Sweeping robot base station

Abstract

The present invention relates to a robot cleaner base station, including: a cover configured at a lower portion of a kitchen cabinet; a seating portion configured in the cover to accommodate at least a portion of a robot cleaner; and a dust collecting portion to trap dust inside a dust bin of the robot cleaner; the dust collecting portion including: a dust collecting portion cover into which dust inside the dust bin flows; a dust bag drawer extractably coupled to the dust collecting portion cover; a dust bag detachably coupled to the dust bag drawer to trap dust flowing from the dust bin; and a dust bag sensing portion provided to the dust collecting portion cover to sense the dust bag; so that it is possible to sense whether the dust bag is present.

Description

Technical Field

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

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

[0003] This robotic vacuum cleaner includes sensors that can identify the space to be cleaned, an agitator that can clean the floor surface, and a cloth that can wipe the floor surface. It can suck up dust from the floor surface of the space identified by the sensors, wipe it with the cloth, and then move around.

[0004] Robotic vacuum cleaners include dry-type vacuum cleaners that can suck up and remove debris scattered on the floor, and wet-type vacuum cleaners that can wipe the floor with a damp cloth to effectively remove debris adhering to the floor. 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; water in the tank is supplied to a damp cloth, which wipes the floor to effectively remove debris. Additionally, there are also robotic vacuum cleaners that include an agitator and a cloth.

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

[0006] On the other hand, when a robot vacuum charging station is installed indoors, it occupies a fixed area of ​​indoor space. In this case, it may reduce the space efficiency of the room. Additionally, collisions with the robot vacuum may occur as users or pets pass by, potentially causing injury to the user or pet, and damage to the robot vacuum.

[0007] In addition, in the case of base stations equipped with dust collection functions of robotic vacuum cleaners, there is a limitation that as the volume they occupy increases, they may damage the interior decoration.

[0008] On the other hand, Chinese utility model patent CN218922468U discloses a base station for a cleaning machine that integrates a sweeping robot on the lower side of a washing machine, and is used to charge the sweeping robot, collect dust, and clean the wet cloth of the sweeping robot.

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

[0010] With this configuration, the overall height of the cleaning robot base station becomes higher, which limits its ability to utilize the space under furniture, including sinks, for installation.

[0011] In addition, the cleaning machine base station must be installed below the washing machine, which means there is a limitation that there must be space for installing the washing machine, and the installation space must exceed the height of the washing machine itself and the cleaning machine base station.

[0012] In addition, because the space for attaching the dust bags is close to the ground, it is inconvenient for users to kneel or crouch in front of the base station in order to attach the dust bags, and because the space for attaching the dust bags is narrow, it is inconvenient to put your hands into the base station.

[0013] In addition, Chinese utility model patent CN219166318U discloses a cleaning base for storing dust bags.

[0014] The cleaning base is configured such that a dust bag disposed inside can be removed after the cover is opened.

[0015] However, even with the open cover in the cleaning base, the dust bag is located inside the cleaning base, making it difficult to identify and separate for replacement. In particular, separating the dust bag after opening the cover in the cleaning base is inconvenient because the user needs to reach directly into the cleaning base to do so.

[0016] Furthermore, because the dust bag is located inside the cleaning base, it is difficult to confirm and identify whether the dust bag is in a combined or separated state, which may lead to the problem of collecting dust in an uncombined or incorrectly assembled state. Summary of the Invention

[0017] The present invention is proposed to improve the problems existing in the existing robot vacuum base stations as described above, and its purpose is to provide a robot vacuum base station that can be embedded in the lower side of a kitchen cabinet without the need for additional installation space.

[0018] In addition, the purpose is to provide a robot vacuum station that can accommodate a robot vacuum in the lower space of a kitchen cabinet with a specified height limit.

[0019] In addition, the purpose is to provide a robot vacuum station that can automatically collect dust from the dustbin of a robot vacuum when combined with a robot vacuum.

[0020] In addition, the aim is to provide a robotic vacuum cleaner base station that can maximize the capacity of the dust bag.

[0021] In addition, the purpose is to provide a robot vacuum cleaner base station that can easily identify the presence of a dust bag and easily remove and install the dust bag.

[0022] In addition, the purpose is to provide a base station for a robotic vacuum cleaner that can confirm whether the dust bag is attached.

[0023] In addition, the purpose is to provide a robot vacuum cleaner base station that can sterilize the inside of the dust bag.

[0024] To achieve the above objectives, the robot vacuum cleaner base station of the present invention may include: a cover disposed in the lower part of a kitchen cabinet; a placement part disposed in the cover to accommodate at least a portion of the robot vacuum cleaner; and a dust collection part to collect dust from inside the dust bin of the robot vacuum cleaner; the dust collection part includes: a dust collection part cover, through which dust from the dust bin flows; a dust bag drawer extendably attached to the dust collection part cover; a dust bag detachably attached to the dust bag drawer to collect dust flowing in from the dust bin; and a dust bag sensing part disposed in the dust collection part cover to sense the dust bag.

[0025] This configuration allows for the identification of whether the dust bags are combined.

[0026] The dust bag sensing unit can contact the dust bag to sense its presence.

[0027] The dust bag sensor can be configured such that at least a portion of the dust bag sensor passes through a sensor through-hole in the dust bag drawer.

[0028] If the dust bag drawer is pulled, the dust bag can be pulled out together with the dust bag drawer.

[0029] Therefore, it is possible to easily identify the presence of the dust bag and to easily replace and separate the dust bag.

[0030] The feature may be that the dust collection unit further includes a dust collection motor, which provides suction to draw dust into the dust bin; the dust collection motor is capable of operating when the dust bag is sensed in the dust bag sensing unit.

[0031] The dust bag sensing unit may include: a sensing unit body disposed on the dust collection unit cover; and an actuating part for contacting the dust bag drawer with the sensing unit body.

[0032] The dust bag may include: a dust bag body for collecting dust; and a disassembly part attached to the dust bag body and detachably attached to the dust bag drawer; the dust bag sensing part may contact the disassembly part to sense the presence of the dust bag.

[0033] The dust bag drawer may include: a dust bag drawer body, in which the dust bag is housed; and a connecting rib, disposed inside the dust bag drawer body and spaced apart from the rear of the dust bag drawer body; the disassembly / assembly part may slide and engage between the dust bag drawer body and the connecting rib.

[0034] The dust bag sensing unit can be configured to face the dust bag drawer from behind the dust collection unit cover.

[0035] The dust bag drawer may have a cover support portion, which is disposed on the outer periphery of the dust bag drawer and supports the inner periphery of the dust collection part cover.

[0036] The dust collection unit may further include a dust collection flow path, which connects the space inside the dust bin and the space inside the dust collection unit cover; the dust collection flow path may include: an outlet end fixed to the dust collection unit cover; and a flow path sealing part disposed at the outlet end to support the dust bag.

[0037] At least a portion of the flow path seal can be inserted into the inlet formed in the dust collection hood, and disposed between the outlet end and the dust bag.

[0038] The dust collection unit cover can be configured such that at least a portion of the upper inner surface of the dust collection unit cover is inclined downward along the direction of introduction of the dust bag drawer.

[0039] The robot vacuum cleaner base station of the present invention includes: a cover disposed in the lower part of a kitchen cabinet; a placement part disposed in the cover to accommodate at least a portion of the robot vacuum cleaner; and a dust collection part to collect dust inside the dust bin of the robot vacuum cleaner; the dust collection part includes: a dust collection part cover, through which dust from the dust bin flows; a dust bag disposed inside the dust collection part cover to collect dust flowing in from the dust bin; and a dust bag sensing part disposed in the dust collection part cover to sense the dust bag; the dust collection part can collect dust inside the dust bin based on whether the dust bag sensing part senses the dust bag.

[0040] As described above, the robot vacuum base station according to the present invention can be configured in a direction horizontal to the robot vacuum, and can charge the robot vacuum, collect dust, and clean the mop, thereby having the effect of utilizing the space under the kitchen cabinet.

[0041] In addition, the robot vacuum cleaner is surrounded by a charging terminal, a dust collection unit, a mop washing unit, and a mop drying unit, thus enabling it to perform various functions of the robot vacuum cleaner simultaneously.

[0042] In addition, the other sides are covered by kitchen cabinets, thus providing an aesthetically pleasing effect for the user in terms of decoration.

[0043] In addition, if combined with a robot vacuum, it will automatically collect the dust from the robot vacuum's dustbin, so users only need to empty the dust bag periodically, thus reducing the burden on users.

[0044] In addition, if combined with a robot vacuum cleaner, it can automatically clean the robot vacuum cleaner's mop, thus reducing the hassle of separating and washing the mop separately.

[0045] In addition, the ability to add detergent as needed improves the cleaning effect of the cloth.

[0046] In addition, since the rags are washed using the kitchen's water supply and drainage pipes, it reduces the hassle for users of separately filling water or draining wastewater.

[0047] In addition, after cleaning the robot vacuum cleaner's mop, hot air can be supplied to the mop to automatically dry it, thus preventing odors caused by wet mops.

[0048] In addition, it has the effect of venting the dried air to the downstream of the U-shaped bend during the drying process of the cloth to prevent odor backflow.

[0049] In addition, if the robot vacuum enters the robot vacuum base station, the door of the robot vacuum base station will be closed, thus preventing dust from flying outwards while collecting dust in the dust bin.

[0050] In addition, it has the effect of preventing wastewater from leaking to the outside when cleaning the mop cloth of the robot vacuum cleaner.

[0051] In addition, it has the ability to easily identify the presence of dust bags and to easily remove and install dust bags.

[0052] In addition, it has the effect of confirming whether the dust bag is attached, thereby providing convenience and improving product reliability. Attached Figure Description

[0053] Figure 1 This diagram illustrates the state in which the cleaning 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 drainage pipe connections of the sweeper system in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Figure 3 This is a perspective view illustrating the sweeper system of an embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Top view.

[0057] Figure 5 This is a perspective view illustrating the sweeping robot of an embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Side view.

[0059] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 A bottom view.

[0060] Figure 8 yes Figure 5 Rear view.

[0061] Figure 9 This is a perspective view illustrating the structure of the robot vacuum cleaner base station in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of the door of the robot vacuum cleaner base station used to illustrate an embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 The main view.

[0064] Figure 12This is a perspective view illustrating the internal structure of the robot vacuum cleaner base station in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 Top view.

[0066] Figure 14 and Figure 15 This is a diagram illustrating the cleaning plate and cleaning tank of the robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] Figure 16 This is a diagram illustrating the dust collection section of the robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] Figure 17 This is a diagram illustrating the dust bag drawer of the robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] Figure 18 This is a front view of the rear side of the dust collection unit cover of the robot vacuum cleaner base station, used to illustrate an embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] Figure 19 This is a perspective view illustrating the dust bag of the robot vacuum cleaner base station in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] Figure 20 yes Figure 19 Rear view.

[0072] Figure 21 This is a perspective view of the dust bag of the robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention, with the bag portion removed.

[0073] Figure 22 This is a diagram illustrating the dust collection motor and dust collection motor cover of the robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] Figure 23 This is an enlarged view illustrating the dust collection flow path and return flow path in the robot vacuum cleaner base station of an embodiment of the present invention.

[0075] Figure 24 In order to explain Figure 13 A cross-sectional view of section AA cut along the flow path of the dust collection unit.

[0076] Figure 25 In order to explain Figure 13 A cross-sectional view of the BB section cut through the flow path of the dust collection unit.

[0077] Figure 26 In order to explain Figure 24 A magnified image of the dust bag drawer and dust bag.

[0078] Figure 27 In order to explain Figure 26 A magnified view of the middle support section.

[0079] Figure 28 In order to explain Figure 27 A magnified view of the dust bag sensing section and the flow path sealing section.

[0080] Figure 29 This diagram illustrates the dust bag sensing unit in the base station of the sweeping robot of the present invention when the dust bag drawer, which has been separated from the dust bag, is reassembled.

[0081] Figure 30 This is an enlarged view of the mop cleaning section of the robot vacuum cleaner base station used to illustrate an embodiment of the present invention.

[0082] Figure 31 This is an enlarged view of the washing water supply unit in the mop cleaning section of the robot vacuum cleaner base station, which is used to illustrate an embodiment of the present invention.

[0083] Figure 32 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the washing water nozzle in the cloth cleaning section of the robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0084] Figure 33 and Figure 34 This is a diagram illustrating the detergent container of the robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] Figure 35 and Figure 36 This is a diagram illustrating the external air supply module of the robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0086] Figure 37 This is a top view illustrating the air exhaust section of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0087] Figure 38 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the path of airflow for drying a mop in a robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0088] Figure 39 This is a diagram illustrating the air exhaust port of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0089] Figure 40 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.

[0090] Figure 41 This is a block diagram illustrating the control structure in the base station of the sweeping robot according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0091] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0092] 1: Sweeping system 2: Kitchen cabinets

[0093] 100: Robot vacuum cleaner base station; 110: Cover.

[0094] 120: Resettlement Department; 122: Cleaning Board

[0095] 128: Washing tank; 130: Door.

[0096] 131: Door 140: Dust Collection Department

[0097] 141: Dust collection unit cover; 144: Dust bag drawer

[0098] 145: Dust collection motor; 150: Sterilization module

[0099] 160: Cloth washing section; 170: Cloth drying section

[0100] 171: External air supply module; 172: Air exhaust section

[0101] 190: Drawer 200: Robotic Vacuum Cleaner

[0102] 300: Control Department Detailed Implementation

[0103] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0104] This invention can be modified in various ways and can have various embodiments; therefore, specific embodiments are intended to be shown in the accompanying drawings and described in detail in the accompanying description. This is not intended to limit the invention to the specific implementations, but should be interpreted as encompassing all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions included within the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0105] In describing this invention, the terms "first," "second," etc., can be used to describe various structural elements, but the structural elements are not limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one structural element from other structural elements. For example, without departing from the scope of this invention, a first structural element can be named a second structural element, and similarly, a second structural element can be named a first structural element.

[0106] The term "and / or" can include a combination of the contents of a plurality of related records or any one of the contents of a plurality of related records.

[0107] When it is said that a structural element is "connected" or "linked" to another structural element, it should be understood that it can be directly connected or linked to another structural element, or that other structural elements may exist between them. Conversely, when it is said that a structural element is "directly connected" or "directly linked" to another structural element, it should be understood that no other structural elements exist between them.

[0108] The terminology used in this application is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the invention. Unless explicitly stated in the context, singular expressions may include plural expressions.

[0109] Furthermore, in this application, it should be understood that terms such as “comprising” or “having” are intended only to describe the presence of features, figures, steps, actions, structural elements, components or combinations thereof described in the specification, and do not preclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, figures, steps, actions, structural elements, components or combinations thereof.

[0110] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, may have the meaning commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. Terms such as those defined in common dictionaries may be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the relevant technical context and should not be interpreted as having an ideal or overly formal meaning unless expressly defined herein.

[0111] Furthermore, the following embodiments are provided to enable those skilled in the art to understand more fully, and for the purpose of clearer illustration, the shape and size of the structural elements in the drawings may be exaggerated.

[0112] Figure 1 A diagram is shown illustrating the state in which the cleaning system of an embodiment of the present invention is installed on the underside of a kitchen cabinet. Figure 2 A diagram illustrating the piping and drainage pipe connections of the sweeper system according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 3 A perspective view of a sweeper system for illustrating embodiments of the present invention is shown. Figure 4 It shows Figure 3 Top view, Figure 5 A perspective view of a sweeping robot illustrating embodiments of the present invention is shown. Figure 6 It shows Figure 5 Side view, Figure 7 It shows Figure 5 The bottom view, Figure 8 It shows Figure 5 Rear view, Figure 9 A perspective view illustrating the structure of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 10A perspective view of the door of the robot vacuum cleaner base station used to illustrate an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 11 It shows Figure 10 The main view, Figure 12 A perspective view illustrating the internal structure of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 13 It shows Figure 12 Top view, Figure 14 and Figure 15 A diagram is shown illustrating the cleaning plate and cleaning tank of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 16 A diagram is shown illustrating the dust collection section of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 17 A diagram is shown illustrating the dust bag drawer of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 18 A front view of the rear side of the dust collection unit cover of the robot vacuum cleaner base station, used to illustrate an embodiment of the present invention, is shown. Figure 19 A perspective view of a dust bag for a robotic vacuum cleaner base station, used to illustrate an embodiment of the present invention, is shown. Figure 20 It shows Figure 19 Rear view, Figure 21 A perspective view of the dust bag of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, with the bag portion removed. Figure 22 A diagram is shown illustrating the dust collection motor and dust collection motor cover of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 23 An enlarged view of the dust collection flow path and return flow path in the base station of the sweeping robot used to illustrate an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 24 It is shown in order to illustrate Figure 13 A cross-sectional view of section AA cut along the flow path of the dust collection unit. Figure 25 It is shown in order to illustrate Figure 13 A cross-sectional view of the BB section cut along the flow path of the dust collection unit. Figure 26 It is shown in order to illustrate Figure 24 A magnified image of the dust bag drawer and the dust bag itself. Figure 27 It is shown in order to illustrate Figure 26 An enlarged view of the supporting section of the central cover. Figure 28 It is shown in order to illustrate Figure 27 A magnified view of the dust bag sensing section and the flow path sealing section. Figure 29 A diagram is shown illustrating the dust bag sensing section in the base station of a robotic vacuum cleaner, where the dust bag drawer with the separated dust bag is combined, according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 30 An enlarged view of the mop cleaning unit of the robot vacuum cleaner base station used to illustrate an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 31 An enlarged view of the washing water supply unit in the mop cleaning section of the robot vacuum cleaner base station used to illustrate an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 32A cross-sectional view of the washing water nozzle in the mop cleaning section of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station, used to illustrate an embodiment of the present invention, is shown. Figure 33 and Figure 34 A diagram is shown illustrating the detergent tank of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 35 and Figure 36 A diagram is shown illustrating the external air supply module of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 37 A top view of the air exhaust section of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station, illustrating an embodiment of the present invention, is shown. Figure 38 A cross-sectional view is shown illustrating the path of airflow for drying a mop in a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 39 A diagram is shown illustrating the air exhaust port of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 40 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 41 A block diagram illustrating the control structure in a robotic vacuum cleaner base station is shown.

