Cleaning system and method of controlling a cleaning system

Abstract

The cleaning system according to this disclosure includes: a cleaner comprising a body and a wet cloth; and a base station for placing the cleaner, and including a cleaning chamber, a water supply tank, a heating device, and a drying device, wherein, while the cleaner is placed on the base station, the base station receives the wet cloth in the cleaning chamber and drives the heating device based on the start of a washing cycle to heat water supplied from the water supply tank to generate steam and supply it to the cleaning chamber, and drives the drying device to blow air into the cleaning chamber as the steam is supplied to the cleaning chamber, such that at least a portion of the air flows to the body of the cleaner.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a cleaning system including a cleaner and a base station, and a method for controlling the cleaning system. Background Technology

[0002] Cleaners can include manual cleaners that are directly operated and moved by the user to clean up dirt such as dust accumulated on the floor, as well as robotic vacuum cleaners that automatically clean the cleaning space by sucking up dirt such as dust accumulated on the floor while moving in the cleaning space without user operation.

[0003] Recently, cleaners have appeared that not only suck up dust and other foreign objects from the ground, but also cleaners that wipe away dust and other foreign objects from the ground. These cleaners can perform wet cleaning with a damp cloth.

[0004] Among robotic vacuum cleaners and manual cleaners, cordless cleaners can be equipped with batteries to perform cleaning freely in the cleaning space without a power cord connection.

[0005] Cordless cleaners and robotic vacuum cleaners can be equipped with base stations placed for charging batteries.

[0006] Recently, a base station has been developed that not only charges the cleaner's battery while the cleaner is in use, but also sucks up dust from the cleaner's dust collection bin and stores it in the base station's dust collection bin, or washes and / or dries the cleaner's wet cloth. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Technical issues This disclosure provides a cleaning system that can prevent water splashing during the washing process, as well as a method for controlling the cleaning system.

[0008] This disclosure provides a cleaning system and a control method for preventing electrical hazards that may be caused by steam during the washing process.

[0009] This disclosure provides a cleaning system and a method for controlling the cleaning system to prevent steam from being discharged to the outside during the washing cycle and to prevent condensation around the body of the cleaner and the base station.

[0010] This disclosure provides a cleaning system and a control method for preventing docking sensors from failing to dock smoothly due to condensation.

[0011] The technical problems to be solved in this article are not limited to those mentioned above. Those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains can clearly understand other technical problems not mentioned from the following description.

[0012] Technical solution A cleaning system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes: a cleaner comprising a body and a wet cloth; and a base station for placing the cleaner, and including a cleaning chamber, a water supply tank, a heating device, and a drying device, wherein, while the cleaner is placed on the base station, the base station receives the wet cloth in the cleaning chamber and drives the heating device based on the start of a washing cycle to heat water supplied from the water supply tank to generate steam and supply it to the cleaning chamber, and drives the drying device to blow air into the cleaning chamber during the supply of steam to the cleaning chamber, such that at least a portion of the air flows to the body of the cleaner.

[0013] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the cleaner can lower the wet cloth to a first position based on the start of the washing cycle, and can raise the wet cloth to a second position above the first position based on the end of the washing cycle.

[0014] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, while the wet cloth is in the first position, the air supplied to the cleaning chamber can flow more towards the outside of the cleaning chamber relative to the interior of the cleaning chamber.

[0015] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the base station may further include: a guiding component that divides the flow path of air supplied to the cleaning chamber by the drying device into a first flow path and a second flow path, and contacts the wet cloth while the wet cloth is in the first position, such that air flowing to the first flow path is directed toward the outside of the cleaning chamber and air flowing to the second flow path is directed toward the inside of the cleaning chamber.

[0016] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the guiding member may be spaced apart from the wet cloth while the wet cloth is in the second position, such that air flowing toward the first flow path and the second flow path flows to the outside and inside of the cleaning chamber.

[0017] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the base station may further include: a guiding component that divides the flow path of air supplied to the cleaning chamber by the drying device into a first flow path and a second flow path, and contacts the wet cloth during the period when the wet cloth is in the first position, such that the cleaning chamber is closed by the wet cloth, and is separated from the wet cloth during the period when the wet cloth is in the second position, such that the cleaning chamber is open.

[0018] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, based on the end of the washing cycle, the base station can stop driving the heating device and drive the drying device to perform a drying cycle while the wet cloth is in the second position.

[0019] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the base station can drive the heating device in response to the wet cloth completing its descent to the first position.

[0020] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the cleaner can raise the wet cloth to the second position in response to the cessation of the drive of the heating device.

[0021] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the cleaner may further include a suction motor. The cleaner may drive the suction motor during the supply of steam to the cleaning chamber, causing air flowing into the interior of the body to flow to the exterior of the body.

[0022] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the cleaner may include a first sensor, and the base station may include a second sensor. The first sensor and the second sensor may be configured to face each other during the period when the cleaner is placed on the base station, thereby sensing the placement of the cleaner on the base station.

[0023] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, the cleaner may include a first sensor, and the base station may include a second sensor. The first and second sensors may be configured to face each other during placement of the cleaner on the base station, thereby sensing the placement of the cleaner on the base station. The cleaner may further include an exhaust port for discharging air drawn in by the suction motor. The exhaust port may be located below the first sensor.

[0024] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, if the inhalation motor is driven, the air discharged through the exhaust port can flow into the space between the first sensor and the second sensor.

[0025] According to one embodiment of this disclosure, at least a portion of the air flowing to the body of the cleaner may flow into the space between the first sensor and the second sensor.

[0026] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a method for controlling a cleaning system comprises a cleaner including a body and a wet cloth, and a base station for placing the cleaner and including a cleaning chamber, a water supply tank, a heating device, and a drying device. During the placement of the cleaner on the base station, the method includes the following steps: receiving the wet cloth in the cleaning chamber; activating the heating device based on the start of a washing cycle to heat water supplied from the water supply tank to generate steam and supply it to the cleaning chamber; and activating the drying device to deliver air to the cleaning chamber during the supply of steam, such that at least a portion of the air flows to the body of the cleaner. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating the state in which a cleaner in a cleaning system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is detached from a base station.

[0028] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating the state in which a cleaner is placed in a base station in a cleaning system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Figure 3 It is shown Figure 2 The diagram shows the back of the cleaning system.

[0030] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating a cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 5 It is shown Figure 4 The image shows the back of the cleaner.

[0032] Figure 6 It is shown Figure 4 The diagram shows the lower part of the cleaner.

[0033] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating a base station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 8 It is shown Figure 7 The diagram shows the back of the base station.

[0035] Figure 9 It is shown Figure 7 A diagram of the rear surface of the base station.

[0036] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating a portion of a base station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing the state in which the cleaning frame in a base station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is separated from the cleaning chamber.

[0038] Figure 12 This is a view showing a side cross-section of a base station based on a heating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Figure 13 This is a side cross-sectional view of a base station based on a drying apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] Figure 14 A control block diagram of a cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0041] Figure 15 A control block diagram of a base station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0042] Figure 16 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a control method for a cleaning system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] Figure 17 The diagram schematically illustrates the flow of air supplied by the drying device of the base station while the wet cloth of the cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is in a first position.

[0044] Figure 18 The illustration schematically depicts the flow of air driven by the suction motor of a cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] Figure 19 The diagram schematically illustrates the flow of air supplied by the drying device of the base station while the wet cloth of the cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is in the second position. Detailed Implementation

[0046] The embodiments and configurations described in this specification and the accompanying drawings are merely preferred examples of the disclosed invention. As of the time of filing this application, there may be various modifications that can replace the embodiments and drawings in this specification.

[0047] The terminology used in this specification is for illustrative purposes and is not intended to limit or restrict disclosure.

[0048] For example, in this specification, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, singular expressions may include plural expressions.

[0049] Furthermore, terms such as "comprising" or "having" are used to indicate the presence of features, figures, steps, operations, constituent elements, components, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and do not preclude the additional presence or possibility of one or more other features or figures, steps, operations, constituent elements, components, or combinations thereof.

[0050] When a constituent element is referred to as “connected,” “joined,” “supported,” or “in contact” with another constituent element, this includes not only cases where the constituent elements are directly connected, joined, supported, or in contact, but also cases where they are indirectly connected, joined, supported, or in contact through a third constituent element.

[0051] When a constituent element is "on" another constituent element, this includes not only the case where a constituent element is connected to another constituent element, but also the case where there is another constituent element between the two constituent elements.

[0052] Furthermore, the terms "front," "rear," "left," "right," "upper," and "lower" used in the following description are defined based on the accompanying drawings; however, the shape and position of each structural element are not limited by these terms. For example, the front side can be defined as the +X side, and the rear side can be defined as the -X side. For example, based on the accompanying drawings, the right side can be defined as the +Y side, and the left side can be defined as the -Y side. For example, based on the accompanying drawings, the upper side can be defined as the +Z side, and the lower side can be defined as the -Z side.

[0053] Furthermore, ordinal terms containing "first," "second," etc., are used to distinguish one constituent element from another, and do not limit a constituent element.

[0054] Furthermore, terms such as “~part,” “~device,” “~block,” “~component,” and “~module” can refer to a unit that processes at least one function or operation. For example, these terms can refer to at least one piece of hardware such as a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) or application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), at least one piece of software stored in memory, or at least one program processed by a processor.

[0055] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the disclosed invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The same reference numerals or symbols used in the drawings may denote parts or components that perform substantially the same function.

[0056] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating the state of a cleaner detached from a base station in a cleaning system according to one embodiment. Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the state in which a cleaner is placed in a base station according to an embodiment of a cleaning system. Figure 3 It is shown Figure 2 The diagram shows the back of the cleaning system.

[0057] Reference Figures 1 to 3 The cleaning system 1 may include a cleaner 10 and a base station 20. The cleaning system 1 may be referred to as a cleaning apparatus 1.

[0058] In the following text, it is assumed that the cleaner 10 is a robotic vacuum cleaner, and that the base station 20 is a base station capable of housing the robotic vacuum cleaner 10. However, the cleaner 10 may also be a wired or cordless cleaner including a suction motor and a wet mop, and the base station 20 may also be a base station capable of housing a wired or cordless cleaner.

[0059] The cleaner 10 can clean the floor while moving along the floor. The floor cleaned by the cleaner 10 can be referred to as the cleaned surface. The cleaner 10 can perform dry cleaning and / or wet cleaning. The cleaner 10 can suck up or wipe away dirt from the cleaned surface. Here, dirt can be collectively referred to as foreign objects such as dust, hair, food residue, etc.

[0060] The cleaner 10 can be placed on the base station 20. The cleaner 10 can be placed on the base station 20 or docked with the base station 20. At least a portion of the cleaner 10 can be arranged in the receiving space 210a of the base station 20.

[0061] The cleaner 10 can be moved to the base station 20 during and / or after cleaning.

[0062] For example, the cleaner 10 may be moved to the base station 20 when: it needs to be charged, when the dust collection bin needs to be emptied, when the water in the bucket is insufficient, when the moisture content of the wet cloth 160 is low, when the wet cloth 160 needs to be washed (e.g., cleaning and / or sterilizing), and / or when the wet cloth 160 needs to be dried.

[0063] Base station 20 may be configured to house cleaner 10. Base station 20 may be configured to house cleaner 10. Base station 20 may be configured to store cleaner 10.

[0064] For example, while the cleaner 10 is positioned at the base station 20, the base station 20 can control the battery 150 of the cleaner 10 (see reference). Figure 14 The cleaning device 10 can be charged. For example, while the cleaning device 10 is installed at the base station 20, the base station 20 can collect the dirt collected in the dustbin of the cleaning device 10. For example, while the cleaning device 10 is installed at the base station 20, the base station 20 can supply water to the water tank 114 of the cleaning device 10. For example, while the cleaning device 10 is installed at the base station 20, the base station 20 can wet the damp cloth 160 with water and / or steam. For example, while the cleaning device 10 is installed at the base station 20, the base station 20 can wash (e.g., clean and / or sterilize) the damp cloth 160. For example, while the cleaning device 10 is installed at the base station 20, the base station 20 can dry the damp cloth 160.

[0065] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating a cleaner according to one embodiment. Figure 5 It is shown Figure 4 The image shows the back of the cleaner. Figure 6 It is shown Figure 4 The diagram shows the lower part of the cleaner.

[0066] The cleaner 10 may include a main body 110. The main body 110 may form the overall appearance of the cleaner 10. The main body 110 may house the components of the cleaner 10. Electronic components may be arranged inside the main body 110. The main body 110 may be referred to as the cleaner body 110.

[0067] The cleaner 10 may include an intake port 111. The intake port 111 may be formed facing the surface to be cleaned. The intake port 111 may be open towards the surface to be cleaned. The intake port 111 may be formed in the body 110. The intake port 111 may be formed in the lower part of the body 110. The intake port 111 may be formed through the lower surface 110b of the body 110. Dirt on the surface to be cleaned can be drawn into the body 110 along with air through the intake port 111. The intake port 111 may be referred to as the cleaner intake port 111.

[0068] The cleaner 10 may include a brush 130. The brush 130 may strike the surface being cleaned to splash dirt. The dirt splashed by the brush 130 may flow into the suction port 111 along with the air.

[0069] For example, the cleaner 10 may include a first brush 131 disposed at the suction port 111. The first brush 131 may be rotatably mounted relative to the body 110. The axis of rotation of the first brush 131 may be an axis extending along a generally horizontal direction (Y direction). The first brush 131 may be referred to as the main brush 131.

[0070] For example, the cleaner 10 may include a second brush 132 arranged adjacent to the lower edge of the body 110. The second brush 132 may guide dirt around the body 110 that the first brush 131 cannot reach to the suction port 111. The second brush 132 may be rotatably mounted relative to the body 110. The axis of rotation of the second brush 132 may be an axis extending in a generally vertical direction (Z direction). The second brush 132 may be referred to as a side brush 132.

[0071] The cleaner 10 may include a dust collection bin (not shown). Dirt and / or air drawn in through the suction port 111 can be moved to the dust collection bin. Dirt drawn in through the suction port 111 can be collected in the dust collection bin. Air drawn in through the suction port 111 can be filtered as it passes through the dust collection bin. Dirt and air drawn in through the suction port 111 can be separated in the dust collection bin.

