Robot vacuum cleaner base station

Abstract

This invention relates to a base station for a robotic vacuum cleaner, comprising: a housing; a cleaning tank supporting the lower part of the robotic vacuum cleaner and extendably connected to the housing; a connecting pipe for supplying water from the outside for cleaning the cleaning cloth of the robotic vacuum cleaner, or for discharging wastewater used for cleaning to the outside; a connector connecting the connecting pipe and the housing; and a connector joint disposed behind the cleaning tank for engaging with the connector joint; the connector joint having a drain hole for guiding water leakage generated at the connector joint into the cleaning tank. Therefore, damage or functional degradation of internal components that may occur due to water leakage can be prevented.

Description

Technical Field

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0008] On the other hand, Chinese utility model CN218922468U discloses a base station for a sweeper, which is combined with the sweeping robot on the lower side of the washing machine to charge the sweeping robot, collect dust, and clean the sweeping robot's wet cloth.

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

[0010] With this configuration, the overall height of the cleaning robot base station increases, which limits the use of the space under furniture, including sinks.

[0011] In addition, the aforementioned cleaning machine base station needs to be installed below the washing machine, which has the following limitations: as a basic requirement, space must be provided for installing the washing machine, and the height of the washing machine itself must also be considered, thus requiring a space with a height exceeding these dimensions.

[0012] In this regard, Chinese utility model CN218922467U discloses a base station for a sweeping robot, which is combined with the sweeping robot on the underside of a washing machine to charge the sweeping robot, collect dust, and clean the sweeping robot's wet cloth.

[0013] However, the aforementioned cleaning robot base station has the following limitations: the cleaning solution, which is a mixture of detergent and water, is stored in the storage tank. As the cleaning solution is supplied to the storage tank when cleaning the cleaning robot's mop, the water level in the storage tank needs to be adjusted, and the ratio of detergent to water in the cleaning solution cannot be constant.

[0014] In addition, the aforementioned cleaning robot base station has the following limitations: as cleaning fluid is supplied to the space containing the cleaning robot, the supplied cleaning fluid may splash onto other sides of the cleaning robot body that are not the mop, making it impossible to fully supply the cleaning fluid to the mop.

[0015] If water used for washing rags leaks into the base station, there is a risk of damage to electronic components or other critical parts inside the base station. Summary of the Invention

[0016] The present invention is proposed to improve the problems existing in the existing robot vacuum base stations as described above, and its purpose is to provide a robot vacuum base station that can be embedded in the lower side of a kitchen furniture cabinet without requiring additional installation space.

[0017] In addition, the purpose is to provide a robot vacuum station that can accommodate a robot vacuum in the space under a kitchen cabinet with a specified height limit.

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

[0019] In addition, the purpose is to provide a robot vacuum cleaner base station that can maximize the capacity of the dust bag.

[0020] In addition, the purpose is to provide a robot vacuum cleaner base station that can confirm whether the dust bag is attached or not.

[0021] In addition, the purpose is to provide a robot vacuum cleaner base station that can sterilize the inside of the dust bag.

[0022] In addition, the purpose is to provide a robot vacuum cleaner base station that can prevent damage to electronic components by detecting water leakage occurring inside the base station.

[0023] To achieve the objectives described above, the robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to the present invention may include: a cover; a cleaning tank supporting the lower part of the robotic vacuum cleaner and extendably connected to the cover; a connecting pipe for supplying water from the outside for cleaning the cleaning cloth of the robotic vacuum cleaner, or for discharging wastewater used for cleaning to the outside; a connector for connecting the connecting pipe and the cover; and a connector joint disposed behind the cleaning tank for engaging with the connector; the connector joint may have a drain hole for guiding leakage water generated at the connector to the cleaning tank.

[0024] Additionally, the connector may include a water supply connector, to which a water supply connection pipe supplying water from an external water source to the interior of the enclosure is detachably connected. The connector may form a step between the portion where the water supply connector is connected and the portion where the drain hole is formed.

[0025] Additionally, the joint portion may include an inclined surface that slopes downward toward the direction of the drain hole.

[0026] On the other hand, the robot vacuum cleaner base station may include an internal chamber disposed below the connector joint for liquid accumulation.

[0027] Additionally, the internal chamber may be formed with flow path holes for guiding the liquid that accumulates in the internal chamber to the cleaning tank.

[0028] Additionally, the internal chamber may include: a chamber body; and a component placement portion protruding from the chamber body to accommodate components within the enclosure; the uppermost end of the component placement portion may be located at a position higher than the flow path hole.

[0029] On the other hand, the robot vacuum cleaner base station may include: a cloth drying unit that blows hot air between a pair of cloths arranged symmetrically on the lower part of the robot vacuum cleaner; and a printed circuit board disposed behind the cleaning tank for controlling the power supply; the internal chamber may be located on the opposite side of the direction in which the printed circuit board is disposed, with respect to the cloth drying unit.

[0030] On the other hand, the robot vacuum cleaner base station may include: a wastewater tank for storing water used to wash the rag; and a wastewater outlet disposed on the rear side of the wastewater tank for discharging water from the wastewater tank to the outside; the internal chamber may be disposed on the vertically lower side of the wastewater outlet.

[0031] Additionally, the robotic vacuum cleaner base station may include: a cleaning water supply unit that mixes clean water supplied through the connecting pipe with detergent for cleaning the mop; the internal chamber may be disposed on the vertically lower side of the cleaning water supply unit.

[0032] On the other hand, the cleaning tank may include a water level detection sensor to detect the water level in the cleaning tank.

[0033] In addition, the water level detection sensor can operate by detecting the current flowing in the liquid.

[0034] On the other hand, the internal chamber may be equipped with a water leakage detection sensor on its bottom surface.

[0035] Additionally, the connecting pipe may include a water supply connecting pipe that supplies water from an external water source to the interior of the enclosure; the connector may include a water supply connector that is detachably connected to the water supply connecting pipe; the water supply connector may be pivotally connected to the connector joint.

[0036] Additionally, the connecting pipe may include a drain connecting pipe for draining water from inside the cover to the outside; the connector may include a drain connector that is detachably connected to the drain connecting pipe; the drain connector may have a branching shape to both sides.

[0037] As described above, according to the present invention, the modules for charging the robot vacuum, collecting dust, and cleaning the mop are arranged in a direction horizontal to the robot vacuum, thereby utilizing the space under the kitchen cabinet.

[0038] In addition, the charging terminal, dust collection unit, mop cleaning unit, and mop drying unit are arranged in a configuration centered around the robot vacuum, enabling the robot vacuum to perform various functions simultaneously.

[0039] In addition, the other sides besides the front are covered by kitchen furniture cabinets, thus providing aesthetic appeal to the user in terms of decoration.

[0040] In addition, it can prevent damage or functional deterioration of internal components that may be caused by water leakage by detecting leaks. Attached Figure Description

[0041] Figure 1 This diagram illustrates the state in which a cleaning system according to an embodiment of the present invention is installed on the underside of a kitchen furniture cabinet.

[0042] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the piping and drainage pipe connections of a sweeper system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 3 This is a perspective view illustrating a sweeper system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Top view.

[0045] Figure 5 This is a perspective view illustrating a sweeping robot according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Side view.

[0047] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 A bottom view.

[0048] Figure 8 yes Figure 5 Rear view.

[0049] Figure 9 This is a perspective view illustrating the structure of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 10 This is a perspective view illustrating the door of a robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 The main view.

[0052] Figure 12 This is a perspective view illustrating the internal structure of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 13 and Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating the cleaning plate and cleaning tank of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] Figure 15 This is a diagram illustrating the dust collection section of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] Figure 16 This is an enlarged view illustrating the cloth cleaning section of a robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] Figure 17 This is an enlarged view illustrating the cleaning water supply unit in the cloth cleaning section of a robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] Figure 18 and Figure 19 This is a diagram illustrating the external air supply module of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] Figure 20 This is a diagram illustrating the air exhaust port of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0059] Figure 21 This is an enlarged view illustrating the connector of a robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] Figure 22 This is a rear view used to illustrate the configuration relationship of the internal chambers in a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] Figure 23 This is a left-side view illustrating the configuration of the internal chambers in a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] Figure 24 This is an enlarged view illustrating the internal chamber of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0063] Figure 25 This is a cross-sectional view used to illustrate the internal chamber of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] Figure 26 This is an enlarged view illustrating the height of the flow path holes in the base station of a sweeping robot according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] Figure 27 This is an enlarged view illustrating the water level detection sensor in the base station of a sweeping robot according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0066] Figure 28 This is a block diagram illustrating the control configuration in a robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0067] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0068] 1: Robot vacuum cleaner base station

[0069] 2: Kitchen furniture cabinets

[0070] 100: Robot vacuum cleaner base station

[0071] 110: Cover

[0072] 114: Joint joint

[0073] 114a: Drain hole

[0074] 114b: Inclined surface

[0075] 120: Resettlement Department

[0076] 122: Cleaning board

[0077] 128: Cleaning tank

[0078] 129: Internal chamber

[0079] 129a: Chamber body

[0080] 129b: Flow path hole

[0081] 129ba: Flow path guide groove

[0082] 129c: Component placement section

[0083] 129d: Leakage detection sensor

[0084] 130: Door

[0085] 140: Dust Collection Department

[0086] 141: Dust collection unit cover

[0087] 144: Dust bag drawer

[0088] 145: Dust collection motor

[0089] 160: Cloth Cleaning Department

[0090] 165: Connecting pipe

[0091] 165a: Water supply connection pipe

[0092] 165b: Drainage connection pipe

[0093] 166: Connector

[0094] 166a: Water supply connector

[0095] 166b: Drainage connector

[0096] 170: Cloth Drying Section

[0097] 171: External air supply module

[0098] 172: Air exhaust section

[0099] 190: Drawer

[0100] 200: Robotic Vacuum Cleaner

[0101] 300: Control Department Detailed Implementation

[0102] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0103] This invention can be modified in various ways and can have various embodiments; therefore, specific embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings and are described in detail in the description. This is not intended to limit the invention to specific implementations, but should be interpreted as encompassing all modifications, equivalents, or substitutions included within the spirit and technical scope of the invention.

[0104] In describing this invention, terms such as "first" and "second" may be used to describe various constituent elements, but the constituent elements are not limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one constituent element from other constituent elements. For example, without departing from the scope of this invention, a first constituent element may be named a second constituent element, and similarly, a second constituent element may be named a first constituent element.

[0105] The term "and / or" can include a combination of the contents of a plurality of related records or any one of the contents of a plurality of related records.

[0106] When it is mentioned that one constituent element is "connected" or "linked" to another constituent element, it should be understood that it can be directly connected or linked to another constituent element, or that there may be other constituent elements between them. Conversely, when it is mentioned that one constituent element is "directly connected" or "directly linked" to another constituent element, it should be understood that there are no other constituent elements between them.

[0107] The terminology used in this application is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the invention. Unless explicitly stated in the context, singular expressions may include plural expressions.

[0108] In this application, it should be understood that terms such as "comprising" or "having" are intended only to specify the presence of features, figures, steps, actions, constituent elements, components, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and do not preclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, figures, steps, actions, constituent elements, components, or combinations thereof.

[0109] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, may have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. Terms such as those defined in common dictionaries may be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the relevant technical context, and may not be construed as having an ideal or overly formal meaning unless expressly defined herein.

[0110] Furthermore, the following embodiments are provided to enable those skilled in the art to understand more fully, and for the purpose of clearer illustration, the shape and size of the elements in the drawings may be exaggerated.

[0111] Kitchen cabinet and cleaning system

[0112] Figure 1 A diagram is shown illustrating the state in which a cleaning system according to an embodiment of the present invention is disposed on the underside of a kitchen furniture cabinet. Figure 2 A diagram illustrating the piping and drainage pipe connections of a sweeper system according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0113] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 According to an embodiment of the present invention, the cleaning system 1 can be installed on the underside of the kitchen cabinet 2. Specifically, the kitchen cabinet 2 can be installed in the kitchen to store bowls, plates, cups, etc., and to provide space for cooking food or washing dishes.

[0114] In addition, kitchen cabinet 2 can be equipped with an upper panel (workbench) that can function as a sink, cooking table, or work surface.

[0115] For example, the kitchen cabinet 2 may include a sink on its upper panel to provide space for washing dishes. Alternatively, the kitchen cabinet 2 may include a cooking countertop for performing cooking tasks. Additionally, the kitchen cabinet 2 may include a gas stovetop on its upper panel for mounting a gas stove, induction cooktop, ceramic cooktop, or oven.

[0116] Typically, kitchen furniture cabinet 2 can be a standard cabinet with a front-to-back width of 600mm and a left-to-right width of 600mm.

[0117] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a sweeper system 1 can be disposed on the underside of a structure including at least one of a water supply pipe and a drain pipe. Specifically, the water supply pipe can refer to a flow path connected to an external water supply source that supplies fluid to the structure, and the drain pipe can refer to a flow path that discharges fluid discharged from the structure into a sewer.

[0118] A storage cabinet for storing tableware and kitchen utensils can be installed at the lower part of this kitchen furniture cabinet 2 or the structure described above. That is, the kitchen furniture cabinet 2 or the structure described above may include: an upper panel 22 providing space for cooking or washing dishes; a lower side panel 23 configured to be separated from the ground at a predetermined height; and a storage space formed between the upper panel 22 and the lower side panel 23 for storing tableware and kitchen utensils. In the case where the kitchen furniture cabinet 2 is a sink, a sink 22a can be installed on the upper panel 22.