[0113] Kitchen cabinets and sweeping systems

[0114] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 The cleaning system 1 of this embodiment can be installed on the lower side 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.

[0115] In addition, kitchen cabinet 2 can be equipped with an upper panel (workbench) that can function as a sink, cooking table, or work surface.

[0116] For example, kitchen cabinet 2 may include a sink that provides space for washing dishes on the upper shelf. Alternatively, kitchen cabinet 2 may include a cooking countertop for performing cooking operations. Additionally, kitchen cabinet 2 may include a gas stovetop with a gas cooktop, induction cooker, pressure cooker, or oven mounted on the upper shelf.

[0117] 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.

[0118] In another embodiment of the present invention, the sweeper system 1 can be disposed on the underside of a structure including at least one of a water supply pipe and a drain pipe. Specifically, the water supply pipe can refer to a flow path connected to an external water supply source that supplies fluid to the structure, and the drain pipe can refer to a flow path that discharges fluid from the structure into a sewer.

[0119] A storage cabinet for storing tableware and kitchen utensils can be installed at the lower part of this kitchen cabinet 2 or the structure described above. That is, the kitchen cabinet 2 or the structure described above may include: an upper panel 22 providing space for cooking or washing dishes; a lower side panel 23 at a predetermined height above the ground; and storage space formed between the upper panel 22 and the lower side panel 23 for storing tableware and kitchen utensils. In the case where the kitchen cabinet 2 is a sink, a sink 22a can be installed on the upper panel 22.

[0120] Additionally, the lower side panel 23 can be supported by legs 21. Legs 21 can be positioned perpendicular to the bottom of the kitchen and can support the load of the kitchen cabinet 2. At this time, a space can be formed between the kitchen floor and the lower side panel 23 along the height of the legs 21.

[0121] In contrast, the kitchen cabinet 2 can also be fixed to the wall of the building without the support legs 21. In this case, a space can also be formed between the kitchen floor and the lower side panel 23.

[0122] The cleaning system 1 of this invention can be installed in the space between the floor and the lower side panel 23 of a kitchen as described above (hereinafter referred to as the installation space).

[0123] For example, the installation space can be less than 200mm in height, and typically can be less than 160mm in height.

[0124] Therefore, according to the present invention, the cleaning system 1 is disposed in the lower space of the kitchen cabinet 2, thus having the effect of minimizing the amount of the cleaning system 1 exposed to the outside.

[0125] Furthermore, compared to configuring a charging station for a robot vacuum cleaner in a constant space such as the living room, bedroom, or kitchen, configuring the cleaning system 1 in the unused space created by the kitchen cabinet 2 does not occupy additional space, thus maximizing space efficiency.

[0126] On the other hand, a drain pipe 25 is provided in the kitchen cabinet 2 or the structure to drain liquids used for 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 upper panel 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 U-trap 25a to prevent backflow of contaminated gases or odors. The U-trap 25a can be configured in the storage space. Liquid flowing in through the drain outlet flows downward by gravity in the upstream 25b of the U-trap and accumulates in the U-trap 25a. If the water overflows above a predetermined water level set by the U-trap 25a, it can flow downward along the downstream 25c of the U-trap and be discharged into the sewer.

[0127] The sweeping system 1 of this invention can use the drain pipe 25 as described above to clean and dry the mop 242 of the sweeping robot 200.

[0128] Additionally, although not shown in the diagram, a water supply pipe may be installed in the kitchen cabinet 2. Tap water (or purified water) can be supplied to the cleaning system 1 through the water supply pipe.

[0129] The specific structure of the sweeper system 1 will be described below.

[0130] Sweeping system

[0131] on the other hand, Figure 3 and Figure 4 A diagram illustrating a sweeper system according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0132] The cleaning system 1 in the embodiments of this specification may include a sweeping robot base station 100 and a sweeping robot 200.

[0133] The cleaning system 1 includes a robot vacuum base station 100. A robot vacuum 200 can be integrated into the robot vacuum base station 100. Specifically, the robot vacuum 200 can enter from the front of the robot vacuum base station 100 and can be housed inside the robot vacuum base station 100. The robot vacuum base station 100 can remove dust from the dustbin 220 of the robot vacuum 200. The robot vacuum base station 100 can clean the rotating cleaning section 240 of the robot vacuum 200. The robot vacuum base station 100 can dry the rotating cleaning section 240 of the robot vacuum 200. The robot vacuum base station 100 can supply power to the robot vacuum 200.

[0134] robot vacuum

[0135] on the other hand, Figures 5 to 8 A diagram illustrating a sweeping robot system according to an embodiment of the present invention is provided.

[0136] Reference Figures 5 to 8 The structure of the 200 robotic vacuum cleaner is as follows.

[0137] The robotic vacuum cleaner 200 autonomously navigates the area to be cleaned and sucks up dust and other foreign objects from the floor, thus automatically cleaning the area.

[0138] The robotic vacuum cleaner 200 of this embodiment is placed on the floor and moves along the floor surface to clean the floor. Therefore, the following description will be based on the state of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 placed on the floor, defining the vertical direction.

[0139] Furthermore, taking a pair of wheels 260 as a reference, the side with the auxiliary wheel 270 (described later) is designated as the front, and the side with the rotating cleaning unit 240 (described later) is designated as the rear, and will be described.

[0140] The “lowest part” of each component described in the embodiments of the present invention may be the part located at the lowest position in each component when the robot vacuum cleaner 200 of the present invention is placed on the floor for use, or it may be the part closest to the floor.

[0141] 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.

[0142] The main body 210 can form the overall shape of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. Various components that make up the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can be integrated into the main body 210, and some of the components that make up the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can be housed inside the main body 210.

[0143] Specifically, the main body 210 may house a plurality of components of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 within its internal space. For example, the main body 210 may house a battery and at least one motor within its internal space.

[0144] In embodiments of the present invention, the main body 210 may be configured such that its width (or diameter) in the horizontal direction is greater than its height in the vertical direction. This main body 210 helps the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to form a stable structure and provides a structure that facilitates the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 in avoiding obstacles during movement (driving).

[0145] When viewed from above or below, the main body 210 can be formed into various shapes such as circles, ovals, or quadrilaterals.

[0146] The main body 210 can be divided into a lower main body and an upper main body, which can be combined to form a space inside.

[0147] The lower main body can be combined with the upper main body to form an internal space that can accommodate a battery, at least one sensor, and at least one motor.

[0148] The lower body may have an intake section 211 for air to flow in and a hole for accommodating a pair of wheels 260.

[0149] The suction section 211 can be a channel for dust from the floor to flow into. Furthermore, the suction section 211 can communicate with a suction flow path (not shown) formed inside the main body 210, and the suction flow path can communicate with the internal space of the dust bin 220.

[0150] On the other hand, an exhaust flow path can also be provided in the lower main body. One side of the exhaust flow path can communicate with the internal space of the dust bin 220, and the other side can communicate with the exhaust port. At this time, a filter can be installed at the exhaust port.

[0151] With this configuration, the air flowing in through the suction section 211 can flow into the dust bin 220 via the suction flow path and be discharged to the exhaust port via the exhaust flow path.

[0152] The suction section 211 can accommodate a rotatable agitator 250, which will be described later. With this configuration, dust around the suction section 211 can be guided into the suction section 211 by the rotation of the agitator 250, thereby increasing the efficiency of dust suction.

[0153] The upper body can form the upper appearance of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. Although not shown, a display can be installed on the upper body.

[0154] The robotic vacuum cleaner 200 of the present invention may include a bumper. The bumper is attached along the edge of the main body 210 and is movable relative to the main body 210.

[0155] The bumper can be attached to a portion of the edge of the body 210, or to the entire edge of the body 210. At least one elastic member (not shown) can be provided between the bumper and the body 210. With this configuration, if the bumper comes into contact with an obstacle or the like and moves relative to the center of the body 210, the bumper can be reset to its initial position by the restoring force of the elastic member (not shown), absorbing or dispersing the impact applied to the bumper, thereby preventing and reducing the transmission of impact to the body 210.

[0156] The dust bin 220 can suck in external dust and air to store dust.

[0157] 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.

[0158] The dust bin 220 can be disposed inside the main body 210. In this case, the dust bin 220 can be fixedly attached to the main body 210, but of course, it can be separated according to the embodiment.

[0159] On the other hand, in this invention, a dust discharge path can be formed in the dust bin 220. This dust discharge path allows the internal space of the dust bin 220 to communicate with the external space of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. With this configuration, when dust is collected by the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100, the dust inside the dust bin 220 can be removed.

[0160] 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.

[0161] 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 dust outlet 221. Specifically, the dust bin door 222 may be attached to the main body 210 and may be configured in a position capable of blocking the dust outlet 221. As an example, the dust bin door 222 is formed of rubber or resin material, is rotatable, and one side may be fixedly attached to the main body 210.

[0162] With this configuration, if the dust collection motor 145 of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 described later is operated, the dust bin door 222 can be elastically deformed by the driving force of the dust collection motor 145, and the dust discharge port 221 will open, so that the dust in the dust bin 220 can be collected into the dust collection section 140 of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0163] The bucket 230 is shaped as a container with an internal space to store liquids such as water inside. The bucket 230 can be disposed inside the main body 210, can be fixedly attached to the main body 210, or can be attached to the main body 210 in a way that allows for disassembly.

[0164] The water tank 230 includes a supply section 231 and a nozzle (not shown). The supply section 231 can receive liquids such as water from the outside. For example, the supply section 231 may have an inlet formed on the other side behind the outer side (or outer peripheral surface) of the main body 210, and can be connected to the storage space inside the water tank 230 via a water supply hose.

[0165] 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, then the supply unit 231 can be configured on the rear right side of the main body 210.

[0166] With this 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.

[0167] On the other hand, the nozzle (not shown) is in the form of a tube or pipe and is connected to the bucket 230 so that the liquid inside the bucket 230 can flow through it. One side of the nozzle (not shown) is connected to the bucket 230, and the other end is located above or on a pair of rotating plates 241, thereby allowing the liquid inside the bucket 230 to be supplied to a pair of cloths 242 respectively.

[0168] That is, the nozzle (not shown) can be formed into a tube branching into two. In this case, the end of one tube of the branch can be located on the upper side of the left rag, and the end of the other tube of the branch can be located on the upper side of the right rag.

[0169] On the other hand, although not shown, a pump is provided in the water tank 230, which allows the water inside the water tank 230 to flow toward the nozzle (not shown). Therefore, if the pump in the water tank 230 is running, the liquid stored in the water tank 230 can be ejected through the nozzle (not shown) toward the rotating cleaning unit 240.

[0170] The rotating cleaning unit 240 includes a rotating plate 241 and a cleaning cloth 242.

[0171] The rotating plate 241 may have a pair including a left rotating plate and a right rotating plate, and the rag 242 may have a pair including a left rag and a right rag.

[0172] 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 lower side.

[0173] The rotating plate 241 has a defined area and is formed into a flat plate or a flat frame. This rotating plate 241 is generally horizontally positioned, thus forming a shape where the width (or diameter) in the horizontal direction is much larger than the height in the vertical direction. The rotating plate 241, attached to the main body 210, can be parallel to the floor surface or inclined to it. The rotating plate 241 can be formed into a circular plate shape, the bottom surface of which can be generally circular, and the rotating plate 241 as a whole can be rotationally symmetrical.

[0174] A pair of rotating plates 241 can achieve left-right symmetry.

[0175] The rag 242 can be attached to the underside of the rotating plate 241 to face the floor surface.

[0176] The bottom surface of the rag 242 facing the floor has a defined area, and the rag 242 is formed in a flat shape. The width (or diameter) of the rag 242 in the horizontal direction is much larger than its height in the vertical direction. As the rag 242 is attached to the side of the main body 210, the bottom surface of the rag 242 can be parallel to the floor surface or can be inclined to the floor surface.

[0177] The bottom surface of the rag 242 can be roughly circular, and the rag 242 as a whole can be rotationally symmetrical. In addition, the rag 242 can be detached from the bottom surface of the rotating plate 241, and can be attached to the rotating plate 241 to rotate together with the rotating plate 241.

[0178] On the other hand, although not shown, the rotating cleaning unit 240 may be provided with a drive unit that applies rotational force to the rotating plate 241. For example, the drive unit may have a motor and at least one gear. Therefore, when the drive unit is running, the rotating plate 241 and the mop 242 can rotate and wipe the floor surface.

[0179] The agitator 250 may be equipped with a plurality of rotating brushes that can guide external dust and air into the dust bin 220. At the same time, the agitator 250 may be equipped with at least one gear.

[0180] On the other hand, the agitator 250 of this embodiment may be equipped with an additional agitator motor (not shown) and receive rotational power. Of course, according to the embodiment, it may also receive rotational power from a driving motor or from the drive unit of the rotating cleaning unit 240.

[0181] 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.

[0182] Wheel 260 can be installed on the main body 210 and can roll on the floor surface.

[0183] Wheel 260 can be composed of a first driving wheel and a second driving wheel. In this case, the first driving wheel can be configured to be the same as the second driving wheel, or symmetrically arranged. 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 achieve left-right symmetry.

[0184] 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 provides power to the wheel 260. The travel motor may include a first travel motor and a second travel motor.

[0185] The travel motor can be an electric motor. Multiple gears mesh and rotate, connecting the travel motor and wheel 260, transmitting the rotational power of the travel motor to wheel 260. Therefore, wheel 260 can rotate when the shaft of the travel motor rotates.

[0186] With this configuration, if the driving motor is running, the wheel 260 can rotate, and the main body 210 can travel on the floor at a specified speed.

[0187] The auxiliary wheel 270 can be disposed on the lower surface of the main body 210 and can roll on the floor surface (the surface to be cleaned). The auxiliary wheel 270, together with a pair of wheels 260, can support the main body 210 on the floor surface. With this configuration, the auxiliary wheel 270 can minimize the friction between the robot vacuum cleaner 200 and the floor surface, while guiding the movement of the robot vacuum cleaner 200.

[0188] The suction motor (not shown) generates suction that draws in external dust and air through the suction section 211. For example, the suction motor (not shown) can be an electric motor. Under the suction generated by the suction motor (not shown), external dust and air flow into the suction section 211 and reach the dust bin 220 after passing through the suction flow path.

[0189] Although not shown, the battery is integrated into the main body 210 and supplies power to other components constituting the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The battery can supply power to at least one motor disposed in the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. For example, the battery can supply power to the rotating cleaning unit 240, the agitator 250, the wheels 260, and a motor disposed in the suction motor (not shown).

[0190] In addition, the battery can supply power to the sensor unit (not shown) and the control unit (not shown).

[0191] The battery can be charged by an external power source, and for this purpose, a charging terminal 280 for charging can be provided on one side of the main body 210. For example, the charging terminal 280 can be configured on the rear side of the outer surface of the main body 210. If the robot vacuum cleaner 200 is combined with the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100, the charging terminal 280 can contact the power supply terminal 123b of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 and receive power.

[0192] Robot vacuum cleaner base station

[0193] Reference Figures 3 to 15 The sweeping robot base station 100 of the present invention is described as follows.

[0194] The robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can be housed in the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100. The robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can be integrated into the mounting section 120 of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0195] The robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 may include a cover 110.

[0196] 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 shape similar to a hexahedron including at least one outer wall surface.

[0197] The cover 110 can have a space inside that can accommodate the placement section 120, the door section 130, the dust collection section 140, the cloth washing section 160, and the cloth drying section 170.

[0198] The cover 110 can be installed on the lower side of the kitchen cabinet 2. Specifically, the cover 110 can be installed in the space formed between the lower side panel 23 of the kitchen cabinet 2 and the kitchen floor.

[0199] The enclosure 110 includes a pair of outer walls 111 facing each other. The outer walls 111 may refer to the surfaces formed along the direction of gravity.

[0200] As an example, a pair of outer walls 111 can be arranged at predetermined intervals on the lower side of the kitchen cabinet 2. In this case, the cover 110 also includes a bottom surface 112 facing the kitchen floor, through which the pair of outer walls 111 can be connected. On the other hand, the cover 110 also includes an upper cover 113 facing the lower side panel 23 of the kitchen cabinet 2, which can be detachably attached to the upper end of the pair of outer walls 111. Therefore, even if foreign objects fall from the kitchen cabinet 2 to the lower side, it is possible to prevent contamination of the components of the robot vacuum 200 and the robot vacuum base station 100. Additionally, the cover 110 may also include a rear surface 115 facing the wall of the building. With this configuration, the components of the robot vacuum base station 100 can be accommodated inside the cover 110 (between the pair of outer walls).