[0072] The cleaner 10 may include an exhaust port 112. The exhaust port 112 may be formed on the body 110. The exhaust port 112 may be formed on the rear side of the body 110. Air drawn in through the intake port 111 may be filtered and discharged to the outside of the cleaner 10 through the exhaust port 112. For example, multiple exhaust ports 112 may be provided, and multiple exhaust ports may be formed using multiple holes. The exhaust port 112 may be referred to as the cleaner exhaust port 112.

[0073] Cleaner 10 may include suction motor 142 (see reference) Figure 14 The suction motor 142 generates suction force. Using the suction force generated in the suction motor 142, the suction port 111 can draw in dirt and / or air. Using the suction force generated in the suction motor 142, the exhaust port 112 can exhaust the filtered air drawn into the cleaner 10 to the outside. The suction motor 142 can be arranged in the airflow path formed between the suction port 111 and the exhaust port 112. The suction motor 142 can be referred to as the cleaner suction motor 142.

[0074] The cleaner 10 may include a travel section 120 for driving the cleaner 10. The travel section 120 may be mounted on the main body 110 and move the main body 110. For example, the travel section 120 may include a pair of main wheels 121. For example, for stable driving of the cleaner 10, the travel section 120 may also include at least one auxiliary wheel 122.

[0075] Cleaner 10 may include battery 150 (see reference) Figure 14 Battery 150 can be equipped as rechargeable. Battery 150 can provide the power required to drive the cleaner 10.

[0076] The cleaner 10 may include a charging terminal 151. The charging terminal 151 can be electrically connected to the battery 150. While the cleaner 10 is positioned at the base station 20, the charging terminal 151 of the cleaner 10 can be electrically connected to the charging terminal 218 of the base station 20. With the charging terminal 151 of the cleaner 10 electrically connected to the charging terminal 218 of the base station 20, the battery 150 of the cleaner 10 can be charged. That is, the battery 150 can be charged while the cleaner 10 is docked with the base station 20. The charging terminal 151 may be referred to as the cleaner charging terminal 151.

[0077] The cleaner 10 may include a damp cloth 160. The damp cloth 160 is detachably mountable to the lower part of the main body 110. The damp cloth 160 can be rotatably mounted relative to the main body 110. The damp cloth 160 can be configured to contact and clean the surface being cleaned. The damp cloth 160 can wipe away dirt from the surface being cleaned while still moist. Although two damp cloths 160 are shown in the accompanying drawings, the number of damp cloths 160 is not limited. The damp cloth 160 may be referred to as a cleaning pad 160. The damp cloth 160 may be referred to as a wet pad 160.

[0078] The wet cloth 160 can receive water from the water tank 114 of the cleaner 10. The wet cloth 160 can also receive water from the base station 20. For example, if the moisture content of the wet cloth 160 decreases during cleaning by the cleaner 10, water stored in the water tank 114 can be supplied to the wet cloth 160. For example, if the moisture content of the wet cloth 160 decreases during cleaning by the cleaner 10, the cleaner 10 can return to the base station 20 and be placed there. At this time, the base station 20 can supply water to the water tank 114 or spray water and / or steam toward the wet cloth 160. The cleaner 10 being placed (positioned) at the base station 20 can include a situation where the cleaner 10 is docked with the base station 20.

[0079] The cleaner 10 may include a water filling section 113. The water filling section 113 may be formed on the main body 110. The water filling section 113 may be formed on the rear side of the main body 110. During the period when the cleaner 10 is installed in the base station 20, the water filling section 113 may contain water supplied from the base station 20. The water supplied to the cleaner 10 through the water filling section 113 may be stored in a water tank 114. During the period when the cleaner 10 is installed in the base station 20, the water filling section 113 of the cleaner 10 may be connected to the first water supply section 217 of the base station 20 (see below). Figure 12 (Connection)

[0080] The cleaner 10 may include a rotary drive 161 that rotates the wet cloth 160 (see reference). Figure 14 The rotary drive unit 161 may include a motor. The rotary drive unit 161 may be referred to as motor 161. For example, during the cleaning process where the cleaner 10 is installed on the base station 20 and the wet cloth 160 is being washed and / or sterilized, the motor 161 can rotate the wet cloth 160. Although described later, the control unit 190 of the cleaner 10 (see reference 190) Figure 14 The motor 161 can be controlled to rotate the wet cloth 160.

[0081] The cleaner 10 may include a lifting drive unit 162 for moving the wet cloth 160 up and down (see reference). Figure 14During cleaning by the cleaner 10, the lifting drive unit 162 can move the wet cloth 160 downwards. This allows the wet cloth 160 to contact the surface being cleaned. When the cleaner 10 finishes cleaning and returns to the base station 20, the lifting drive unit 162 can move the wet cloth 160 upwards. This keeps the wet cloth 160 away from the surface being cleaned. This prevents the wet cloth 160 from colliding with obstacles on the surface being cleaned or leaving unnecessary moisture on the surface during the movement of the cleaner 10 to the base station 20. Although described later, the control unit 190 of the cleaner 10 (see...) Figure 14 The lifting drive unit 162 can control the up and down movement of the wet cloth 160.

[0082] The cleaner 10 may include an obstacle sensing sensor 170. The obstacle sensing sensor 170 may be configured to sense the position of an obstacle or the distance to an obstacle. The obstacle sensing sensor 170 may be mounted on the body 110. For example, the obstacle sensing sensor 170 may protrude from the upper surface 110a of the body 110.

[0083] The cleaner 10 may include a docking sensor 150s. The docking sensor 150s may exchange sensing signals (e.g., infrared signals) with the docking sensor 250s of the base station 20.

[0084] In one embodiment, the docking sensor 150s may include a signal transmitting unit (e.g., an infrared transmitting unit) and / or a signal receiving unit (e.g., an infrared receiving unit) and a sensor window for covering them. The sensor window may refer to a cover that allows sensing signals to pass through.

[0085] In one embodiment, during the period when the cleaner 10 is placed on the base station 20, the docking sensor 150s may be arranged to face each other with the docking sensor 250s of the base station 20.

[0086] For example, when the cleaner 10 docks with the base station 20 in the forward direction, the docking sensor 150s can be equipped in front of the cleaner 10, and when the cleaner 10 docks with the base station 20 in the rear direction, the docking sensor 150s can be equipped in the rear of the cleaner 10.

[0087] Although not shown in the accompanying drawings, the cleaner 10 may further include a front sensor. The front sensor may be configured to sense the position or distance to an obstacle in front of the cleaner 10. For example, the front sensor may include radar and / or a camera.

[0088] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating a base station according to one embodiment. Figure 8 It is shown Figure 7 The diagram shows the back of the base station. Figure 9 It is shown Figure 7 A diagram of the rear surface of the base station.

[0089] Base station 20 may include a main body 210. The main body 210 may form the overall appearance of base station 20. The main body 210 may form a housing space 210a for housing at least a portion of cleaner 10. The main body 210 may be referred to as base station main body 210.

[0090] The main body 210 may include a base 211 and a housing 212 that can be detachably attached to the base 211.

[0091] The base 211 may include a cleaner placement portion 211a for placing the cleaner 10. The cleaner placement portion 211a may have a shape that slopes upwards from the surface being cleaned to allow the cleaner 10 to enter. For example, the cleaner placement portion 211a may have a shape that slopes upwards along the direction in which the cleaner 10 enters the base station 20. For example, an anti-slip portion 216 may be formed in the cleaner placement portion 211a to allow the cleaner 10 to easily climb up the slope of the cleaner placement portion 211a. For example, an anti-slip step 215 may be formed in the cleaner placement portion 211a to prevent the cleaner 10 placed on the base station 20 from sliding along the slope of the cleaner placement portion 211a. The cleaner 10 placed on the base station 20 may be prevented from detaching from the base station 20 by means of the anti-slip step 215.

[0092] The base 211 may include a sidewall portion 211b extending upward from the cleaner mounting portion 211a. The sidewall portion 211b may be configured to surround at least a portion of the cleaner mounting portion 211a.

[0093] The housing 212 may be equipped with a side wall portion 211b covering the base 211. The housing 212 may house the components of the base station 20. Electronic components may be arranged inside the housing 212. The housing 212 may form an opening 212a, and the cleaner 10 may enter the housing space 210a of the base station 20 through the opening 212a.

[0094] Base station 20 may include a water tank 221. The water tank 221 may be configured to store water. The water tank 221 may contain relatively clean water. The water stored in the water tank 221 may be supplied to the water tank 114 of the cleaner 10, or may be supplied to the cleaning chamber 230 of the base station 20 (described later). That is, the water stored in the water tank 221 may be used to provide moisture to the wet cloth 160 or for cleaning the wet cloth 160. The water tank 221 can be detachably mounted to the main body 210. For example, a user can grasp the handle 221a of the water tank 221 to detach the water tank 221 from the main body 210 or to attach the water tank 221 to the main body 210.

[0095] Base station 20 may include a wastewater tank 222. The wastewater tank 222 may be configured to store water. The wastewater tank 222 can contain relatively dirty water. Water (wastewater) that becomes dirty while washing a wet cloth 160 can be stored in the wastewater tank 222. The wastewater tank 222 can be detachably mounted to the main body 210. For example, a user can grasp the handle 222a of the wastewater tank 222 to detach the wastewater tank 222 from the main body 210 or to attach the wastewater tank 222 to the main body 210.

[0096] Base station 20 may include a waste collection bin 223. Waste collection bin 223 may be equipped to store dust from cleaner 10 in bin 141 (see reference). Figure 18 The waste collection bin 223 is detachably mounted to the body 210. For example, a user can grasp the handle 223a of the waste collection bin 223 to detach the waste collection bin 223 from the body 210 or to attach the waste collection bin 223 to the body 210.

[0097] Although the accompanying drawings show the sewage tank 222, water supply tank 221 and waste collection tank 223 arranged side by side in a generally horizontal direction (Y direction), the positions of the sewage tank 222, water supply tank 221 and waste collection tank 223 are not restricted.

[0098] The base station 20 may include a suction port 213. The suction port 213 may be formed in the cleaner mounting portion 211a. While the cleaner 10 is mounted on the base station 20, the suction port 213 may communicate with the dust collection bin of the cleaner 10. The suction port 213 may be equipped to suck up the dirt collected in the dust collection bin. The suction port 213 may be referred to as the cleaner suction port 213.

[0099] Base station 20 may include a waste collection conduit 225. The waste collection conduit 225 may be configured to guide waste sucked in through suction port 213 to waste collection bin 223. The waste collection conduit 225 may be arranged between suction port 213 and waste collection bin 223. One end of the waste collection conduit 225 may communicate with suction port 213. The other end of the waste collection conduit 225 may communicate with waste collection bin 223.

[0100] Base station 20 may include exhaust port 214 (see reference) Figure 3 An exhaust port 214 may be formed on the rear side of the main body 210. An exhaust port 214 may also be formed on the rear surface of the housing 212. The exhaust port 214 allows filtered air drawn into the base station 20 to be discharged to the outside. For example, multiple exhaust ports 214 may be provided, and multiple exhaust ports 214 may be constructed using multiple holes. The exhaust port 214 may be referred to as a base station exhaust port 214.

[0101] Base station 20 may include a suction motor 224. When cleaner 10 is placed on base station 20, suction motor 224 can generate suction force to draw in dirt from dust collection bin. By means of the suction force of suction motor 224, dirt from dust collection bin can flow along suction port 112 and dirt collection pipe 225 to be collected in dirt collection bin 223. By means of the suction force generated in suction motor 224, exhaust port 214 can exhaust air drawn into base station 20 and passing through exhaust filter 226 to the outside. Suction motor 224 may be referred to as base station suction motor 224.

[0102] Base station 20 may include heating device 250. Heating device 250 may be equipped to heat water stored in water tank 221 and supply it to cleaning chamber 230, which will be described later.

[0103] That is, the heating device 250 can heat the water stored in the water supply tank 221 and can supply the heated water to the cleaning chamber 230.

[0104] The heating device 250 can generate steam (high-temperature water). The heating device 250 can use water stored in the water supply tank 221 to generate steam. The heating device 250 can receive water stored in the water supply tank 221 to generate steam.

[0105] From the viewpoint that the heating device 250 supplies steam to the cleaning chamber 230 by heating the water supplied from the water tank 221, the heating device 250 can also be referred to as a steam device.

[0106] The heating device 250 may be arranged below the water supply tank 221. When water is supplied to the heating device 250 from the water supply tank 221, at least one pump 21 may pump the water in the water supply tank 221 with relatively low power by means of gravity.

[0107] The heating device 250 may include a steam tank 251 that can contain water received from the water supply tank 221.

[0108] The heating device 250 may include a heater 252 equipped for heating water contained in a steam tank 251. Steam can be generated as the water in the steam tank 251 is heated by the heater 252. Although described later, the control unit 290 of the base station 20 (see...) Figure 15 (This can control heater 252.)

[0109] For example, heater 252 can heat water using vibration and / or resistance. However, this disclosure is not limited to the examples described above, and heater 252 is not limited in type as long as steam can be generated by heating water.

[0110] Heating device 250 may include a water level sensor 253 equipped to sense the water level in steam tank 251 (see reference). Figure 15 ). Control unit 290 of base station 20 (refer to) Figure 15 The heater 252 can be operated based on a predetermined water level sensed by the water level sensor 253. The situation in which the predetermined water level is sensed by the water level sensor 253 may include the situation in which the water level in the steam tank 251 is sensed by the water level sensor 253 reaching the predetermined water level.

[0111] Therefore, the heater 252 can only be operated when the steam tank 251 is filled with more than a predetermined amount of water, thereby preventing accidents such as fires in advance.

[0112] The heating device 250 may include a temperature sensor 254 (see reference) for sensing the temperature inside the steam tank 251. Figure 15 Although described later, the control unit 290 of base station 20 (see reference) Figure 15 The operation of heater 252 can be interrupted if the temperature sensed by temperature sensor 254 is higher than a predetermined temperature. Thus, in the event of excessively high steam temperature, the operation of heater 252 can be interrupted, thereby preventing accidents such as fires and protecting cleaning systems (e.g., wet wipes) from damage.

[0113] Base station 20 may include at least one piping 201, 202, 203, 204, 205, 206, 207, 208, or 209. Base station 20 may include at least one pump 21. Base station 20 may include at least one valve 23.