[0119] Additionally, the lower side panel 23 can be supported by a support column 21. The support column 21 can be arranged perpendicular to the kitchen floor and can support the load of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2. At this time, depending on the height of the support column 21, a space can be formed between the kitchen floor and the lower side panel 23.

[0120] In contrast, the kitchen furniture cabinet 2 can also be fixed to the wall of the building without the need for the supporting column 21. In this case, a space can also be formed between the kitchen floor and the lower side panel 23.

[0121] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the cleaning machine system 1 is installed in the space between the floor and the lower side panel 23 of the kitchen as described above (hereinafter referred to as the installation space).

[0122] For example, the installation space can be less than 200mm in height, and typically can be less than 160mm in height.

[0123] Therefore, according to the present invention, the cleaning system 1 is disposed in the lower space of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2, thus having the effect of minimizing the exposure of the cleaning system 1 to the outside.

[0124] Furthermore, compared to configuring a charging station for a robot vacuum cleaner in a constant space such as the living room, bedroom, or kitchen, the robot vacuum system 1 is configured in the unused space created by the kitchen cabinet 2 without taking up additional space, thus maximizing space efficiency.

[0125] On the other hand, the kitchen cabinet 2 or the structure is provided with a drain pipe 25 capable of draining liquids used in cooking or water used in washing dishes. At least a portion of the drain pipe 25 may be configured in the storage space formed between the upper panel 22 and the lower side panel 23. Typically, the drain pipe 25 may be connected to the drain outlet of the sink 22a formed in the sink. The drain pipe 25 includes a U-bend 25a for preventing backflow of contaminated gases or odors. The U-bend 25a may be configured in the storage space. Liquid flowing in through the drain outlet may flow downwards due to gravity at the upstream 25b of the U-bend and accumulate in the U-bend 25a. If the water overflows above a predetermined water level set by the U-bend 25a, it may flow downwards along the downstream 25c of the U-bend and be discharged into the sewer.

[0126] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the sweeping system 1 can use the drain pipe 25 as described above to wash and dry the mop 242 of the sweeping robot 200.

[0127] Additionally, although not shown in the diagram, a water supply pipe may be installed in the kitchen furniture cabinet 2. Tap water (or purified water) can be supplied to the cleaning system 1 through the water supply pipe.

[0128] The specific structure of the sweeper system 1 will be described below.

[0129] Sweeping system

[0130] on the other hand, Figure 3 and Figure 4 A diagram illustrating a sweeper system according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0131] According to embodiments of this specification, a sweeping system 1 may include a sweeping robot base station 100 and a sweeping robot 200.

[0132] The cleaning system 1 includes a robot vacuum base station 100. A robot vacuum 200 can be integrated into the robot vacuum base station 100. Specifically, the robot vacuum 200 can enter from the front of the robot vacuum base station 100 and can be housed inside the robot vacuum base station 100. The robot vacuum base station 100 can remove dust from the dustbin 220 of the robot vacuum 200. The robot vacuum base station 100 can clean the rotating cleaning section 240 of the robot vacuum 200. The robot vacuum base station 100 can dry the rotating cleaning section 240 of the robot vacuum 200. The robot vacuum base station 100 can supply power to the robot vacuum 200.

[0133] robot vacuum

[0134] on the other hand, Figures 5 to 8A diagram is disclosed to illustrate a sweeping robot system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0135] Reference Figures 5 to 8 The structure of the 200 robotic vacuum cleaner is described below.

[0136] The robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can autonomously drive in the area to be cleaned and suck up dust and other foreign objects from the ground, thus automatically cleaning the area.

[0137] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is placed on the ground and moves along the ground to clean the ground. Therefore, the following description will be based on the state of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 being placed on the ground, with the vertical direction set as a reference.

[0138] Furthermore, taking a pair of wheels 260 as a reference, the side with the auxiliary wheel 270 (described later) is designated as the front, and the side with the rotating cleaning unit 240 (described later) is designated as the rear, and will be described.

[0139] The “lowest part” of each component described in the embodiments of the present invention may be the part located at the lowest position in each component when the robot vacuum cleaner 200 according to the embodiments of the present invention is placed on the ground for use, or it may be the part closest to the ground.

[0140] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a sweeping robot 200 includes a main body 210, a dust bin 220, a water bin 230, a rotating sweeping unit 240, an agitator 250, wheels 260, auxiliary wheels 270, and a charging terminal 280.

[0141] The main body 210 can form the overall shape of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. Various components that make up the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can be integrated into the main body 210, and some of the components that make up the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can be housed inside the main body 210.

[0142] Specifically, the main body 210 may house the components of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 within its internal space. For example, the main body 210 may house a battery and at least one motor within its internal space.

[0143] In embodiments of the present invention, the main body 210 may be formed such that its width (or diameter) in the horizontal direction is greater than its height in the vertical direction. This main body 210 can help the sweeping robot 200 form a stable structure and can provide a structure that facilitates the sweeping robot 200 in avoiding obstacles during movement (driving).

[0144] When viewed from above or below, the main body 210 can take various shapes such as circular, elliptical, or quadrilateral.

[0145] The main body 210 can be divided into a lower main body and an upper main body, and the lower main body and the upper main body can be combined to form a space inside.

[0146] The lower main body can be combined with the upper main body to form an internal space that can accommodate a battery, at least one sensor, and at least one motor.

[0147] The lower body may have an intake section 211 for air to flow in and a hole for accommodating a pair of wheels 260.

[0148] The suction section 211 can be a passage for dust from the ground to flow in. Furthermore, the suction section 211 can communicate with a suction flow path (not shown) formed inside the main body 210, and the suction flow path can communicate with the internal space of the dust bin 220.

[0149] On the other hand, an exhaust flow path can also be provided in the lower main body. One side of the exhaust flow path can communicate with the internal space of the dust bin 220, and the other side can communicate with the exhaust port. At this time, a filter can be installed at the exhaust port.

[0150] With the configuration described above, the air flowing in through the suction section 211 can flow into the dust bin 220 via the suction flow path, and then be discharged from the exhaust port via the exhaust flow path.

[0151] The agitator 250, described later, can be rotatably housed in the suction section 211. With the configuration described above, dust around the suction section 211 can be guided into the suction section 211 by the rotation of the agitator 250, and the efficiency of dust suction can be improved.

[0152] The upper body can form the upper appearance of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. Although not shown, a display can be installed on the upper body.

[0153] The robotic vacuum cleaner 200 of the present invention may include a buffer. The buffer may be attached along the edge of the body 210 and configured to move relative to the body 210.

[0154] The buffer member can be attached to a portion of the edge of the body 210, or it can be attached to the entire edge of the body 210. At least one elastic member (not shown) can be provided between the buffer member and the body 210. With the configuration described above, if the buffer member comes into contact with an obstacle or the like and moves relative to the central side of the body 210, the buffer member can be reset to its original position by the restoring force of the elastic member (not shown), and can absorb or disperse the impact applied to the buffer member, thereby preventing and reducing the transmission of impact to the body 210.

[0155] The dust bin 220 can be configured to suck in external dust and air and store the dust.

[0156] The dust bin 220 can store dust that flows in through the suction flow path. The dust bin 220 can have a dust inlet communicating with the suction flow path, an internal space for storing dust, and an air outlet for discharging air.

[0157] The dust bin 220 can be disposed inside the main body 210. In this case, the dust bin 220 can be fixedly attached to the main body 210, or it can be configured to be detachable according to the embodiment.

[0158] On the other hand, in this invention, a dust discharge path can be formed in the dust bin 220. This dust discharge path allows the internal space of the dust bin 220 to communicate with the external space of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. Using the configuration described above, when dust is collected by the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100, the dust inside the dust bin 220 can be removed.

[0159] On the other hand, the dust bin 220 according to an embodiment of the present invention may have a dust outlet 221 communicating with the dust discharge flow path. As one example, the dust outlet 221 may be formed on the rear side of the outer side (or outer peripheral surface) of the main body 210. As another example, the dust outlet 221 may be formed on the outer side of the dust bin 220.

[0160] Furthermore, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention may be provided with a dust bin door 222 capable of selectively opening and closing the aforementioned dust outlet 221. Specifically, the dust bin door 222 may be attached to the main body 210 and positioned to block the dust outlet 221. As an example, the dust bin door 222 may be formed of rubber or resin material, configured to be flip-up, and one side of which may be fixedly attached to the main body 210.

[0161] With the configuration described above, if the dust collection motor 145 of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 described later is operated, the dust bin door 222 can be elastically deformed by the driving force of the dust collection motor 145, and the dust discharge port 221 is opened, so that the dust in the dust bin 220 can be collected into the dust collection section 140 of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0162] The bucket 230 is shaped as a container with an internal space for storing liquids such as water. The bucket 230 can be disposed inside the body 210, fixedly attached to the body 210, or detachably attached to the body 210.

[0163] The water tank 230 includes a supply section 231 and a nozzle (not shown). The supply section 231 can be configured to receive liquids such as water from the outside. For example, the supply section 231 may have an inlet formed on the other side behind the outer side (or outer peripheral surface) of the main body 210, and be connected to the storage space inside the water tank 230 via a water supply hose.

[0164] At this time, the supply unit 231 can be configured on the opposite side of the sweeping robot 200 in the left-right direction in relation to the dust discharge port 221. For example, if the dust discharge port 221 is configured on the rear left side of the main body 210, the supply unit 231 can be configured on the rear right side of the main body 210.

[0165] With the configuration described above, when the robot vacuum cleaner 200 is combined with the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 can perform dust collection and water injection.

[0166] On the other hand, the nozzle (not shown) is formed in the shape of a tube or pipe and is connected to the bucket 230, allowing the liquid inside the bucket 230 to flow through it. The nozzle (not shown) is configured such that one side is connected to the bucket 230, and the other end is located on the upper side of a pair of rotating plates 241 or on the rotating plates, thereby allowing the liquid inside the bucket 230 to be supplied to a pair of wiping cloths 242 respectively.

[0167] That is, the nozzle (not shown) can be formed into a tube that is branched into two. In this case, one end of the branch can be located on the upper side of the left rag, and the other end of the branch can be located on the upper side of the right rag.

[0168] On the other hand, although not shown, a pump may be provided in the water tank 230 to direct the water inside the water tank 230 to the nozzle (not shown). Therefore, if the pump in the water tank 230 is running, the liquid stored in the water tank 230 can be ejected through the nozzle (not shown) to the rotating cleaning unit 240.

[0169] The rotating cleaning unit 240 includes a rotating plate 241 and a cleaning cloth 242.

[0170] The rotating plate 241 can be configured as a pair including a left rotating plate and a right rotating plate, and the wiping cloth 242 can be configured as a pair including a left wiping cloth and a right wiping cloth.

[0171] The rotating plate 241 can be rotatably disposed on the bottom surface of the main body 210, and the rag 242 can be attached to the underside of the rotating plate 241.

[0172] The rotating plate 241 is formed with a specified area and is shaped as a flat plate or a flat frame. This rotating plate 241 is generally laid horizontally, thus forming a shape where the width (or diameter) in the horizontal direction is significantly greater than the height in the vertical direction. The rotating plate 241, combined with the main body 210, can be parallel to the ground or inclined to the ground. The rotating plate 241 can be formed into a circular plate shape, the bottom surface of the rotating plate 241 can be generally circular, and the rotating plate 241 as a whole can be rotationally symmetrical.

[0173] A pair of rotating plates 241 can be symmetrical to each other.

[0174] The rag 242 can be attached to the underside of the rotating plate 241 so that it faces the ground.

[0175] The bottom surface of the rag 242 facing the ground has a defined area, and the rag 242 is flat. The width (or diameter) of the rag 242 in the horizontal direction is sufficiently greater than its height in the vertical direction. When the rag 242 is attached to the side of the main body 210, the bottom surface of the rag 242 can be parallel to the ground or inclined to the ground.

[0176] The bottom surface of the cleaning cloth 242 can be roughly circular, and the cleaning cloth 242 as a whole can be formed in a rotationally symmetrical shape. In addition, the cleaning cloth 242 can be detachably attached to the bottom surface of the rotating plate 241, combined with the rotating plate 241, and rotates together with the rotating plate 241.

[0177] On the other hand, although not shown, the rotary cleaning unit 240 may be provided with a drive unit that applies rotational force to the rotary plate 241. For example, the drive unit may be provided with a motor and at least one gear. Therefore, if the drive unit is activated, the rotary plate 241 and the mop 242 can rotate and wipe the floor to perform cleaning.

[0178] The agitator 250 is rotatably equipped with a plurality of brushes that can guide external dust and air into the dust bin 220. At this time, at least one gear may be provided in the agitator 250.

[0179] On the other hand, the agitator 250 according to this embodiment can not only be provided with an additional agitator motor (not shown) to receive rotational power, but can also receive rotational power from a driving motor or from the drive unit of the rotating cleaning unit 240, depending on the embodiment.

[0180] Wheel 260 can be disposed on the bottom surface of main body 210 and can be connected to drive unit (not shown). At this time, drive unit (not shown) can be combined with main body 210.

[0181] Wheel 260 can be mounted on body 210 and roll on the ground.

[0182] Wheel 260 can be composed of a first driving wheel and a second driving wheel. In this case, the first driving wheel can be formed in the same way as the second driving wheel, or it can be formed symmetrically. As an example, if the first driving wheel is located on the left side of the sweeping robot 200, then the second driving wheel can be located on the right side of the sweeping robot 200. In this case, the first driving wheel and the second driving wheel can be left-right symmetrical to each other.