[0201] Additionally, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can be housed inside the enclosure 110. The enclosure 110 can be configured to have a pair of outer walls 111 with a spacing larger than the maximum horizontal width of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. With this configuration, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can enter and exit the enclosure 110.

[0202] 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 the interior of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 as a reference.

[0203] 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 located behind the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0204] In addition, based on the observation of the front from inside the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100, the left side can be called the left side and the right side can be called the right side.

[0205] 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.

[0206] Therefore, the upper side of the cover 110 can be covered by the kitchen cabinet 2, and the lower side of the cover 110 can be covered by the kitchen floor. Additionally, the left and right sides of the cover 110 are either covered by the outer wall or positioned in the lower part of the kitchen cabinet 2. In this case, the lower part of the kitchen cabinet 2, excluding the robot vacuum base station 100, can be finished off by the baseboard 26, resulting in only the front of the cover 110 being exposed to the outside.

[0207] This minimizes the amount of the robot vacuum base station 100 and the robot vacuum 200 exposed to the outside.

[0208] With this 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.

[0209] On the other hand, the cover 110 may have a space for a water supply hose connected to a water supply pipe to pass through, a space for a drainage hose to pass through for draining wastewater generated after washing the cloth 242, and a space for a hose to pass through for draining water generated during the drying process of the cloth 242. For example, the outer wall 111 of the cover 110 may have a space for a plurality of such hoses to pass through.

[0210] layout

[0211] The robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of this embodiment is characterized in that it is installed in the lower space of the kitchen cabinet 2.

[0212] Therefore, the robot vacuum base station 100 of this embodiment is characterized in that it is configured horizontally to match the space formed between the lower side panel 23 of the kitchen cabinet 2 and the kitchen floor.

[0213] Specifically, in the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of this embodiment, the dust collection unit 140 and / or the cloth cleaning unit 160 can be configured on the side of the entrance 127.

[0214] At this time, with both the dust collection section 140 and the cloth cleaning section 160 provided, the placement section 120 can be arranged between the dust collection section 140 and the cloth cleaning section 160.

[0215] For example, an entrance / exit 127 and a door 131 can be configured at the front of the robot vacuum base station 100. Furthermore, a mounting section 120 can be configured, to which the robot vacuum 200 is attached from the entrance / exit 127 to the rear. In this case, the dust collection section 140 can be configured from the front to the rear of the robot vacuum base station 100 by a predetermined length. Additionally, the mop cleaning section 160 can also be configured from the front to the rear of the robot vacuum base station 100 by a predetermined length.

[0216] Therefore, when viewing 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 cleaning unit 160 can be arranged on the left and right sides of the entrance 127.

[0217] At this time, the dust bag drawer 144 of the dust collection unit 140 can be configured to extend outwards towards the front of the cover 110. Additionally, the detergent container 163 of the cloth washing unit 160 can be configured to extend outwards towards the front of the cover.

[0218] On the other hand, the rear ends of the dust collection hood 141 and the detergent tank 163 can be separated from the rear end of the hood 110 by a predetermined interval. 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. This configuration minimizes the overall space occupied by the mounting section 120, the dust collection hood 141, and the dust collection motor 145 within a limited space.

[0219] Furthermore, at least a portion of a flow path for washing water to flow for cleaning the cloth 242 can be configured between the rear end of the cover 110 and the rear end of the detergent tank 163. This configuration minimizes the path of the washing water flowing from the water supply pipe. Additionally, it minimizes the overall space occupied by the housing 120, the detergent tank 163, and the flow path for washing water within a limited space.

[0220] On the other hand, in the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100, the cloth drying unit 170 can be configured further rearward than the mounting unit 120. In this case, the cloth drying unit 170 can be configured between the rear end of the mounting unit 120 and the rear end of the cover 110.

[0221] Therefore, in the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of this embodiment, 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 a reference, and a cloth drying unit 170 can be arranged on the rear side.

[0222] That is, in the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention, a dust collection unit 140, a cloth washing unit 160 and a cloth drying unit 170 can be arranged within a specified distance range from the outer contour of the placement unit 120.

[0223] This shorter distance between the dustbin 220 and the dust collection unit 140 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 minimizes flow path loss. Furthermore, by minimizing the distances between the mop 242 and the mop washing unit 160, and between the mop 242 and the mop drying unit 170, the area where washing water and wastewater remain after cleaning is effectively limited.

[0224] Furthermore, according to this configuration, the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention can be configured with all its constituent components within a limited height.

[0225] As a result, in the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 of this embodiment, in addition to the front side where the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 enters, a dust collection unit 140, a mop washing unit 160, and a mop drying unit 170 can be arranged on the three sides surrounding the mounting portion 120. This configuration has the following advantages: even when the vertical height is limited, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can be charged using the smallest possible horizontal space; dust from the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can also be collected; the mop 242 can be washed; and the mop 242 can be dried.

[0226] Resettlement Department

[0227] like Figure 12 and Figure 15 As shown, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 may include a mounting unit 120.

[0228] 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.

[0229] The mounting section 120 can be installed inside the cover 110.

[0230] An entrance 127 for the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to enter can be formed in front of the installation unit 120. The entrance 127 can refer to the space formed in front of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0231] The entrance / exit 127 can be sized to allow the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to pass through. That is, the height of the entrance / exit 127 is greater than the height of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. In this case, the entrance / exit 127 can refer to the space formed vertically upward from the front end of the base 121 (described later). Alternatively, the entrance / exit 127 can refer to the hole formed in the door frame 132 (described later) for the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to pass through.

[0232] At least one of a dust collection section 140 and a cloth cleaning section 160 may be disposed on the left and right sides of the entrance / exit 127. Therefore, the left and right ends of the entrance / exit 127 may form boundaries with the dust collection section 140 and the cloth cleaning section 160.

[0233] At this time, entrance / exit 127 can be opened and closed by door 131.

[0234] The placement part 120 may include a receiving space S, a base 121, a connecting wall 123, and an inner wall 124.

[0235] The robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can be housed in the receiving space S of the mounting section 120. As one example, the receiving space S can refer to the space surrounded by the base 121, the connecting wall 123, and the inner wall 124. As another example, the receiving space S can refer to the space surrounded by the base 121, the cleaning plate 122, the connecting wall 123, and the inner wall 124. As yet another example, the receiving space S can refer to the space where the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is located when it is connected to the power supply terminal 123b, or the space where the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is located when its dustbin 220 is connected to the dust passage 123a.

[0236] The base 121 is configured to support the robot vacuum 200 when the robot vacuum base station 100 is integrated with it. The wheels 260 of the robot vacuum 200 can contact the upper side of the base 121. In addition, the auxiliary wheels 270 of the robot vacuum 200 can contact the upper side of the base 121.

[0237] The base 121 may include a base body 121a, an inclined portion 121b, a wheel engagement portion 121c, an agitator receiving portion 121d, and a cleaning tank 128.

[0238] The base body 121a can form the overall shape of the base 121. The base body 121a can be provided with an inclined part 121b, a wheel engagement part 121c, an agitator receiving part 121d, and a cleaning tank 128.

[0239] The base body 121a can be formed such that its length and width in the horizontal direction are greater than its height in the vertical direction. Due to this structure, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 can be stably supported on the bottom surface.

[0240] A return flow path can be provided inside the base body 121a. Therefore, the air discharged from the dust collection motor 145 can flow through the return flow path formed inside the base body 121a and be discharged to the air return port 125b.

[0241] The inclined part 121b can be configured in the bottom component body 121a as an entry point for the sweeping robot 200 to climb.

[0242] The tilting portion 121b may have a forward tilt in the direction in which the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 enters. More specifically, the front end of the tilting portion 121b is connected to the ground without any height difference, and the tilting portion 121b may have an upward tilt as it approaches the rear. That is, the tilting portion 121b may be configured to gradually rise from the ground when the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 enters. As a result, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can easily climb from the ground onto the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0243] A wheel guide 121ba may be provided in the inclined section 121b.

[0244] 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 wheels 260 to enable the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to move stably. In addition, the wheel guide portion 121ba can be formed such that the width of the groove at the entrance for the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to climb is greater than the width of the wheels 260, and the width of the groove becomes narrower relative to the entrance as the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 moves forward along its climbing path. As a result, the wheels 260 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can easily enter the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100, and because the width of the groove gradually narrows, lateral movement is restricted, thereby guiding the wheels 260 to an accurate position.

[0245] An auxiliary wheel guide 121bb may be provided in the inclined section 121b.

[0246] The auxiliary wheel guide 121bb can be formed in a groove shape to guide the movement of the auxiliary wheel 270 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. Alternatively, the auxiliary wheel guide 121bb can be formed in a protruding shape so that when the wheel 260 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is placed on the wheel guide 121ba, it connects with the auxiliary wheel 270. Thus, when the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 travels on the inclined section 121b, the wheel 260 and the auxiliary wheel 270 can be stably supported and used for travel.

[0247] The wheel 260 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200, which moves upward along the wheel guide 121ba, can be mounted at the wheel engagement portion 121c. If the wheel 260 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is mounted at the wheel engagement portion 121c, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 and the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 can be physically connected. The surface of the wheel engagement portion 121c can be formed correspondingly to the surface of the wheel 260 to allow the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to stop stably. The wheel engagement portion 121c can extend from the upper end of the wheel guide 121ba. The wheel engagement portion 121c can be connected to the wheel guide 121ba without any steps. Therefore, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can easily move to the wheel engagement portion 121c via the tilting portion 121b.

[0248] 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 to stop the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 in an accurate position. Here, the stop position of the wheels 260 refers to the stop position set for connecting the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to the power supply terminal 123b and / or the stop position set for connecting the dustbin 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to the dust passage 123a.

[0249] The shape of the wheel engagement portion 121c can be formed into an arc shape corresponding to the shape of the wheel 260 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. With this configuration, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can move along the wheel guide portion 121ba and then stop when the wheel 260 is inserted into the wheel engagement portion 121c, and the wheel 260 can be stably placed in the arc-shaped wheel engagement portion 121c.

[0250] At least a portion of the agitator 250 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can be accommodated in the agitator accommodating portion 121d.

[0251] 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 into 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 shallower than the depth of the wheel engagement portion 121c.

[0252] The agitator receiving portion 121d can be formed to be recessed from the base body 121a. Thus, with the wheels 260 of the sweeping robot 200 placed in the wheel engagement portion 121c, the agitator receiving portion 121d can provide space to accommodate the lower end of the agitator 250.

[0253] 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 is connected to the recess 121da and the dust collection motor 145 through a return flow path. The recess 121da and the return flow path are connected through the air return port 125b. Therefore, air discharged from the dust collection motor 145 can be discharged through the air return port 125b to the recess 121da of the agitator housing 121d.

[0254] The agitator housing 121d can guide the air expelled through the air return port 125b to the suction unit 211 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200.

[0255] On the other hand, the base 121 can be configured to be extended from the cover 110 and the drawer 190. In this case, the base 121 can be extended through the inlet 127 along the space between the inner walls 124.

[0256] To facilitate extraction, a base handle 121e may be formed on the base 121. The base handle 121e may be formed between the agitator housing 121d and the auxiliary wheel guide 121bb. Alternatively, the base handle 121e may be formed between a pair of wheel guides 121ba.

[0257] The base handle 121e can be formed into a recessed shape of the base body 121a, and can be formed into a shape that is recessed from the rear to the lower front. For example, the base handle 121e can be formed into an elliptical groove shape, and can be a shape with a cover at the front and an open rear.

[0258] With this configuration, the user can pull the handle 121e and easily extend the base 121.

[0259] The connecting wall 123 is configured to accommodate the dust passage 123a, power supply terminal 123b, and water nozzle 123c of the robot vacuum base station 100. The connecting wall 123 spatially separates the accommodating space S from the components of the robot vacuum base station 100. The connecting wall 123 extends 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. This configuration can surround the outer contour of the robot vacuum 200, increasing the area of ​​the outer surface facing the robot vacuum 200. Furthermore, it can stably support the robot vacuum 200.

[0260] A dust passage 123a can be formed in the mounting section 120 to allow air from outside the cover 110 to flow inwards. Specifically, a dust passage 123a can be formed in the connecting wall 123 to allow air from outside the cover 110 to flow inwards. In this case, the dust passage 123a can be disposed behind the dust collection cover 141 described later.

[0261] The dust passage 123a can communicate with the dust bin 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The dust passage 123a can communicate with the dust discharge outlet 221 of the dust bin 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The dust passage 123a can be formed into a hole shape corresponding to the shape of the dust bin 220 so that the dust in the dust bin 220 flows into the dust collection section 140.

[0262] The dust passage 123a can be configured to communicate with the dust collection flow paths 147 and 148. Air drawn into the dust passage 123a can flow through the dust collection flow paths 147 and 148 and then be discharged through the air return section 125.

[0263] 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 includes a power supply module housing and power supply terminals 123b. Circuit boards and components for supplying power may be mounted within the power supply module housing. Furthermore, the power supply terminals 123b are positioned at the front of the power supply module housing, thus being exposed on the mounting wall 123.

[0264] The power supply terminal 123b can supply power to the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 that is 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.

[0265] The robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 may also include a water supply nozzle 123c.

[0266] The water supply nozzle 123c can be connected to the supply section 231 of the water tank 230 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200. Specifically, the water supply nozzle 123c can be connected to the inlet of the water tank 230. 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 robot vacuum cleaner 200.

[0267] The inner wall 124 is a component that spatially divides the accommodating space S of the placement part 120 and the base station 100 of the robotic vacuum cleaner. 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 the base 121. Specifically, the inner walls 124 can extend vertically from the left and right sides of the base 121.

[0268] On the other hand, various components such as dust collection paths 147 and 148, dust collection unit 140, dust collection motor 145, detergent tank 163, and wastewater tank 166 can be arranged on the outer side of the inner wall 124. Specifically, the dust collection unit 140, detergent tank 163, and wastewater tank 166 can be arranged in the space between the inner wall 124 and the outer wall 111 of the cover 110.

[0269] The dust collection section 140 and the detergent tank 163 can be slidably separated 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 tank 163 can be made smaller than the distance between the inner wall 124 and the outer wall 111 of the cover 110.

[0270] The cleaning plate 122 is a component of the cleaning cloth used to clean the robot vacuum cleaner 200, and the cleaning plate 122 can be placed in the cleaning tank 128 of the base 121. In addition, the cleaning plate 122 can contact the cleaning cloth 242 when the robot vacuum cleaner 200 is placed on it.

[0271] The cleaning plate 122 can be a plate that is generally inclined downwards towards the center.

[0272] Specifically, the cleaning plate 122 includes a flow guide surface 122c formed in a curved shape. Furthermore, at least one through-hole 122b for fluid passage can be formed in the flow guide surface 122c. Additionally, a cleaning protrusion 122a can be formed protruding from the flow guide surface 122c.

[0273] At this time, a pair of cleaning protrusions 122a can be symmetrically formed on the flow guide surface 122c. Specifically, the pair of cleaning protrusions 122a are disposed on the vertically lower side of the pair of mop pads 242 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200, facing the pair of mop pads 242, and can contact at least a portion of the pair of mop pads 242.

[0274] Furthermore, a plurality of through holes 122b may be formed on the flow guiding surface 122c, and may be formed between a pair of cleaning protrusions 122a. For example, a plurality of through holes 122b may be formed at the lowest position of the flow guiding surface 122c above the ground (kitchen floor), and may be formed between a pair of cleaning protrusions 122a. Thus, fluid expelled between the pair of cleaning protrusions 122a can be guided to the through holes 122b and flow.

[0275] On the other hand, as one approaches the location where the through-hole 122b is formed, the height of the flow guide surface 122c relative to the kitchen floor can increase. That is, as one approaches the external air exhaust portion 171c described later, the height of the flow guide surface 122c relative to the kitchen floor can increase.

[0276] With this configuration, washing water and / or air can flow along the flow guide surface 122c and flow out through the through hole 122b into the space formed between the washing plate 122 and the washing tank 128.

[0277] If washing water is supplied to the washing plate 122 and the cloth 242 rotates, the cloth 242 can be rubbed against the stationary washing protrusion 122a and cleaned.

[0278] On the other hand, at least a portion of the cleaning plate 122 may be disposed on the upper side of the flow path forming portion 128c described later. That is, the cleaning plate 122 may also include a return flow path cover portion 122d, which is formed by protruding upward from the flow guide surface 122c and attached to the upper side of the flow path forming portion 128c.

[0279] In this embodiment, the cleaning plate 122 can be formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the flow path forming portion 128c. For example, the front left side portion of the cleaning plate 122 can be formed by protruding upward from the flow guide surface 122c, covering the lower flow path forming portion 128c.

[0280] With this configuration, the cleaning plate 122 and the cleaning tank 128 can be accurately combined, while providing sufficient space to form the return flow path 125a.

[0281] The cleaning tank 128 is configured to accommodate the cleaning 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 cleaning plate 122 and is detachably coupled to the cleaning plate 122. The cleaning tank 128 can be formed correspondingly to the cleaning plate 122 so that the cleaning plate 122 can be inserted. Liquid passing through the cleaning plate 122 can flow into the cleaning tank 128.