[0114] Base station 20 may include a first conduit 201. The first conduit 201 may be configured to connect a water tank 221 and a pump 21. One end of the first conduit 201 may be in communication with the water tank 221. The other end of the first conduit 201 may be in communication with the pump 21. The first conduit 201 may be configured to guide water flowing from the water tank 221 or from the pump 21. Water may flow along a first flow path formed inside the first conduit 201.

[0115] Base station 20 may include a second conduit 202. The second conduit 202 may be configured to connect pump 21 and valve 23. One end of the second conduit 202 may be connected to pump 21. The other end of the second conduit 202 may be connected to valve 23. The second conduit 202 may be configured to allow water pumped by pump 21 to flow. The second conduit 202 may be configured to guide water flowing from pump 21 or from valve 23. Water may flow along a second flow path formed within the second conduit 202.

[0116] Base station 20 may include a third conduit 203. The third conduit 203 may be arranged between pump 21 and valve 23. The third conduit 203 may be arranged between two valves 23. One end of the third conduit 203 may be connected to one valve 23. The other end of the third conduit 203 may be connected to another valve 23. The third conduit 203 may be configured to allow water pumped by pump 21 to flow. The third conduit 203 may be configured to guide water flowing from or from valve 23. Water may flow along a third flow path formed within the third conduit 203.

[0117] Base station 20 may include a fourth conduit 204. The fourth conduit 204 may be configured to connect valve 23 and base 211. The fourth conduit 204 may also connect valve 23 and second water supply unit 231. One end of the fourth conduit 204 may communicate with valve 23. The other end of the fourth conduit 204 may communicate with the second water supply unit 231. The remaining end of the fourth conduit 204 may communicate with cleaning chamber 230. The fourth conduit 204 may be configured to guide water flowing from valve 23. The fourth conduit 204 may be configured to guide water pumped by pump 21 to cleaning chamber 230. Water may flow along a fourth flow path formed inside the fourth conduit 204.

[0118] Base station 20 may include a fifth conduit 205. The fifth conduit 205 may be configured to connect valve 23 and heating device 250. One end of the fifth conduit 205 may be in communication with valve 23. The other end of the fifth conduit 205 may be in communication with heating device 250. The fifth conduit 205 may be configured to guide water flowing from valve 23 or from heating device 250. The fifth conduit 205 may be configured to guide water pumped by pump 21 to heating device 250. Thus, water stored in water tank 221 is guided by the fifth conduit 205 to flow to heating device 250. Alternatively, the fifth conduit 205 may be configured to guide water pumped by pump 21 to valve 23. Thus, water stored in heating device 250 can be guided by the fifth conduit 205 to flow to valve 23. Water may flow along a fifth flow path formed inside the fifth conduit 205.

[0119] For example, the fifth piping 205 can be connected to the lower part of the heating device 250. Water can be filled from below the steam tank 251 of the heating device 250.

[0120] Base station 20 may include a sixth conduit 206. The sixth conduit 206 may be configured to connect heating device 250 and base 211. The sixth conduit 206 may be configured to connect heating device 250 and steam supply unit 233. One end 206a of the sixth conduit 206 (see reference) Figure 9 It can be connected to the heating device 250. The other end 206b of the sixth pipe 206 (refer to...) Figure 9The sixth pipe 206 can be connected to the steam supply unit 233. The other end 206b of the sixth pipe 206 can be connected to the cleaning chamber 230. The sixth pipe 206 can be configured to guide the steam generated in the heating device 250. The sixth pipe 206 can be configured to guide the steam generated in the heating device 250 to the cleaning chamber 230. The steam can flow along a sixth flow path formed inside the sixth pipe 206.

[0121] For example, the sixth pipe 206 can be connected to the upper part of the heating device 250. Generally, considering that steam is less dense than air and therefore rises, the sixth pipe 206 can be connected to the upper part of the heating device 250.

[0122] For example, the sixth piping 206 may include a bend 2061 that is bent at the height between the heating device 250 and the water tank 221 (see reference). Figure 9 This prevents water and / or dirt in the cleaning chamber 230 from flowing back into the heating device 250.

[0123] Base station 20 may include a seventh conduit 207. The seventh conduit 207 may be configured to connect valve 23 and base 211. The seventh conduit 207 may be configured to connect valve 23 and first water supply unit 217. One end of the seventh conduit 207 may be in communication with valve 23. The other end of the seventh conduit 207 may be in communication with first water supply unit 217. The seventh conduit 207 may be configured to guide water flowing from valve 23. The seventh conduit 207 may be configured to guide water flowing in second conduit 202 to a cleaner 10 placed in base station 20. Water may flow along a seventh flow path formed inside the seventh conduit 207.

[0124] Base station 20 may include an eighth conduit 208. The eighth conduit 208 may be configured to connect wastewater tank 222 and pump 21. One end of the eighth conduit 208 may be in communication with wastewater tank 222. The other end of the eighth conduit 208 may be in communication with pump 21. The eighth conduit 208 may be configured to guide air flowing from wastewater tank 222. The air may flow along an eighth flow path formed within the eighth conduit 208.

[0125] Base station 20 may include a ninth conduit 209. The ninth conduit 209 may be configured to connect pump 21 and base 211. The ninth conduit 209 may also be configured to connect pump 21 and air vent 219 (see reference). Figures 10 to 12 One end of the ninth piping 209 may be connected to the pump 21. The other end of the ninth piping 209 may be connected to the outside through an air vent 219. The ninth piping 209 may be configured to guide air pumped by the pump 21. The air may flow along a ninth flow path formed inside the ninth piping 209.

[0126] Base station 20 may include a tenth conduit 2010. The tenth conduit 2010 may be configured to connect a wastewater tank 222 to a base 211. The tenth conduit 2010 may also be configured to connect the wastewater tank 222 to a wastewater collection unit 234. One end of the tenth conduit 2010 may communicate with the wastewater tank 222. The other end of the tenth conduit 2010 may communicate with the wastewater collection unit 234. The remaining end of the tenth conduit 2010 may communicate with a cleaning chamber 230. The tenth conduit 2010 may be configured to guide wastewater within the cleaning chamber 230. The wastewater may flow along a tenth flow path formed within the tenth conduit 2010.

[0127] Base station 20 may include waste collection pipe 225. Waste collection pipe 225 may be configured to connect waste collection bin 223 and base 211.

[0128] Base station 20 may include drying duct 261. Drying duct 261 may be configured to guide drying air. Drying duct 261 may be configured to guide air circulated by fan 262 and heated by heater 263 to base 211.

[0129] Base station 20 may include at least one pump 21. Pump 21 may be connected to a water tank 221. Pump 21 may be connected to a wastewater tank 222. Pump 21 may be connected to the water tank 221 via a first conduit 201. Pump 21 may be connected to the wastewater tank 222 via an eighth conduit 208. Pump 21 may be connected to a valve 23. Pump 21 may be connected to an air vent 219. Pump 21 may be connected to the valve 23 via a second conduit 202. Pump 21 may be connected to the air vent 219 via a ninth conduit 209. Pump 21 may be positioned between the water tank 221 and the valve 23. Pump 21 may be positioned between the wastewater tank 222 and the base 211.

[0130] Pump 21 may be configured to pump water stored in water supply tank 221. Pump 21 may be configured to pump air from sewage tank 222. Pump 21 may be configured to pump water contained in heating device 250.

[0131] For example, the rotation of the internal components of pump 21 (e.g., piston, rotor, or impeller) can generate power to flow water. For example, when the internal components of pump 21 rotate in a first direction, water stored in water supply tank 221 (see reference) is pumped. Figure 18 When the internal structure of pump 21 rotates in a second direction opposite to the first direction, pump 21 can pump water contained in heating device 250.

[0132] Base station 20 may include at least one valve 23. Valve 23 may be connected to a second conduit 202. Valve 23 may be connected to a third conduit 203. Valve 23 may be connected to a fourth conduit 204. Valve 23 may be connected to a fifth conduit 205. Valve 23 may be connected to a seventh conduit 207.

[0133] Valve 23 may be configured to connect the second piping 202 to the seventh piping 207, or to connect the second piping 202 to the third piping 203. Valve 23 may be configured to regulate the flow of water pumped by pump 21. Valve 23 may allow water pumped by pump 21 to flow to the first water supply unit 217 or to valve 23. For example, valve 23 may selectively open the seventh piping 207 and the third piping 203.

[0134] Valve 23 may be configured to connect the third pipe 203 to the fourth pipe 204, or to connect the third pipe 203 to the fifth pipe 205. Valve 23 may be configured to regulate the flow of water guided by the third pipe 203. Valve 23 may supply water guided by the third pipe 203 to the second water supply unit 231 or the heating device 250. For example, valve 23 may selectively open the fourth pipe 204 and the fifth pipe 205.

[0135] Base station 20 may include a drying device 260. The drying device 260 may be configured to generate air (hereinafter referred to as drying air) for drying the wet cloth 160. The drying device 260 may be configured to provide the drying air to the cleaning chamber 230 described later. That is, the drying device 260 may blow air towards the cleaning chamber 230.

[0136] While the cleaner 10 is in place at the base station 20, the drying air discharged from the drying device 260 can be directed toward the wet cloth 160 contained in the cleaning chamber 230 and / or the outside of the cleaning chamber 230.

[0137] The air generated and supplied in the drying unit 260 (drying air) may have a low relative humidity or a high temperature. Drying air may also be referred to as hot air or drying wind.

[0138] For example, after cleaning and / or sterilizing the wet cloth 160, the base station 20 can provide drying air to the wet cloth 160. For example, if the wet cloth 160 increases in moisture content while wiping the water off the cleaned surface during cleaning by the cleaner 10, the cleaner 10 can return to the base station 20, and the base station 20 can discharge drying air toward the wet cloth 160.

[0139] The drying apparatus 260 may include a fan 262 that generates airflow. The drying apparatus 260 may include a drying duct 261 configured to guide the air blown by the fan 262. The drying duct 261 may be configured to connect the fan 262 to the cleaning chamber 230 described later. The drying apparatus 260 may include a heater 263 configured to heat the air blown by the fan 262. The heater 263 may be configured to heat the air guided by the drying duct 261. At least a portion of the heater 263 may be disposed inside the drying duct 261.

[0140] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing a portion of a base station according to one embodiment. Figure 11 This is a diagram showing the state in which the cleaning frame in a base station according to an embodiment is separated from the cleaning chamber. Figure 12 This is a view showing a side cross-section of a base station based on a heating device according to an embodiment.

[0141] Base station 20 may include a cleaning chamber 230. During the period when cleaner 10 is placed in base station 20, cleaning chamber 230 may be configured to correspond to wet cloth 160. Cleaning chamber 230 may be defined as a space for cleaning wet cloth 160. Cleaning chamber 230 may be configured to contain water received from water tank 221. Cleaning chamber 230 may have a shape for containing water. During the period when cleaner 10 is placed in base station 20, wet cloth 160 can be cleaned by the water contained in cleaning chamber 230.

[0142] A cleaning chamber 230 may be formed in the base 211 of the main body 210. The cleaning chamber 230 may be configured to be recessed from the cleaner mounting portion 211a. The cleaning chamber 230 may be defined by a chamber bottom 230a and a chamber sidewall 230b extending upward from the chamber bottom 230a. The chamber sidewall 230b may be configured to have a predetermined height.

[0143] The bottom 230a of the chamber can be configured to slope downwards along the direction in which the cleaner 10 enters the base station 20. For example, the bottom 230a of the chamber can be configured to slope downwards in a rearward direction. Thus, after the wet cloth 160 has finished cleaning, the water (sewage) in the cleaning chamber 230 can easily flow along the inclined surface of the bottom 230a towards the sewage collection section 234 located at the rear of the cleaning chamber 230. However, this disclosure is not limited to this, and the inclination direction of the bottom 230a of the chamber can of course vary depending on the position of the sewage collection section 234.

[0144] For example, base station 20 may include a tray 2301. The tray 2301 may be configured as a base 211 detachably mounted to the body 210 to form at least a portion of the cleaning chamber 230. For example, the tray 2301 may be configured to form at least a portion of the chamber bottom 230a and the chamber sidewall 230b. The tray 2301 may include at least one tray hole 2302. Wastewater within the cleaning chamber 230 can flow through the tray hole 2302 to the wastewater collection section 234. Because the tray 2301 includes the tray hole 2302, foreign objects larger than the tray hole 2302 can be filtered out by the tray 2301. That is, the tray 2301 can initially filter wastewater after washing the wet cloth 160.

[0145] Base station 20 may include a cleaning frame 240. The cleaning frame 240 may be configured to correspond to a cleaning chamber 230. The cleaning frame 240 can be detachably mounted to the cleaning chamber 230. During the period when the cleaner 10 is placed in base station 20, the cleaning frame 240 may be configured to contact a damp cloth 160. During the period when the cleaner 10 is placed in base station 20, the cleaning frame 240 may be configured to rub against the damp cloth 160. The damp cloth 160 can be cleaned while rubbing against the cleaning frame 240. At this time, the damp cloth 160 may be configured to be rotatable.

[0146] As will be described later, when the wet cloth 160 is moved to the first position while the cleaner 10 is placed on the base station 20, the wet cloth 160 can be placed on the cleaning frame 240.

[0147] The cleaning frame 240 may include a frame body 240a, a frame protrusion 240b, and a frame opening 240c. The frame body 240a may be separably coupled to the chamber sidewall 230b. The frame opening 240c may be formed through the frame body 240a. The frame protrusion 240b may be formed in the frame body 240a to interfere with the wet cloth 160.

[0148] The frame body 240a may include a drying air jet 242, and the drying air jet 242 may be divided into an upper jet 242a and a lower jet 242b based on the plate including the frame protrusion 240b.

[0149] With the wet cloth 160 placed on the cleaning frame 240, the wet cloth 160 can close the frame opening 240c. If the wet cloth 160 closes the frame opening 240c, the cleaning chamber 230 can be defined by the chamber bottom 230a, the frame body 240a, and the chamber sidewall 230b.

[0150] Base station 20 may include docking sensors 250s. The docking sensors 250s may include a signal transmitting unit (e.g., an infrared transmitting unit) and / or a signal receiving unit (e.g., an infrared receiving unit) and a sensor window for covering them. The sensor window may refer to a cover that allows sensing signals to pass through.

