 192 respectively. One side of the air exhaust pipe 172c may be connected to an air intake port 172a, and the other side may branch to the left and right sides and be detachably connected to a docking head 192.

[0486] The air exhaust pipe 172c may also include a T-shaped connector and extension pipes. One side of the connector 172da can be connected to the air intake 172a. The connector 172da can direct the air flowing in from the air intake 172a through two branch paths to a pair of extension pipes. The pair of extension pipes can each be coupled to a mating head 192. The pair of extension pipes can be coupled to the air exhaust pipe joint 192c of the mating head 192.

[0487] A connector 192 may include a water supply pipe connection portion 192a, a drain pipe connection portion 192b, and a power supply connection portion 192d. Specifically, each connector 192 may include a water supply pipe connection portion 192a connected to the water supply pipe 161f, a drain pipe connection portion 192b connected to the drain pipe 164f, and a power supply connection portion 192d connected to a power cord (not shown). Unlike the elbow connector 166, the water supply pipe connection portion 192a and the drain pipe connection portion 192b may be pipe shapes with different straight configurations that can be joined at both ends.

[0488] Water supply connection pipe 161f and a water supply pipe connected to an external water source can be respectively connected to both sides of the water supply connection pipe joint 192a. Additionally, drain connection pipe 164f and a drain pipe 25 connected to the upstream of the water trap 25b of the kitchen cabinet 2 can be respectively connected to both sides of the drain connection pipe joint 192b. That is, the connector 192 of the present invention can be a structure that allows the water supply and drain pipes provided in the kitchen cabinet 2 to be detachably connected to the water supply connection pipe 161f and drain connection pipe 164f inside the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0489] The power connection portion 192d can be connected to a power cord for connection to an external power source. In this case, the power connection portion 192d can be directly connected to a power cord (not shown), or the power cord can be connected using a power cord connection means such as a connector or adapter.

[0490] Additionally, one of the connectors 192 may also include an air exhaust pipe joint 192c. An air exhaust pipe 172c and a drain pipe 25 connected to the downstream 25c of the trap in the kitchen cabinet 2 can be respectively connected to both sides of the air exhaust pipe joint 192c. In this case, the unused air exhaust pipe joint 192c can be sealed with a cover. The cover can be configured to cover the air exhaust pipe joint 192c protruding from the outer wall 111 of the cover 110.

[0491] With this configuration, the robot vacuum base station 100 of the present invention can selectively position the connection points of the water supply pipe and the drain pipe on the left or right side of the robot vacuum base station 100 when washing the mop 242 of the robot vacuum 200. Additionally, the air exhaust path and the power cord connection point can be selectively positioned on the left or right side of the robot vacuum base station 100.

[0492] This maximizes the setup efficiency of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0493] The present invention has been described in detail above through specific embodiments, but this is only for the purpose of illustrating the present invention. The present invention is not limited thereto. It should be understood that those skilled in the art can make modifications or improvements to the present invention within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention.

[0494] Simple variations and modifications of this invention are all within the scope of this invention, and the specific scope of protection of this invention should be defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A base station for a robotic vacuum cleaner, characterized in that, include: The enclosure includes a pair of opposing outer walls; A cloth washing unit, disposed on the cover, is used to wash the cloths of the sweeping robot. as well as A connector is located on the side of the cover. The cloth washing section includes: The washing nozzle dispenses water for washing the cloth; and Wastewater flows into the inlet and draws in water used during the washing of the cloth; The connector is connected to the washing water nozzle and the sewage inlet.

2. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The outer wall includes a left outer wall and a right outer wall. If the direction in which the robot vacuum cleaner is introduced is taken as forward, then when looking forward from inside the robot vacuum cleaner base station, the left outer wall is located on the left and the right outer wall is located on the right. The joint portion is formed on both the left and right outer walls. The washing water nozzle and the sewage inlet are selectively connected to either of the pair of connectors.

3. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 2, characterized in that, include: The flow path connection module allows water supplied to the washing water nozzle and water drawn into the sewage inlet to pass through the flow path connection module respectively. The water supply connection pipe supplies water from an external water source to the flow path connection module; as well as A drain connection pipe through which water discharged from the flow path connection module passes; The water supply connection pipe and the drainage connection pipe are pivotally connected to the flow path connection module.

4. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 3, characterized in that, The water supply connection pipe and the drainage connection pipe are detachably connected to either of the pair of connectors.

5. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 3, characterized in that, The cloth washing section includes a bent connector, which has a bent shape to change the direction of internal fluid flow. One end of the elbow joint is pivotally connected to the flow path connection module, and the other end is configured to face the left or right outer wall of the cover.

6. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 3, characterized in that, include: A power supply terminal is disposed inside the cover and is connected to the sweeping robot to provide power; as well as The power cord supplies power to the power supply terminal from the outside. The power cord is detachably connected to either of the pair of connectors.

7. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 6, characterized in that, Each of the pair of connectors includes: a water supply connector portion that connects to the water supply connector; a drain connector portion that connects to the drain connector; and a power connector portion that connects to the power cord.

8. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 2, characterized in that, Includes a drawer extending from the cover, having a connecting portion for mounting the robotic vacuum cleaner. The drawer is coupled to a pair of the connectors.

9. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 3, characterized in that... The flow path connection module includes: A first space through which water supplied to the washing water nozzle passes; and The second space is separated from the first space, and the water drawn into the sewage inlet passes through the second space; The second space is larger than the first space.

10. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 3, characterized in that, include: A receiving space is provided inside the cover to accommodate at least a portion of the sweeping robot; as well as An air exhaust section exhausts air from the accommodating space; The air exhaust section includes: An air intake, connected to the accommodating space; and An air exhaust pipe discharges the air drawn in from the air intake port; The air exhaust pipe branches to the left and right and is connected to a pair of connectors respectively.

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