[0183] The drive unit (not shown) may include a travel motor and gears. In this case, the travel motor may be housed inside the main body 210, providing power to the wheel 260. The travel motor may include a first travel motor and a second travel motor.

[0184] The travel motor can be an electric motor. A plurality of gears mesh with each other and rotate, connecting the travel motor and the wheel 260, transmitting the rotational power of the travel motor to the wheel 260. Therefore, when the rotating shaft of the travel motor rotates, the wheel 260 can rotate.

[0185] With the configuration described above, if the driving motor is running, the wheel 260 can rotate, and the main body 210 can travel on the ground at a specified speed.

[0186] The auxiliary wheel 270 can be disposed on the underside of the main body 210 and roll on the ground (the surface to be cleaned). The auxiliary wheel 270, together with a pair of wheels 260, can support the main body 210 on the ground. With the configuration described above, the auxiliary wheel 270 can guide the movement of the robot vacuum cleaner 200 while minimizing friction between the robot vacuum cleaner 200 and the ground.

[0187] The suction motor (not shown) generates suction that draws in external dust and air through the suction section 211. For example, the suction motor (not shown) can be an electric motor. Under the suction generated by the suction motor (not shown), external dust and air flow into the suction section 211 and reach the dust bin 220 after passing through the suction flow path.

[0188] Although not shown, the battery is integrated with the main body 210 and supplies power to other components constituting the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The battery can power at least one motor disposed in the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. For example, the battery can power the rotating cleaning unit 240, the agitator 250, the wheels 260, and a motor disposed in the suction motor (not shown).

[0189] In addition, the battery can supply power to the sensor unit (not shown) and the control unit (not shown).

[0190] The battery can be charged by an external power source, and for this purpose, a charging terminal 280 for charging can be provided on one side of the main body 210. For example, the charging terminal 280 can be configured on the rear side of the outer surface of the main body 210. When the robot vacuum cleaner 200 is combined with the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100, the charging terminal 280 can contact the power supply terminal 123b of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 and receive power.

[0191] Robot vacuum cleaner base station

[0192] Reference Figures 3 to 14 The following describes the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention.

[0193] The robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 can accommodate a robot vacuum cleaner 200. The robot vacuum cleaner 200 can be integrated into the mounting section 120 of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0194] The robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 may include a cover 110.

[0195] The cover 110 can form the appearance of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100. As an example, the cover 110 can be formed into a shape similar to a hexahedron including at least one outer wall surface.

[0196] The cover 110 can have a space inside that can accommodate the placement section 120, the door section 130, the dust collection section 140, the cloth washing section 160, and the cloth drying section 170.

[0197] The cover 110 can be installed on the underside of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2. Specifically, the cover 110 can be installed in the mounting space formed between the lower side panel 23 of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2 and the kitchen floor.

[0198] The enclosure 110 includes a pair of outer walls 111 facing each other. The outer walls 111 may refer to surfaces formed along the direction of gravity.

[0199] As an example, a pair of outer walls 111 can be arranged at predetermined intervals on the lower side of the kitchen cabinet 2. In this case, the cover 110 can also include a bottom surface 112 facing the kitchen floor, through which the pair of outer walls 111 can be connected. On the other hand, the cover 110 can also include an upper cover 113 facing the lower side panel 23 of the kitchen cabinet 2, which can be detachably attached to the upper end of the pair of outer walls 111. Therefore, even if foreign objects fall from the kitchen cabinet 2 to the lower side, the components of the robot vacuum 200 and the robot vacuum base station 100 can be prevented from becoming contaminated. Additionally, the cover 110 can also include a rear surface 115 facing the wall of the building. Using the configuration described above, the components of the robot vacuum base station 100 can be accommodated inside the cover 110 (between the pair of outer walls).

[0200] Additionally, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can be housed inside the enclosure 110. The enclosure 110 can be configured such that a gap between its outer walls 111 is greater than the maximum horizontal width of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. With the configuration described above, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can enter and exit the interior of the enclosure 110.

[0201] In this embodiment, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can enter and exit from the front of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100. Here, "front" can refer to the direction in which the door 131 is set with reference to the interior of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0202] Additionally, "rear" can refer to the opposite direction from the front, based on the interior of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100. For example, a building wall (not shown) may be installed behind the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0203] In addition, based on the view from inside the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100, the left side can be called the left side and the right side can be called the right side.

[0204] That is, the outer wall 111 of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 can be configured on the left side and the right side respectively.

[0205] Therefore, the upper side of the cover 110 can be covered by the kitchen cabinet 2, and the lower side of the cover 110 can be covered by the kitchen floor. Additionally, the left and right sides of the cover 110 are covered by the outer wall, but are positioned at the bottom of the kitchen cabinet 2. At this point, the lower part of the kitchen cabinet 2, except for the portion containing the robot vacuum base station 100, is finished off by the baseboard 26; therefore, only the front of the cover 110 is exposed to the outside.

[0206] This minimizes the exposure of the robot vacuum base station 100 and the robot vacuum 200 to the outside.

[0207] With the configuration described above, the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention has the effect of bringing aesthetic appeal to users in terms of decoration.

[0208] On the other hand, the cover 110 may have a space for a water supply hose connected to a water supply pipe to pass through, a space for a drainage hose to pass through for draining wastewater generated after washing the cloth 242, and a space for a hose to pass through for discharging water generated during the drying process of the cloth 242. For example, a space for the aforementioned hoses to pass through may be formed on the outer wall 111 of the cover 110.

[0209] layout

[0210] The robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention is characterized in that it is disposed in the lower space of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2.

[0211] Therefore, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention is characterized in that it is arranged horizontally according to the space formed between the lower side panel 23 of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2 and the kitchen floor.

[0212] Specifically, in the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the embodiment of the present invention, the dust collection unit 140 and / or the mop cleaning unit 160 may be arranged on the side of the entrance 127.

[0213] At this time, with both the dust collection section 140 and the cloth cleaning section 160 provided, the placement section 120 can be arranged between the dust collection section 140 and the cloth cleaning section 160.

[0214] For example, an entrance / exit 127 and a door 131 can be configured at the front of the robot vacuum base station 100. Furthermore, a mounting section 120 for the robot vacuum 200 to attach to can be configured from the entrance / exit 127 to the rear. In this case, the dust collection section 140 can be configured to a predetermined length from the front to the rear of the robot vacuum base station 100. Additionally, the mop cleaning section 160 can also be configured to a predetermined length from the front to the rear of the robot vacuum base station 100.

[0215] Therefore, when the robot vacuum station 100 is viewed from the front outside, the front end of the dust collection unit 140 and / or the front end of the mop cleaning unit 160 can be arranged on the left and right sides of the entrance 127.

[0216] At this time, the dust bag drawer 144 of the dust collection unit 140 can be configured to extend outwards towards the front of the cover 110. Additionally, the detergent container 163 of the cloth washing unit 160 can be configured to extend outwards towards the front of the cover.

[0217] On the other hand, the rear ends of the dust collection hood 141 and the detergent tank 163 can be configured to be separated from the rear end of the hood 110 by a predetermined interval. Furthermore, a dust collection motor 145 can be disposed between the rear end of the dust collection hood 141 and the rear end of the hood 110. With the configuration described above, it is possible to minimize the overall space occupied by the mounting portion 120, the dust collection hood 141, and the dust collection motor 145 within a limited space.

[0218] Furthermore, at least a portion of a flow path for supplying cleaning water for washing the cloth 242 can be disposed between the rear end of the cover 110 and the rear end of the detergent tank 163. With the configuration described above, the path of the cleaning water flowing from the water supply pipe can be shortened to the greatest extent possible. Additionally, it has the effect of minimizing the overall space occupied by the housing 120, the detergent tank 163, and the flow path for supplying cleaning water within a limited space.

[0219] On the other hand, in the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100, the cloth drying unit 170 can be configured behind the mounting unit 120. In this case, the cloth drying unit 170 can be configured between the rear end of the mounting unit 120 and the rear end of the cover 110.

[0220] Therefore, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 may be provided with a dust collection unit 140 and a cloth washing unit 160 on the left and right sides based on the placement unit 120, and a cloth drying unit 170 may be provided on the rear side.

[0221] That is, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the sweeping robot base station 100 can be configured with all of the dust collection unit 140, the cloth washing unit 160 and the cloth drying unit 170 within a predetermined distance from the outer contour of the placement unit 120.

[0222] This shortens the distance between the dust bin 220 and the dust collection unit 140 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200, thereby minimizing flow path loss. Furthermore, by minimizing the distances between the mop 242 and the mop washing unit 160, and between the mop 242 and the mop drying unit 170, the area containing the washing water and wastewater is effectively limited.

[0223] In addition, by using this configuration, the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention can arrange all its components within a limited height.

[0224] As a result, the robot vacuum base station 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention can be configured with a dust collection unit 140, a mop washing unit 160, and a mop drying unit 170 on three sides surrounding the mounting portion 120, excluding the front side where the robot vacuum 200 enters. The configuration described above has the following effects: even when the vertical height is limited, the robot vacuum 200 can be charged using minimal horizontal space, and the dust from the robot vacuum 200 can be collected, the mop 242 can be washed, and the mop 242 can be dried.

[0225] Resettlement Department

[0226] like Figures 12 to 14As shown, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 may include a mounting unit 120.

[0227] The robotic vacuum cleaner 200 and the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 can be physically connected, electrically connected, and / or connected via the mounting unit 120.

[0228] The installation unit 120 can be installed inside the cover 110.

[0229] An entrance 127 for introducing the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can be formed in front of the installation unit 120. The entrance 127 can refer to the space formed in front of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0230] The entrance / exit 127 can be sized to allow the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to pass through. That is, the height of the entrance / exit 127 is greater than the height of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. In this case, the entrance / exit 127 can refer to a space formed vertically upward from the front end of the cleaning tank 121 (described later). Alternatively, the entrance / exit 127 can refer to a hole formed in the door frame 132 (described later) for the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to pass through.

[0231] At least one of a dust collection section 140 and a cloth cleaning section 160 may be arranged on the left and right sides of the inlet / outlet 127. Therefore, the left and right ends of the inlet / outlet 127 may form boundaries with the dust collection section 140 and the cloth cleaning section 160.

[0232] At this time, entrance / exit 127 can be opened and closed by door 131.

[0233] The placement section 120 may include a receiving space S, a cleaning tank 121, a connecting wall 123, and an inner wall 124.

[0234] The robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can be accommodated in the accommodating space S of the mounting section 120. As one example, the accommodating space S can refer to the space surrounded by the cleaning tank 121, the connecting wall 123, and the inner wall 124. As another example, the accommodating space S can refer to the space where the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is located when it is connected to the power supply terminal 123b, or when the dustbin 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is connected to the dust passage hole 123a.

[0235] The cleaning tank 121 is configured to support the robot vacuum 200 when it is integrated with the robot vacuum base station 100. The wheels 260 of the robot vacuum 200 can contact the upper side of the cleaning tank 121. In addition, the auxiliary wheels 270 of the robot vacuum 200 can contact the upper side of the cleaning tank 121.

[0236] The cleaning tank 121 may include a cleaning tank body 121a, an inclined portion 121b, a wheel engagement portion 121c, an agitator receiving portion 121d, and a cleaning plate engagement portion 128.

[0237] The cleaning tank body 121a can form the overall shape of the cleaning tank 121. The cleaning tank body 121a may be provided with an inclined part 121b, a wheel engagement part 121c, an agitator receiving part 121d, and a cleaning plate engagement part 128.

[0238] The cleaning tank body 121a can be formed such that its length and width in the horizontal direction are greater than its height in the vertical direction. Due to this structure, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 can be stably supported on the ground.

[0239] An air exchange path can be provided inside the cleaning tank body 121a. Therefore, the air discharged from the dust collection motor 145 can flow through the air exchange path 125a formed inside the cleaning tank body 121a and be discharged from the air exchange port 125b.

[0240] The inclined section 121b can be configured in the cleaning tank body 121a as an entrance for the sweeping robot 200 to climb.

[0241] The tilting portion 121b may have a forward tilt in the direction in which the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 enters. More specifically, the front end of the tilting portion 121b may be connected to the ground without any height difference, and may have a tilt in the rearward direction. That is, the tilting portion 121b may be configured to gradually rise from the ground when the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 enters. As a result, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can easily climb from the ground to the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0242] A wheel guide 121ba may be provided in the inclined section 121b.

[0243] The wheel guide portion 121ba can be formed in the shape of a groove to guide the movement of the wheels 260 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The surface of the wheel guide portion 121ba can be formed to correspond to the surface of the wheels 260 so that the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can move stably. In addition, the width of the groove of the wheel guide portion 121ba, which is the entrance for the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to climb, is greater than the width of the wheels 260, and the width of the groove can be formed to narrow relative to the entrance as it moves forward toward the climbing path of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. As a result, the wheels 260 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can easily enter the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 and are restricted from lateral movement by the groove whose width gradually narrows, thereby guiding the wheels 260 to an accurate position.

[0244] An auxiliary wheel guide 121bb may be provided in the inclined section 121b.

[0245] The auxiliary wheel guide 121bb can be formed in a groove shape to guide the movement of the auxiliary wheel 270 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. Alternatively, the auxiliary wheel guide 121bb can be formed in a protruding shape so that when the wheel 260 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is placed on the wheel guide 121bb, it connects with the auxiliary wheel 270. Thus, when the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 moves on the tilting section 121b, it can be stably supported and moved by the wheel 260 and the auxiliary wheel 270.