[0151] The docking sensor 250s can be arranged to face each other with the docking sensor 150s of the cleaner 10 during the period when the cleaner 10 is placed on the base station 20.

[0152] The docking sensor 250s can be configured to transmit and receive signals with the docking sensor 150s of the cleaner 10 to determine whether the cleaner 10 is placed on the base station 20. The docking sensor 250s can assist in the placement of the cleaner 10 by transmitting and receiving signals with the docking sensor 150s of the cleaner 10.

[0153] Base station 20 may include a charging terminal 218. While cleaner 10 is positioned on base station 20, charging terminal 218 of base station 20 may be electrically connected to charging terminal 151 of cleaner 10. With charging terminal 218 of base station 20 electrically connected to charging terminal 151 of cleaner 10, battery 150 of cleaner 10 can be charged. That is, cleaner 10 can be charged while docked with base station 20. Charging terminal 218 may be referred to as base station charging terminal 218.

[0154] The base station 20 may include a first water supply unit 217. The first water supply unit 217 can receive water stored in a water tank 221 and supply it to the cleaner 10. While the cleaner 10 is placed on the base station 20, the first water supply unit 217 of the base station 20 can be connected to the water filling section 113 of the cleaner 10. Water flowing from the first water supply unit 217 can flow into the water filling section 113. Water flowing into the water filling section 113 can be stored in a water tank 114. If the moisture content of the wet cloth 160 decreases during cleaning by the cleaner 10, water stored in the water tank 114 can be supplied to the wet cloth 160. For example, the first water supply unit 217 may be formed on the side wall 211b of the base 211 of the main body 210.

[0155] Base station 20 may include a second water supply unit 231. The second water supply unit 231 may communicate with the cleaning chamber 230. The second water supply unit 231 may receive water stored in the water supply tank 221 and supply it to the cleaning chamber 230. Water flowing out of the second water supply unit 231 may be contained in the cleaning chamber 230. The water flowing out of the second water supply unit 231 may be used to clean the wet cloths 160. Although two second water supply units 231 are shown in the figures, the number of second water supply units 231 is not limited. For example, the number of second water supply units 231 may correspond to the number of wet cloths 160.

[0156] The base station 20 may include a water jet nozzle 241. The water jet nozzle 241 may be formed on the cleaning frame 240. While the cleaning frame 240 is installed in the cleaning chamber 230, the water jet nozzle 241 may correspond to the second water supply unit 231. The water jet nozzle 241 may communicate with the second water supply unit 231. The water jet nozzle 241 may communicate with the cleaning chamber 230. The water jet nozzle 241 can receive water from the second water supply unit 231 and spray water toward the cleaning chamber 230. While the cleaner 10 is placed in the base station 20, the water jet nozzle 241 may spray water toward the wet cloth 160. Although two water jet nozzles 241 are shown in the figures, the number of water jet nozzles 241 is not limited. For example, the number of water jet nozzles 241 may correspond to the number of wet cloths 160.

[0157] Base station 20 may include a drying air supply unit 232. The drying air supply unit 232 may communicate with the cleaning chamber 230. The drying air supply unit 232 may receive drying air from the drying device 260 and supply it to the cleaning chamber 230. Drying air flowing out of the drying device 260 may be supplied to the cleaning chamber 230 via the drying air supply unit 232. Although two drying air supply units 232 are shown in the figures, the number of drying air supply units 232 is not limited. For example, the number of drying air supply units 232 may correspond to the number of wet cloths 160.

[0158] The base station 20 may include a drying air jet 242. The drying air jet 242 may be formed on the cleaning frame 240. During the period when the cleaning frame 240 is installed in the cleaning chamber 230, the drying air jet 242 may correspond to the drying air supply unit 232. The drying air jet 242 may communicate with the drying air supply unit 232. The drying air jet 242 may communicate with the cleaning chamber 230. The drying air jet 242 may receive drying air from the drying air supply unit 232 and jet drying air toward the cleaning chamber 230. During the period when the cleaner 10 is placed in the base station 20, the drying air jet 242 may jet drying air toward the wet cloth 160. Although the accompanying drawings show two vertically arranged drying air jets 242 corresponding to one drying air supply unit 232, this disclosure is not limited thereto. The shape and / or position of the drying air jet 242 are not limited.

[0159] Base station 20 may include a steam supply unit 233. The steam supply unit 233 may be in communication with the cleaning chamber 230. The steam supply unit 233 may receive steam from the heating device 250 and supply it to the cleaning chamber 230. The steam generated in the heating device 250 may flow out through the steam supply unit 233 toward the cleaning chamber 230. Although only one steam supply unit 233 is shown in the figures, the number of steam supply units 233 is not limited. For example, multiple steam supply units 233 may also be provided.

[0160] The base station 20 may include a steam jet port 243. The steam jet port 243 may be formed on the cleaning frame 240. While the cleaning frame 240 is installed in the cleaning chamber 230, the steam jet port 243 may correspond to the steam supply unit 233. The steam jet port 243 may communicate with the steam supply unit 233. The steam jet port 243 may communicate with the cleaning chamber 230. The steam jet port 243 can receive steam from the steam supply unit 233 and jet steam towards the cleaning chamber 230. While the cleaner 10 is placed in the base station 20, the steam jet port 243 may jet steam towards the wet cloth 160. Although two steam jet ports 243 are shown in the figures, the number of steam jet ports 243 is not limited. For example, the number of steam jet ports 243 may correspond to the number of wet cloths 160.

[0161] Base station 20 may include a wastewater collection unit 234. The wastewater collection unit 234 may be in communication with the cleaning chamber 230. The wastewater collection unit 234 may be configured to collect wastewater within the cleaning chamber 230. The wastewater collection unit 234 may be configured to guide the wastewater within the cleaning chamber 230.

[0162] Figure 13 This is a view showing a side cross-section of a base station based on a drying apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0163] Reference Figure 13 The drying pipe 261 can be connected to the cleaning chamber 230.

[0164] If the drying device 260 is driven, air can be supplied to the cleaning chamber 230 through the drying air supply unit 232.

[0165] The drying air supply unit 232 may include a flow path for air supplied to the cleaning chamber 230 via the drying device 260.

[0166] The cleaning frame 240 may include a drying air jet 242.

[0167] The drying air jet 242 can divide the air supply path to the cleaning chamber 230 into at least two paths.

[0168] During the period when the cleaning frame 240 is installed in the cleaning chamber 230, the drying air supply unit 232 can be divided into a first flow path 242a and a second flow path 242b by means of the cleaning frame 240.

[0169] The cleaning frame 240 may include a guide member 240g for dividing the drying air supply unit 232 into a first flow path 242a and a second flow path 242b.

[0170] The guide component 240g can correspond to the frame body 240a of the cleaning frame 240.

[0171] Air flowing through the drying pipe 261 driven by the drying device 260 can flow to the cleaning chamber 230 through the first flow path 242a and the second flow path 242b.

[0172] When the cleaner 10 is installed in the base station 20, the wet cloth 160 is contained in the cleaning chamber 230, and air is supplied to the cleaning chamber 230 through the first flow path 242a and the second flow path 242b by the drive of the drying device 260, thereby drying the wet cloth 160.

[0173] Figure 14 A control block diagram of a cleaner according to one embodiment is shown.

[0174] Reference Figure 14 According to one embodiment, the cleaner 10 may include a docking sensor 150s, an obstacle sensing sensor 170, a humidity sensor 171, a battery 150, a user interface 181, a driving unit 120, a brush motor 133, a suction motor 142, a drive unit 163, a communication unit 182, and / or a control unit 190.

[0175] For ease of explanation, the control unit 190 of the cleaner 10 will be referred to as the first control unit 190 in the following text.

[0176] The docking sensor 150s can communicate with the docking sensor 250s of the base station 20 in a non-contact manner using electromagnetic waves such as infrared, visible light, or ultrasound. The docking sensor 150s can be equipped at the rear of the main body 110, and can transmit and receive electromagnetic waves (e.g., infrared) with the docking sensor 250s of the base station 20 when the cleaner 10 is docked with the base station 20.

[0177] The docking sensor 150s can detect infrared light reflected from the docking sensor 250s after infrared light is irradiated, and can output the intensity of the detected infrared light or the time interval (time of flight (TOF)) from the time of infrared light irradiation to the time of detection of reflected infrared light after infrared light irradiation to the first control unit 190.

[0178] The docking sensor 150s can output to the first control unit 190 the intensity of the infrared light detected after the infrared light is irradiated from the docking sensor 250s of the base station 20, or the time interval (Time of Flight (TOF)) from the time the infrared light is irradiated until the reflected infrared light is detected.

[0179] When the cleaner 10 needs to dock with the base station 20, the first control unit 190 can control the driving unit 120 based on the data collected by the docking sensor 150s.

[0180] The obstacle sensing sensor 170 senses obstacles that impede the movement of the cleaner 10. An obstacle can refer to any object that protrudes from the floor of the cleaning area and obstructs the movement of the cleaner 10. For example, not only furniture such as tables and sofas located in the cleaning area, but also walls that divide the space can be considered obstacles, and objects that the cleaner 10 can raise and lower, such as thresholds or round bars, can also be considered obstacles.

[0181] Specifically, the obstacle sensing sensor 170 can use electromagnetic waves such as infrared light, visible light, or ultrasonic waves to sense obstacles in a non-contact manner. For example, the obstacle sensing sensor 170 can detect infrared light reflected from an obstacle after infrared light is irradiated, and can output the intensity of the detected infrared light or the time interval (Time of Flight (TOF)) from the time the infrared light is irradiated until the reflected infrared light is detected to the first control unit 190.

[0182] The first control unit 190 can calculate the presence or absence of an obstacle or the distance between the obstacle and the cleaner 10 based on the output value of the obstacle sensing sensor 170.

[0183] As another example, the obstacle sensing sensor 170 may include a transmitter that radiates electromagnetic waves and a receiver that receives electromagnetic waves reflected from an obstacle.

[0184] The emitting unit can be mounted in front of the main body 110 of the cleaner 10 to emit electromagnetic waves toward the front of the main body 110. Furthermore, depending on the embodiment, the emitting unit may also include an LED that generates electromagnetic waves and a wide-angle lens that refracts the emitted electromagnetic waves to spread the electromagnetic waves in all directions.

[0185] As yet another example, obstacle sensing sensor 170 may include a camera that acquires images of the vicinity of cleaner 10 (e.g., in front, behind, and / or to the side).

[0186] The first control unit 190 can calculate the presence or absence of an obstacle or the distance between the obstacle and the cleaner 10 based on the image acquired by the obstacle sensing sensor 170.

[0187] The humidity sensor 171 may include at least one sensor for measuring the humidity (or moisture content) of the wet cloth 160.

[0188] In one embodiment, humidity sensor 171 can measure changes in moisture content in the air. Humidity sensor 171 can be positioned around a damp cloth 160 to measure the humidity (or moisture content) of the damp cloth 160. In this case, the output humidity of humidity sensor 171 can be proportional to the moisture content of the damp cloth 160.

[0189] The first control unit 190 can determine the humidity (or moisture content) of the wet cloth 160 based on the humidity measured by the humidity sensor 171.

[0190] In one embodiment, the humidity sensor 171 can measure the intensity of electromagnetic waves reflected from the wet cloth 160 after the wet cloth 160 is irradiated with light such as infrared or visible light or electromagnetic waves such as ultrasonic waves, and / or the time interval until the reflected electromagnetic waves are detected after the electromagnetic waves are irradiated.

[0191] For example, the humidity sensor 171 may include a light-emitting part that illuminates the wet cloth 160 and a light-receiving part that receives the light reflected from the wet cloth 160.

[0192] The first control unit 190 can determine the humidity (or moisture content) of the wet cloth 160 based on the output value of the humidity sensor 171.

[0193] The first control unit 190 can perform various operations based on the humidity (or moisture content) of the wet cloth 160. For example, the first control unit 190 can control the travel unit 120 to return the cleaner 10 to the base station 20 based on the measured humidity of the wet cloth 160 being above a predetermined maximum humidity. As another example, the first control unit 190 can control the travel unit 120 to return the cleaner 10 to the base station 20 based on the measured humidity of the wet cloth 160 being below a predetermined minimum humidity.

[0194] Battery 150 can supply power to various electronic components of cleaner 10. Battery 150 can be charged while cleaner 10 is placed at base station 20.

[0195] The cleaner 10 may include a battery sensor that senses the charge level of the battery 150.

[0196] If the charge level of the battery 150 drops below a predetermined charge level, the first control unit 190 can control the driving unit 120 to return the cleaner 10 to the base station 20.

[0197] User interface 181 may include output interface and input interface.

[0198] At least one output interface can transmit various information related to the operation of the cleaner 10 to the user by generating sensory information.

[0199] For example, at least one output interface can transmit information related to the settings of the cleaner 10 and the operating time of the cleaner 10 to the user. Information about the operation of the cleaner 10 can be output through a display, indicator, and / or sound. For example, at least one output interface may include a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, an indicator, a light-emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0200] In the case of a display including a touch screen display, the touch screen display can be an example of an output interface and an input interface.

[0201] In one embodiment, at least one output interface can output sensory information (e.g., visual information, auditory information, etc.) related to the control of the cleaner 10.

[0202] At least one input interface can convert sensory information received from the user into electrical signals.

[0203] At least one input interface may include a power button for turning on the power to the cleaner 10.

[0204] Each button may include a visual indicator (e.g., a phrase, an icon, etc.) that can indicate its function.

[0205] For example, at least one input interface may include a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touchpad, a touch screen, a micro dial, and / or a microphone, etc.

[0206] In this disclosure, a "button" may be replaced by a user interface element, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touchpad, a touch screen, a micro dial, and / or a microphone.

[0207] The cleaner 10 can process user input received through the user interface 181 and can output information related to the cleaner 10 through the user interface 181.

[0208] In one embodiment, the user interface 181 may include an input interface for receiving wet cloth cleaning commands and / or wet cloth steam commands.

[0209] If it is determined that the wet cloth 160 of the cleaner 10 needs to be cleaned or sterilized, the user can input a wet cloth cleaning command and / or a wet cloth steam command through the input interface.