[0282] The cleaning tank 128 may include a cleaning tank base surface 128a for fluid flow through the cleaning plate 122 and a cleaning tank wall 128b extending vertically from the outer contour of the cleaning tank base surface 128a. At this time, as it approaches the rear of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100, the height of the cleaning tank base surface 128a from the ground (kitchen floor) can decrease. Therefore, the fluid flowing through the cleaning plate 122 can be collected at the rear of the cleaning tank 128 and discharged to the outside through the wastewater inlet 164c, described later.

[0283] At this point, in order to connect with the sewage inlet 164c, a sewage pipe connection port 128d can be formed on the cleaning tank wall 126b.

[0284] On the other hand, a flow path forming portion 128c may be formed in the cleaning tank 128. The flow path forming portion 128c may be formed by protruding upward from the base surface 128a of the cleaning tank and forming a return flow path 125a on the lower side. Specifically, at least a portion of the return flow path 125a may be formed between the lower side of the base 121 and the flow path forming portion 128c.

[0285] On the other hand, the cleaning tank 128 of the present invention can be extended from the cloth cleaning section 160. That is, the cleaning tank 128 can be extended from the cover 110 together with the base 121. At the same time, the cleaning plate 122 can also be extended from the cloth cleaning section 160.

[0286] Door

[0287] Door 130 can be configured to cover the entire front end of cover 110. Door 131 is capable of covering dust bag drawer 144 and detergent container 163 so that they are not exposed to the outside.

[0288] When the entrance / exit 127 is closed, door 131 forms the front appearance of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100. For example, door 131 can be formed into a nearly rectangular flat shape. The length of door 131 in the left-right direction can be set to be greater than or equal to the length of the cover 110 in the left-right direction. With this configuration, the dust bag drawer 144 and detergent tank 163 can be protected from the outside, and the appearance of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 is neat.

[0289] A door frame 132 may be provided at the front of the cover 110. The door 131 is connected to the door frame 132 in an openable and closable manner. In addition, the door frame 132 may have: an entrance 127 through which the robot vacuum cleaner 200 can enter and exit; a dust bag outlet 132a, to which a dust bag drawer 144 is connected; and a detergent container insertion port 132b, to which a detergent container 163 is connected.

[0290] When the door 131 is open, the door frame 132 can form the front appearance of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0291] With the door 131 open at entrance 127, at least one side of the dust bag drawer 144 and at least one side of the detergent container 163, which are attached to the door frame 132, can be positioned to face outwards. When the door 131 is open at entrance 127, the front of the dust bag drawer 144 and the front of the detergent container 163 are exposed outwards, as are the handles 144d of the dust bag drawer 144 and 163b of the detergent container 163. This configuration facilitates the easy access of the dust bag drawer 144 and the detergent container 163, providing a neat appearance.

[0292] The rotation axis 131a of the door 131 is located at the lower end of the door frame 132. The door 131 can be configured to be parallel to the ground when the entrance 127 is open, or to be formed to tilt downwards towards the front so that the end contacts the ground.

[0293] The door 131 has a hinge portion that can be rotatably connected to the door frame 132. A plurality of hinge portions may be arranged at intervals along the rotation axis 131a, and may be arranged at different intervals.

[0294] Additionally, the door 131 may have an auxiliary entry channel 131b on the side facing the cover 110 when the entrance / exit 127 is closed. The auxiliary entry channel 131b may be configured to enable the robot vacuum cleaner 200 to move stably toward the placement section 120 or the entrance / exit 127, and may be configured to tilt upwards as it moves backwards.

[0295] Specifically, to ensure stable tilting movement of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200, the auxiliary entry channel 131b can be formed in a groove shape. The grooves formed along the left-right direction of the auxiliary entry channel 131b can be spaced equally apart in the front-back direction. This auxiliary entry channel 131b can be formed such that its width in the left-right direction decreases towards the rear. Therefore, the closer the wheels 260 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 are to the mounting section 120 or the entrance / exit 127, the more restricted their left-right movement becomes, and they can be guided to an accurate position.

[0296] The auxiliary entry channel 131b guides the wheel 260 to the wheel guide section 121ba disposed in the mounting section 120. The auxiliary entry channels 131b can be configured as a pair and disposed at various positions consecutive to the pair of wheel guide sections 121ba.

[0297] On the other hand, the door 131 can be driven based on whether the robot vacuum cleaner 200 approaches or starts moving, or based on the input of the door operation unit 133.

[0298] The door frame 132 is able to detect the approach of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 by being equipped with an entry sensor 135. The entry sensor 135 can be configured in front of the housing 110 to detect the approach of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. For example, the entry sensor 135 can be an IR sensor (infrared sensor).

[0299] The entry sensor 135 can be installed on the upper front of the door frame 132. This maximizes the sensing range. Alternatively, the entry sensor 135 can be installed in the center of the entrance / exit 127 in the left-right direction. This allows the robot vacuum cleaner 200 to be guided in its entry direction through communication with it.

[0300] On the other hand, the door 131 can be configured to be cut open at the position facing the entry sensor 135, so that the entry sensor 135 can still sense the front even when the door 131 is closed at the entrance 127. Alternatively, the door 131 can have a transmission window at the position facing the entry sensor 135.

[0301] A door operating part 133 is provided in the door frame 132, which can rotate the door 131 by the user's operation.

[0302] A door operating unit 133 is disposed on the door frame 132 and may have at least one button for driving the door 131. The door operating unit 133 is capable of rotating the door 131 regardless of the position or state of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The door operating unit 133 may have a button for opening or closing the door 131, or may have a button for opening the door 131 and a button for closing the door 131, respectively.

[0303] The door operating part 133 can be disposed inside the door frame 132. Furthermore, the door operating part 133 can be configured such that at least one button is exposed to the outside.

[0304] At this time, the button can be configured adjacent to the detergent tank 163 with the inlet / outlet as the reference. For example, the button can be configured on the upper side of the handle 163b of the detergent tank 163.

[0305] On the other hand, when the door 131 closes the entrance / exit 127, it also covers the door operation section 133. At this time, the door 131 is provided with external button sections 131c so that the door operation section 133 can be operated even when the entrance / exit 127 is closed. The external button sections 131c are configured with the same number as the buttons on the door operation section 133, and are respectively located facing the buttons. The external button sections 131c are made of a material that can elastically deform, allowing pressure to be applied to the buttons when an external force is applied.

[0306] Door 131 can be rotated via door drive unit 134. As an example, door drive unit 134 may include a door drive motor and a drive gear unit.

[0307] The door drive motor can be disposed inside the cover 110 and in the upper space of the detergent tank 163. The door drive motor can also be disposed between the detergent tank 163 and the upper cover 113 of the cover 110. Alternatively, the door drive motor can be disposed in front of the space between the outer wall 111 and the mounting portion 120. That is, the door drive motor can be disposed adjacent to the door operating portion 133.

[0308] This improves space utilization and accessibility, thus providing convenience for users.

[0309] The drive gear unit is configured to connect the door drive motor and the door 131 to transmit power. The drive gear unit transmits the driving force of the door drive motor to the door 131, causing the door 131 to rotate.

[0310] Dust Collection Department

[0311] exist Figures 12 to 29 The diagram shows the dust collection section of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station used to illustrate an embodiment of the present invention.

[0312] Reference Figures 12 to 29 The following is an explanation of the dust collection section 140.

[0313] The dust collection unit 140 is capable of collecting 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 mounting part 120. That is, the dust collection unit 140 can be disposed between the cover 110 and the mounting part 120. For example, the dust collection unit 140 can be disposed on one side of the mounting part 120 in the left-right direction.

[0314] The dust collection unit 140 may include a dust collection unit cover 141, a dust bag 143, a dust bag drawer 144, a dust collection motor 145, a dust collection motor cover 146, a first dust collection flow path 147, and a second dust collection flow path 148.

[0315] The dust collection unit cover 141 can form an internal space that can accommodate a filter (not shown), a dust bag 143, and a dust bag drawer 144.

[0316] The dust collection unit cover 141 has a dust bag drawer 144 that can be extended outwards inside, and a dust bag 143 can be stored inside the dust bag drawer 144. For example, the dust collection unit cover 141 is formed into a rectangular tube that is open at the 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.

[0317] Dust inside the dust bin 220 can flow into the dust collection unit cover 141.

[0318] 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 143 is attached to the dust collection hood 141, the dust bag 143 can be connected to the first dust collection flow path 147 inside the dust collection hood 141.

[0319] Specifically, the dust collection section cover 141 may have an inlet 141a communicating with the first dust collection flow path 147 and an outlet 141b communicating with the second dust collection flow path 148.

[0320] At this time, the inlet 141a can be positioned above the outlet 141b. Thus, the air and dust flowing in through the inlet 141a flow downwards, and after the dust is captured by the dust bag 143, it can be discharged through the outlet 141b. During this process, since the air flows from top to bottom, it has the effect of preventing air from flowing upwards or dust from scattering upwards.

[0321] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the outlet 141b can be positioned further forward than the inlet 141a. For example, the inlet 141a can be formed on the rear side of the dust collection hood 141, and the outlet 141b can be formed on the lower side of the dust collection hood 141. In this case, the outlet 141b can be positioned further forward than the rear side of the dust collection hood 141.

[0322] On the other hand, the discharge port 141b can be formed by combining the dust collection hood 141 with the dust bag drawer 144. In this case, the discharge port 141b of the dust collection hood 141 and the discharge port 144c of the dust bag drawer 144 can refer to the same space.

[0323] On the other hand, a sterilization module 150 can be integrated into the dust collection shroud 141. For example, the dust collection shroud 141 can have a hot air inlet for supplying hot air from the sterilization module 150 and a hot air exhaust outlet for discharging hot air. In this case, the hot air inlet and the hot air exhaust outlet can be formed on the rear side of the dust collection shroud 141, respectively positioned on the left and right sides of the rear side. Furthermore, the hot air inlet can be positioned closer to the ground than the hot air exhaust outlet. That is, the hot air inlet and the hot air exhaust outlet can be positioned diagonally opposite each other on the rear side of the dust collection shroud 141, which is a quadrilateral shape. This allows the hot air flow path to be arranged as far apart as possible.

[0324] As another example, a sterilization module 150 that irradiates light into the interior of the dust collection unit 141 can be attached to the upper side of the dust collection unit shroud 141. In this case, the light can be ultraviolet light (UV-C).

[0325] The dust bag drawer 144 includes a dust bag drawer body 144a, an inlet 144b, an outlet 144c, a handle 144d, and a flow path forming part 144e.

[0326] The dust bag drawer body 144a can provide internal space for accommodating the dust bag 143. For example, the dust bag drawer body 144a can be formed in the shape of a box with an open top, and an inlet 144b can be formed on the rear side to communicate with the first dust collection path 147. In this case, the inlet 144b can communicate with the inlet 141a of the dust collection unit cover 141.

[0327] 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 143. The inlet 144b can connect the first dust collection path 147 and the dust bag 143. Therefore, dust sucked in from the dust bin 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can move into the interior of the dust bag 143 via the first dust collection path 147, the inlet 141a of the dust collection cover 141, and the inlet 144b of the dust bag drawer 144.

[0328] The dust bag drawer 144 can communicate with the second dust collection flow path 148 through an outlet 144c formed on its lower side (bottom). The outlet 144c can be configured to guide air passing through the dust bag 143 to the second dust collection flow path 148. That is, the outlet 144c can be formed to communicate with the internal space formed by combining with the flow path forming part 144e and the bottom surface of the dust collection part cover 141.

[0329] At this time, the outlet 144c can be configured at a different height than the inlet 144b. The outlet 144c can be configured to be lower than the inlet 144b with the lower side (bottom) of the dust bag drawer 144 as a reference. The outlet 144c can communicate with the internal space of the dust bag drawer 144 and the second dust collection path 148. Therefore, air that has been filtered of dust while passing through the dust bag 143 can move to the second dust collection path 148 through the outlet 144c.

[0330] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the outlet 144c can be configured to be positioned further forward than the inlet 144b. For example, the outlet 144c can be configured to be closer to the handle 144d than the inlet 144b.

[0331] On the other hand, the dust bag drawer 144 forms a flow path for air passing through the dust bag 143 to be discharged to the dust collection motor 145. That is, the dust bag drawer 144 includes a flow path forming part 144e, which protrudes upward from the bottom surface of the dust bag drawer body 144a, and a flow path is formed between the flow path forming part 144e and the dust collection cover 141.

[0332] The flow path forming portion 144e can be provided on the lower side of the dust bag drawer body 144a, and can form at least a portion of the second dust collection flow path 148. The flow path forming portion 144e can be formed such that a pair of sidewalls facing each other bend upward from the lower side (bottom) of the dust bag drawer body 144a and are covered by an upper sidewall connecting the pair of sidewalls.

[0333] Thus, at least a portion of the second dust collection flow path 148 can be formed by combining the flow path forming part 144e and the bottom surface of the dust collection part cover 141.

[0334] On the other hand, the flow path forming portion 144e can be formed along the length direction of the dust bag drawer 144. At this time, a discharge port 144c can be formed at one end of the flow path forming portion 144e along the length direction.

[0335] Therefore, the air flowing into the outlet 144c can flow backward along the length of the flow path forming part and be discharged to the dust collection motor 145.

[0336] On the other hand, the remaining part of the second dust collection flow path 148 may be the space formed by the combination of the dust collection motor support 146c and the lower cover 146b of the dust collection motor, which will be described later.

[0337] Therefore, in this embodiment, the first dust collection path 147 and the second dust collection path 148 can be formed at different heights. That is, the first dust collection path 147 and the second dust collection path 148 can be configured in a stacked structure. In this case, at least a portion of the first dust collection path 147 can be disposed above the second dust collection path 148.

[0338] Meanwhile, the first dust collection path 147 and the second dust collection path 148 can be formed on different surfaces of the dust collection cover 141. For example, the first dust collection path 147 is formed on the rear side of the dust collection cover 141, and the second dust collection path 148 can be formed along the lower side of the dust collection cover 141.

[0339] Therefore, the air flowing in from the upper rear side of the dust bag drawer 144 flows to the lower front side of the dust bag drawer 144 while passing through the dust bag 143, so that the dust-containing air can be evenly diffused inside the dust bag 143, preventing dust from accumulating in specific locations of the dust bag 143.

[0340] On the other hand, a handle 144d may be provided at the front of the dust bag drawer body 144a. The handle 144d may be configured to be gripped by a user. As an example, the handle 144d may be a recessed groove formed from the front of the dust bag drawer body 144a towards the rear.

[0341] The dust bag drawer body 144a has a handle connection portion 144ac formed by extending the outer periphery of the front end forward, and a handle 144d may be provided in the handle connection portion 144ac.

[0342] Therefore, according to the present invention, the user can easily pull the dust bag drawer 144 forward (first direction) and then lift the dust bag 143 upward (second direction) to remove and replace it.

[0343] On the other hand, in this embodiment, a cover support 144g may also be provided in the dust bag drawer 144. The cover support 144g may be disposed on the front periphery of the dust bag drawer 144. The cover support 144g can provide airtightness to the gap formed between the dust collection unit cover 141 and the dust bag drawer 144 when the dust bag drawer 144 is introduced into the dust collection unit cover 141.

[0344] On the other hand, a sensor through-hole 144f can be formed in the dust bag drawer 144. The sensor through-hole 144f can be formed to allow at least a portion of the dust bag sensing part 149 of the dust collection unit cover 141 to pass through. For example, the sensor through-hole 144f can be formed in a quadrilateral shape at the position facing the dust bag sensing part 149. Therefore, at least a portion of the dust bag sensing part 149 can be configured through the sensor through-hole 144f, and the dust bag 143 can contact the dust bag 143 when it is engaged with the dust bag drawer 144.

[0345] A filter can be installed in the dust bag drawer 144. The filter can be configured at the outlet 144c of the dust bag drawer 144. That is, the filter can be configured on the lower side of the dust bag drawer 144. Therefore, the filter can be drawn out along with the dust bag drawer 144 when it is drawn out. Alternatively, the filter can be configured at a position lower than the dust bag 143.

[0346] The filter can filter out foreign objects from the air discharged after flowing through the internal space of the dust bag 143 and dust bag drawer 144. Thus, the filter can prevent foreign objects from entering the dust collection motor 145 and damaging it. For example, the filter can be a pre-filter.

[0347] Dust bag 143 can refer to a dust bag that collects dust sucked into the dust bin 220 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200 under the action of dust collection motor 145.

[0348] The dust bag 143 can be detachably attached to the dust bag drawer 144.

[0349] At this time, the dust bag drawer 144 is configured to be able to be extended from the dust collection unit cover 141 along a first direction, and the dust bag 143 can be detachably attached to the dust bag drawer 144 along a second direction intersecting the first direction. For example, the dust bag drawer 144 can be configured to be extended from the dust collection unit cover 141 in a front-to-back direction, and the dust bag 143 can be detachably attached to the dust bag drawer 144 in a vertical direction.

[0350] Dust bag 143 can be detached from dust bag drawer 144 and discarded, while new dust bag 143 can be attached to dust bag drawer 144. That is, dust bag 143 can be defined as a consumable part.

[0351] The dust bag 143 includes a dust bag body 143a, a disassembly / assembly part 143b, a light-transmitting part 143c, and an air inlet part 143d.