[0246] The wheel 260 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200, which moves upward along the wheel guide 121ba, can be mounted at the wheel engagement portion 121c. If the wheel 260 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is mounted at the wheel engagement portion 121c, a physical connection between the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 and the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 can be achieved. The surface of the wheel engagement portion 121c can be formed to correspond to the surface of the wheel 260, so that the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can stop stably. The wheel engagement portion 121c can extend from the upper end of the wheel guide 121ba. The wheel engagement portion 121c can be connected to the wheel guide 121ba without any steps. Therefore, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can easily move to the wheel engagement portion 121c via the tilting portion 121b.

[0247] The wheel engagement portion 121c can be configured at the stop position of the left and right side wheels 260 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 so that the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 stops at an accurate position. Here, the stop position of the wheels 260 refers to the stop position set for connecting the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to the power supply terminal 123b and / or the stop position set for connecting the dustbin 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to the dust passage hole 123a.

[0248] The shape of the wheel engagement portion 121c can be formed to correspond to the shape of the wheel 260 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200, that is, an arc shape. With this configuration, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can move along the wheel guide portion 121ba and then stop when the wheel 260 is inserted into the wheel engagement portion 121c, and the wheel 260 can be stably placed in the arc-shaped wheel engagement portion 121c.

[0249] The agitator receiving section 121d can accommodate at least a portion of the agitator 250 of the sweeping robot 200.

[0250] An agitator receiving portion 121d can be formed between the wheel engagement portion 121c. The agitator receiving portion 121d can be shaped to correspond to the agitator 250 of the sweeping robot 200. The agitator receiving portion 121d can be shaped as a cuboid with an open upper portion. The bottom surface of the agitator receiving portion 121d can be sealed by the bottom surface of the cleaning tank body 121a or the bottom surface of the cover 110. Therefore, the agitator 250 of the sweeping robot 200, which moves upward along the inclined portion 121b, can be placed into the recessed portion 121da through the open top surface of the agitator receiving portion 121d. At this time, the depth of the recessed portion 121da can be made shallower than the depth of the wheel engagement portion 121c.

[0251] The agitator receiving portion 121d can be formed as a recess in the cleaning tank body 121a. Thus, with the wheels 260 of the sweeping robot 200 mounted in the wheel engagement portion 121c, the agitator receiving portion 121d can provide space to accommodate the lower end of the agitator 250.

[0252] An air exchange port 125b may be formed in the agitator housing 121d. The air exchange port 125b may be formed on the side of the agitator housing 121d. The air exchange port 125b is connected to the recess 121da and the dust collection motor 145 through an exchange flow path. The recess 121da and the exchange flow path are connected through the air exchange port 125b. Therefore, air discharged from the dust collection motor 145 can be discharged into the recess 121da of the agitator housing 121d through the air exchange port 125b.

[0253] The agitator housing 121d can guide the air expelled through the air exchange port 125b to the suction unit 211 of the sweeping robot 200.

[0254] On the other hand, the cleaning tank 121 can be configured to be extended from the cover 110 and the drawer 190. In this case, the cleaning tank 121 can be extended through the inlet 127 along the space between the inner walls 124.

[0255] To make this easy to achieve, a base handle 121e can be formed in the cleaning tank 121.

[0256] The base handle 121e can be formed by a recess in the cleaning tank body 121a, and can be formed by a recess from the rear to the lower front. For example, the base handle 121e can be formed as an elliptical groove, and can be formed with a cover in the front and open at the rear.

[0257] With the configuration described above, the user can easily pull out the cleaning tank 121 by grasping and pulling the base handle 121e.

[0258] The connecting wall 123 is configured with the dust passage 123a, power supply terminal 123b, and water nozzle 123c of the robot vacuum base station 100. The connecting wall 123 spatially separates the accommodating space S from the components of the robot vacuum base station 100. The connecting wall 123 extends vertically behind the cleaning tank 121. The connecting wall 123 can be formed to correspond to the shape of the robot vacuum 200. For example, if the main body 210 of the robot vacuum 200 is cylindrical, the connecting wall 123 can be formed as an arc with a predetermined radius. Using the configuration described above, it can surround the outer contour of the robot vacuum 200 and increase the area of ​​the outer surface facing the robot vacuum 200. Furthermore, it can stably support the robot vacuum 200.

[0259] A dust passage hole 123a can be formed in the placement section 120 to allow air from outside the cover 110 to flow into the interior. Specifically, a dust passage hole 123a can be formed in the connecting wall 123 to allow air from outside the cover 110 to flow into the interior. In this case, the dust passage hole 123a can be disposed behind the dust collection section cover 141, which will be described later.

[0260] The dust can communicate with the dust bin 220 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200 through the hole 123a. The dust can also communicate with the dust discharge outlet 221 of the dust bin 220 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200. The dust can be shaped to correspond to the shape of the dust bin 220 so that the dust in the dust bin 220 flows into the dust collection section 140.

[0261] Dust can be connected to the dust collection flow path 147, 148 through the hole 123a. Air drawn into the dust through the hole 123a can be discharged through the air exchange section 125 after flowing through the dust collection flow path 147, 148.

[0262] The robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 may include a power supply module for supplying power to the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The power supply module may include a power supply module housing and power supply terminals 123b. Circuit boards and components for power supply may be mounted inside the power supply module housing. Furthermore, the power supply terminals 123b may be positioned at the front of the power supply module housing and configured to be exposed on the bonding wall 123.

[0263] The power supply terminal 123b can supply power to the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 attached to the mounting section 120. The power supply terminal 123b can contact and be electrically connected to the charging terminal of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The power supply terminal 123b can be disposed in the mounting section 120. Specifically, the power supply terminal 123b can be disposed in the mounting wall 123. The power supply terminal 123b can be electrically connected to the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 attached to the mounting wall 123. The power supply terminal 123b can supply power to the battery of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 attached to the mounting wall 123.

[0264] The robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 may also include a water supply nozzle 123c.

[0265] The water nozzle 123c can be connected to the supply section 231 of the water tank 230 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200. Specifically, the water nozzle 123c can be connected to the inlet of the water tank 230. The water nozzle 123c can supply water supplied from the water supply pipe of the kitchen cabinet 2 to the storage space inside the water tank 230 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200.

[0266] The inner wall 124 is configured to spatially separate the accommodating space S of the placement part 120 from the components of the robot vacuum base station 100. A pair of inner walls 124 can be arranged on the left and right sides of the cleaning tank 121. The inner walls 124 can be connected to both ends of the connecting wall 123. The inner walls 124 can extend from the left and right sides of the cleaning tank 121 in a direction intersecting the cleaning tank 121. Specifically, the inner walls 124 can extend vertically on the left and right sides of the cleaning tank 121.

[0267] On the other hand, various components such as dust collection paths 147 and 148, dust collection unit 140, dust collection motor 145, detergent tank 163, and wastewater tank 164 can be arranged on the outer side of the inner wall 124. Specifically, the dust collection unit 140, detergent tank 163, and wastewater tank 164 can be arranged in the space between the inner wall 124 and the outer wall 111 of the cover 110.

[0268] The dust collection section 140 and the detergent container 163 can be slidably separated from the space between the inner wall 124 and the outer wall 111 of the cover 110. The lateral width of the dust collection section 140 and the detergent container 163 can be made smaller than the distance between the inner wall 124 and the outer wall 111 of the cover 110.

[0269] The cleaning plate 122 is a component of the cleaning cloth used for cleaning the robot vacuum cleaner 200. The cleaning plate 122 can be placed in the cleaning plate joint 128 of the cleaning tank 121. In addition, the cleaning plate 122 can contact the cleaning cloth 242 when the robot vacuum cleaner 200 is in place.

[0270] The cleaning plate 122 can be integrally formed as a plate that slopes downward toward the center.

[0271] Specifically, the cleaning plate 122 includes a flow guiding surface 122c formed in a curved shape. Furthermore, at least one through hole 122b for fluid to pass through can be formed on the flow guiding surface 122c. Additionally, cleaning protrusions 122a can be formed protruding from the flow guiding surface 122c.

[0272] At this time, a pair of cleaning protrusions 122a can be symmetrically formed on the flow guide surface 122c. Specifically, the pair of cleaning protrusions 122a can be disposed on the vertically lower side of the pair of mop pads 242 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200, configured to face the pair of mop pads 242, and configured to be able to contact at least a portion of the pair of mop pads 242.

[0273] Furthermore, a plurality of holes 122b can be formed on the flow guiding surface 122c, between a pair of cleaning protrusions 122a. For example, a plurality of holes 122b can be formed on the flow guiding surface 122c at the lowest position above the ground (kitchen floor), between a pair of cleaning protrusions 122a. Thus, fluid expelled between the pair of cleaning protrusions 122a can be guided to the holes 122b and flow.

[0274] On the other hand, the height of the flow guide surface 122c from the kitchen floor can increase as it moves rearward from the position where the through hole 122b is formed. That is, the height of the flow guide surface 122c from the kitchen floor can increase as it moves closer to the external air exhaust section 171c, which will be described later.

[0275] With this configuration, cleaning water and / or air can flow along the flow guide surface 122c and flow out through the through hole 122b into the space formed between the cleaning plate 122 and the cleaning plate joint 128.

[0276] If cleaning water is supplied to the cleaning plate 122 and the cloth 242 rotates, the cloth 242 can be rubbed against the stationary cleaning protrusion 122a and cleaned.

[0277] On the other hand, at least a portion of the cleaning plate 122 may be disposed on the upper side of the flow path forming portion 128c described later. That is, the cleaning plate 122 may also include a commutation flow path cover portion 122d that protrudes upward from the flow guide surface 122c and is coupled to the upper side of the flow path forming portion 128c.

[0278] In this embodiment, the cleaning plate 122 can be formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the flow path forming portion 128c. For example, the front left side portion of the cleaning plate 122 can be formed by protruding upward from the flow guide surface 122c, covering the lower flow path forming portion 128c.

[0279] With this configuration, the cleaning plate 122 and the cleaning plate joint 128 can be accurately joined while providing sufficient space to form the commutation flow path 125a.

[0280] The cleaning plate joint 128 is a configuration for mounting the cleaning plate 122. The cleaning plate joint 128 can be disposed on the rear side of the cleaning tank body 121a. The cleaning plate joint 128 is disposed on the underside of the cleaning plate 122 and is detachably coupled to the cleaning plate 122. The cleaning plate joint 128 can be formed correspondingly to the cleaning plate 122 so that the cleaning plate 122 can be inserted. Liquid passing through the cleaning plate 122 can flow into the cleaning plate joint 128.

[0281] The cleaning plate joint 128 may include: a cleaning tank base surface 128a for fluid flow through the cleaning plate 122; and a cleaning tank wall 128b, which extends vertically outward from the outer contour of the cleaning tank base surface 128a. In this case, the height of the cleaning tank base surface 128a from the ground (kitchen floor) can be reduced as it moves towards the rear of the robot vacuum base station 100. This allows the fluid flowing through the cleaning plate 122 to be collected at the rear of the cleaning plate joint 128 and discharged externally through the wastewater inlet 164c, described later.

[0282] At this time, in order to connect with the sewage inlet 164c, a sewage pipe connection port 128d can be formed on the cleaning tank wall 128b.

[0283] On the other hand, a flow path forming portion 128c may be formed at the cleaning plate joint 128. The flow path forming portion 128c may be formed by protruding upward from the base surface 128a of the cleaning tank and forming a commutation flow path 125a on the lower side. Specifically, at least a portion of the commutation flow path 125a may be formed between the lower side surface of the cleaning tank 121 and the flow path forming portion 128c.

[0284] On the other hand, the cleaning plate connecting portion 128 of the present invention is configured to be able to be extended from the cloth cleaning portion 160. That is, the cleaning plate connecting portion 128 can be extended from the cover 110 together with the cleaning tank 121. At the same time, the cleaning plate 122 can also be extended from the cloth cleaning portion 160.

[0285] Door

[0286] Door 130 may be configured to cover the entire front end of cover 110. Door 131 may cover dust bag drawer 144 and detergent container 163 so that they are not exposed to the outside.

[0287] Door 131 can form the front appearance of the robot vacuum base station 100 when the entrance / exit 127 is closed. For example, door 131 can be formed into an approximately rectangular flat plate shape. The length of door 131 in the left-right direction can be set to be greater than or equal to the length of the cover 110 in the left-right direction. With this configuration, the dust bag drawer 144 and detergent bucket 163 can be protected from external influences, and the appearance of the robot vacuum base station 100 can be kept clean.

[0288] A door frame 132 may be provided at the front of the cover 110. A door 131 is connected to the door frame 132 in an openable and closable manner. In addition, an entrance 127, a dust bag outlet 132a, and a detergent container insertion port 132b may be formed in the door frame 132. The entrance 127 allows the robot vacuum cleaner 200 to enter and exit. The dust bag drawer 144 is led out and connected to the dust bag outlet 132a, and the detergent container 163 is led out and connected to the detergent container insertion port 132b.

[0289] The door frame 132 can form the front appearance of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 when the door 131 is open.

[0290] With the door 131 open at entrance 127, at least one side of the dust bag drawer 144 and at least one side of the detergent dispenser 163, which are attached to the door frame 132, can be exposed to the outside. When the door 131 is open at entrance 127, the front of the dust bag drawer 144 and the front of the detergent dispenser 163 are exposed to the outside, as are the handles 144d of the dust bag drawer 144 and 163b of the detergent dispenser 163. With this configuration, the dust bag drawer 144 and the detergent dispenser 163 can be easily extended or retracted, and a neat appearance can be provided.