[0210] If a wet cloth cleaning command and / or a wet cloth steam command are input via the input interface, the cleaner 10 can return to the base station 20.

[0211] If a wet cloth cleaning command and / or a wet cloth steam command are input through the input interface, the cleaner 10 can transmit a wet cloth cleaning request signal and / or a wet cloth steam request signal to the base station 20.

[0212] Accordingly, if the cleaner 10 returns to the base station 20 and docks with the base station 20, the base station 20 can perform a washing cycle (e.g., a cleaning cycle and / or a steam cycle).

[0213] The driving unit 120 may include driving wheels 121 and 122 mounted on the main body 110 and wheel motors that provide power to the driving wheels 121 and 122.

[0214] The driving wheels 121 and 122 can move the main body 110 by rotating. By rotating the driving wheels 122, the main body 110 can move forward, backward, or rotate. For example, if both the left and right driving wheels 121 and 122 rotate forward, the main body 110 can move forward in a straight line; if both the left and right driving wheels 121 and 122 rotate backward, the main body 110 can move backward in a straight line.

[0215] Furthermore, if the left and right driving wheels 121 and 122 rotate in the same direction but at different speeds, the main body 110 will move to the right or left in a curved path. If the left and right driving wheels 121 and 122 rotate in different directions, the main body 110 can rotate from its original position to the left or right.

[0216] The wheel motor generates rotational force to rotate the travel wheels 121 and 122. The wheel motor can be a DC motor or a BLDC motor, but the embodiment of the cleaner 10 is not limited to the type of wheel motor. The same applies to other motors included in the cleaner 10 in addition to the wheel motor.

[0217] Wheel motors may include a left wheel motor that rotates the left driving wheel and a right wheel motor that rotates the right driving wheel.

[0218] Each of the left and right side wheel motors can operate independently of each other according to the control signal of the first control unit 190, and the main body 110 can move forward, backward or rotate according to the operation of the left and right side wheel motors.

[0219] The first control unit 190 can control the movement of the cleaner 10 by controlling the driving unit 120 (e.g., a wheel motor).

[0220] The brush motor 133 can rotate the brush 130.

[0221] The first control unit 190 can control the brush motor 133 to rotate the brush 130 during dry cleaning, thereby causing foreign objects on the ground to be scattered by the brush 130.

[0222] The suction motor 142 can suck foreign objects scattered by the brush 130 into the dust collection bin and cause the suction fan, which generates suction force to suck the foreign objects into the dust collection bin, to rotate.

[0223] The first control unit 190 can control the suction motor 142 to rotate the suction fan during the dry cleaning process, so that foreign objects scattered by the brush 130 can flow into the dust collection bin through the suction port 111.

[0224] The first control unit 190 can adjust the intensity of the suction motor 142. The intensity of the suction motor 142 can correspond to the rotational speed of the suction motor 142 and / or the duty cycle of the suction motor 142.

[0225] The drive unit 163 may include a rotation drive unit 161 for rotating the wet cloth 160 and / or a lifting drive unit 162 for raising or lowering the wet cloth 160.

[0226] The first control unit 190 can rotate the wet cloth 160 by controlling the rotary drive unit 161. The rotary drive unit 161 may include a motor for rotating the wet cloth 160 and a drive circuit for driving the motor.

[0227] The first control unit 190 can raise or lower the wet cloth 160 by controlling the lifting drive unit 162. That is, the first control unit 190 can move the wet cloth 160 by controlling the lifting drive unit 162. The lifting drive unit 162 may include an actuator capable of moving the wet cloth 160.

[0228] The communication unit 182 can communicate with external devices (e.g., servers, user equipment, base stations 20) via wired and / or wireless communication.

[0229] The communication unit 182 can transmit data to or receive data from external devices (e.g., servers, user equipment, base station 20). To this end, the communication unit 182 can support the establishment of direct (e.g., wired) or wireless communication channels between external devices and perform communication through these established communication channels. According to one embodiment, the communication unit 182 may include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module or a power line communication module). The respective communication modules can communicate with external devices through a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, WiFi Direct, or IrDA) or a second network (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a traditional cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN). These various communication modules can be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip), or they can be implemented as multiple independent components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0230] Short-range wireless communication modules can include, but are not limited to, Bluetooth communication modules, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication modules, Near Field Communication modules, WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication modules, Zigbee communication modules, IrDA (infrared Data Association) communication modules, WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication modules, UWB (ultrawideband) communication modules, Ant+ communication modules, and uWave microwave communication modules.

[0231] The long-distance communication module may include communication modules that perform various types of long-distance communication, and may include a mobile communication interface. The mobile communication interface transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, or a server in a mobile communication network.

[0232] In one embodiment, the communication unit 182 can communicate with external devices via surrounding connection repeaters (access points (APs)). The connection repeater (AP) can connect the local area network (LAN) to which the cleaner 10 is connected to to the wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The cleaner 10 can then connect to the server via the WAN.

[0233] In one embodiment, the communication unit 182 can communicate wirelessly with the base station 20.

[0234] The first control unit 190 can control the overall operation of the cleaner 10.

[0235] The first control unit 190 may include at least one processor 191 for controlling the operation of the cleaner 10 and at least one memory 192 storing programs and data for controlling the operation of the cleaner 10.

[0236] At least one processor 191 controls the overall operation of the cleaner 10. Specifically, at least one processor 191 may be connected to various components of the cleaner 10 to control the overall operation of the cleaner 10. For example, at least one processor 191 may be electrically connected to a memory 192 to control the overall operation of the cleaner 10. The processor 191 may be configured using one or more processors.

[0237] At least one processor 191 can perform the operation of the cleaner 10 according to various embodiments by executing at least one instruction stored in memory 192.

[0238] At least one memory 192 can store data required for various embodiments. Depending on the data storage purpose, the memory 192 can be implemented as a memory embedded in the cleaner 10, or it can be implemented as a memory removable from the cleaner 10. For example, data for driving the cleaner 10 can be stored in a memory embedded in the cleaner 10, while data for extended functions of the cleaner 10 can be stored in a memory removable from the cleaner 10. Additionally, the memory embedded in the cleaner 10 can be implemented as at least one of the following: volatile memory (e.g., dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), or synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM)); non-volatile memory (e.g., one-time programmable ROM, programmable ROM (PROM), erasable and programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable and programmable ROM (EEPROM), mask ROM, flash ROM, flash memory (e.g., NAND flash or NOR flash), hard disk drive, and solid state hard disk drive (SSD)). Furthermore, the memory that can be removably installed in the cleaner 10 can be implemented in the form of a memory card (e.g., compact flash (CF), secure digital (SD), micro-secure digital (Micro-SD), mini secure digital (Mini-SD), extreme digital (xD), multi-media card (MMC), etc.) or an external memory that can be connected to a USB port (e.g., USB memory).

[0239] At least one processor 191 may include one or more of a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an accelerated processing unit (APU), a many integrated core (MIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), a neural processing unit (NPU), a hardware accelerator, and a machine learning accelerator. At least one processor 191 may control one or any combination of other components of the cleaner 10 and may perform operations related to communication or data processing. At least one processor 191 may execute at least one program or instruction stored in memory 192. For example, at least one processor 191 may perform a method according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure by executing at least one instruction stored in memory 192.

[0240] In one embodiment, the first control unit 190 can control the drive unit 163 according to predetermined conditions. Controlling the drive unit 163 may include rotating or moving the wet cloth 160. Moving the wet cloth 160 may include raising or lowering the wet cloth 160.

[0241] In one embodiment, the first control unit 190 can control the driving unit 120 according to predetermined conditions. Controlling the driving unit 120 may include moving the cleaner 10.

[0242] In one embodiment, the first control unit 190 can control the brush motor 133 and / or the suction motor 142 according to predetermined conditions.

[0243] Figure 15 A control block diagram of a base station according to one embodiment is shown.

[0244] Reference Figure 15 The base station 20 may include a docking sensing sensor 270, a suction motor 224, a user interface 281, a communication unit 282, at least one pump 21, at least one valve 23, a heating device 250, a drying device 260, and / or a control unit 290.

[0245] For ease of explanation, the control unit 290 of the base station 20 will be referred to as the second control unit 290 in the following text.

[0246] The docking sensing sensor 270 can sense whether the cleaner 10 is docked with the base station 20. The docking sensing sensor 270 may include at least one sensor that senses mechanical changes and / or electrical changes when the cleaner 10 docks with the base station 20.

[0247] For example, docking sensing sensor 270 may include a sensor that senses whether the charging terminal 151 of cleaner 10 is electrically connected to the charging terminal 218 of base station 20. As yet another example, docking sensing sensor 270 may include a sensor (e.g., an elastic sensor) that senses mechanical deformation of cleaner 10 when it is docked.

[0248] As another embodiment, the docking sensing sensor 270 may include the aforementioned docking sensor 250s.

[0249] The second control unit 290 can determine whether the cleaner 10 is placed at the base station based on the output value of the docking sensing sensor 270.

[0250] The suction motor 224 can generate suction force for sucking up dirt from the dust collection bin.

[0251] The second control unit 290 can suck the dirt from the dust collection bin into the dirt collection bin 223 by operating the suction motor 224.

[0252] The operation of the suction motor 224 operated by the second control unit 290 to suck the dirt from the dust collection bin into the dirt collection bin 223 can be referred to as the suction stroke.

[0253] User interface 281 may include output interface and input interface.

[0254] At least one output interface can transmit various information related to the operation of the base station to the user by generating sensory information.

[0255] For example, at least one output interface can transmit information related to the base station's settings and operating time to the user. Information about the base station's operation can be output via a display, indicator, and / or voice. At least one output interface may include a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, an indicator, a light-emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0256] In the case of a display including a touch screen display, the touch screen display can be an example of an output interface and an input interface.

[0257] In one embodiment, at least one output interface can output sensory information (e.g., visual information, auditory information, etc.) related to the control of the base station.

[0258] At least one input interface can convert sensory information received from the user into electrical signals.

[0259] At least one input interface may include a power button for powering on the base station.

[0260] Each button may include a visual indicator (e.g., a phrase, an icon, etc.) that can indicate its function.

[0261] For example, at least one input interface may include a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touchpad, a touch screen, a micro dial, and / or a microphone, etc.

[0262] In this disclosure, "button" may be replaced by a user interface element, tact switch, push switch, slide switch, toggle switch, micro switch, touch switch, touchpad, touch screen, micro dial and / or microphone.

[0263] Base station 20 can process user input received through user interface 281, and can also output base station-related information through user interface 281.

[0264] In one embodiment, the user interface 281 may include an input interface for receiving wet cloth cleaning commands and / or wet cloth steam commands.

[0265] If it is determined that the wet cloth 160 of the cleaner 10 needs to be washed (e.g., cleaned or sterilized), the user can input a wet cloth washing command (e.g., a clean command and / or a wet cloth steam command) through the input interface.

[0266] Base station 20 can execute a washing cycle (e.g., a cleaning cycle and / or a steaming cycle) and / or a drying cycle in response to a wet cloth washing command input through user interface 281.

[0267] The communication unit 282 can communicate with external devices (e.g., servers, user equipment, cleaner 10) via wired and / or wireless communication.

[0268] Communication unit 282 can transmit data to or receive data from external devices (e.g., servers, user equipment, cleaner 10). To this end, communication unit 282 can support the establishment of direct (e.g., wired) or wireless communication channels between external devices and perform communication through the established communication channels. According to one embodiment, communication unit 282 may include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module or a power line communication module). The respective communication modules can communicate with external devices through a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, WiFi Direct, or IrDA) or a second network (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a traditional cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN). These various communication modules can be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip), or they can be implemented as multiple independent components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0269] Short-range wireless communication modules can include, but are not limited to, Bluetooth communication modules, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication modules, Near Field Communication modules, WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication modules, Zigbee communication modules, IrDA (infrared Data Association) communication modules, WFD (Wi-Fi Direct) communication modules, UWB (ultrawideband) communication modules, Ant+ communication modules, and uWave microwave communication modules.

[0270] The long-distance communication module may include communication modules that perform various types of long-distance communication, and may include a mobile communication interface. The mobile communication interface transmits and receives wireless signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, or a server in a mobile communication network.

[0271] In one embodiment, the communication unit 282 can communicate with external devices via surrounding connection repeaters (access points (APs)). The connection repeater (AP) can connect the local area network (LAN) to which the cleaner 10 is connected to to the wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The cleaner 10 can then connect to the server via the WAN.

[0272] In one embodiment, the communication unit 282 can communicate wirelessly with the cleaner 10.

[0273] Various examples can be used to communicate between the cleaner 10 and the base station 20.

[0274] In one embodiment, the cleaner 10 and the base station 20 can communicate directly via a short-range communication module.

[0275] In one embodiment, the cleaner 10 and the base station 20 can communicate directly via wired communication while the cleaner 10 and the base station 20 are connected.

[0276] In one embodiment, the cleaner 10 and the base station 20 can communicate indirectly via an external server through a long-distance communication module.

[0277] Indirect communication via an external server may include the following scenarios: if the cleaner 10 transmits a predetermined signal to the external server, the external server will transmit the predetermined signal received from the cleaner 10 to the base station 20 and / or if the base station 20 transmits a predetermined signal to the external server, the external server will transmit the predetermined signal received from the base station 20 to the cleaner 10.

[0278] At least one pump 21 may be configured to pump water stored in a water supply tank 221 to the heating device 250 or to pump water contained in the heating device 250.

[0279] When the internal configuration of at least one pump 21 rotates in a first direction, it pumps water stored in the water supply tank 221, and when the internal configuration of at least one pump 21 rotates in a second direction opposite to the first direction, it pumps water contained in the heating device 250.

[0280] At least one pump 21 may be equipped to pump air into the wastewater tank 222. The air inside the wastewater tank 222 may be discharged from the wastewater tank 222 by means of at least one pump 21.

[0281] Base station 20 can perform the operation of collecting wastewater from cleaning chamber 230. At least one pump 21 can pump air out of wastewater tank 222. If the air in wastewater tank 222 is discharged to the outside, the inside of wastewater tank 222 can become negative pressure, and the wastewater contained in cleaning chamber 230 can flow to wastewater tank 222.

[0282] The second control unit 290 can control the pumping direction of at least one pump 21 and can enable at least one pump 21 to operate.