[0352] The dust bag body 143a can capture dust. The dust bag body 143a can be configured to increase in volume and accommodate dust when suction is generated by the dust collection motor 145. For this purpose, the dust bag body 143a can be formed of a material that allows air to pass through but prevents foreign objects such as dust from passing through. For example, the dust bag body 143a can be formed of a non-woven fabric material and can have a hexahedral shape that corresponds to the shape of the dust bag drawer 144 based on its increased volume.

[0353] The detachable part 143b is attached to the dust bag body 143a and can be detachably attached to the rear side of the dust bag drawer 144 in a sliding manner. For example, the detachable part 143b is formed in a flat plate shape and is attached to the rear side of the dust bag body 143a, and can be detachably attached to the connecting rib 144ab arranged on the rear side of the dust bag drawer 144 in a sliding manner.

[0354] At this time, the disassembly / assembly part 143b can be formed into an overall quadrilateral shape. The vertical height and horizontal width of the disassembly / assembly part 143b can be equal to or greater than the vertical height and horizontal width of the rear side of the dust bag body 143a. Therefore, the user can easily attach the disassembly / assembly part 143b to the dust bag drawer 144 by holding it.

[0355] On the other hand, according to the embodiment, the quadrilateral plate-shaped disassembly portion 143b can be a shape formed by cutting open the two diagonally opposite corner portions. For example, the cut-out portion 143ba can be formed by cutting open the two diagonally opposite corner portions of the disassembly portion 143b in a rectangular shape. This can be a position communicating with the flow path for the inflow and the outflow path of the hot air used for sterilization. Thus, the dust bag 143 can achieve sterilization by hot air.

[0356] With this configuration, the dust bags 143 can be joined vertically. Therefore, in a dust bag 143 formed where the horizontal length is longer than the vertical height, the volume of the structure required for its installation can be reduced. As a result, it has the effect of maximizing the dust-collecting capacity within a limited space.

[0357] On the other hand, a gripping portion 143bb can be formed in the disassembly / removal section 143b. The gripping portion 143bb protrudes from the upper end of the outer side (the side facing the dust bag drawer 144) of the disassembly / removal section 143b toward the dust bag drawer 144. At this time, the gripping portion 143bb can be formed in a rib shape along the left-right direction (width direction). With this configuration, when the dust bag 143 is attached to the dust bag drawer 144, the gripping portion 143bb can be locked onto the upper end of the rear side of the dust bag drawer 144. Therefore, even when the dust bag 143 is attached to the dust bag drawer 144, a portion of the upper end of the gripping portion 143bb can protrude upwards, allowing the user to grasp the gripping portion 143bb and lift it upwards, thereby providing convenience for separating the dust bag 143.

[0358] On the other hand, an inlet 143bc for dust to flow into the dust bin 220 can be formed in the disassembly section 143b. The inlet 143bc can be configured to communicate with the inlet 144b of the dust bag drawer 144. Therefore, when the dust collection motor 145 is running, air and dust in the dust bin 220 can flow into the dust bag body 143a and be captured. The inlet 143bc can communicate with the inlet pipe 143db described later.

[0359] The light-transmitting portion 143c can be attached to the dust bag body 143a, allowing light to pass through into the interior of the dust bag body 143a. In this case, the light-transmitting portion 143c and the disassembly / removal portion 143b can be disposed on different surfaces of the dust bag body 143a. For example, the light-transmitting portion 143c can be formed in a flat plate shape and attached to the upper side of the dust bag body 143a, allowing light irradiated from the sterilization module disposed on the upper inner side of the dust collection unit cover to pass through.

[0360] At this time, the light-transmitting portion 143c can be formed into an overall quadrilateral shape. The light-transmitting portion 143c can be integrally formed with the disassembly portion 143b. Specifically, the light-transmitting portion 143c can be formed into a shape that extends and bends from the disassembly portion 143b. Therefore, even when the disassembly portion 143b is attached to the dust bag drawer 144, the light-transmitting portion 143c can still be stably supported.

[0361] On the other hand, the light-transmitting portion 143c and the slit portion 143ba can be selectively configured, but they can also be both provided. This improves the hygiene of the dust bag 143.

[0362] A light-transmitting window 143ca is provided in the light-transmitting section 143c. The light-transmitting window 143ca can be formed of a material that allows light to pass through. Specifically, the light-transmitting window 143ca can be formed of a material that allows light, including ultraviolet light, to pass through. As an example, the light-transmitting window 143ca can be formed of a material that allows UV-C light to pass through.

[0363] The light-transmitting window 143ca can be positioned facing the light source of the sterilization module 150 installed on the dust collection unit cover 141. Therefore, light emanating from the light source can pass through the light-transmitting window 143ca to sterilize the interior of the dust bag body 143a.

[0364] This configuration improves hygiene by sterilizing insects and microorganisms, including flour mites, that exist inside the dust bag 143.

[0365] On the other hand, an inlet 143bc for dust to flow into the dust bin 220 can be formed in the disassembly section 143b. The inlet 143bc can be configured to communicate with the inlet 144b of the dust bag drawer 144. Therefore, when the dust collection motor 145 is running, air and dust in the dust bin 220 can flow into the dust bag body 143a and be captured.

[0366] On the other hand, the dust bag 143 may also include an air inlet 143d inside the bag-shaped dust bag body 143a. The air inlet 143d may be positioned facing the disassembly part 143b across the dust bag body 143a. The air inlet 143d may be connected to the disassembly part 143b across the dust bag body 143a. That is, if the disassembly part 143b is located on the rear outer side of the dust bag body 143a, the air inlet 143d may be located on the rear inner side of the dust bag body 143a. Thus, the shape of the rear portion can support the bag-shaped dust bag body 143a, preventing damage to the connection between the dust bag body 143a and the disassembly part 143b, which could cause the bag portion of the dust bag body 143a to rupture and dust to scatter.

[0367] The air inlet 143d may include an air inlet plate 143da, an inlet pipe 143db, an inlet cover 143dc, and a guide wall 143dd.

[0368] The inflow plate 143da can be formed into a flat plate shape, with one side facing the disassembly part 143b and combined with the disassembly part 143b and / or the dust bag body 143a, and an inflow pipe 143db and a guide wall 143dd can be formed protruding on the other side.

[0369] For example, the inflow plate 143da can be formed into a quadrilateral flat plate shape, and the four corner portions can be formed into curved surfaces. With this configuration, the dust bag body 143a can be prevented from being damaged by the corner portions.

[0370] An inflow pipe 143db can be formed in a cylindrical shape protruding from the inflow plate 143da. At this time, the inflow pipe 143db can be formed along the outflow direction of the dust bag drawer 144. As a result, air can flow smoothly from the dust bin 220, which is located behind the dust bag 143.

[0371] On the other hand, the protrusion height of the inlet pipe 143db may not be constant. For example, the protrusion height of the inlet pipe 143db may increase as it moves from the lower side to the upper side in the vertical direction. As a result, the inlet cover 143dc can close the inlet pipe 143db with uniform surface pressure.

[0372] An inlet is formed in the inflow pipe 143db, which can communicate with the inlet 143bc formed in the disassembly section 143b. Therefore, the inflow pipe 143db can guide the dust in the dust bin 220 into the dust bag body 143a.

[0373] The inlet cover 143dc can open and close the inlet. The inlet cover 143dc can be formed with a shape having a larger diameter than the inlet pipe 143db.

[0374] The inlet cover 143dc includes a fixing part 143dca fixedly attached to the inlet plate 143da and an opening / closing part 143dcb that opens and closes the inlet pipe 143db under the suction of the dust collection motor 145. At this time, with the dust bag 143 attached to the dust bag drawer 144, the fixing part 143dca can be positioned lower than the opening / closing part 143dcb.

[0375] With this configuration, when the dust collection motor 145 is running, the upper part of the inlet pipe 143db opens first, allowing air to flow into the upper part of the internal space of the dust bag 143. Therefore, it is possible to prevent dust flowing into the dust bag 143 from accumulating directly below the inlet.

[0376] Additionally, the inlet cover 143dc can be made of an elastic material. For example, the inlet cover 143dc can be made of resin or rubber. Therefore, when the dust collection motor 145 is running, the opening and closing part 143dcb can rotate to open and close the inlet under the suction force of the dust collection motor 145.

[0377] The guide wall 143dd can guide the flow direction of air through the inlet pipe 143db. The guide walls 143dd can protrude from the inlet plate 143da to form a pair. The pair of guide walls 143dd can be formed in the vertical direction of the inlet plate 143da.

[0378] At this time, an inflow pipe 143db and an inflow cover 143dc can be arranged between a pair of guide walls 143dd. At this time, the protrusion height of the pair of guide walls 143dd can be greater than the protrusion height of the inflow pipe 143db.

[0379] With this configuration, a pair of guide walls 143dd can block the air from spreading in the left and right directions between the inlet pipe 143db and the inlet cover 143dc, and guide the air to flow in front of the robot vacuum base station 100.

[0380] Therefore, through a pair of guide walls 143dd, the air flowing into the dust bag 143 can be evenly diffused throughout the entire dust bag 143.

[0381] On the other hand, the dust collection unit 140 may have a fixing structure between the dust collection unit cover 141 and the dust bag drawer 144, a fixing structure between the dust bag drawer 144 and the dust bag 143, a sealing structure, and a dust bag sensing unit 149.

[0382] The dust bag drawer 144 is extendably attached to the dust collection unit cover 141, and the dust bag 143 is detachably attached to the dust bag drawer 144.

[0383] The dust bag drawer 144 is configured to allow easy access to the dust bag 143 from the cover 110. The dust bag drawer 144 extends from the cover 110 along with the dust bag 143. If the dust bag drawer 144 is introduced into the cover 110, the dust bag 143 is connected and configured in the dust collection path.

[0384] This dust bag drawer 144 can be inserted into and supported by the dust collection unit cover 141. For this purpose, a fixing structure is provided between the dust bag drawer 144 and the dust collection unit cover 141. As an example, the fixing structure may include a locking protrusion 141e and a locking groove 144aa. The locking protrusion 141e may be provided on one of the dust collection unit cover 141 and the dust bag drawer 144, and the locking groove 144aa may be provided on the other.

[0385] Referring to the accompanying drawings, the dust collection cover 141 has at least one locking protrusion 141e on one side. As an example, the locking protrusion 141e can be located on the inner lower surface of the dust collection cover 141, or it can be located at the front of the dust collection cover 141. With this configuration, the dust bag drawer 144 can be introduced into the dust collection cover 141 in a raised position, and then positioned and fixed to the locking protrusion 141e under load. Conversely, the dust bag drawer 144 can be slightly raised and separated from the locking protrusion 141e before being pulled out of the dust collection cover 141.

[0386] The edges of this locking protrusion 141e can be formed in an arc shape so that it can be easily inserted into or separated from the locking groove 144aa.

[0387] Additionally, the dust bag drawer 144 has at least one locking groove 144aa on one side. The dust bag drawer 144 may have the locking groove 144aa at a position corresponding to the locking protrusion 141e, as shown in the figure. The locking groove 144aa may be provided on the lower surface of the dust bag drawer body 144a. The locking groove 144aa may be located at the end adjacent to the handle 144d of the dust bag drawer body 144a.

[0388] The corner of the locking groove 144aa that connects to the dust bag drawer body 144a can be formed in an arc shape so that it can easily engage or disengage with the locking protrusion 141e.

[0389] As described above, due to its fixed structure, the dust bag drawer 144 can be attached to the dust collection unit cover 141 and its movement in the front-to-back direction is fixed.

[0390] Additionally, the dust bag 143 can be stored inside the dust bag drawer 144 and its position is fixed. For this purpose, a fixing structure is provided between the dust bag 143 and the dust bag drawer 144. The fixing structure is located at the rear of the dust bag drawer 144, maintaining the connection between the inlet of the dust bag 143 and the first dust collection path 147 and ensuring airtightness.

[0391] Specifically, the dust bag 143 has a detachable part 143b attached to the rear side of the dust bag body 143a, and the detachable part 143b can be detachably attached to the dust bag drawer 144. The detachable part 143b can be attached to the rear side of the inside of the dust bag drawer 144.

[0392] The fixing structure may include a connecting rib 144ab. The connecting rib 144ab protrudes from at least one side of the dust bag drawer 144 and is positioned facing the rear side of the dust bag drawer 144 with a gap between it and the rear side. The connecting rib 144ab is configured to face the rear side of the dust bag drawer 144 with a space between it and the insertion part 143b. The insertion part 143b can be slidably inserted between the rear side of the dust bag drawer 144 and the connecting rib 144ab, and is engaged with the dust bag drawer 144.

[0393] Dust bag 143 moves downward in dust bag drawer 144, and disassembly part 143b can be inserted and engaged between connecting rib 144ab and the rear side of dust bag drawer 144, and can be lifted upward from dust bag drawer 144 and separated from dust bag drawer 144.

[0394] Thus, at least with the disassembly section 143b engaged with the dust bag drawer 144, its movement in the front-to-back direction is fixed.

[0395] After the dust bag 143 is slidably engaged with the disassembly part 143b to the engaging rib 144ab, the dust bag drawer 144 is engaged with the dust collection unit cover 141, thereby allowing for precise engagement. Specifically, the dust collection unit cover 141 may have a dust bag support part 141d to ensure precise engagement of the dust bag 143 during the introduction of the dust bag drawer 144. The dust bag support part 141d may be provided on the upper inner surface of the dust collection unit cover 141, inclined downwards along the direction of introduction of the dust bag drawer 144. That is, the dust bag support part 141d may be configured to tilt downwards as a portion of the upper inner surface of the dust collection unit cover 141 moves towards the rear. This dust bag support part 141d allows the dust bag 143 to be positioned on the bottom surface of the dust bag drawer 144 as the dust bag drawer 144 moves rearwards.

[0396] Furthermore, the dust collection unit cover 141 can be configured with different heights in the vertical direction. In the dust collection unit cover 141, the vertical height in front of the dust bag support 141d can be higher than the vertical height in the rear of the dust bag support 141d.

[0397] On the other hand, the dust collection unit 140 may have a sealing structure that seals the internal space of the dust collection unit cover 141, thereby ensuring dust collection performance. The sealing structure may have a cover support portion 144g that seals the space between the dust collection unit cover 141 and the dust bag drawer 144, and a flow path seal portion 147b that seals the space between the dust bag 143 and the first dust collection flow path 147.

[0398] The cover support 144g is located in front of the dust bag drawer 144 and supports the dust collection cover 141. The cover support 144g surrounds the outer periphery of the handle connection 144ac of the dust bag drawer 144, thereby making the space inside the dust collection cover 141 airtight by supporting the dust collection cover 141.

[0399] Specifically, the cover support 144g may include an inner support 144ga that contacts the dust bag drawer 144 and an outer support 144gb that contacts the dust collection cover 141. The inner support 144ga may be provided in a hollow shape, surrounding the handle connector 144ac of the dust bag drawer body 144a and fixed to the handle connector 144ac. The outer support 144gb may be formed by extending from the front end of the inner support 144ga and extending outward and rearward. The outer support 144gb deforms when the dust bag drawer 144 is attached to the dust collection cover 141, and can provide airtight support to the dust collection cover 141 to seal the gap between the dust bag drawer 144 and the dust collection cover 141.

[0400] According to the present invention, since the cover support 144g supports the dust collection cover 141, the internal space of the dust collection cover 141 is sealed, thereby improving the dust collection performance.

[0401] The flow path seal 147b is provided to seal the area between the dust bag 143 and the dust collection flow path. The flow path seal 147b is provided to prevent dust leakage during the flow of dust from the dust collection flow path into the dust bag 143. The flow path seal 147b is located at the outlet end 147a of the first dust collection flow path 147 and supports the dust bag 143.

[0402] The first dust collection flow path 147 may have an outlet end 147a, which is disposed on the dust collection unit cover 141 and connected to the inlet 144b of the dust bag drawer 144 and the inlet 143bc of the dust bag 143. Furthermore, a flow path sealing part 147b may be provided at the outlet end 147a, supporting the dust bag 143 via the dust bag drawer 144.

[0403] As an example, the flow path sealing part 147b is configured to surround the outer periphery of the outlet end 147a, and at least a portion of it is disposed between the outlet end 147a and the dust bag 143 to provide an airtight seal between the first dust collection flow path 147 and the dust bag 143.

[0404] Specifically, the flow path sealing portion 147b may include a sealing body 147ba, a first support portion 147bb, a second support portion 147bc, and a third support portion 147bd. The sealing body 147ba surrounds the outer periphery of the outlet end 147a.

[0405] The first support portion 147bb is disposed between the outlet end 147a and the dust bag 143, sealing the space between the first dust collection path 147 and the inlet 143bc. The first support portion 147bb can be located at the front end of the sealing body 147ba, supporting the rear outer side of the dust bag 143 through the inlet 144b of the dust bag drawer 144. The first support portion 147bb can also support the rear side of the disassembly portion 143b.

[0406] Additionally, the inlet 143bc of the disassembly section 143b can have a smaller size than the inlet 144b of the dust bag drawer 144, so that the first support section 147bb can support the disassembly section 143b.