[0291] The rotation axis 131a of the door 131 can be configured at the lower end of the door frame 132 and configured to be parallel to the ground when the entrance 127 is open, or it can be configured to tilt downward as it faces forward, with the end configured to contact the ground.

[0292] The door 131 may be provided with a hinge portion and rotatably connected to the door frame 132. A plurality of hinge portions may be arranged at intervals along the rotation axis 131a, and may be arranged at different intervals.

[0293] Additionally, the door 131 may have an auxiliary entry path 131b on the side facing the enclosure 110 when the entrance / exit 127 is closed. The auxiliary entry path 131b may be configured to allow the robot vacuum cleaner 200 to move stably toward the placement section 120 or the entrance / exit 127, and may be configured to tilt upwards as it moves toward the rear.

[0294] Specifically, the auxiliary entry path 131b can be formed in the shape of a groove to enable stable tilting movement of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The grooves formed along the left-right direction of the auxiliary entry path 131b can be arranged at equal intervals in the front-back direction. This auxiliary entry path 131b can be formed such that its width in the left-right direction narrows as it moves rearward. Therefore, as it moves towards the mounting section 120 or the entrance / exit 127, the left-right movement of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200's wheels 260 is restricted and it is guided to an accurate position.

[0295] The auxiliary entry path 131b guides the wheel 260 toward the wheel guide 121ba disposed in the mounting section 120. The auxiliary entry path 131b can be provided as a pair and disposed in various positions consecutive to the pair of wheel guides 121ba.

[0296] On the other hand, the door 131 can be driven according to whether the robot vacuum cleaner 200 approaches or starts moving, or according to the input of the door operation unit 133.

[0297] The door frame 132 may be equipped with an entry sensor 135 to detect the approach of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The entry sensor 135 may be configured in front of the enclosure 110 to detect the approach of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. For example, the entry sensor 135 may be an IR sensor.

[0298] The entry sensor 135 can be installed on the upper front of the door frame 132. This maximizes the detection range. Alternatively, the entry sensor 135 can be installed in the center of the entrance / exit 127 in the left-right direction. This allows the robot vacuum cleaner 200 to be guided in its entry direction through communication with it.

[0299] On the other hand, the door 131 can be configured to be cut open at the position facing the entry sensor 135, so that the entry sensor 135 can still detect the area in front even when the door 131 is closed at the entrance 127. Alternatively, the door 131 can be provided with a transmission window at the position facing the entry sensor 135.

[0300] A door operating part 133 may be provided in the door frame 132 to rotate the door 131 under the operation of the user.

[0301] The door operating unit 133 may be provided with at least one button configured on the door frame 132 for driving the door 131. The door operating unit 133 can rotate the door 131 regardless of the position or state of the robot vacuum cleaner 200. The door operating unit 133 may be provided with a button to open or close the door 131, or it may be provided with a button to open the door 131 and a button to close the door 131, respectively.

[0302] The door operating unit 133 can be configured inside the door frame 132. Furthermore, the door operating unit 133 can be configured such that at least one button is exposed to the outside.

[0303] In this case, the button can be configured adjacent to the detergent tank 163 with reference to the inlet / outlet. For example, the button can be configured on the upper side of the handle 163b of the detergent tank 163.

[0304] On the other hand, if door 131 closes entrance / exit 127, it also covers door operation section 133. In this case, an external button section 131c is provided on door 131 so that door operation section 133 can be operated even when entrance / exit 127 is closed. The external button section 131c consists of the same number of buttons as the door operation section 133, and is arranged facing the buttons. The external button section 131c can be formed of an elastically deformable material, allowing pressure to be applied to the buttons when an external force is applied.

[0305] Door 131 can be rotated by door drive unit 134. As an example, door drive unit 134 may include door drive motor and drive gear unit.

[0306] The door drive motor can be disposed inside the cover 110 and in the upper space of the detergent tank 163. The door drive motor can also be disposed between the detergent tank 163 and the upper cover 113 of the cover 110. Alternatively, the door drive motor can be disposed in front of the space between the outer wall 111 and the mounting portion 120. That is, the door drive motor can be disposed adjacent to the door operating portion 133.

[0307] This improves space utilization, enhances accessibility, and provides convenience for users.

[0308] The drive gear unit is equipped to connect the door drive motor and the door 131 and transmit power. The drive gear unit transmits the driving force of the door drive motor to the door 131, causing the door 131 to rotate.

[0309] Dust Collection Department

[0310] Figure 15 A diagram is shown illustrating the dust collection section of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0311] Reference Figure 15 The following describes the dust collection section 140.

[0312] The dust collection unit 140 can collect dust from the dust bin 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The dust collection unit 140 can be disposed inside the cover 110. The dust collection unit 140 can also be disposed outside the mounting part 120. That is, the dust collection unit 140 can be disposed between the cover 110 and the mounting part 120. For example, the dust collection unit 140 can be disposed on one side of the mounting part 120 in the left-right direction.

[0313] The dust collection unit 140 may include a dust collection unit cover 141, a filter 142, a dust bag 143, a dust bag drawer 144, a dust collection motor 145, a dust collection motor cover 146, a first dust collection flow path 147, and a second dust collection flow path 148.

[0314] The dust collection unit cover 141 can form a space inside that can accommodate the filter 142, the dust bag 143, and the dust bag drawer 144.

[0315] The dust collection unit cover 141 may have a dust bag drawer 144 that can be extended outwards inside, and a dust bag 143 can be stored inside the dust bag drawer 144. For example, the dust collection unit cover 141 may be formed as a rectangular tube open at the front, and the rear internal space may be connected to the first dust collection flow path 147 and the second dust collection flow path 148.

[0316] The dust collection unit cover 141 allows dust from inside the dust bin 220 to flow in.

[0317] One side of the interior of the dust collection unit cover 141 can be connected to the first dust collection flow path 147, and the other side can be connected to the second dust collection flow path 148. In addition, if the dust bag 143 is combined with the dust collection unit cover 141, the dust bag 143 can be connected to the first dust collection flow path 147 inside the dust collection unit cover 141.

[0318] Specifically, the dust collection section cover 141 may have an inlet 141a communicating with the first dust collection flow path 147 and an outlet 141b communicating with the second dust collection flow path 148.

[0319] At this time, the inlet 141a can be positioned above the outlet 141b. Thus, air and dust flowing in through the inlet 141a can flow downwards, and the dust, after being captured in the dust bag 143, is discharged through the outlet 141b. During this process, air flows from top to bottom, thus preventing air from flowing upwards or dust from scattering upwards.

[0320] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the outlet 141b can be configured to be forward of the inlet 141a. For example, the inlet 141a can be formed on the rear side of the dust collection hood 141, and the outlet 141b can be formed on the lower side of the dust collection hood 141. In this case, the outlet 141b can be configured in front of the rear side of the dust collection hood 141.

[0321] On the other hand, the discharge port 141b can be formed by combining the dust collection hood 141 and the dust bag drawer 144. In this case, the discharge port 141b of the dust collection hood 141 and the discharge port 144c of the dust bag drawer 144 can refer to the same space.

[0322] On the other hand, a dust bag detection unit 141c may be provided in the dust collection unit cover 141. The dust bag detection unit 141c may be disposed on the rear side of the dust collection unit cover 141. The dust bag detection unit 141c may be disposed on the rear side of the dust collection unit cover 141 toward the dust bag drawer 144.

[0323] The dust bag detection unit 141c can detect the dust bag 143. For example, the dust bag detection unit 141c can be a micro switch. The dust bag detection unit 141c can contact the dust bag 143 and detect the presence or absence of the dust bag 143. Specifically, the dust bag detection unit 141c can contact the disassembly part 143b of the dust bag 143 and detect the presence or absence of the dust bag 143.

[0324] According to the present invention, a dust bag detection unit 141c is provided in the dust collection unit cover, thereby having the effect of detecting the installation of the dust bag 143 when the dust bag 143 is assembled.

[0325] On the other hand, a sterilization module 150 can be integrated into the dust collection shroud 141. For example, the dust collection shroud 141 can have a hot air inlet for hot air flowing in from the sterilization module 150 and a hot air exhaust outlet for hot air exiting from the sterilization module 150. In this case, the hot air inlet and the hot air exhaust outlet can be formed on the rear side of the dust collection shroud 141, and respectively disposed on the left and right sides of the rear side of the dust collection shroud 141. Furthermore, the hot air inlet can be positioned closer to the ground than the hot air exhaust outlet. That is, the hot air inlet and the hot air exhaust outlet can be arranged diagonally opposite each other on the rear side of the dust collection shroud 141, which is a quadrilateral surface. This maximizes the flow path of the hot air.

[0326] As another example, a sterilization module 150 that irradiates light into the interior of the dust collection unit 141 can be attached to the upper side of the dust collection unit shroud 141. In this case, the light can be ultraviolet light (UV-C).

[0327] Dust bag 143 can refer to a dust bag that collects dust sucked in from inside the dust bin 220 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200 by the dust collection motor 145.

[0328] The dust bag 143 can be detachably attached to the dust bag drawer 144.

[0329] At this time, the dust bag drawer 144 can be attached to the dust collection cover 141 so that it can be pulled out in the first direction, and the dust bag 143 can be detachably attached to the dust bag drawer 144 in the second direction intersecting the first direction. For example, the dust bag drawer 144 can be attached to the dust collection cover 141 so that it can be pulled out forward and backward, and the dust bag 143 can be detachably attached to the dust bag drawer 144 in the up and down direction.

[0330] Dust bag 143 can be detached from dust bag drawer 144 and discarded, and new dust bag 143 can be combined with dust bag drawer 144. That is, dust bag 143 can be defined as a consumable part.

[0331] The dust collection unit 140 may also include a dust collection module. The dust collection module can provide suction airflow to the dust collection flow path.

[0332] Specifically, the dust collection unit 140 may also include a dust collection motor 145 and a dust collection motor cover 146.

[0333] The dust collection motor 145 can generate suction in the dust collection flow paths 147 and 148. That is, the dust collection motor 145 can provide suction to draw dust from the dust bin 220 into the dust bag 143 disposed in the dust collection cover 141.

[0334] The dust collection motor 145 can be configured behind the dust collection unit cover 141. Thus, the dust collection motor 145 can provide suction power to suck up dust from the dust bin 220 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200.

[0335] The dust collection motor 145 can generate suction by rotation. As an example, although not shown, the dust collection motor 145 may include a rotor and a stator that receive power and rotate relative to each other, and may include an impeller that rotates about a rotation axis as the rotor rotates. Therefore, suction can be generated by the rotation of the impeller.

[0336] One side of the dust collection motor 145 can be connected to the second dust collection flow path 148, and the other side can be connected to the commutation flow path 125a. When the dust collection motor 145 is driven, the air flowing through the second dust collection flow path 148 can flow into the interior of the dust collection motor housing 146. In addition, the air flowing into the interior of the dust collection motor housing 146 can flow in the commutation flow path 125a after passing through the dust collection motor 145.

[0337] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the rotation axis of the dust collection motor 145 can be arranged in a vertical direction. In this case, the horizontal space occupied by the dust collection motor 145 can be minimized.

[0338] On the other hand, when the rotation axis of the dust collection motor 145 is arranged vertically, the heights of the side into which air flows into the dust collection motor 145 and the side from which air is discharged from the dust collection motor 145 can be configured to be different. Thus, the structure of the dust collection motor cover 146 can be formed.

[0339] The dust collection motor cover 146 can internally house the dust collection motor 145. The dust collection motor cover 146 can be positioned behind the dust collection section cover 141. Alternatively, the dust collection motor cover 146 can be positioned behind the first dust collection flow path 147. Additionally, the dust collection motor cover 146 can be positioned behind the second dust collection flow path 148.

[0340] That is, taking the front-to-back direction of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 as a reference, the dust collection unit cover 141 can be positioned at the front, and a first dust collection flow path 147 and a second dust collection flow path 148 can be positioned behind the dust collection unit cover 141. Furthermore, a dust passage hole 123a can be positioned behind the first dust collection flow path 147, and a dust collection motor cover 146 can be positioned behind the second dust collection flow path 148. Additionally, a dust collection motor cover 146 can be positioned behind the dust passage hole 123a.

[0341] Therefore, the dust collection unit 140 can be configured along the front and rear direction of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100, thereby reducing the overall height.

[0342] In this embodiment, the dust collection motor cover 146 includes an upper dust collection motor cover 146a, a lower dust collection motor cover 146b, a dust collection motor support 146c, and a motor damper 146d.

[0343] At this time, the dust collection motor 145 can be mounted on the dust collection motor support 146c. The upper cover 146a of the dust collection motor can be attached to the upper side of the dust collection motor support 146c, and the lower cover 146b of the dust collection motor can be disposed on the lower side of the dust collection motor 145. On the other hand, a motor damper 146d can be attached between the dust collection motor support 146c and the upper cover 146a of the dust collection motor.

[0344] With this configuration, the upper cover 146a of the dust collection motor can be assembled after the motor damper 146d is connected, and the lower cover 146b of the dust collection motor can be assembled on the lower side of the cover 110, with the dust collection motor 145 mounted on the dust collection motor support 146c.

[0345] Therefore, the components of the dust collection motor housing 146 can be assembled to the upper and lower sides of the dust collection motor 145, thereby making assembly and repair operations easier.