[0283] The second control unit 290 can operate at least one pump 21.

[0284] A water level sensor (not shown) equipped in the sewage tank 222 can transmit information related to the water level of the sewage tank 222 to the second control unit 290.

[0285] The second control unit 290 can control at least one pump 21 based on information obtained through a water level sensor. The second control unit 290 can also interrupt at least one pump 21 when the water level in the sewage tank 222 reaches a preset level.

[0286] At least one valve 23 may be configured to regulate the flow of water pumped by at least one pump 21, and may be operated based on a control signal from the second control unit 290.

[0287] The heating device 250 may include a heater 252, a water level sensor 253 and / or a temperature sensor 254.

[0288] The heater 252 can be equipped to heat the water contained in the steam tank 251 and can be operated based on the control signal of the second control unit 290.

[0289] A water level sensor 253 can be configured to sense the water level inside the steam tank 251.

[0290] For example, the water level sensor 253 can be implemented as a pressure sensor, light sensor, ultrasonic sensor, etc., capable of measuring the water level in the steam tank 251.

[0291] As another example, the water level sensor 253 can be implemented as an electrode sensor capable of sensing that the water level in the steam tank 251 has reached a predetermined water level.

[0292] The water level sensor 253 can transmit information about the water level in the steam tank 251 to the second control unit 290.

[0293] In one embodiment, the water level sensor 253 can sense that the water level in the steam tank 251 has reached a predetermined water level, and can be configured to transmit an electrical signal to the second control unit 290 in response to the water level in the steam tank 251 reaching the predetermined water level.

[0294] The second control unit 290 can operate the heater 252 based on a predetermined water level sensed by the water level sensor 253.

[0295] Temperature sensor 254 may be configured to sense the temperature inside steam barrel 251 and transmit information related to the temperature inside steam barrel 251 to second control unit 290.

[0296] In one embodiment, the second control unit 290 can control the heater 252 based on temperature information received from the temperature sensor 254. For example, the second control unit 290 can interrupt the operation of the heater 252 based on reaching the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 254.

[0297] The second control unit 290 can perform a steam stroke by driving at least one pump 21, at least one valve 23 and heating device 250 as described above.

[0298] In one embodiment, the second control unit 290 may start the washing cycle in response to the satisfaction of the washing cycle start conditions.

[0299] The second control unit 290 can drive the heating device 250 in a manner that controls the heating device 250 by spraying heated water (e.g., steam) from the heating device 250 into the cleaning chamber 230.

[0300] With the heating device 250 activated, steam can be supplied to the cleaning chamber 230.

[0301] In response to the start of the steam stroke, the second control unit 290 can connect the water supply tank 221 to the steam tank 251 by controlling at least one valve 23, and control at least one pump 21 to pump water stored in the water supply tank 221. Accordingly, the water stored in the water supply tank 221 can flow to the heating device 250.

[0302] Subsequently, the second control unit 290 can operate the heater 252 based on a predetermined water level sensed by the water level sensor 253, so as to spray heated water (steam) from the heating device 250 into the cleaning chamber 230. The second control unit 290 can also stop the operation of at least one pump 21 based on a predetermined water level sensed by the water level sensor 253.

[0303] The second control unit 290 operates the heater 252 until the steam cycle ends based on the predetermined water level sensed by the water level sensor 253, and temporarily interrupts the operation of the heater 252 during the steam cycle based on the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 254 reaching the predetermined temperature, thereby preventing the heater 252 from overheating.

[0304] The second control unit 290 can terminate the steam cycle based on the satisfaction of the steam cycle termination conditions.

[0305] In one embodiment, the second control unit 290 may terminate the steam cycle in response to a predetermined water level (minimum water level) sensed by the water level sensor 253.

[0306] In one embodiment, the second control unit 290 may end the washing cycle in response to the execution time of the washing cycle elapsed for a predetermined period of time.

[0307] In one embodiment, the washing cycle may include a cycle (washing cycle) in which heated water stored in the water supply tank 221 is supplied to the washing chamber 230 via the second water supply unit 231 after the heating device 250 heats the water.

[0308] The second control unit 290 can control the communication unit 282 to transmit a signal indicating the end of the washing cycle to the cleaner 10 in response to the end of the steam cycle.

[0309] The second control unit 290 can perform a water recycling operation in response to the end of the washing cycle.

[0310] In one embodiment, the second control unit 290 may perform a water recycling operation based on a predetermined time elapsed after the end of the washing cycle.

[0311] In one embodiment, the second control unit 290 may perform a water recycling operation based on a predetermined time elapsed after the heater 252 is disconnected in response to the end of the washing cycle.

[0312] The preset time can be set to the time it takes for the water heated by the heating device 250 to cool down sufficiently.

[0313] In one embodiment, the second control unit 290 may perform a water recycling operation based on the temperature sensing by the temperature sensor dropping below a predetermined temperature after the heater 252 is disconnected in response to the end of the washing cycle.

[0314] According to this disclosure, hot water can be recycled to water supply tank 221 to prevent microorganisms from multiplying in water supply tank 221.

[0315] In response to the end of the washing cycle, the second control unit 290 can connect the heating device 250 to the water supply tank 221 by controlling at least one valve 23, and control at least one pump 21 to pump the water remaining in the heating device 250. Accordingly, the water contained in the heating device 250 can flow to the water supply tank 221.

[0316] In response to the end of the washing cycle, the second control unit 290 can connect the washing chamber 230 to the wastewater tank 222 by controlling at least one valve 23, and control at least one pump 21 to pump air from the wastewater tank 222 to the outside. Accordingly, water contained in the washing chamber 230 can flow to the wastewater tank 222.

[0317] The second control unit 290 can stop the heating device 250 in response to the end of the washing cycle. Stopping the heating device 250 may include disconnecting the heater 252.

[0318] The second control unit 290 can terminate the water recycling operation according to various conditions.

[0319] In one embodiment, the second control unit 290 may terminate the water recycling operation in response to a predetermined time elapsed during the execution time of the water recycling operation.

[0320] In one embodiment, if the water recycling operation is completed, the second control unit 290 may start the drying process.

[0321] The drying device 260 may include a heater 263 for heating air and a fan 262 for blowing the heated air. The air heated by the heater 263 may be blown into the cleaning chamber 230 according to the operation of the fan 262.

[0322] The second control unit 290 can control the drying device 260 to send heated air into the cleaning chamber 230 to perform the drying cycle.

[0323] The second control unit 290 can perform the drying cycle by operating the heater 263 and the fan 262.

[0324] The second control unit 290 can end the drying cycle according to the drying cycle end conditions.

[0325] In one embodiment, the second control unit 290 may terminate the drying cycle in response to a predetermined time elapsed during the execution of the drying cycle.

[0326] In one embodiment, the second control unit 290 may terminate the drying cycle in response to receiving a drying end request signal from the cleaner 10. For this purpose, the cleaner 10 may be configured to transmit a drying end request signal to the base station 20 in response to a decrease in humidity measured by the humidity sensor 171 to below a predetermined level during the drying cycle.

[0327] The second control unit 290 can control the overall operation of the base station 20.

[0328] The second control unit 290 may include at least one processor 291 for controlling the operation of the base station 20 and at least one memory 292 storing programs and data for controlling the operation of the base station 20.

[0329] At least one processor 291 controls the overall operation of the base station 20. Specifically, at least one processor 291 can be connected to various components of the base station 20 to control the overall operation of the base station 20. For example, at least one processor 291 can be electrically connected to a memory 292 to control the overall operation of the base station 20. The processor 291 can be configured using one or more processors.

[0330] At least one processor 291 can perform the operation of the base station 20 according to various embodiments by executing at least one instruction stored in memory 292.

[0331] At least one memory 292 can store data required for various embodiments. Depending on the data storage purpose, the memory 292 can be implemented as a memory embedded in the base station 20, or it can be implemented as a memory removable from the base station 20. For example, data for driving the base station 20 can be stored in a memory embedded in the base station 20, while data for extended functions of the base station 20 can be stored in a memory removable from the base station 20. Additionally, the memory embedded in the base station 20 can be implemented as at least one of the following: volatile memory (e.g., dynamic random access memory (DRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), or synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM)); non-volatile memory (e.g., one-time programmable ROM, programmable ROM (PROM), erasable and programmable ROM (EPROM), electrically erasable and programmable ROM (EEPROM), mask ROM, flash ROM, flash memory (e.g., NAND flash or NOR flash), hard disk drive, and solid state hard disk drive (SSD)). Furthermore, the memory that can be detached and installed in the base station 20 can be implemented in the form of a memory card (e.g., compact flash (CF), secure digital (SD), micro-secure digital (Micro-SD), mini secure digital (Mini-SD), extreme digital (xD), multi-media card (MMC), etc.) or an external memory that can be connected to a USB port (e.g., a USB memory).

[0332] At least one processor 291 may include one or more of a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an accelerated processing unit (APU), a many integrated core (MIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), a neural processing unit (NPU), a hardware accelerator, and a machine learning accelerator. At least one processor 291 may control one or any combination of other components of the base station 20 and may perform operations or data processing related to communication. At least one processor 291 may execute at least one program or instruction stored in memory 292. For example, at least one processor 291 may perform a method according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure by executing at least one instruction stored in memory 292.

[0333] Figure 16 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a control method for a cleaning system according to an embodiment.

[0334] For ease of explanation, it is assumed in the following text that the control units 190 and 290 of the cleaning system 1 include a first control unit 190 and a second control unit 290.

[0335] The first control unit 190 and the second control unit 290 can send and receive various information through the communication units 182 and 282. The first control unit 190 can control the operation of the cleaner 10. The second control unit 290 can control the operation of the base station 20.

[0336] Reference Figure 16 The control units 190 and 290 can determine whether the cleaner 10 has been placed on the base station 20 (1010).

[0337] In one embodiment, the control unit 190 can determine whether the cleaner 10 has been placed on the base station 20 based on processing data collected by the docking sensor 150s. The control unit 190 can also determine that the cleaner 10 has been placed on the base station 20 based on the start of charging of the cleaner 10.

[0338] In one embodiment, the control unit 290 can determine whether the cleaner 10 has been placed on the base station 20 based on processing data collected by the docking sensor 250s. The control unit 290 can also determine that the cleaner 10 has been placed on the base station 20 based on the start of charging of the cleaner 10.

[0339] Control units 190 and 290 can determine whether the start conditions (1020) of the washing cycle are met.

[0340] In one embodiment, the control unit 190 may determine that the start conditions for the washing cycle have been met based on receiving a washing command through the user interface 181 or receiving a washing command from an external device through the communication unit 182.

[0341] In one embodiment, the control unit 190 may determine that the start conditions for the washing cycle have been met based on the completion of cleaning according to a preset cleaning schedule or the humidity value measured by the humidity sensor 171 being within a preset range.

[0342] If the conditions for starting the washing cycle are met, the control unit 190 can control the communication unit 182 to transmit a signal requesting the washing cycle to the base station 20.

[0343] In one embodiment, the control unit 290 can determine that the start conditions for the washing cycle have been met based on receiving a washing command through the user interface 281 or receiving a washing command from an external device through the communication unit 282.

[0344] If the conditions for starting the washing cycle are met, the control unit 290 can control the communication unit 282 to transmit a signal to the cleaner 10 requesting a return to the base station 20.

[0345] In one embodiment, the control unit 290 may also determine that the start condition of the washing cycle has been met based on the fact that the cleaner 10 has been separated from the base station 20 and then placed back into the base station 20.

[0346] According to various embodiments, the order of operations (1010) and (1020) can be changed.

[0347] Control units 190 and 290 can start the washing cycle based on the satisfaction of the start conditions of the washing cycle.

[0348] In this disclosure, the washing cycle may include a steam cycle and / or a cleaning cycle.

[0349] The steam stroke and / or cleaning stroke may include supplying heated water (steam) to a wet cloth 160 housed in the cleaning chamber 230 by driving the heating device 250.

[0350] The control units 190 and 290 can lower the wet cloth 160 to a first position (1030) based on the start of the washing cycle. Here, the first position can be equivalent to the position where the wet cloth 160 is placed on the washing frame 240. That is, if the wet cloth 160 is in the first position, the wet cloth 160 can come into contact with the washing frame 240.

[0351] The control units 190 and 290 can drive the heating device 250 (1040) based on the start of the washing cycle. For example, the control units 190 and 290 can drive the heating device 250 after the wet cloth 160 has been lowered to the first position.

[0352] Here, driving the heating device 250 includes supplying heated water and / or steam (hereinafter collectively referred to as "steam") to the cleaning chamber 230.

[0353] The control unit 190 can transmit a descent completion signal to the control unit 290 in response to the wet cloth 160 completing its descent to the first position, and the control unit 290 can drive the heating device 250 in response to the descent completion signal received from the control unit 190.

[0354] That is, the control units 190 and 290 can drive the heating device 250 in response to the wet cloth 160 completing its descent to the first position.

[0355] Control units 190 and 290 can rotate the wet cloth 160 during the washing cycle. As the wet cloth 160 rotates, the cleaning and / or sterilization of the wet cloth 160 can be achieved more smoothly.

[0356] Additionally, if the heating device 250 is activated, steam is discharged to the outside of the cleaning chamber 230, which may cause water to condense around the body 110 of the cleaner 10 and / or the base station 20.

[0357] A sensor window corresponding to the docking sensor 150s may be provided around the body 110 of the cleaner 10. A sensor window corresponding to the docking sensor 250s may be provided on the base station 20.

[0358] When steam is discharged to the outside of the cleaning chamber 230 and water condenses around the body 110 of the cleaner 10 and / or the base station 20, docking sensing errors may occur due to water condensation on the sensor window.

[0359] Furthermore, if steam is discharged to the outside of the cleaning chamber 230 and water condenses on the periphery of the body 110 of the cleaner 10 and / or the base station 20, the periphery of the body 110 of the cleaner 10 and / or the base station 20 may become contaminated.

[0360] Furthermore, if steam is discharged to the outside of the cleaning chamber 230 and water condenses around the body 110 of the cleaner 10 and / or the base station 20, an electrical hazard may occur when charging the battery 150 of the cleaner 10, as water also condenses on the charging terminals 151, 218.