[0407] The second support portion 147bc is formed by protruding outward from a part of the sealing body 147ba, supporting the dust collection shroud 141. The third support portion 147bd is formed by extending from the rear end of the sealing body 147ba, protruding outward and then extending forward and inward, supporting the dust collection shroud 141. The flow path sealing portion 147b can support the dust collection shroud 141 and the first dust collection flow path 147 together with the second support portion 147bc and the third support portion 147bd supporting the dust collection shroud 141.

[0408] On the other hand, the dust collection unit 140 may include a dust bag sensing unit 149, which can operate the dust collection motor 145 or the sterilization module when the dust bag sensing unit 149 detects the dust bag 143. This is to prevent the dust collection motor 145 or the sterilization module from operating when the dust bag 143 is not present. Alternatively, this is to prevent the dust collection motor 145 or the sterilization module from operating when the dust bag 143 is incorrectly assembled.

[0409] A dust bag sensor 149 may be provided in the dust collection unit cover 141. The dust bag sensor 149 may be disposed on the rear side of the dust collection unit cover 141, arranged along the direction of the dust bag drawer 144 on the rear side of the dust collection unit cover 141. The dust bag sensor 149 may be disposed at the rear of the dust collection unit cover 141, facing the dust bag drawer 144.

[0410] The dust bag sensing unit 149 can sense the dust bag 143. The dust bag sensing unit 149 can contact the dust bag 143 to sense the presence of the dust bag 143. Specifically, the dust bag sensing unit 141c can contact the disassembly / removal part 143b of the dust bag 143 to sense the presence of the dust bag 143.

[0411] Therefore, the dust bag sensing unit 149 is configured to contact the dust bag 143 through the dust bag drawer 144. Thus, at least a portion of the dust bag sensing unit 149 is configured to protrude inwards from the dust bag drawer 144 through the sensor through-hole 144f.

[0412] For example, the dust bag sensing unit 149 can be a micro switch. The dust bag sensing unit 149 can include a sensing unit body 149a and an actuating part 149b. The sensing unit body 149a can be disposed on the dust collection unit cover 141, fixing one end of the actuating part 149b. The other end of the actuating part 149b protrudes into the inside of the dust bag drawer 144 through the sensor through hole 144f. If the dust bag 143 and the dust bag drawer 144 are combined, the actuating part 149b can contact the dust bag 143 and deform, thereby allowing the dust bag sensing unit 149 to be in the open state. Furthermore, if the dust bag 143 is separated again, the actuating part 149b returns to its original state and can be separated from the sensing unit body 149a, thereby allowing the dust bag sensing unit 149 to be in the closed state.

[0413] According to the present invention, a dust bag sensing unit 149 is provided in the dust collection unit cover 141, which can detect the installation of the dust bag 143 if it is attached. Furthermore, when the dust bag sensing unit 149 detects the dust bag 143, the dust collection unit 140 can operate the dust collection motor 145; when the dust bag sensing unit 149 does not detect the dust bag 143, the dust bin is not emptied, thereby improving product reliability.

[0414] Additionally, the disassembly / removal section 143b may have a sensor contact section 143bd that contacts the dust bag sensing section 149. The sensor contact section 143bd may be a part of the disassembly / removal section 143b, or a part may protrude from the rear side of the disassembly / removal section 143b. This disassembly / removal section 143bd is disposed below the inlet 143bc. The sensor contact section 143bd may be configured to cover the sensor through-hole 144f.

[0415] The dust collection unit 140 may also include a dust collection module. The dust collection module is capable of providing suction airflow to the dust collection flow path.

[0416] Specifically, the dust collection unit 140 may also include a dust collection motor 145 and a dust collection motor cover 146.

[0417] The dust collection motor 145 can generate suction on the dust collection path 147 and the dust collection path 148. That is, the dust collection motor 145 can provide suction to draw dust from the dust bin 220 into the dust bag 143 disposed in the dust collection unit cover 141.

[0418] The dust collection motor 145 can be configured behind the dust collection unit cover 141. Thus, the dust collection motor 145 can provide suction power to suck up dust from the dust bin 220 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200.

[0419] The dust collection motor 145 is capable of generating suction by rotation. As an example, although not shown, the dust collection motor 145 may include a rotor and a stator that rotate relative to each other when a power source is applied, and may include an impeller that rotates about a rotation axis as the rotor rotates. Therefore, suction can be generated by the rotation of the impeller.

[0420] 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 return flow path 125a. 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 flow in the return flow path 125a after passing through the dust collection motor 145.

[0421] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the rotation axis of the dust collection motor 145 can be arranged in a vertical direction. In this case, the horizontal space occupied by the dust collection motor 145 can be minimized.

[0422] On the other hand, when the rotating shaft of the dust collection motor 145 is arranged in a vertical direction, it can be configured such that the height of the air flowing into the dust collection motor 145 is different from the height of the air exiting the dust collection motor 145. As a result, a structure for the dust collection motor cover 146 can be formed.

[0423] The dust collection motor cover 146 can internally house the dust collection motor 145. The dust collection motor cover 146 can be positioned behind the dust collection section cover 141. Alternatively, the dust collection motor cover 146 can be positioned behind the first dust collection flow path 147. Additionally, the dust collection motor cover 146 can be positioned behind the second dust collection flow path 148.

[0424] That is, taking the front-to-back direction of the robot vacuum base station 100 as a reference, the dust collection unit cover 141 can be positioned at the front, and the first dust collection flow path 147 and the second dust collection flow path 148 can be positioned behind the dust collection unit cover 141. Furthermore, a dust passage 123a can be positioned further rearward than the first dust collection flow path 147, and a dust collection motor cover 146 can be positioned further rearward than the second dust collection flow path 148. Additionally, the dust collection motor cover 146 can be positioned further rearward than the dust passage 123a.

[0425] Therefore, the dust collection unit 140 is configured along the front-rear direction of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100, thereby reducing the overall height.

[0426] In this embodiment, the dust collection motor cover 146 includes an upper dust collection motor cover 146a, a lower dust collection motor cover 146b, a dust collection motor support 146c, and a motor shock absorber 146d.

[0427] At this time, the dust collection motor 145 can be placed on the dust collection motor support 146c. The upper cover 146a of the dust collection motor can be attached to the upper side of the dust collection motor support 146c, and the lower cover 146b of the dust collection motor can be disposed on the lower side of the dust collection motor 145. On the other hand, a motor shock absorber 146d can be attached between the dust collection motor support 146c and the upper cover 146b of the dust collection motor.

[0428] With this configuration, the dust collection motor 145 can be placed on the dust collection motor support 146c, the motor shock absorber 146d can be combined, the upper cover 146a of the dust collection motor can be assembled, and the lower cover 146b of the dust collection motor can be assembled on the lower side of the cover 1110.

[0429] Therefore, the components of the dust collection motor housing 146 can be assembled from the upper and lower sides of the dust collection motor 145, thus facilitating assembly and repair operations.

[0430] The upper cover 146a of the dust collection motor can cover the upper side of the dust collection motor 145. The upper cover 146a of the dust collection motor may include: a motor housing portion that houses a portion of the upper side of the dust collection motor 145; and an upper flow path forming portion that is connected to the motor housing portion and forms a flow path inside it.

[0431] The motor housing can be shaped like a cylinder and can be closed at the top. Air discharged from the dust collection motor 145 can flow in the space between the motor housing and the dust collection motor 145 and can be discharged to the upper flow path forming section.

[0432] The upper flow path forming portion can be formed by extending radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the motor housing. This allows the flow direction of the air discharged between the motor housing and the dust collection motor 145 to be guided. In addition, the upper surface of the upper flow path forming portion can be formed with a groove to accommodate at least a portion of the pipe or hose forming the first dust collection flow path 147.

[0433] With this configuration, at least a portion of the first dust collection flow path 147 can pass through the upper side of the upper flow path forming section.

[0434] The upper flow path forming section can form at least a portion of the return flow path 125a internally. Specifically, the space formed by the combination of the upper flow path forming section and the dust collection motor support section 146c can form a portion of the return flow path 125a.

[0435] The lower cover 146b of the dust collector motor can cover the lower side of the dust collector motor 145. The lower cover 146b of the dust collector motor can be attached to the lower side of the drawer 190. The lower cover 146b of the dust collector motor can include: a lower cover portion disposed on the lower side of the dust collector motor 145; and a lower flow path forming portion connected to the lower cover portion to form a flow path for air flowing into the dust collector motor 145.

[0436] The lower cover can be formed into a circular plate shape, with the center of the circle protruding towards the dust collection motor 145. This configuration allows for the upward flow of air flowing into the dust collection motor 145.

[0437] The lower flow path forming section can be formed by extending radially outward from the lower cover. This allows the flow of air flowing from the dust collection unit cover 141 into the dust collection motor 145 to be guided.

[0438] The lower flow path forming section can form at least a portion of the second dust collection flow path 148 internally. Specifically, the space formed by the lower flow path forming section and the dust collection motor support section 146c can form a portion of the second dust collection flow path 148.

[0439] The dust collection motor support 146c can support the dust collection motor 145.

[0440] The dust collection motor support 146c can be connected to various components forming the internal structure of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100. The dust collection motor support 146c can be connected to the dust collection unit cover 141. The dust collection motor support 146c can be connected to the inner wall 124 or the connecting wall 123 of the mounting section 120. Thus, the dust collection motor support 146c can provide support force capable of supporting the dust collection motor 145.

[0441] The dust collection motor support 146c can be combined with the upper dust collection motor cover 146a and the lower dust collection motor cover 146b to form a return flow path 125a and a second dust collection flow path 148, respectively. Specifically, the second dust collection flow path 148 can be formed on the lower side of the dust collection motor support 146c, and the return flow path 125a can be formed on the upper side of the dust collection motor support 146c.

[0442] Therefore, multiple flow paths can be stacked on top of each other, thereby maximizing space utilization within a limited height.

[0443] As a result of this configuration, air flowing in from inside the dust bin 220 can flow into the dust collection motor 145 through the space between the dust collection motor support 146c and the lower cover 146b of the dust collection motor, and then be discharged by the dust collection motor 145 to the space between the dust collection motor support 146c and the upper cover 146a of the dust collection motor.

[0444] Therefore, according to the present invention, the dust collection motor 145 can be arranged vertically, and two separate flow paths are formed by the dust collection motor support 146c. Thus, by stacking the flow paths required for dust collection in a limited height and lateral space, air can be drawn in and discharged using the stacked flow paths, thereby maximizing space utilization.

[0445] On the other hand, the motor shock absorber 146d is combined between the dust collection motor support 146c and the dust collection motor 145, and can elastically support the dust collection motor 145.

[0446] The motor shock absorber 146d can be connected between the dust collector motor support 146c and the upper cover 146a of the dust collector motor. That is, the upper side of the motor shock absorber 146d can be connected to the upper cover 146a of the dust collector motor, and the lower side of the motor shock absorber 146d can be connected to the dust collector motor support 146c. With this configuration, if the dust collector motor support 146c is connected to the upper cover 146a of the dust collector motor, the motor shock absorber 146d is fixed between the dust collector motor support 146c and the upper cover 146a of the dust collector motor, thereby ensuring support force.

[0447] On the other hand, the motor shock absorber 146d can be formed from a flexible material.

[0448] Therefore, according to the present invention, by arranging the dust collection motor 145 in a vertical direction and providing a shock absorber 146d at its lower part, it is possible to reduce the vibration and noise generated by the operation of the dust collection motor 145.

[0449] Therefore, according to the present invention, the shock absorber 146d provides an airtight return flow path 125a formed between the dust collection motor support 146c and the upper cover 146a of the dust collection motor, thereby preventing air leakage.

[0450] On the other hand, the dust collection unit 140 may also include a dust collection flow path 147 and a dust collection flow path 148. The dust collection flow path may refer to the flow path through which air drawn in through the dust through-hole 123a flows through the dust bag to the dust collection motor 145.

[0451] Specifically, the dust collection path may include: a first dust collection path 147 that connects the dust bin 220 to the internal space of the dust collection unit cover 141 when the sweeping robot 200 is combined with the sweeping robot base station 100 and the dust through hole 123a is connected to the dust bin 220 of the sweeping robot 200; and a second dust collection path 148 that connects the internal space of the dust collection unit cover 141 to the internal space of the dust collection motor cover 146.

[0452] The first dust collection path 147 connects the dust bin 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to the internal space of the dust collection cover 141. The first dust collection path 147 also connects the dust passage 123a of the placement part 120 to the internal space of the dust collection cover 141. The first dust collection path 147 can be formed in a direction intersecting the vertical direction. For example, the first dust collection path 147 can be formed in a direction close to the horizontal direction. The first dust collection path 147 can be a space formed rearward from the dust passage 123a, or a path that bends laterally from the dust passage 123a and allows dust and air to flow. Dust in the dust bin 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can be moved to the internal space of the dust collection cover 141 through the first dust collection path 147.

[0453] The second dust collection path 148 connects the internal space of the dust collection unit cover 141 with the internal space of the dust collection motor cover 146. The second dust collection path 148 can be formed in a direction intersecting the vertical direction. For example, the second dust collection path 148 can be formed in a direction close to the horizontal direction.

[0454] In this invention, the first dust collection path 147 and the second dust collection path 148 can be formed at different heights. That is, the first dust collection path 147 and the second dust collection path 148 can be configured in a stacked structure. Specifically, at least a portion of the first dust collection path 147 can be disposed above the second dust collection path 148.

[0455] This configuration allows for the arrangement of multiple flow paths in a near-horizontal direction, thereby reducing the overall height. Simultaneously, these paths can be stacked to minimize the lateral width and overall volume of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0456] The air return section 125 can guide the air discharged from the dust collection motor 145 to the robot vacuum cleaner 200.

[0457] The air return section 125 can be composed of a return flow path 125a and an air return port 125b.

[0458] The return flow path 125a provides a flow path for air discharged from the dust collection motor 145. The return flow path 125a can be formed by the dust collection motor housing 146 and the base 121. Specifically, one side of the return flow path 125a can be the space formed by the combination of the dust collection motor support 146c and the upper dust collection motor housing 146a. The other side of the return flow path 125a can be disposed inside the base body 121a. For example, the return flow path 125a can be the space formed between the upper and lower sides of the base body 121a.

[0459] Therefore, one side of the return flow path 125a can pass through the dust collection motor cover 146. Additionally, the other side of the return flow path 125a can pass through the lower side of the base 121. Meanwhile, at least a portion of the return flow path 125a can be positioned lower than the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 placed on the upper side of the base body 121a.

[0460] The return flow path 125a can be connected to the dust collection motor 145 in a flow path manner. One end of the return flow path 125a can communicate with the internal space of the dust collection motor housing 146, and the other end of the return flow path 125a can communicate with the air return port 125b.

[0461] The return flow path 125a can be a flow path formed in a direction intersecting the vertical direction. For example, the return flow path 125a can be a flow path formed in a horizontal direction inside the cover 110.

[0462] At this time, at least a portion of the return flow path 125a can be positioned lower than the first dust collection flow path 147. That is, the return flow path 125a can be configured to pass under the first dust collection flow path 147. Therefore, the air flowing in the first dust collection flow path 147 can intersect the flow direction of the air flowing in the return flow path 125a in the horizontal plane.

[0463] Furthermore, at least a portion of the return flow path 125a may be configured to be positioned above the second dust collection flow path 148. That is, the return flow path 125a may be configured to pass above the second dust collection flow path 148.

[0464] Therefore, by arranging (stacking) the first dust collection path 147, the second dust collection path 148, and the return path 125a vertically within a limited height, space utilization can be maximized.

[0465] In addition, by effectively utilizing the remaining space inside the base 121 to form the return flow path 125a, the height of the robot vacuum base station 100 can be prevented from increasing. Since no separate space is needed to form the flow path, the space utilization rate can be maximized.

[0466] An air return port 125b can be formed on the base 121. The air return port 125b can also be formed on the agitator housing 121d. In this case, the suction section 211 of the sweeping robot 200 can be disposed on the upper side of the agitator housing 121d. Therefore, the return flow path 125a can discharge air to the lower side of the suction section 211, and the air passing through the return flow path 125a can flow into the suction section 211 disposed immediately above it.

[0467] Therefore, the return flow path 125a of this embodiment of the invention can guide the air discharged from the dust collection motor 145 to the suction section 211 of the sweeping robot 200.

[0468] The return flow path 125a does not exhaust the air expelled from the dust collection motor 145 to the outside, but instead guides it to the suction section 211 of the robot vacuum 200, thereby creating a structure in which air continuously circulates between the robot vacuum 200 and the robot vacuum base station 100. As a result, the hot air expelled from the dust collection motor 145 is not exhausted into the kitchen cabinet 2, but instead flows back into the interior of the robot vacuum 200 for recirculation, thus preventing damage to the interior of the kitchen cabinet 2.

[0469] Air drawn from 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 flow back into the suction section 211 due to the suction of the dust collection motor 145. Therefore, the air drawn from the dust bin 220 due to the suction of the dust collection motor 145 can flow sequentially through the dust passage 123a, the first dust collection path 147, the dust collection section cover 141, the second dust collection path 148, the dust collection motor 145, the return path 125a, and the air return port 125b before being discharged into the receiving space S.

[0470] At this time, when 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 force of the suction motor (not shown) in addition to the suction force of the dust collection motor 145, thus improving the dust collection efficiency.

[0471] Sterilization module

[0472] The robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 of one embodiment of the present invention may further include a sterilization module 150. The sterilization module 150 may be integrated with the dust collection unit cover 141.