[0346] The upper cover 146a of the dust collection motor can cover the upper side of the dust collection motor 145. The upper cover 146a of the dust collection motor may include a motor housing portion that houses a portion of the upper side of the dust collection motor 145 and an upper flow path forming portion that is connected to the motor housing portion and forms a flow path inside it.

[0347] The motor housing can be formed in a cylindrical shape, with the upper end sealed. Air discharged from the dust collection motor 145 can flow through the space between the motor housing and the dust collection motor 145 and be discharged to the upper flow path forming section.

[0348] The upper flow path forming portion can be formed extending radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the motor housing. This allows the flow direction of the air discharged between the motor housing and the dust collection motor 145 to be guided. In addition, the upper surface of the upper flow path forming portion can be formed with a groove to accommodate at least a portion of the pipe or hose forming the first dust collection flow path 147.

[0349] With this configuration, at least a portion of the first dust collection flow path 147 can pass through the upper side of the upper flow path forming section.

[0350] The upper flow path forming section can form at least a portion of the commutation flow path 125a internally. Specifically, the space formed by the combination of the upper flow path forming section and the dust collection motor support section 146c can form a portion of the commutation flow path 125a.

[0351] The lower cover 146b of the dust collector motor can cover the lower side of the dust collector motor 145. The lower cover 146b of the dust collector motor can be combined with the lower side of the drawer 190. The lower cover 146b of the dust collector motor may include: a lower cover portion disposed on the lower side of the dust collector motor 145; and a lower flow path forming portion connected to the lower cover portion to form a flow path for air flowing into the dust collector motor 145.

[0352] The lower cover can be formed in the shape of a disc, with the center of the disc protruding towards the dust collection motor 145. With the configuration described above, the upward flow of air flowing into the dust collection motor 145 can be guided.

[0353] The lower flow path forming section can be formed by extending radially outward from the lower cover. This allows the flow of air flowing from the dust collection unit cover 141 to the dust collection motor 145 to be guided.

[0354] The lower flow path forming section can form at least a portion of the second dust collection flow path 148 internally. Specifically, the space formed by the combination of the lower flow path forming section and the dust collection motor support section 146c can form a portion of the second dust collection flow path 148.

[0355] The dust collection motor support 146c can support the dust collection motor 145.

[0356] The dust collection motor support 146c can be connected to various components forming the internal structure of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100. The dust collection motor support 146c can be connected to the dust collection unit cover 141. The dust collection motor support 146c can be connected to the inner wall 124 or the connecting wall 123 of the mounting part 120. Thus, the dust collection motor support 146c can provide support force capable of supporting the dust collection motor 145.

[0357] The dust collection motor support 146c can be combined with the upper dust collection motor cover 146a and the lower dust collection motor cover 146b to form a commutation flow path 125a and a second dust collection flow path 148, respectively. Specifically, the second dust collection flow path 148 can be formed on the lower side of the dust collection motor support 146c, and the commutation flow path 125a can be formed on the upper side of the dust collection motor support 146c.

[0358] Therefore, multiple flow paths can be stacked on top of each other to maximize space efficiency within a limited height.

[0359] As a result of this configuration, air flowing in from inside the dust bin 220 can flow into the dust collector motor 145 through the space between the dust collector motor support 146c and the lower dust collector motor cover 146b, and then be discharged from the dust collector motor 145 through the space between the dust collector motor support 146c and the upper dust collector motor cover 146a.

[0360] Therefore, according to the present invention, while the dust collection motor 145 is arranged vertically, two flow paths separated vertically by the dust collection motor support 146c can be formed. Thus, by stacking the flow paths required for dust collection within a limited height and lateral space, and utilizing the stacked flow paths to allow air to flow in and out, the space efficiency can be maximized.

[0361] On the other hand, the motor damper 146d can be combined between the dust collection motor support 146c and the dust collection motor 145, and elastically support the dust collection motor 145.

[0362] The motor damper 146d can be connected between the dust collector motor support 146c and the upper cover 146a of the dust collector motor. That is, the upper side of the motor damper 146d can be connected to the upper cover 146a of the dust collector motor, and the lower side of the motor damper 146d can be connected to the dust collector motor support 146c. With the above-described configuration, if the dust collector motor support 146c and the upper cover 146a of the dust collector motor are connected, the motor damper 146d can be fixed between the dust collector motor support 146c and the upper cover 146a of the dust collector motor and ensure support force.

[0363] On the other hand, the motor damper 146d can be formed of an elastic material.

[0364] Therefore, according to the present invention, by arranging the dust collection motor 145 in a vertical direction and providing a motor damper 146d at its lower part, it is possible to reduce the vibration and noise generated during the operation of the dust collection motor 145.

[0365] Therefore, according to the present invention, the motor damper 146d has the effect of preventing air leakage by sealing the commutation flow path 125a formed between the dust collection motor support 146c and the upper cover 146a of the dust collection motor.

[0366] On the other hand, the dust collection unit 140 may also include dust collection flow paths 147 and 148. The dust collection flow path may refer to the flow path through which air drawn in through the dust passage hole 123a flows through the dust bag to the dust collection motor 145.

[0367] Specifically, if the robot vacuum cleaner 200 is combined with the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 and the dust is connected to the dust bin 220 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200 through the hole 123a, the dust collection path may include a first dust collection path 147 connecting the dust bin 220 and the internal space of the dust collection part cover 141 and a second dust collection path 148 connecting the internal space of the dust collection part cover 141 and the internal space of the dust collection motor cover 146.

[0368] The first dust collection path 147 can connect the dust bin 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 and the internal space of the dust collection cover 141. The first dust collection path 147 can also connect the dust passage hole 123a of the placement part 120 and the internal space of the dust collection cover 141. The first dust collection path 147 can be formed in a direction intersecting the vertical direction. For example, the first dust collection path 147 can be formed in a nearly horizontal direction. The first dust collection path 147 can be a space formed rearward from the dust passage hole 123a, and can be a path that bends laterally from the dust passage hole 123a and allows for the flow of dust and air. Dust in the dust bin 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can move into the internal space of the dust collection cover 141 through the first dust collection path 147.

[0369] The second dust collection path 148 can connect the internal space of the dust collection unit cover 141 and the internal space of the dust collection motor cover 146. The second dust collection path 148 can be formed in a direction that intersects the vertical direction. For example, the second dust collection path 148 can be formed in a near-horizontal direction.

[0370] In this invention, the first dust collection path 147 and the second dust collection path 148 can be formed at different heights. That is, the first dust collection path 147 and the second dust collection path 148 can be configured in a stacked structure. At least a portion of the first dust collection path 147 can be disposed above the second dust collection path 148.

[0371] Using the configuration described above, the overall size can be reduced by configuring multiple flow paths in a near-horizontal direction, while stacking them to minimize the lateral width and overall volume of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0372] The air exchange unit 125 can guide the air expelled from the dust collection motor 145 to the robot vacuum cleaner 200.

[0373] The air exchange section 125 may consist of an exchange flow path 125a and an air exchange port 125b.

[0374] The commutation flow path 125a provides a flow path for the air discharged from the dust collection motor 145. The commutation flow path 125a can be formed by the dust collection motor housing 146 and the cleaning tank 121. Specifically, one side of the commutation flow path 125a can be a space formed by the combination of the dust collection motor support 146c and the upper dust collection motor housing 146a. The other side of the commutation flow path 125a can be disposed inside the cleaning tank body 121a. For example, the commutation flow path 125a can be a space formed between the upper and lower sides of the cleaning tank body 121a.

[0375] Therefore, one side of the commutation flow path 125a can pass through the dust collection motor housing 146. Additionally, the other side of the commutation flow path 125a can pass through the lower side of the cleaning tank 121. At the same time, at least a portion of the commutation flow path 125a can be positioned below the robotic vacuum cleaner 200, which is positioned above the cleaning tank body 121a.

[0376] The commutation flow path 125a can be connected to the dust collection motor 145. One end of the commutation flow path 125a can communicate with the internal space of the dust collection motor housing 146, and the other end of the commutation flow path 125a can communicate with the air exchange port 125b.

[0377] The commutation flow path 125a can be a flow path formed in a direction intersecting the vertical direction. For example, the commutation flow path 125a can be a flow path formed in a horizontal direction inside the cover 110.

[0378] At this time, at least a portion of the commutation flow path 125a can be configured below the first dust collection flow path 147. That is, the commutation flow path 125a can be configured to pass through the lower side of the first dust collection flow path 147. Therefore, the flow directions of the air flowing in the first dust collection flow path 147 and the air flowing in the commutation flow path 125a can intersect each other on the horizontal plane.

[0379] Furthermore, at least a portion of the commutation flow path 125a may be configured above the second dust collection flow path 148. That is, the commutation flow path 125a may be configured to pass through the upper side of the second dust collection flow path 148.

[0380] Therefore, the first dust collection path 147, the second dust collection path 148, and the commutation path 125a can be configured (stacked) vertically within a limited height, thereby maximizing space efficiency.

[0381] In addition, by utilizing the remaining space inside the cleaning tank 121 to form the commutation flow path 125a, the height of the robot vacuum base station 100 can be prevented from increasing, and no additional space is needed to form the flow path, thus maximizing space efficiency.

[0382] An air exchange port 125b can be formed in the cleaning tank 121. The air exchange port 125b can also be formed in the agitator housing 121d. In this case, the suction unit 211 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can be disposed on the upper side of the agitator housing 121d. Therefore, the air exchange path 125a can discharge air to the lower side of the suction unit 211, and the air passing through the air exchange path 125a can directly flow into the suction unit 211 disposed on the upper side.

[0383] Therefore, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the commutation flow path 125a can guide the air discharged from the dust collection motor 145 to the suction section 211 of the sweeping robot 200.

[0384] The commutation flow path 125a guides the air expelled from the dust collection motor 145 towards the suction section 211 of the robot vacuum 200 instead of expelling it to the outside, thus creating a structure that allows air to continue circulating between the robot vacuum 200 and the robot vacuum base station 100. As a result, the hot air expelled from the dust collection motor 145 can flow back into the robot vacuum 200 for recirculation instead of being expelled into the kitchen cabinet 2, thus preventing damage to the interior of the kitchen cabinet 2.

[0385] Air passing through the dust collection motor 145 can be discharged into the receiving space S through the air exchange port 125b. The air discharged into the receiving space S can flow back into the suction section 211 due to the suction of the dust collection motor 145. Therefore, the air sucked in from the dust bin 220 by the suction of the dust collection motor 145 can be discharged into the receiving space S after passing through the dust passage 123a, the first dust collection flow path 147, the dust collection section cover 141, the second dust collection flow path 148, the dust collection motor 145, the exchange flow path 125a, and the air exchange port 125b in sequence.

[0386] At this time, the dust collection motor 145 can be driven together with the suction motor (not shown) of the robot vacuum cleaner 200. The air discharged through the air exchange port 125b can be sucked into the suction unit 211 by the suction of the dust collection motor 145 and the suction motor (not shown), thus improving the dust collection efficiency.

[0387] Sterilization module

[0388] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 may further include a sterilization module 150. The sterilization module 150 may be combined with the dust collection unit cover 141.

[0389] In a robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention, a sterilization module 150 can sterilize the dust bag 143. Specifically, the sterilization module 150 can irradiate light onto the dust bag 143.

[0390] The sterilization module 150 may include a light source that emits sterilization light and a protective panel disposed below the light source and protecting the light source.

[0391] Here, the light source may include at least one light-emitting diode (LED) capable of emitting bactericidal light with bactericidal power. The bactericidal light emitted by the light source may have a wavelength that varies depending on the type of LED.

[0392] As an example, a light source could be a light-emitting diode that emits ultraviolet light in the UV-C wavelength range. Ultraviolet light can be classified according to wavelength into UV-A (315nm–400nm), UV-B (280nm–315nm), and UV-C (200nm–280nm). Among them, ultraviolet light in the UV-C region can damage the DNA double helix of microorganisms, thereby inhibiting their proliferation.

[0393] On the other hand, the sterilization module 150 can be disposed on the upper side inside the dust collection unit cover 141. The sterilization module 150 can irradiate light downwards. Thus, even if dust is present inside the dust bag 143, it will settle downwards due to gravity, so light can be irradiated into the dust bag 143 without affecting the presence of dust.

[0394] On the other hand, according to another embodiment of the invention, the sterilization module 150 can supply hot air to the dust bag 143.

[0395] The sterilization module 150 may include: a fan to generate airflow; a heater to supply heat to the air flowing into the dust collection unit hood 141; and a duct to guide the hot air into the dust collection unit hood 141.

[0396] Hot air supplied from the sterilization module 150 can supply heat to the dust bag 143 through the dust collection unit cover 141 and the dust bag drawer 144 to sterilize insects and microorganisms.

[0397] Cleaning section

[0398] Reference Figures 16 to 17 The following describes the mop cleaning unit 160 of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0399] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 may include a mop cleaning unit 160. The mop cleaning unit 160 may supply cleaning water to the mop 242 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200 attached to the mounting unit 120 to clean the mop 242, and may discharge the wastewater after cleaning the mop 242.

[0400] The cloth cleaning unit 160 may include a cleaning water supply unit that mixes a liquid containing detergent and clean water and discharges it to the upper side of the cleaning plate 122. The cleaning water supply unit may include a regulator 161, a mixing chamber 162, a detergent tank 163, a wastewater tank 164, and a cleaning water nozzle 161c.