[0361] Therefore, it is necessary to prevent steam from being discharged outside the cleaning chamber 230 during the washing cycle, so that water condenses around the body 110 of the cleaner 10 and / or the base station 20.

[0362] Control units 190 and 290 can drive at least one (1050) of the drying device 260 of the base station 20 or the suction motor 142 of the cleaner 10 during the process of driving the heating device 250.

[0363] The base station 20 can drive the drying device 260 while supplying steam to the cleaning chamber 230 as the heating device 250 is driven.

[0364] By driving the drying device 260 while supplying steam to the cleaning chamber 230, air can be made to flow to the body 110 of the cleaner 10.

[0365] The cleaner 10 can drive the suction motor 142 as it supplies steam to the cleaning chamber 230 with the heating device 250.

[0366] By driving the suction motor 142 during the process of supplying steam to the cleaning chamber 230, the air flowing into the body 110 of the cleaner 10 can be made to flow to the outside of the body 110 of the cleaner 10.

[0367] That is, the control units 190 and 290 can drive the drying device 260 and / or the suction motor 142 while the wet cloth 160 is in the first position.

[0368] The scenario where the drying device 260 and / or the suction motor 142 are activated during the operation of the heating device 250 includes not only the scenario where the drying device 260 and / or the suction motor 142 are activated during the operation of the heating device 250, but also the scenario where the drying device 260 and / or the suction motor 142 are activated before or after the operation of the heating device 250. Furthermore, the control units 190 and 290 may also activate the drying device 260 and / or the suction motor 142 after the operation of the heating device 250 has been stopped.

[0369] The situation of driving at least one of the drying device 260 or the suction motor 142 may include driving only the drying device 260, driving only the suction motor 142, or driving both the drying device 260 and the suction motor 142.

[0370] Driving the drying device 260 may include rotating the fan 262.

[0371] The situation in which the suction motor 142 is driven may include the situation in which the suction fan is rotated.

[0372] According to this disclosure, by driving at least one of the drying device 260 of the base station 20 and the suction motor 142 of the cleaner 10 during the driving of the heating device 250, water can be prevented from condensing around the body 110 of the cleaner 10 and / or the base station 20.

[0373] Figure 17 The diagram schematically illustrates the flow of air supplied by the drying device of the base station while the wet cloth of the cleaner according to one embodiment is in a first position.

[0374] Reference Figure 17 The wet cloth 160 can come into contact with the cleaning frame 240 while in the first position.

[0375] For example, a damp cloth 160 may come into contact with the guide component 240g (or the frame body 240a).

[0376] In this disclosure, the cleaning chamber 230 is a space defined by a chamber bottom 230a and a chamber sidewall 230b extending upward from the chamber bottom 230a, and a portion c1 of the cleaning chamber 230 can be opened. Accordingly, the cleaning chamber 230 may be referred to as an open chamber, an open room, a niche, or a wall niche.

[0377] The portion of c1 that is opened can correspond to the aforementioned frame opening 240c.

[0378] In this disclosure, with the open portion c1 closed by a wet cloth 160, the cleaning chamber 230 can be a space defined by the chamber bottom 230a, the chamber sidewalls 230b, and the frame body 240a.

[0379] The wet cloth 160 can be contained in the cleaning chamber 230 through the open portion c1 of the cleaning chamber 230.

[0380] The case of a wet cloth 160 being housed in a cleaning chamber 230 can mean that the wet cloth 160 is contained within a space defined by the bottom 230a of the chamber and the side wall 230b of the chamber extending upward from the bottom 230a.

[0381] The wet cloth 160 can close the open portion c1 of the cleaning chamber 230 during the first position. Accordingly, the cleaning chamber 230 can be defined by the wet cloth 160, the chamber sidewall 230b, and the guide member 240g.

[0382] That is, the cleaning chamber 230 can be closed while the wet cloth 160 is in the first position. In this disclosure, the closure of the cleaning chamber 230 may include the closure of an open portion c1 of the cleaning chamber 230.

[0383] When the open portion c1 of the cleaning chamber 230 is closed and the cleaning chamber 230 is defined by the wet cloth 160, the chamber sidewall 230b, and the guide member 240g, the interior of the cleaning chamber 230 can refer to the interior of the space defined by the wet cloth 160, the chamber sidewall 230b, and the guide member 240g, and the exterior of the cleaning chamber 230 can refer to the exterior of the space defined by the wet cloth 160, the chamber sidewall 230b, and the guide member 240g.

[0384] In addition, as described above, since the open portion c1 of the cleaning chamber 230 is closed by a wet cloth 160 through which fluid can easily pass, the steam supplied to the interior of the cleaning chamber 230 can flow out to the exterior of the cleaning chamber 230.

[0385] The drying air supply unit 232 can be divided into a first flow path 242a and a second flow path 242b by means of the guide member 240g. The first flow path 242a can be a flow path provided on the upper side of the guide member 240g, and the second flow path 242b can be a flow path provided on the lower side of the guide member 240g.

[0386] Figure 12 The steam injection port 243 shown can be mounted on the underside of the guide member 240g for supplying steam to the interior of the cleaning chamber 230.

[0387] If the wet cloth 160 is in the first position, the second flow path 242b faces the interior of the cleaning chamber 230 defined by the wet cloth 160, the chamber bottom 230a, the chamber sidewall 230b, and the guide member 240g, and the first flow path 242a faces the exterior of the cleaning chamber 230 defined by the wet cloth 160, the chamber bottom 230a, the chamber sidewall 230b, and the guide member 240g.

[0388] In one embodiment, while the wet cloth 160 is in the first position, the guide member 240g can contact the wet cloth 160, so that air flowing to the first flow path 242a can be directed toward the outside of the cleaning chamber 230, and air flowing to the second flow path 242b can be directed toward the inside of the cleaning chamber 230.

[0389] Since the cleaning chamber 230 is a closed space, if air is supplied to the drying air supply unit 232, the pressure inside the cleaning chamber 230 can become higher than the pressure outside the cleaning chamber 230. Accordingly, while the wet cloth 160 is in the first position, the air supplied to the cleaning chamber 230 by the drive of the drying device 260 can flow more towards the outside of the cleaning chamber 230 than the inside of the cleaning chamber 230.

[0390] Here, the interior of the cleaning chamber 230 can refer to the cleaning chamber 230 itself, and the exterior of the cleaning chamber 230 can refer to the space outside the cleaning chamber 230.

[0391] While the wet cloth 160 is in the first position, air flowing to the outside of the cleaning chamber 230 via the drying device 260 and through the first flow path 242a can flow into the space between the docking sensor 150s of the cleaner 10 and the docking sensor 250s of the base station 20.

[0392] While the wet cloth 160 is in the first position, the air flowing to the outside of the cleaning chamber 230 via the drying device 260 and through the first flow path 242a can dry the water condensed on the periphery of the body 110 of the cleaner 10 and / or the base station 20.

[0393] According to this disclosure, by driving the drying device 260 during the washing cycle, water condensed around the body 110 of the cleaner 10 and / or the base station 20 can be removed immediately.

[0394] According to this disclosure, by driving the drying device 260 during the washing cycle, water condensed on the docking sensor 150s of the cleaner 10 and / or the docking sensor 250s of the base station 20 can be removed immediately.

[0395] According to this disclosure, since the steam jet 243 is located on the underside of the guide member 240g, and steam is supplied to the interior of the cleaning chamber 230 defined by the wet cloth 160, the chamber sidewall 230b, and the guide member 240g while the wet cloth 160 is in the first position, excessive steam can be prevented from being transmitted to the periphery of the body 110 of the cleaner 10 and / or the base station 20.

[0396] According to this disclosure, since the heating device 250 is driven in response to the wet cloth 160 completing its descent to the first position, excessive steam can be prevented from being transferred to the periphery of the body 110 of the cleaner 10 and / or the base station 20.

[0397] Figure 18 The diagram schematically illustrates the flow of air driven by the suction motor of a cleaner according to one embodiment.

[0398] Reference Figure 18 If the suction motor 142 is driven, the air drawn into the suction port 111 can be discharged to the exhaust port 112 through the dust collection bin 142.

[0399] In one embodiment, the exhaust port 112 may be located on the underside of the docking sensor 150s (see reference). Figure 5 ).

[0400] If the suction motor 142 is driven, the air discharged through the exhaust port 112 can flow into the space between the cleaner 10 and the base station 20.

[0401] For example, if the suction motor 142 is driven, the air discharged through the exhaust port 112 can flow to the space between the docking sensor 150s of the cleaner 10 and the docking sensor 250s of the base station 20.

[0402] For this purpose, the exhaust port 112 can be positioned facing the docking sensor 250s of the base station 20 during the period when the cleaner 10 is placed on the base station 20.

[0403] During the period when the cleaner 10 is placed on the base station 20, the docking sensor 250s of the base station 20 and the docking sensor 150s of the cleaner 10 can face each other.

[0404] If the suction motor 142 is driven, the air discharged through the exhaust port 112 can be directed toward the base station 20, and the air reflected from the base station 20 can flow toward the cleaner 10 to remove the water condensed on the base station 20 and the main body of the cleaner 10.

[0405] For example, if the suction motor 142 is driven, the air discharged through the exhaust port 112 can be directed toward the docking sensor 250s of the base station 20, and the air reflected from the docking sensor 250s of the base station 20 can flow toward the docking sensor 150s of the cleaner 10, thereby removing the water condensed on the docking sensor 250s of the base station 20 and the docking sensor 150s of the cleaner 10.

[0406] According to this disclosure, by driving the suction motor 142 during the washing cycle, water condensed around the body 110 of the cleaner 10 and / or the base station 20 can be removed immediately.

[0407] According to this disclosure, by driving the suction motor 142 of the cleaner 10 during the washing cycle, water condensed on the docking sensor 150s and / or the docking sensor 250s of the base station 20 can be removed immediately.

[0408] In addition, if the suction motor 142 of the cleaner 10 is driven during the washing cycle, noise will be generated, which may cause an unpleasant feeling to the user.

[0409] In one embodiment, the control units 190 and 290 can control the driving intensity of the suction motor 142 during the washing cycle to be weaker than the driving intensity of the suction motor 142 when the cleaner 10 performs cleaning.

[0410] For example, control units 190 and 290 can drive the suction motor 142 at a first intensity when the cleaner 10 is performing cleaning, and can drive the suction motor 142 at a second intensity lower than the first intensity when the heating device 250 is driven.

[0411] Driving the suction motor 142 at a first intensity may include rotating the suction motor 142 at a first rotational speed. Driving the suction motor 142 at a second intensity lower than the first intensity may include rotating the suction motor 142 at a second rotational speed lower than the first rotational speed.

[0412] Driving the suction motor 142 at a first intensity can include driving the suction motor 142 at a first duty cycle. Driving the suction motor 142 at a second intensity less than the first intensity can include driving the suction motor 142 at a second duty cycle less than the first duty cycle.

[0413] According to this disclosure, noise generated during the washing cycle due to the drive of the suction motor 142 can be minimized.

[0414] According to various embodiments, control units 190 and 290 can receive information about whether there are people in the house from external devices via communication units 182 and 282.

[0415] Here, "inside the house" can refer to the indoor space where the base station 20 is installed.

[0416] Control units 190 and 290 can increase the intensity of the suction motor 142 based on the condition that no one is in the house during the washing cycle. Here, increasing the intensity of the suction motor 142 can mean driving the suction motor 142 with an intensity greater than the second intensity.

[0417] According to this disclosure, when no one is in the house, the water condensed around the body 110 of the cleaner 10 and / or the base station 20 can be removed more effectively by increasing the intensity of the suction motor 142.

[0418] Refer again Figure 16 The control units 190 and 290 can determine whether the end conditions of the washing cycle are met (1060).

[0419] The conditions for ending a washing cycle can include various conditions such as the washing cycle running for a preset time or receiving a command to start the drying cycle.

[0420] Control units 190 and 290 can stop the heating device 250 (1070) based on the satisfaction of the end condition of the washing cycle ("Yes" in 1060). According to various embodiments, the heating device 250 can also be stopped intermittently during the execution of the washing cycle, and the washing cycle can also be ended with the heating device 250 stopped before the end of the washing cycle.

[0421] The control units 190 and 290 can stop the drying unit 260 and / or the suction motor 142 (1080) based on the heating unit 250 being stopped.

[0422] According to various embodiments, even if the heating device 250 is stopped, the control units 190 and 290 can continue to drive the drying device 260 and / or the suction motor 142 for a predetermined period of time.

[0423] That is, the control units 190 and 290 can maintain the drive of the drying unit 260 and / or the suction motor 142 for a predetermined period of time after the heating unit 250 is stopped.

[0424] According to this disclosure, water condensed on the periphery of the body 110 of the cleaner 10 and / or the base station 20 can be effectively removed.

[0425] According to various embodiments, as long as the drying cycle is planned to be executed after the washing cycle has ended, the control units 190 and 290 may not stop driving the drying device 260 and / or the suction motor 142. That is, operation (1080) may be omitted.

[0426] In one embodiment, the control units 190 and 290 can maintain the operation of the drying device 260 whenever the drying cycle is scheduled to be executed after the washing cycle has ended. That is, whenever the drying cycle is scheduled to be executed after the washing cycle has ended, the control units 190 and 290 can not only drive the heating device 250 during the washing cycle, but also continuously drive the drying device 260 until the drying cycle ends.

[0427] According to this disclosure, since the drying cycle is performed immediately after the washing cycle ends, the execution time of the drying cycle is shortened, and the energy consumed by the operation of the heater 252 can be saved.

[0428] The control units 190 and 290 can stop the rotation of the wet cloth 160 based on the end of the washing cycle.

[0429] The control units 190 and 290 can raise the wet cloth 160 to the second position (1090) based on the end of the washing cycle.

[0430] For example, control units 190 and 290 can raise the wet cloth 160 to a second position based on the stopping of the heating device 250.

[0431] The control unit 290 can transmit a stop completion signal to the control unit 190 based on the stopping of the heating device 250, and the control unit 190 can raise the wet cloth 160 to the second position in response to receiving the stop completion signal from the control unit 290.

[0432] The control unit 190 can transmit a rising completion signal to the control unit 290 in response to the wet cloth 160 completing its rise to the second position, and the control unit 290 can drive the drying device 260 in response to receiving the rising completion signal from the control unit 190.