[0473] In a robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention, a sterilization module 150 can sterilize the dust bag 143. Specifically, the sterilization module 150 can irradiate light onto the dust bag 143.

[0474] The sterilization module 150 may include a light source that emits sterilization light and a protective panel disposed below the light source and protecting the light source.

[0475] Here, the light source may include at least one light-emitting diode (LED) capable of emitting germicidal light with bactericidal power capable of removing bacteria. The germicidal light emitted by the light source may have a wavelength that varies depending on the type of LED.

[0476] As an example, a light source could be a light-emitting diode (LED) that emits ultraviolet light in the UV-C wavelength range. Ultraviolet light is classified according to wavelength into UV-A (long-wave ultraviolet light, 315nm–400nm), UV-B (medium-wave ultraviolet light, 280nm–315nm), and UV-C (short-wave ultraviolet light, 200nm–280nm). Among these, ultraviolet light in the UV-C region can inhibit the reproduction of microorganisms by disrupting the DNA double helix.

[0477] On the other hand, the sterilization module 150 can be disposed on the upper inner side of the dust collection unit cover 141. The sterilization module 150 can irradiate light downwards. Thus, even if dust is present inside the dust bag 143, it will sink under the influence of gravity, so light can be irradiated into the dust bag 143 without affecting the presence of dust.

[0478] On the other hand, the sterilization module 150 of another embodiment of the present invention can supply hot air to the dust bag 143.

[0479] The sterilization module 150 may include a fan that generates airflow, a heater that supplies heat to the air flowing inside the dust collection hood 141, and a duct that guides the hot air into the dust collection hood 141.

[0480] The hot air supplied from the sterilization module 150 can supply heat to the dust bag 143 through the dust collection unit cover 141 and the dust bag drawer 144, which can sterilize insects and microorganisms.

[0481] Cleaning section

[0482] Reference Figures 29 to 34 The cleaning unit 160 of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described as follows.

[0483] The robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of this embodiment may include a cloth cleaning unit 160. The cloth cleaning unit 160 is capable of supplying washing water to the cloth 242 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200 attached to the mounting unit 120 to clean the cloth 242, and discharging the wastewater after cleaning the cloth 242.

[0484] The cloth cleaning unit 160 may include a washing water supply unit that mixes detergent-containing liquid with clean water and dispenses it onto the upper side of the cleaning plate 122. The washing water supply unit may include a regulator 161, a mixing chamber 162, a detergent tank 163, a branch flow path 164, and a washing water nozzle 165.

[0485] At this time, the detergent tank 163 and the wastewater tank 166 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 166 can be disposed on the upper side of the detergent tank 163.

[0486] The water supply pipe of the kitchen cabinet 2 is connected to the regulator 161, which can regulate the flow rate supplied from the water supply pipe. In addition, a portion of the purified water after passing through the regulator 161 can be supplied to the water tank 230 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200 through the water supply nozzle 123c, and the remainder can be supplied to the mixing chamber 162.

[0487] Additionally, the detergent-containing liquid stored in the detergent tank 163 can be supplied to the mixing chamber 162 by a pump-driven flow. The detailed structure of the detergent tank 163 will be described later.

[0488] The mixing chamber 162 has a space that allows liquid containing detergent and purified water to flow in and mix separately, and can discharge washing water mixed with detergent and purified water. Such a mixing chamber 162 may have a purified water inlet 162a, a detergent inlet 162b, and a branch flow path connection port 162c.

[0489] The mixing chamber 162 is located inside the housing 110 and can be positioned further rearward than the mounting section 120. In this case, a flow path 161a for supplying purified water from the regulator 161 can be connected to the purified water inlet 162a. Additionally, a flow path 163a for supplying detergent-containing liquid from the detergent tank 163 can be connected to the detergent inlet 162b. Therefore, the pumps of the regulator 161 and the detergent tank 163 can operate for a certain period of time to allow a preset amount of purified water and detergent to flow into the mixing chamber 162.

[0490] On the other hand, the branch flow path connection port 162c can be connected to the branch flow path 164. The branch flow path 164 is capable of supplying washing water mixed with purified water and detergent to a pair of washing water nozzles 165 respectively.

[0491] The branch flow path 164 can be configured as one pipe branching into two pipes. In this case, the end of any one pipe of the branch is connected to any one of the washing water nozzles 165 in a pair of washing water nozzles, and the end of the other pipe of the branch can be connected to the remaining one of the washing water nozzles 165 in a pair of washing water nozzles.

[0492] The washing water nozzles 165 can be arranged in pairs. Here, a pair of washing water nozzles 165 can be arranged in symmetrical positions.

[0493] Furthermore, the washing water nozzle 165 can be connected to a branch flow path 164, through which washing water flows into the interior of the branch flow path 164 and is discharged onto the cleaning plate 122. The washing water nozzle 165 can discharge washing water onto the upper surface of the cleaning plate 122 through the washing water discharge port 165a. The washing water discharge port 165a can open towards the upper surface of the cloth 242 placed on the cleaning plate 122. More specifically, the washing water discharge port 165a formed in the washing water nozzle 165 can discharge washing water into the cleaning protrusion 122a of the cleaning plate 122.

[0494] The washing water nozzle 165 can be disposed on the nozzle mounting wall 123d connected to the connecting wall 123. The washing water nozzle 165 can be located at a position higher than the uppermost end of the cleaning plate 122 so that it can be disassembled and assembled with the cleaning plate 122. Thus, when the cleaning plate 122 is disassembled or the drawer 190 is pulled out, the cleaning plate 122 and the cleaning tank 128 do not collide with the washing water nozzle 165, and there can be a space for washing water to be discharged between the nozzle mounting wall 123d and the cleaning plate 122.

[0495] Furthermore, the washing water nozzle 165 can be positioned vertically upwards from a position spaced apart from the center in the width direction of the cleaning protrusion 122a. Specifically, when the rotation direction of the cloth 242 during the washing process is set to one direction, the washing water nozzle 165 can be positioned in another direction spaced apart from the center in the width direction of the cleaning protrusion 122a. The washing water outlet 161c can be positioned between the protrusion 122aa and the cleaning rib 122ab, spaced apart from the protrusion 122aa in a direction opposite to the rotation direction of the cloth 242. With this configuration, the washing water can flow along the center in the width direction of the cleaning protrusion 122a.

[0496] The detergent container 163 includes a detergent container body 163a, a handle 163b, and a detergent container guide rail 163c.

[0497] The detergent container body 163a provides space for storing liquid containing detergent. For example, the detergent container body 163a can be formed as a box shape with an open top.

[0498] 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 be recessed from the front of the detergent container body 163a towards the rear.

[0499] With this configuration, when the user grasps the handle 163b and pulls it forward, the detergent container body 163a can also be pulled forward and extended. Therefore, according to the present invention, the user can easily pull the detergent container 163 forward and then dispense detergent.

[0500] A detergent tub guide rail 163c may be formed in the detergent tub body 163a. ​​The detergent tub guide rail 163c can guide the movement of the detergent tub body 163a.

[0501] For example, the detergent tub guide rail 163c can be formed in the left and right sides of the detergent tub body 163a in the front-back direction as a groove or rib.

[0502] With this configuration, when the user attaches the detergent container 163 to the cover 110, the detergent container 163 can be attached to the correct position, and the washing water leakage can be prevented.

[0503] On the other hand, although not shown, a guide rail can be formed on the cover 110 corresponding to the detergent tub guide rail 163c. The guide rail can be formed in a shape and position corresponding to the detergent tub guide rail 163c.

[0504] On the other hand, an inlet 163aa can be formed in the detergent tank body 163a. ​​Liquid containing detergent can be injected into the interior of the detergent tank body 163a through the inlet 163aa.

[0505] The detergent container 163 may include a refill cap 163d. The refill cap 163d is capable of opening and closing the inlet 163aa.

[0506] Inlet 163aa can be located at the upper front of the detergent container body 163a. ​​Inlet 163aa can be configured adjacent to the handle 163b. With this configuration, the user can refill the detergent container through inlet 163aa after separating the refill cap 163d with only a portion of the detergent container body 163a extended from the detergent container insertion port 132b.

[0507] The refill cap 163d may have a sealing portion 163db, which is detachably attached to the detergent container body 163a, with a portion protruding from one side and inserted into the inlet 163aa. The sealing portion 163db can support the inlet 163aa in a manner that allows it to be inserted into and seal the inlet 163aa.

[0508] Furthermore, the refill cap 163d may have a cap handle 163da, a portion of the edge of which protrudes outward. The cap handle 163da may be configured to protrude outward toward the detergent container body 163a.

[0509] Furthermore, the refill cap 163d can be configured to hang on the detergent tank body 163a even when separated from the detergent tank body 163a and the inlet 163aa is opened. That is, in order to prevent the refill cap 163d from being lost, the refill cap 163d can have a tether 163dc. One end of the tether 163dc is integrally provided with the refill cap 163d, and the other end has a fastener 163dd, which is inserted into the inside of the detergent tank body 163a.

[0510] A tether insert 163ab is provided in the detergent container 163. The tether insert 163ab is formed with a cross-section smaller than that of the connector 163dd and larger than that of the tether 163dc. That is, if the tether insert 163ab is a circular hole, its diameter is smaller than that of the connector 163dd; if the cross-section of the tether 163dc is circular, the diameter of the tether insert 163ab is larger than that of the tether 163dc.

[0511] Additionally, the detergent container body 163a may have a cap mounting portion 163ac and a handle mounting portion 163ad to allow the refill cap 163d to be assembled in the correct position. The cap mounting portion 163ac may be configured such that a step is formed around the inlet 163aa and the upper side of the detergent container body 163a, and may be configured to allow the refill cap 163d to be inserted. The handle mounting portion 163ad is formed by extending one side of the cap mounting portion 163ac and may be configured to allow the cap handle 163da to be inserted. In this case, the handle mounting portion 163ad is configured to correspond in position and shape to the cap handle 163da, thereby ensuring that the refill cap 163d is in the correct position. With this configuration, when the refill cap 163d is attached to the detergent container body 163a, the cap handle 163da is configured to protrude outward from the detergent container body 163a, allowing the user to easily detach or attach the refill cap 163d.

[0512] The wastewater tank 166 provides space for storing the washing water after washing the cloth 242. The washing water discharged onto the upper surface of the washing plate 122 can drain into the through-hole 122b as it descends along the inclined surface of the washing plate 122 after washing the cloth 242. The washing water through the through-hole 122b accumulates in the washing tank 128. Additionally, the washing water accumulated in the washing tank 128 can flow into the wastewater suction path 166b through the wastewater inlet 166a, and then into the wastewater tank 166 through the wastewater inlet 166b. 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 166a.

[0513] On the other hand, a sewage suction flow path 166b is formed in a sewage suction pipe, with a sewage inlet 166a formed at one end of the sewage suction pipe, and the other end of the sewage suction pipe communicating with a sewage tank 166. In this case, the sewage suction pipe can be configured to pass under the external air supply module 171. That is, the sewage suction flow path 166b can be configured under the external air supply module 171. Alternatively, the sewage suction flow path 166b can be configured under the external air supply flow path 171a.

[0514] Washing water stored in the wastewater tank 166 can be discharged to the drain pipe 25 of the kitchen cabinet 2 through the wastewater discharge passage 167. One end of the wastewater discharge passage 167 can be connected to the wastewater tank 166, and the other end can be connected to the drain pipe 25. At this time, the washing water stored in the wastewater tank 166 can be discharged to the drain pipe 25 by using a centrifugal pump (not shown) to flow through the wastewater discharge passage 167.

[0515] The sewage discharge path 167 connected to the sewage tank 166 can be connected upstream 25b with reference to the U-bend 25a of the drain pipe 25 of the kitchen cabinet 2. This is because if the sewage discharge path 167 is connected downstream 25c with reference to the U-bend 25a of the drain pipe 25, foul odors or fluids inside the drain pipe 25 may flow back into the sewage discharge path 167.

[0516] 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 167. The check valve may be located at the other end of the sewage discharge path 167 connected to the drain pipe 25.

[0517] Cloth Drying Section

[0518] Reference Figures 35 to 39 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 after it has been cleaned by the cloth cleaning unit 160 or the cloth 242 which is in a wet state after the water cleaning operation is completed.

[0519] The cloth drying unit 170 may include an external air supply module 171 and an air exhaust unit 172.

[0520] The external air supply module 171 is capable of heating the air outside the enclosure 110 and supplying it to the accommodating space S. The external air supply module 171 may include an external air supply flow path 171a, an external air inlet 171b, an external air outlet 171c, a heater 171d, and a blower fan (not shown).

[0521] An external air supply flow path 171a is formed in the external air supply module 171. The external air supply flow path 171a enables external air to flow to the external air discharge section 171c.

[0522] The external air supply path 171a can connect the external space of the enclosure 110 with the receiving space. One side of the external air supply path 171a can be connected to the external space through the external air inlet 171b, and the other side of the external air supply path 171a can be connected to the receiving space S through the external air outlet 171c.

[0523] An external air inlet 171b may be formed on the rear side of the housing 110. A plurality of external air inlets 171b may be formed on the rear side of the housing 110. Air from outside the housing 110 can flow into the external air supply path 171a through the external air inlets 171b. Therefore, air from outside the housing 110 can flow into the interior of the housing 110.

[0524] At least a portion of the external air outlet 171c may be disposed on the upper side of the cleaning plate 122. The external air outlet 171c may open in a direction opposite to the cleaning plate 122. A pair of external air outlets 171c may be provided in a downward-opening state.

[0525] The external air outlet 171c can discharge air supplied through the external air supply path 171a. The external air outlet 171c can also discharge air heated in the heater 171d. For example, an external air outlet can be formed in the external air outlet 171c.

[0526] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the lateral diameter of the external air discharge portion 171c can become narrower towards the front. That is, in this embodiment, the width of the rear end of the lateral diameter of the external air discharge portion 171c can be greater than the width of the front end. As a result, even if the circular cloth 242 rotates during the drying process, the cloth 242 can be dried evenly as a whole.

[0527] On the other hand, a grille can be provided in the external air discharge section 171c to guide the discharge direction of the air. This prevents the heated air from being discharged in a way that concentrates it in a specific location.

[0528] With the cloth 242 placed on the cleaning plate 122, the external air exhaust portion 171c can open to the upper side of the cloth 242. Therefore, the external air exhaust portion 171c is located adjacent to the cloth 242, opens downward, and the air discharged from the external air exhaust portion 171c can flow towards the cloth 242.

[0529] In particular, the external air discharge section 171c of this embodiment can be configured to tilt downwards towards the front of the robot vacuum base station 100. Therefore, the end from which air is discharged from the external air discharge section 171c can be formed to tilt at a predetermined angle relative to the ground. This angle can be 90 degrees or less. Thus, the external air discharge section 171c can discharge air in a direction intersecting the direction in which the flow guide surface 122c is formed.

[0530] An air supply fan (not shown) is configured in the external air supply path 171a and is capable of supplying air to the accommodating space S. When the air supply fan (not shown) is driven, the air flowing in through the external air inlet 171b can be heated by the heater 171d and discharged into the accommodating space S through the external air outlet 171c.

[0531] Heater 171d is disposed in external air supply flow path 171a and is capable of heating the air flowing in external air supply flow path 171a. Heater 171d is also capable of heating the air discharged through external air outlet 171c.

[0532] The heater 171d may include a heater housing and a heating element. The heater housing may be configured in the external air supply path 171a, and may have an internal space capable of accommodating the heating element. Furthermore, the heating element heats the air flowing into the heater housing. Therefore, the air heated by the heating element can be discharged through the external air outlet 171c into the accommodating space S, thereby drying the wet cloth 242.

[0533] The air heated by the hot air emitted from the external air supply module 171 can be discharged through the air exhaust section 172.

[0534] At least a portion of the air exhaust section 172 may be disposed in the upper part of the accommodating space S.

[0535] The air heated by the hot air emitted from the external air supply module 171 can supply heat to the mop 242 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. As a result, residual moisture absorbed by the mop 242 can absorb heat from the air and vaporize. This vaporized moisture can then flow within the containment space S. Therefore, the air within the containment space S may contain vaporized moisture, and the humidity within the containment space S may increase (hereinafter, the air containing vaporized moisture within the containment space S can be referred to as "wet vapor").

[0536] Specifically, at least a portion of the air exhaust section 172 may be disposed on the upper cover 113, which may cover the upper part of the accommodating space S.

[0537] The air heated by the hot air emitted from the external air supply module 171 causes the moisture in the rag 242 to evaporate, resulting in increased humidity. Therefore, when the robot vacuum base station 100 is located under the kitchen cabinet 2, the humid steam can adversely affect various components of the kitchen cabinet 2, such as the kickboard 26, when it comes into contact with them.

[0538] In this embodiment, the upper cover 113 covers the upper part of the accommodating space S, and the door 126 covers the front of the accommodating space S. Therefore, the upper cover 113 and the door 126 together prevent the humid steam in the accommodating space S from leaking to the outside, thus preventing the kitchen cabinet 2 from coming into contact with humid steam.

[0539] The air exhaust section 172 may include an air intake 172a, an air exhaust pipe 172b, and an exhaust fan 172c.

[0540] Air intake 172a can communicate with the containment space S. Air intake 172a can be disposed on the upper side of the containment space S. Wet vapor in the containment space S can be discharged through air intake 172a.