[0401] At this time, the detergent tank 163 and the wastewater tank 164 can be accommodated in the space formed between the inner wall 124 and the outer wall 111 of the cover. The detergent tank 163 can be disposed on the lower side of the space between the inner wall 124 and the outer wall 111 of the cover, and the wastewater tank 164 can be disposed on the upper side of the detergent tank 163.

[0402] The water supply pipe of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2 can be connected to the regulator 161 to regulate the flow rate supplied from the water supply pipe. In addition, a portion of the purified water that has passed through the regulator 161 can be supplied to the water tank 230 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200 through the water supply nozzle 123c, and the remainder can be supplied to the mixing chamber 162.

[0403] Additionally, liquid containing detergent stored in detergent tank 163 can be supplied to mixing chamber 162 via the fluid power of a pump. The detailed structure of detergent tank 163 will be described later.

[0404] The mixing chamber 162 may be provided with a space for liquid containing detergent and purified water to flow in and mix separately, and can discharge cleaning water mixed with detergent and purified water. This mixing chamber 162 may be provided with a purified water inlet 162a, a detergent inlet 162b, and a branch flow path connection port 162c.

[0405] The mixing chamber 162 can be disposed inside the housing 110 and positioned behind the mounting section 120. In this case, a flow path 161a can be connected to the purified water inlet 162a, allowing purified water to flow from the regulator 161. Additionally, a flow path 163d can be connected to the detergent inlet 162b, allowing liquid containing detergent to flow from the detergent tank 163. Therefore, the pumps of the regulator 161 and the detergent tank 163 can operate for a constant time, causing a predetermined amount of purified water and detergent to flow into the mixing chamber 162.

[0406] On the other hand, the branch flow path connection port 162c can be connected to the branch flow path 161b. The branch flow path 161b can supply the cleaning water mixed with clean water and detergent to a pair of cleaning water nozzles 161c respectively.

[0407] The branch flow path 161b can be formed into a form where a pipe branches into two. In this case, the end of one pipe of the branch can be connected to one of a pair of cleaning water nozzles 161c, and the end of the other pipe of the branch can be connected to the other one of the pair of cleaning water nozzles 161c.

[0408] A pair of cleaning water nozzles 161c can be configured separately. In this case, the pair of cleaning water nozzles 161c can be configured in symmetrical positions.

[0409] Furthermore, the cleaning water nozzle 161c can be connected to the branch flow path 161b to allow cleaning water to flow inward and be discharged towards the cleaning plate 122. The cleaning water nozzle 161c can discharge cleaning water towards the upper surface of the cleaning plate 122 through the cleaning water discharge port 165a. The cleaning water discharge port 165a can open towards the upper surface of the cloth 242 placed on the cleaning plate 122. More specifically, the cleaning water discharge port 165a formed in the cleaning water nozzle 161c can discharge cleaning water towards the cleaning protrusion 122a of the cleaning plate 122.

[0410] The cleaning water nozzle 161c can be disposed on the nozzle mounting wall 123d connected to the connecting wall 123. The cleaning water nozzle 161c can be located at a higher position than the uppermost end of the cleaning plate 122, so that the cleaning plate 122 can be disassembled. Thus, when the cleaning plate 122 is disassembled or the drawer 190 is pulled out, the cleaning plate 122 and the cleaning plate joint 128 will not collide with the cleaning water nozzle 161c, and a cleaning water discharge space can be provided between the nozzle mounting wall 123d and the cleaning plate 122.

[0411] Furthermore, the cleaning water nozzle 161c can be positioned vertically upward from a position spaced apart from the center in the width direction of the cleaning protrusion 122a. Specifically, during the cleaning of the cloth 242, when the rotation direction of the cloth 242 is referred to as one direction, the cleaning water nozzle 161c can be positioned at a position spaced apart from the center in the width direction of the cleaning protrusion 122a in another direction.

[0412] The detergent container 163 includes a detergent container body 163a, a handle 163b, and a detergent container track 163c.

[0413] The detergent container body 163a can provide space for storing liquid containing detergent. For example, the detergent container body 163a can be formed into a box shape with an open top.

[0414] A handle 163b may be provided at the front of the detergent container body 163a. ​​The handle 163b may be configured to be gripped by a user. For example, the handle 163b may be recessed from the front to the rear of the detergent container body 163a.

[0415] With this configuration, if the user grasps the handle 163b and pulls it forward, the detergent tub body 163a can also be pulled forward and extended. Therefore, according to the present invention, the user can easily pull the detergent tub 163 forward to dispense detergent.

[0416] A detergent tub track 163c can be formed in the detergent tub body 163a. ​​The detergent tub track 163c can guide the movement of the detergent tub body 163a.

[0417] For example, the detergent tub track 163c can be formed as a groove or rib on the left and right sides of the detergent tub body 163a along the front and back directions.

[0418] With the configuration described above, when the user attaches the detergent container 163 to the cover 110, it can be attached to the correct position and the washing water can be prevented from overflowing.

[0419] On the other hand, although not shown, a track can be formed on the cover 110 corresponding to the detergent tub track 163c. The aforementioned track can be formed corresponding to the shape and position of the detergent tub track 163c.

[0420] The wastewater tank 164 provides space for storing the cleaning water used to wash the rags 242. The cleaning water discharged onto the upper surface of the washing plate 122 can descend along the slope of the washing plate 122 and be discharged through the through hole 122b after the rags 242 has been washed. The cleaning water passing through the through hole 122b will collect at the washing plate joint 128. Additionally, the cleaning water collected at the washing plate joint 128 can flow through the wastewater inlet 164c into the wastewater suction path 166b, and then into the wastewater tank 164. In other words, the liquid passing through the washing plate 122 can flow along the washing plate joint 128 and be discharged through the wastewater inlet 164c.

[0421] On the other hand, a sewage suction flow path 166b is formed in a sewage suction pipe, with a sewage inlet 164c formed at one end of the sewage suction pipe, and the other end of the sewage suction pipe communicating with a sewage tank 164. In this case, the sewage suction pipe can be configured to pass through the lower side of the external air supply module 171. That is, the sewage suction flow path 166b can be configured below the external air supply module 171. Alternatively, the sewage suction flow path 166b can be configured below the external air supply flow path 171a.

[0422] The cleaning water stored in the wastewater tank 164 can be discharged to the drain pipe 25 of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2 through the wastewater discharge passage 167. One end of the wastewater discharge passage 167 can be connected to the wastewater tank 164, and the other end can be connected to the drain pipe 25. At this time, the cleaning water stored in the wastewater tank 164 can flow through the wastewater discharge passage 167 and be discharged to the drain pipe 25 under the action of a centrifugal pump (not shown).

[0423] The sewage discharge path 167, connected to the sewage tank 164, can be connected to the upstream 25b of the drain pipe 25 of the kitchen cabinet 2, based on the U-bend 25a. This is because, if the sewage discharge path 167 is connected to the downstream 25c of the drain pipe 25, based on the U-bend 25a, odors or fluids inside the drain pipe 25 may flow backward into the sewage discharge path 167.

[0424] Additionally, the cloth washing unit 160 may include a check valve (not shown). The check valve prevents fluid inside the drain pipe 25 from flowing back into the sewage discharge path 167. The check valve may be located at the other end of the sewage discharge path 167 connected to the drain pipe 25.

[0425] Cloth Drying Section

[0426] Reference Figures 18 to 20 According to an embodiment of the present invention, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 may include a cloth drying unit 170. At this time, the cloth drying unit 170 can dry the cloth 242 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200 that has been cleaned by the cloth washing unit 160 or the cloth 242 that is wet after water cleaning.

[0427] The cloth drying unit 170 may include an external air supply module 171 and an air exhaust unit 172.

[0428] The external air supply module 171 can heat the air outside the enclosure 110 and supply it to the accommodating space S. The external air supply module 171 may include an external air supply flow path 171a, an external air inlet 171b, an external air outlet 171c, a heater 171d, and a blower fan (not shown).

[0429] An external air supply flow path 171a is formed in the external air supply module 171. The external air supply flow path 171a allows external air to flow to the external air discharge section 171c.

[0430] The external air supply path 171a can connect the external space and the containment space of the enclosure 110. One side of the external air supply path 171a can be connected to the external space through the external air inlet 171b, and the other side of the external air supply path 171a can be connected to the containment space S through the external air outlet 171c.

[0431] An external air inlet 171b may be formed on the rear side of the housing 110. Multiple external air inlets 171b may be formed on the rear side of the housing 110. Air from outside the housing 110 can flow into the external air supply path 171a through the external air inlets 171b. Therefore, air from outside the housing 110 can flow into the interior of the housing 110.

[0432] At least a portion of the external air outlet 171c may be disposed on the upper side of the cleaning plate 122. The external air outlet 171c may open in a direction facing the cleaning plate 122. A pair of external air outlets 171c may be provided in a downward-opening state.

[0433] The external air outlet 171c can discharge air that has passed through the external air supply path 171a. The external air outlet 171c can also discharge air heated by the heater 171d. For example, an external air outlet can be formed in the external air outlet 171c.

[0434] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the lateral diameter of the external air discharge portion 171c can narrow as it faces forward. That is, in this embodiment, the lateral diameter of the external air discharge portion 171c can be such that the width of the rear end is greater than the width of the front end. As a result, even when the disc-shaped cloth 242 rotates during the drying process, the cloth 242 can be dried evenly.

[0435] On the other hand, a grille can be provided in the external air discharge section 171c to guide the discharge direction of the air. This prevents the heated air from being concentrated and discharged to a specific location.

[0436] With the mop 242 positioned on the cleaning plate 122, the external air exhaust portion 171c can open towards the upper side of the mop 242. Therefore, the external air exhaust portion 171c can be located adjacent to the mop 242 and open downwards, allowing air exhausted from the external air exhaust portion 171c to flow towards the mop 242. The external air exhaust portion 171c can expel hot air between a pair of mop 242s symmetrically arranged at the lower part of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200.

[0437] In particular, the external air discharge section 171c of this embodiment can be configured to tilt downwards as it faces the front of the robot vacuum base station 100. Therefore, the end of the external air discharge section 171c that discharges air can be formed at a predetermined angle relative to the ground. This angle can be 90 degrees or less. Thus, the external air discharge section 171c can discharge air in a direction intersecting the direction in which the flow guide surface 122c is formed.

[0438] An air supply fan (not shown) can be configured on the external air supply path 171a and blow air toward the receiving space S. If the air supply fan (not shown) is driven, the air flowing in through the external air inlet 171b can be heated by the heater 171d and discharged into the receiving space S through the external air outlet 171c.

[0439] The heater 171d can be configured on the external air supply flow path 171a to heat the air flowing through the external air supply flow path 171a. The heater 171d can also heat the air discharged through the external air discharge section 171c.

[0440] The heater 171d may include a heater housing and a heating element. The heater housing may be positioned on the external air supply path 171a and have an internal space for accommodating the heating element. The heating element heats the air flowing into the heater housing. Therefore, the air heated by the heating element can be discharged through the external air outlet 171c into the accommodating space S, drying the damp cloth 242.

[0441] Air heated by hot air emitted from the external air supply module 171 can be discharged through the air exhaust section 172.

[0442] At least a portion of the air exhaust section 172 may be disposed in the upper part of the accommodating space S.

[0443] The air heated by the hot air emitted from the external air supply module 171 can supply heat to the mop 242 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. As a result, residual moisture absorbed by the mop 242 can absorb heat from the air and vaporize. This vaporized moisture can then flow within the containment space S. Therefore, the air within the containment space S can contain vaporized moisture, and the humidity within the containment space S may increase (hereinafter, the air containing vaporized moisture within the containment space S can be referred to as "wet vapor").

[0444] Specifically, at least a portion of the air exhaust section 172 may be disposed on the upper cover 113, which may cover the upper part of the accommodating space S.

[0445] The air heated by the hot air emitted from the external air supply module 171 is in a state where the moisture in the rag 242 evaporates and the humidity increases. Therefore, if the humid steam comes into contact with various components of the kitchen cabinet 2, such as the baseboard 26, when the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 is located under the kitchen cabinet 2, it will have an adverse effect on those components.

[0446] In this embodiment, the upper cover 113 covers the upper part of the accommodating space S, and the door 126 covers the front of the accommodating space S. Therefore, the upper cover 113 and the door 126 together prevent the humid steam in the accommodating space S from flowing out to the outside, thereby preventing the kitchen furniture cabinet 2 from coming into contact with the humid steam.

[0447] The air exhaust section 172 may include an air intake 172a, an air exhaust duct 172b, and an exhaust fan 172c.

[0448] Air intake 172a can communicate with the containment space S. Air intake 172a can be disposed on the upper side of the containment space S. Wet vapor in the containment space S can be discharged through air intake 172a.

[0449] With the robot vacuum cleaner 200 positioned in the mounting section 120, the air intake 172a can be positioned at a higher point than the robot vacuum cleaner 200 is above the ground. This increases the efficiency of drawing in the rising convection steam that is drying the mop.

[0450] As an example, an air intake 172a can be formed on the upper cover 113. In this case, the upper cover 113 can be formed in the form of two or more overlapping plates, wherein the air intake 172a can be formed on the lowermost plate, and a flow path communicating with the air intake 172a is formed between the plates, thereby forming an air exhaust pipe 172b.

[0451] As another example, the air intake 172a can be formed on the circular or quadrilateral tubular air exhaust pipe 172b, which can be combined with the upper side cover 113.