[0433] However, according to various embodiments, the control unit 290 may omit operation (1080) and may also continuously maintain the drive of the drying device 260.

[0434] Here, the second position can be set to a position higher than the first position. In one embodiment, the second position can also be set to a position lower than the position of the wet cloth 160 when the cleaner 10 performs dry cleaning instead of wet cleaning.

[0435] According to this disclosure, when the heating device 250 is stopped and no longer generates steam, the wet cloth 160 can be raised to a second position to prevent steam from escaping to the outside of the cleaning chamber 230 and moving to the periphery of the body 110 of the cleaner 10 and / or the base station 20.

[0436] Control units 190 and 290 can execute a drying cycle (1100) based on the wet cloth 160 rising to the second position. The drying cycle is a cycle in which the wet cloth 160 is dried using hot air, and control units 190 and 290 can drive the drying device 260 for the drying cycle.

[0437] While the wet cloth 160 is in the second position, the control units 190 and 290 can execute the drying cycle by driving the drying device 260.

[0438] In addition, in order to dry the wet cloth 160, air needs to flow smoothly into the cleaning chamber 230 so that hot air can be evenly distributed to the wet cloth 160.

[0439] Figure 19 The diagram schematically illustrates the flow of air supplied by the drying device of the base station while the wet cloth of the cleaner according to one embodiment is in the second position.

[0440] Reference Figure 19 The wet cloth 160 can be separated from the cleaning frame 240 while it is in the second position.

[0441] For example, a wet cloth 160 may be separated from the guide component 240g (or the frame body 240a).

[0442] Because the wet cloth 160 is separated from the guide member 240g, the cleaning chamber 230 can be opened. That is, because the wet cloth 160 is separated from the guide member 240g, the cleaning chamber 230 can have an open portion c1.

[0443] In one embodiment, while the wet cloth 160 is in the second position, the guide member 240g is spaced apart from the wet cloth 160, thereby allowing the cleaning chamber 230 to be converted into an open chamber.

[0444] If the wet cloth 160 is in the second position, all the air flowing to the first flow path 242a and the second flow path 242b can flow toward the cleaning chamber 230 defined by the chamber bottom 230a and the chamber sidewall 230b. However, since the cleaning chamber 230 is an open space, if the wet cloth 160 is in the second position, the air flowing to the first flow path 242a and the second flow path 242b can flow to both the outside and the inside of the cleaning chamber 230.

[0445] That is, since the cleaning chamber 230 is an open space, the air supplied to the cleaning chamber 230 by the drive of the drying device 260 can flow smoothly through the cleaning chamber 230 while the wet cloth 160 is in the second position.

[0446] According to this disclosure, by closing the washing chamber 230 during the washing cycle, the external outflow of steam is minimized, and by opening the washing chamber 230 during the drying cycle, the smooth drying of the wet cloth 160 can be facilitated.

[0447] In one embodiment, the control units 190 and 290 may rotate or not rotate the wet cloth 160 during the drying cycle.

[0448] In one embodiment, since the air supplied to the cleaning chamber 230 by means of the drying device 260 during the second position of the wet cloth 160 can flow smoothly through the cleaning chamber 230, the control units 190, 290 can avoid rotating the wet cloth 160.

[0449] If the drying cycle ends, the control units 190 and 290 can stop the drying device 260.

[0450] Control units 190 and 290 can notify external devices of the end of the drying cycle via communication units 182 and 282 based on the end of the drying cycle.

[0451] Control units 190 and 290 can notify the end of the drying cycle via user interfaces 181 and 281 based on the end of the drying cycle.

[0452] According to this disclosure, steam can be prevented from being discharged to the outside of the cleaning chamber 230 during the washing cycle.

[0453] According to this disclosure, water can be prevented from condensing around the body 110 of the cleaner 10 and / or the base station 20 during the washing process.

[0454] According to this disclosure, water that condenses on the periphery of the body 110 of the cleaner 10 and / or the base station 20 during the washing cycle can be removed immediately.

[0455] According to this disclosure, electrical hazards that may occur due to water condensing on charging terminals 151, 218 during the washing process can be prevented.

[0456] A cleaning system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include: a cleaner 10, comprising a body 110 and a wet cloth 160 disposed on the body 110; and a base station 20, configured for placing the cleaner 10, comprising a cleaning chamber 230 for receiving the wet cloth 160 during placement of the cleaner 10 on the base station 20, a water supply tank 221, a heating device 250 for heating water supplied from the water supply tank 221 and supplying steam to the cleaning chamber 230, and a drying device 260 for blowing air toward the cleaning chamber 230, wherein the base station 20 drives the heating device 250 based on the start of the washing cycle to supply the steam to the cleaning chamber 230, and drives the drying device 260 during the supply of steam to the cleaning chamber 230, such that air flows to the body 110 of the cleaner 10.

[0457] The cleaner 10 can lower the wet cloth 160 to a first position based on the start of the washing cycle, and can raise the wet cloth 160 to a second position above the first position based on the end of the washing cycle.

[0458] While the wet cloth 160 is in the first position, the air supplied to the cleaning chamber 230 by the drive of the drying device 260 can flow to the outside of the cleaning chamber 230 in greater quantities than the inside of the cleaning chamber 230.

[0459] The base station 20 may also include a guiding component 240g that divides the flow path of air supplied to the cleaning chamber 230 by the drying device 260 into a first flow path 242a and a second flow path 242b.

[0460] While the wet cloth 160 is in the first position, the guide member 240g can contact the wet cloth 160, such that the air flowing to the first flow path 242a is directed toward the outside of the cleaning chamber 230 and the air flowing to the second flow path 242b is directed toward the inside of the cleaning chamber 230.

[0461] During the second position of the wet cloth 160, the guide component 240g can be spaced apart from the wet cloth 160, allowing air flowing to the first flow path 242a and the second flow path 242b to flow to the outside and inside of the cleaning chamber 230.

[0462] While the wet cloth 160 is in the first position, the guide component 240g can come into contact with the wet cloth 160, so that the cleaning chamber 230 is closed by the wet cloth 160.

[0463] While the wet cloth 160 is in the second position, the guide component 240g can be separated from the wet cloth 160, allowing the cleaning chamber 230 to be opened.

[0464] Upon completion of the washing cycle, the base station 20 can stop the heating device 250 from operating and, while the wet cloth 160 is in the second position, drive the drying device 260 to perform the drying cycle.

[0465] The base station 20 can drive the heating device 250 in response to the wet cloth 160 completing its descent to the first position.

[0466] The cleaner 10 can raise the wet cloth 160 to a second position in response to the cessation of the drive of the heating device 250.

[0467] The cleaner 10 may also include a suction motor 142, which can be driven during the supply of steam to the cleaning chamber 230, so that air flowing into the interior of the body 110 flows to the exterior of the body 110.

[0468] The cleaner 10 can drive the suction motor 142 at a first intensity during the cleaning process, and can drive the suction motor 142 at a second intensity less than the first intensity during the heating device 250 being driven.

[0469] The cleaner 10 and the base station 20 may each include a first sensor 150s and a second sensor 250s, respectively, configured to face each other during the period when the cleaner 10 is placed on the base station 20.

[0470] The cleaner 10 may also include an exhaust port 112 for discharging air drawn in by the suction motor 142, wherein the exhaust port 112 may be located below the first sensor 150s.

[0471] If the intake motor 142 is driven, the air discharged through the exhaust port 112 can flow to the space between the first sensor 150s and the second sensor 250s.

[0472] If the drying device 260 is activated, the air supplied to the cleaning chamber 230 can flow into the space between the first sensor 150s and the second sensor 250s.

[0473] A control method for a cleaning system 1 according to one embodiment may include the following steps: driving a heating device 250 of a base station 20 based on the start of a washing cycle to supply steam to a cleaning chamber 230 of the base station 20, which houses a wet cloth 160 of a cleaner 10; and driving a drying device 260 of the base station 20 such that air flows to the body 110 of the cleaner 10, wherein the drying device 260 driving the base station 20 blows air into the cleaning chamber 230 during the supply of steam to the cleaning chamber 230.

[0474] The control method of the cleaning system 1 may also include the following steps: stopping the driving of the heating device 250 based on the end of the washing cycle; and driving the drying device 260 to perform the drying cycle while the wet cloth 160 is in the second position.

[0475] The steps of driving the heating device 250 may include the following steps: driving the heating device 250 in response to the wet cloth 160 completing its descent to the first position.

[0476] The step of raising the wet cloth 160 to the second position may include the following steps: raising the wet cloth 160 to the second position in response to the cessation of the drive of the heating device 250.

[0477] The control method of the cleaning system 1 may also include the following steps: driving the suction motor 142 of the cleaner 10 during the supply of steam to the cleaning chamber 230.

[0478] The control method of the cleaning system 1 may also include the following steps: driving the suction motor 142 at a first intensity during the cleaning process performed by the cleaner 10.

[0479] The step of driving the suction motor 142 of the cleaner 10 during the supply of steam to the cleaning chamber 230 may include the following step: driving the suction motor 142 at a second intensity less than the first intensity.

[0480] Furthermore, the disclosed embodiments can be implemented in the form of a recording medium storing instructions executable by a computer. The instructions can be stored as program code, which, when executed by a processor, can generate a program module to perform the operations of the disclosed embodiments. The recording medium can be implemented as a computer-readable recording medium.

[0481] Computer-readable recording media include all types of recording media that store computer-readable instructions. Examples include read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic tape, magnetic disk, flash memory, optical data storage devices, etc.

[0482] Furthermore, computer-readable storage media can be provided in the form of non-transitory storage media. Here, "non-transitory" storage media refers to a tangible device and only indicates a device that does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves). This term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium. For example, a "non-transitory storage medium" may include a buffer for temporarily storing data.

[0483] According to one embodiment, methods according to the various embodiments disclosed herein may be included in and provided as a computer program product. The computer program product, as a commodity, can be traded between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a device-readable recording medium (e.g., a compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) between two user devices (e.g., smartphones, etc.) through an app store (e.g., Play Store™). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product (e.g., a downloadable app) may be stored at least temporarily in a device-readable recording medium such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an app store's server, or a relay server, or may be temporarily generated.

[0484] The disclosed embodiments have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention can be implemented in forms different from those of the disclosed embodiments without altering the technical concept or essential features of the invention. The embodiments of the disclosed invention are exemplary and should not be construed as restrictive.

Claims

1. A cleaning system, comprising: Cleaner, including the main body and a damp cloth; as well as The base station is for housing the cleaner and includes a cleaning chamber, a water tank, a heating device, and a drying device. During the period when the cleaner is placed on the base station, the base station performs the following operations: The damp cloth is placed in the cleaning chamber. The heating device is activated at the start of the washing cycle to heat water supplied from the water tank to generate steam, which is then supplied to the washing chamber. The drying device is driven to deliver air into the cleaning chamber as the steam is supplied to the cleaning chamber, such that at least a portion of the air flows into the body of the cleaner.

2. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein, The cleaner lowers the wet cloth to a first position based on the start of the washing cycle. Upon completion of the washing cycle, the wet cloth is raised to a second position above the first position.

3. The cleaning system according to claim 2, wherein, During the period when the wet cloth is in the first position, the air supplied to the cleaning chamber flows more towards the outside of the cleaning chamber than towards the inside of the cleaning chamber.

4. The cleaning system according to claim 2, wherein, The base station further includes a guiding component that divides the airflow path supplied to the cleaning chamber by the drying device into a first flow path and a second flow path, and contacts the wet cloth while the wet cloth is in the first position, such that the air flowing to the first flow path is directed toward the outside of the cleaning chamber and the air flowing to the second flow path is directed toward the inside of the cleaning chamber.

5. The cleaning system according to claim 4, wherein, The guiding component is spaced apart from the wet cloth during the second position, allowing air flowing to the first and second flow paths to flow to the outside and inside of the cleaning chamber.

6. The cleaning system according to claim 2, wherein, The base station further includes: a guiding component that divides the airflow path supplied to the cleaning chamber by the drying device into a first flow path and a second flow path, and contacts the wet cloth during the first position such that the cleaning chamber is closed by the wet cloth, and is separated from the wet cloth during the second position such that the cleaning chamber is open.

7. The cleaning system according to claim 2, wherein, Upon completion of the washing cycle, the base station stops driving the heating device. The drying device is driven to perform a drying cycle while the wet cloth is in the second position.

8. The cleaning system according to claim 2, wherein, The base station drives the heating device in response to the wet cloth completing its descent to the first position.

9. The cleaning system according to claim 2, wherein, The cleaner raises the wet cloth to the second position in response to the cessation of the heating device's drive.

10. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein, The cleaner also includes a suction motor. The cleaner drives the suction motor as the steam is supplied to the cleaning chamber, causing the air flowing into the interior of the body to flow to the exterior of the body.

11. The cleaning system according to claim 1, wherein, The cleaner includes a first sensor. The base station includes a second sensor. The first sensor and the second sensor are configured to face each other during the time the cleaner is placed on the base station, thereby sensing the placement of the cleaner on the base station.

12. The cleaning system according to claim 10, wherein, The cleaner includes a first sensor. The base station includes a second sensor. The first sensor and the second sensor are configured to face each other during the placement of the cleaner on the base station, thereby sensing the placement of the cleaner on the base station. The cleaner also includes an exhaust port for discharging air drawn in by the suction motor. The exhaust port is located on the lower side of the first sensor.

13. The cleaning system according to claim 12, wherein, If the suction motor is driven, the air discharged through the exhaust port flows into the space between the first sensor and the second sensor.

14. The cleaning system according to claim 12, wherein, At least a portion of the air flowing toward the body of the cleaner flows toward the space between the first sensor and the second sensor.

15. A method for controlling a cleaning system, comprising a cleaner including a body and a wet cloth, and a base station for placing the cleaner and including a cleaning chamber, a water tank, a heating device, and a drying device, wherein the cleaning system is used during the period when the cleaner is placed in the base station, the method includes the following steps: The wet cloth is placed in the cleaning chamber; The heating device is activated at the start of the washing cycle to heat water supplied from the water tank to generate steam, which is then supplied to the washing chamber; and The drying device is driven to deliver air into the cleaning chamber as the steam is supplied to the cleaning chamber, such that at least a portion of the air flows into the body of the cleaner.

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