[0541] The air intake 172a can be configured to be higher on the ground than the robot vacuum 200 when the robot vacuum 200 is placed in the mounting section 120. This increases the efficiency of the mop in drawing in rising convective steam during drying.

[0542] As an example, an air intake 172a can be formed on the upper cover 113. In this case, the upper cover 113 can be formed in the form of two or more overlapping plates, wherein the lowermost plate has an air intake 172a, and a flow path communicating with the air intake 172a is formed between the plates, thereby forming an air exhaust pipe 172b.

[0543] As another example, the air intake 172a can be formed in the form of a circular or quadrilateral duct air exhaust pipe 172b, which can be attached to the upper cover 113.

[0544] This configuration has the following advantages: when the upper cover 113 is separated, the air exhaust pipe 172b can be separated together with the upper cover 113. In the event that the upper part of the robot vacuum base station 100 needs to be opened for reasons such as repair, the operator can remove the air exhaust pipe 172b simply by lifting the upper cover 113.

[0545] An air intake 172a may be formed in the air exhaust pipe 172b in the form of a hole. For example, the air intake 172a may be formed in the air exhaust pipe 172b in the form of a plurality of parallel slits. Alternatively, the air intake 172a may be formed in the air exhaust pipe 172b in the form of an elongated hole.

[0546] On the other hand, a plurality of air intakes 172a may be arranged at the same distance from the front end of the cover 110. As an example, a pair of air intakes 172a may be arranged at the same distance from the front end of the cover 110. That is, the air intakes 172a may include a first intake and a second intake. In this case, the first intake may be arranged at the upper left front end of the receiving space S, and the second intake may be arranged separately from the first intake and arranged at the upper right front end of the receiving space S.

[0547] The distance from the external air outlet 171c to the air inlet 172a can be greater than the distance from the external air outlet 171c to the cloth 242. This is to prevent the heated air discharged from the external air outlet 171c from being insufficiently supplied to the cloth 242 and directly sucked into the air inlet 172a, thus wasting energy.

[0548] Furthermore, the air intake 172a can be configured to be closer to the door 131 than the external air exhaust 171c. By positioning the air intake 172a at the upper front of the accommodating space S, the range of space for the hot air expelled from the external air exhaust 171c to flow is widened, thereby improving the drying efficiency of the mop 242. Therefore, the hot air exhausted through the external air exhaust 171c can flow forward and dry the mop 242 of the robot vacuum 200 before being discharged into the air intake 172a.

[0549] Additionally, the air intake 172a can be positioned above the path along which the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 moves within the housing 110. This prevents condensation from forming on the walls inside the housing 110.

[0550] As an example, at least a portion of the air intake 172a can be positioned vertically above the location where the sweeping robot 200 has the greatest width in the left-right direction when it is placed in the mounting section 120. That is, at least a portion of the air intake 172a can be positioned above the location where the gap between the sweeping robot 200 and the pair of inner walls 124 is narrowest. In this case, at least a portion of the air intake 172a can be positioned forward of the cleaning plate 122.

[0551] This prevents steam generated during the drying process of the mop 242 from flowing towards the front of the robot vacuum base station 100, and also prevents moisture from seeping into the sensors located in front of the robot vacuum 200 and causing malfunctions.

[0552] The air exhaust pipe 172b can be connected to the air intake 172a and the exhaust fan 172c to the drain pipe 25 of the kitchen cabinet 2. The air exhaust pipe 172b can guide the wet steam discharged through the air intake 172a to the drain pipe 25.

[0553] One side of the air exhaust pipe 172b is connected to the exhaust fan 172c, and the other side can branch into multiple branches. Thus, even using only one exhaust fan 172c, humid steam can be drawn in at multiple locations, thereby achieving the effect of stably discharging humid steam.

[0554] The air exhaust pipe 172b may have an internal air exhaust flow path that communicates with the air intake 172a.

[0555] An air exhaust path can refer to a flow path through which air flows in through an air intake 172a. For example, an air exhaust path may be formed by the internal space of an air exhaust pipe 172b, the internal space of the exhaust fan 172c housing, and the internal space of a check valve 172d. One side of the air exhaust path may be connected to the air intake 172a, and the other side may be connected to the air exhaust outlet 172e.

[0556] The exhaust fan 172c can cause airflow from the air intake 172a toward the drain pipe 25. The exhaust fan 172c can generate airflow so that the wet vapor in the containing space S, after being drawn into the air intake 172a, can be discharged to the outside through the air exhaust pipe 172b.

[0557] The exhaust fan 172c may include an exhaust fan housing, a fan motor, and an impeller. The exhaust fan housing may have an internal flow path for communication with the air exhaust pipe 172b. When the exhaust fan motor operates and the exhaust fan impeller rotates, air in the accommodating space S or housing 110 can flow into the air exhaust pipe 172b and be discharged through the interior of the exhaust fan housing to the air outlet 172e.

[0558] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the exhaust fan 172c can be combined with the external air supply module 171. Specifically, the exhaust fan housing of the exhaust fan 172c can be combined with the external air supply module 171 to form a single component. This minimizes the space occupied by the external air supply module 171 and the air exhaust section 172.

[0559] The exhaust fan 172c can be configured on the left or right side of the external air supply module 171. Specifically, the exhaust fan 172c can be configured between the dust collection motor 145 and the external air supply module 171. This allows for the arrangement of components within a limited space and ensures that there is space available for configuring a flow path capable of discharging steam.

[0560] When the exhaust fan 172c is driven, air in the accommodating space S can flow into the air intake 172a. The air flowing into the air intake 172a can be discharged into the drain pipe 25.

[0561] The cloth drying unit 170 may include a check valve 172d, which prevents fluid inside the drain pipe 25 from flowing back into the air exhaust pipe 172b. The check valve 172d may be positioned downstream of the exhaust fan 172c. The check valve 172d may communicate with the internal space of the exhaust fan 172c. That is, based on the airflow direction, the check valve 172d may be positioned downstream of the exhaust fan 172c. An air outlet 172e may be formed at the rear end of the check valve 172d. The check valve prevents fluid inside the drain pipe 25 from flowing back into the air exhaust unit 172.

[0562] Here, the lower end of the air outlet 172e can be configured in a direction perpendicular to the ground. Specifically, the air outlet 172e can be formed in an air discharge pipe configured in a direction perpendicular to the ground, which can be connected to a check valve. With this configuration, the upward convection property of hot and humid air is utilized to prevent backflow of fluid discharged from the air outlet 172e.

[0563] The air exhaust section 172 can be connected downstream based on the U-bend 25a of the drain pipe 25. Specifically, the air exhaust outlet 172e can be connected to the drain pipe 25 via a flow path component. For example, the flow path component can be a flexible hose. This is because, when the air exhaust section 172 is connected upstream 25b based on the U-bend 25a of the drain pipe 25, water accumulated in the U-bend 25a may prevent the hot air exhausted through the air exhaust section 172 from passing through the drain pipe 25. Additionally, this is also to prevent foul odors generated from the air exhausted from the air exhaust section 172 from flowing back along the drain pipe 25 and spreading into the kitchen.

[0564] The wet steam discharged into the air intake 172a and through the exhaust fan 172c can be discharged to the outside of the cover 110 along the flow path component while passing through the air outlet 172e.

[0565] At this time, the flow path component can penetrate either of the two sides of the outer wall and connect to the drain pipe 25. With this configuration, the connection direction of the flow path component can be selected according to the installation environment of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to the present invention, thus having the advantage of easy installation and management.

[0566] drawer

[0567] When the charging dock of the robotic vacuum cleaner is positioned under the kitchen cabinet, its external exposure is minimized, thus enhancing the aesthetic appeal. However, if the robotic vacuum cleaner malfunctions while inside the cabinet or if the charging dock itself malfunctions, it presents a limitation that makes it difficult for the user to remove and repair it. To address this issue, a drawer 190 can be added to the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 in this invention.

[0568] Regarding this point, Figure 40 The diagram illustrates the state in which the drawer is drawn out from the base station of the robotic vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0569] Reference Figure 40 The drawer 190 of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below.

[0570] 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.

[0571] Drawer 190 can be moved relative to cover 110. For example, cover 110 can be fixedly attached to kitchen cabinet 2, and drawer 190 can be pulled out from cover 110 forward.

[0572] At this time, drawer 190 can be drawn out with the internal storage section 120. With this configuration, when drawer 190 is drawn out, the storage section 120 and / or the robot vacuum cleaner 200 can be drawn out from the kitchen cabinet 2 to the outside.

[0573] At this time, when the drawer 190 is pulled out of the cover 110 with the door 131 closing the entrance 127, the upper cover 113 can be exposed to the outside. At this time, if the upper cover 113 is disassembled, the robot vacuum cleaner 200 can be exposed to the outside.

[0574] Therefore, according to this embodiment, when the robot vacuum base station 100 needs to be repaired or cleaned, 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.

[0575] On the other hand, in one embodiment of the present invention, the drawer 190 can be drawn out while the dust collection section 140 is provided inside. In this case, the drawing direction of the drawer 190 can be parallel to the drawing direction of the dust bag drawer 144.

[0576] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the drawer 190 can be drawn out together with the dishcloth washing unit 160. Specifically, the drawer 190 can be drawn out together with the detergent container 163. In this case, the direction in which the drawer 190 is drawn out can be parallel to the direction in which the detergent container 163 is drawn out.

[0577] With this configuration, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of an embodiment of the present invention can be configured such that the drawer 190, dust bag drawer 144 and detergent bucket 163 are all parallel in their outward directions.

[0578] 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 them out for repair and maintenance.

[0579] Drawer 190 includes drawer sidewalls 191, fitting part 192, and drawer slides 193.

[0580] The drawer sidewalls 191 are configured to be movable relative to each other between the drawer sidewalls 191 and the outer wall of the cover 110. For example, a pair of drawer sidewalls 191 may be configured to face the outer wall of a pair of covers 110.

[0581] Here, a pair of drawer sidewalls 191 can be positioned closer to the inner side of the robot vacuum base station 100 than the outer walls of the pair of covers 110. That is, the pair of drawer sidewalls 191 can be positioned closer to the mounting portion 120 than the outer walls of the pair of covers 110.

[0582] On the other hand, a dust collection section 140 and / or a cloth cleaning section 160 may be provided between the drawer side wall 191 and the placement section 120.

[0583] This configuration allows for the efficient use of minimal horizontal space to arrange the dust collection unit 140 and the cloth washing unit 160.

[0584] Drawer guide rails 193 are disposed on the drawer side wall 191 and can guide the movement of the drawer side wall 191. Drawer guide rails 193 can be fixedly attached to or integrally formed on the drawer side wall 191, and can be combined with guide rails provided on the outer wall 111 of the cover 110 to guide the movement path of the drawer side wall 191. On the other hand, although the present invention describes the presence of guide rails in the drawer 190 and the cover 110, it is not necessarily limited to the form of guide rails, and can include all forms that can replace guide rails, such as rollers, guide grooves, or guide ribs.

[0585] Control Structure

[0586] Figure 41 A block diagram illustrating the control configuration in a robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention is disclosed.

[0587] The following is for reference Figure 41 This section explains the control configuration of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention.

[0588] The robot 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.

[0589] The control unit 300 may consist of a printed circuit board and a plurality of components mounted on the printed circuit board.

[0590] The control unit 300 can receive signals from the entry sensor 135 and can control the door drive unit 134.

[0591] The control unit 300 can sense the approach of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 and control the door drive unit 134 to rotate the door 131. Specifically, the control unit 300 can sense whether the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 has entered via the entry sensor 135. If the distance between the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 and the door 131 is closer than a preset distance, the control unit 300 can rotate the door 131 to open the entrance 127. Alternatively, if the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is attached to the mounting unit 120, the control unit 300 can rotate the door 131 to close the entrance 127.

[0592] 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 has been attached to the mounting unit 120.

[0593] The control unit 300 can drive the dust collection motor 145 to suck up the dust inside the dust bin 220 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200.

[0594] 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 contain various data for driving and operating the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0595] On the other hand, the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 of this embodiment may include a communication unit (not shown). The communication unit includes a robotic vacuum cleaner 200 or a terminal (not shown), thereby enabling wireless communication with other devices located outside the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100. As a wireless communication module for supporting wireless communication, it may have a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module.

[0596] Near-field communication can be, for example, Bluetooth communication, NFC (Near Field Communication) communication, etc.

[0597] Remote communication can be, 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 (Long Term Evolution Enhanced), Wireless Mobile Broadband Service (WMBS), BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy), Zigbee, RF (Radio Frequency), LoRa (Long Range), etc.

[0598] The control unit 300 can control the cloth washing unit 160.

[0599] Specifically, the control unit 300 can control the detergent pump 163b. The control unit 300 can operate the detergent pump 163b to dispense detergent stored in the detergent tank 163 to the rag 242.

[0600] Additionally, the control unit 300 can control the regulator 161. The control unit 300 can adjust the amount of clean water dispensed onto the rag 242 by operating the regulator 161.

[0601] Additionally, the control unit 300 can control the drain pump 168. The control unit 300 can discharge the wastewater after washing the rags 242 by operating the drain pump 168.

[0602] The control unit 300 can control the cloth drying unit 170.

[0603] Specifically, the control unit 300 can control the heater 171d. The control unit 300 can heat the air expelled to the wiping cloth 242 by operating the heater 171d.

[0604] Additionally, the control unit 300 can control the air supply fan 171e. The control unit 300 can expel air to the wiping cloth 242 by operating the air supply fan 171e.

[0605] Additionally, the control unit 300 can control the exhaust fan 172c. The control unit 300 can exhaust the air after drying the cloth 242 by operating the exhaust fan 172c.

[0606] 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, thereby enabling the sterilization of bacteria present in the cloth 242.

[0607] Additionally, the control unit 300 can receive signals from the dust bag sensing unit 149. If the dust bag sensing unit 149 detects that the dust bag 143 is attached, it can send a signal to the control unit 300, which can then control the dust collection unit 140 accordingly. For example, the control unit 300 can operate the dust collection motor 145 only when the dust bag 143 is attached. Therefore, the dust collection motor 145 may not operate when the dust bag drawer 144 is extended or when the dust bag drawer 144 is inserted and attached while the dust bag 143 is detached. If the dust bag 143's attachment / removal part 143b is attached to the dust bag drawer 144 and the dust bag drawer 144 is attached to the dust collection unit cover 141, the dust bag sensing unit 149 can detect the dust bag 143 and operate the dust collection motor 145.

[0608] In addition, the control unit 300 can activate the sterilization module 150 only when the dust bag 143 is attached.

[0609] 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. Obviously, the present invention can be modified or altered by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention.

[0610] Simple variations or modifications of this invention are all within the scope of this invention, and the specific scope of protection of this invention will become clearer through the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A base station for a robotic vacuum cleaner, characterized in that, include: The cover is installed at the bottom of the kitchen cabinet; A housing, configured within the enclosure, accommodates at least a portion of the sweeping robot; as well as The dust collection section collects dust from inside the dust bin of the robotic vacuum cleaner; The dust collection unit includes: Dust collection unit cover, the dust in the dust bucket flows into the dust collection unit cover; The dust bag drawer is extendably attached to the dust collection unit cover; A dust bag, detachably attached to the dust bag drawer, collects dust flowing in from the dust bin; and A dust bag sensing unit is disposed on the dust collection unit cover to sense the dust bag.

2. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The dust bag sensing unit contacts the dust bag to sense its presence.

3. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The dust bag sensor is configured such that at least a portion of the dust bag sensor passes through a sensor through-hole in the dust bag drawer.

4. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, characterized in that, If the dust bag drawer is pulled, the dust bag and the dust bag drawer are pulled out together.

5. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The dust collection unit also includes a dust collection motor, which provides suction to draw dust into the dust bin; The dust collection motor can operate when the dust bag is detected by the dust bag sensing unit.

6. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The dust bag sensing unit includes: The sensing unit body is disposed on the dust collection unit cover; and An actuating part is used to bring the dust bag drawer into contact with the sensing part body.

7. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The dust bag includes: The dust bag itself collects dust; and The disassembly and assembly part is attached to the dust bag body and can be detachably attached to the dust bag drawer; The dust bag sensing unit contacts the disassembly / removal unit to sense the presence of the dust bag.

8. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 7, characterized in that, The dust bag drawer includes: A dust bag drawer body, wherein the dust bag is housed in the dust bag drawer body; and A connecting rib is disposed inside the dust bag drawer body and spaced apart from the rear of the dust bag drawer body; the disassembly part slides and engages between the dust bag drawer body and the connecting rib.

9. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The dust bag sensing unit is configured to face the dust bag drawer from behind the dust collection unit cover.

10. A base station for a robotic vacuum cleaner, characterized in that, include: The cover is installed at the bottom of the kitchen cabinet; A housing, configured within the enclosure, accommodates at least a portion of the sweeping robot; as well as The dust collection section collects dust from inside the dust bin of the robotic vacuum cleaner; The dust collection unit includes: Dust collection unit cover, the dust in the dust bucket flows into the dust collection unit cover; A dust bag, disposed inside the dust collection unit cover, collects dust flowing in from the dust bin; and A dust bag sensing unit is disposed on the dust collection unit cover to sense the dust bag; The dust collection unit collects dust from inside the dust bin based on whether the dust bag sensing unit detects the dust bag.

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