[0452] With this configuration, when the upper cover 113 is separated, the air exhaust pipe 172b can be separated together with the upper cover 113. In the event that the upper part of the robot vacuum base station 100 needs to be opened for reasons such as repair, the operator can remove the air exhaust pipe 172b together by simply lifting the upper cover 113.

[0453] The air intake 172a can be formed as a hole in the air exhaust duct 172b. For example, the air intake 172a can be formed as having a plurality of slits arranged side by side in the air exhaust duct 172b. Alternatively, the air intake 172a can be formed as an elongated hole in the air exhaust duct 172b.

[0454] On the other hand, a plurality of air intake ports 172a may be arranged at the same distance from the front end of the cover 110. As an example, a pair of air intake ports 172a may be arranged at the same distance from the front end of the cover 110. That is, the air intake port 172a may include a first intake port and a second intake port. In this case, the first intake port may be arranged at the upper left front end of the receiving space S, and the second intake port may be arranged separately from the first intake port and arranged at the upper right front end of the receiving space S.

[0455] The distance from the external air outlet 171c to the air inlet 172a can be greater than the distance from the external air outlet 171c to the cloth 242. This is to prevent the heated air discharged from the external air outlet 171c from being insufficiently supplied to the cloth 242 and instead being directly sucked into the air inlet 172a, thus wasting energy.

[0456] Furthermore, the air intake 172a can be positioned closer to the door 131 than the external air exhaust 171c. By positioning the air intake 172a at the upper front of the accommodating space S, the range of space for the hot air exhausted from the external air exhaust 171c to flow is widened, thereby improving the drying efficiency of the mop 242. Therefore, the hot air exhausted through the external air exhaust 171c can flow forward and dry the mop 242 of the robot vacuum 200 before being discharged from the air intake 172a.

[0457] Additionally, the air intake 172a can be positioned above the path along which the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 moves within the housing 110. This prevents condensation from forming on the walls inside the housing 110.

[0458] As an example, at least a portion of the air intake 172a can be positioned vertically above the location where the sweeping robot 200 is widest in the left-right direction when it is mounted on the mounting section 120. That is, at least a portion of the air intake 172a can be positioned above the location where the gap between the sweeping robot 200 and the pair of inner walls 124 is narrowest. In this case, at least a portion of the air intake 172a can be positioned in front of the cleaning plate 122.

[0459] This prevents steam generated during the drying process of the mop 242 from flowing towards the front of the robot vacuum base station 100 and prevents moisture from penetrating the sensors located in front of the robot vacuum 200 and causing malfunctions.

[0460] The air exhaust duct 172b can be connected to the air intake 172a and the exhaust fan 172c, and thus leads to the drain pipe 25 of the kitchen cabinet 2. The air exhaust duct 172b can guide the wet steam discharged through the air intake 172a to the drain pipe 25.

[0461] One side of the air exhaust duct 172b can be connected to the exhaust fan 172c, and the other side can branch into multiple branches. Thus, even using only one exhaust fan 172c, humid steam can be drawn in from multiple locations, thereby achieving the effect of stably expelling humid steam.

[0462] The air exhaust pipe 172b can have an internal air exhaust flow path that communicates with the air intake 172a.

[0463] An air exhaust path can refer to a flow path for air to flow in through an air intake 172a. For example, an air exhaust path may be formed by the internal space of an air exhaust duct 172b, the internal space of the exhaust fan 172c housing, and the internal space of a check valve 172d. One side of the air exhaust path may be connected to the air intake 172a, and the other side may be connected to the air exhaust outlet 172e.

[0464] The exhaust fan 172c can cause airflow from the air intake 172a toward the drain pipe 25. The exhaust fan 172c can generate airflow so that the wet steam in the containment space S can be drawn into the air intake 172a and then discharged to the outside through the air exhaust pipe 172b.

[0465] The exhaust fan 172c may include an exhaust fan housing, a fan motor, and an impeller. The exhaust fan housing may have an internal flow path that communicates with the air exhaust duct 172b. If the exhaust fan motor operates and causes the exhaust fan impeller to rotate, the air in the accommodating space S or the housing 110 may flow into the air exhaust duct 172b and be discharged through the interior of the exhaust fan housing to the air exhaust port 172e.

[0466] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the exhaust fan 172c can be combined with the external air supply module 171. Specifically, the exhaust fan housing of the exhaust fan 172c can be combined with the external air supply module 171 to form an assembly. This minimizes the space occupied by the external air supply module 171 and the air exhaust section 172.

[0467] The exhaust fan 172c can be configured on the left or right side of the external air supply module 171. Specifically, the exhaust fan 172c can be configured between the dust collection motor 145 and the external air supply module 171. This allows for the arrangement of components in a limited space and ensures that there is space available to configure a flow path for exhausting steam.

[0468] If the exhaust fan 172c is driven, air in the accommodating space S can flow into the air intake 172a. The air flowing into the air intake 172a can be discharged into the drain pipe 25.

[0469] The cloth drying unit 170 may include a check valve 172d to prevent backflow of fluid from inside the drain pipe 25 into the air discharge pipe 172b. The check valve 172d may be positioned downstream of the exhaust fan 172c. The check valve 172d may communicate with the internal space of the exhaust fan 172c. That is, based on the airflow direction, the check valve 172d may be positioned downstream of the exhaust fan 172c. An air outlet 172e may be formed at the rear end of the check valve 172d. The check valve prevents backflow of fluid from inside the drain pipe 25 into the air discharge unit 172.

[0470] At this point, the lower end of the air outlet 172e can be configured in a direction perpendicular to the ground. Specifically, the air outlet 172e can be formed on an air exhaust pipe configured in a direction perpendicular to the ground, and the aforementioned air exhaust pipe can be connected to a check valve. This is to utilize this configuration to prevent backflow of fluid discharged from the air outlet 172e by taking advantage of the upward convection property of high-temperature and high-humidity air.

[0471] The air exhaust section 172 can be connected downstream of the drain pipe 25, based on the U-bend 25a. Specifically, the air exhaust outlet 172e can be connected to the drain pipe 25 via a flow path member. For example, the flow path member can be a flexible hose. This is because, if the air exhaust section 172 is connected upstream of the drain pipe 25, based on the U-bend 25a, the hot air exhausted through the air exhaust section 172 may be unable to pass through the drain pipe 25 due to water accumulating in the U-bend 25a. Additionally, this is to prevent odors generated from the air exhausted from the air exhaust section 172 from flowing back along the drain pipe 25 and spreading into the kitchen.

[0472] The wet steam that is discharged into the air intake 172a and passes through the exhaust fan 172c can be discharged to the outside of the cover 110 along the flow path component as it passes through the air outlet 172e.

[0473] At this time, the flow path component can penetrate one of the two sides of the outer wall and connect to the drain pipe 25. With this configuration, the connection direction of the flow path component can be selected according to the installation environment of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to the present invention, thus having the advantages of easy installation and management.

[0474] Leak detection structure

[0475] Figure 21 An enlarged view of the connector portion of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station, used to illustrate an embodiment of the present invention, is shown. Figure 22 A rear view is shown to illustrate the configuration of the internal chambers in a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 23A left-hand view is shown to illustrate the configuration of the internal chambers in a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 24 An enlarged view is shown to illustrate the internal chamber of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 25 A cross-sectional view is shown to illustrate the internal chamber of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 26 An enlarged view is shown to illustrate the height of the flow path holes in a robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 27 An enlarged view is shown to illustrate a water level detection sensor in a robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0476] In the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the mop cleaning unit 160 may further include a connecting pipe 165 and a connector 166.

[0477] The robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention may include a connecting pipe 165 for supplying water from the outside or for discharging used wastewater to the outside again.

[0478] The connecting pipe 165 can be formed in the form of a flexible hose. One side of the connecting pipe 165 can be connected to the water supply pipe or drain pipe 25 of the kitchen cabinet 2. The other side of the connecting pipe 165 can be connected to the connector 166 for fixing to the cover 110. The connecting pipe 165 can be detachably connected to the connector 166. Thus, when setting up the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100, the operator can connect the connecting pipe 165 to the connector 166 or disconnect it from the connector 166 as needed.

[0479] The connecting pipe 165 may include a water supply connecting pipe 165a for supplying water from the outside and a drainage connecting pipe 165b for discharging used wastewater to the outside.

[0480] One side of the water supply connection pipe 165a can be connected to the water supply pipe of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2. The other side of the water supply connection pipe 165a is detachably connected to the water supply connector 166a. The water supply connector 166a is pivotally connected to the cover 110, so the water supply connection pipe 165a can be selectively inserted into the left or right side of the cover and connected to the water supply connector 166a. Water flowing in through the water supply connection pipe 165a can flow into the cleaning water supply section. Alternatively, water flowing in through the water supply connection pipe 165a can move towards the cloth drying section 170 to generate steam.

[0481] One side of the drain connection pipe 165b can be connected to the drain pipe 25. The other side of the drain connection pipe 165b can be detachably connected to the drain connector 166b. The drain connector 166b has a branching shape to both sides, so the drain connection pipe 165b can be selectively inserted into the left or right side of the cover and connected to the drain connector 166b. Water collected in the cleaning tank 121 can flow into the wastewater tank 164, and water flowing into the wastewater tank 164 can flow into the drain pipe through the drain connection pipe 165b.

[0482] The diameter of the drain connection pipe 165b can be larger than the diameter of the water supply connection pipe 165a. Water flowing inside the water supply connection pipe 165a can connect to the drain pipe 25 of the kitchen cabinet 2 and have a relatively high water pressure. Conversely, water flowing through the drain connection pipe 165b can have a relatively low water pressure. To maintain smooth flow during water discharge, the diameter of the drain connection pipe 165b can be designed to be larger than that of the water supply connection pipe 165a. Therefore, the drain connection pipe 165b can discharge water smoothly even under low water pressure, thereby improving discharge efficiency.

[0483] The connector 166 is a component that connects the connecting pipe 165 and the cover 110. The connector 166 can be formed into a pipe shape with openings on both sides. The connector 166 serves to connect the components connected to both sides to each other.

[0484] The connector 166 can be engaged with the cover 110. The connector 166 can be engaged with the connector engagement 114 engaged on the upper side of the rear surface 111b of the cover 110. The connector 166 can be engaged with the connector engagement 114 in a direction perpendicular to the ground. The connector 166 can be pivotally engaged with the connector engagement 114.

[0485] The connector 166 may include a water supply connector 166a connected to the water supply connection pipe 165a and a drain connector 166b connected to the drain connection pipe 165b.

[0486] A water supply connector 166a can be detachably connected to a water supply connection pipe 165a on one side. The other side of the water supply connector 166a can be connected to a connector joint 114. The water supply connector 166a can be connected to a portion of the connector joint 114 that forms a step with the portion where the drain hole 114a is formed. That is, the water supply connector 166a can be connected at a position higher than the portion where the drain hole 114a is formed, above the ground. Therefore, water leaking from the portion where the water supply connector 166a and the water supply connection pipe 165a are connected can flow towards the drain hole 114a.

[0487] Furthermore, the water supply connector 166a can be positioned at a higher point than the portion where the drain connector 166b is connected (described later). This prevents sewage discharged through the drain connection pipe 165b from flowing into the gap between the water supply connector 166a and the connector joint 114.

[0488] The water supply connector 166a can be formed into a shape that bends once at a right angle. The water supply connector 166a can be pivotally coupled to the connector coupling 114. One side of the water supply connector 166a can be configured to face the left side of the housing 110. In this case, the water supply connector 166a can be coupled to the water supply connection pipe 165a inserted from the left side of the housing 110. Alternatively, one side of the water supply connector 166a can be configured to face the right side of the housing 110. In this case, the water supply connector 166a can be coupled to the water supply connection pipe 165a inserted from the right side of the housing 110.

[0489] Based on this configuration, operators can selectively connect the water supply pipe 165a to the left or right side of the cover 110, using the robot vacuum base station 100 as a reference, regardless of the location of the water supply pipe of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2.

[0490] On the other hand, a drain connector 166b can be detachably connected to a drain connecting pipe 165b on one side. The other side of the drain connector 166b can be connected to a connector joint 114. The drain connector 166b can be connected to the portion of the connector joint 114 where a drain hole 114a is formed. The drain connector 166b can be positioned in the direction where the inclined surface 114b of the connector joint 114 ends. Therefore, water leaking from the portion where the connector 166b and the connecting pipe 165b are connected can flow along the inclined surface 114b and towards the drain hole 114a.

[0491] In addition, the drain connector 166b can be joined at a lower position than the water supply connector 166a.

[0492] The drain connector 166b can be formed into a branching shape to both sides. One side of the drain connector 166b can branch to both sides. The other side of the drain connector 166b can be connected to the connector joint 114. The two sides of the drain connector 166b can be configured to face the left and right sides of the cover 110. In this case, the drain connector 166b can be connected to the drain connecting pipe 165b inserted from the left side of the cover 110. The opening in the drain connector 166b facing the right side of the cover 110 can be sealed with a cover. Alternatively, the drain connector 166b can be connected to the drain connecting pipe 165b inserted from the right side of the cover 110. The opening in the drain connector 166b facing the left side of the cover 110 can be sealed with a cover.

[0493] Based on this configuration, operators can selectively connect the drain pipe 165b to the left or right side of the cover 110, using the robot vacuum base station 100 as a reference, regardless of the location of the drain pipe.

[0494] On the other hand, the cover 110 of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention may include a connector joint 114.

[0495] The connector joint 114 can be disposed on the upper side of the rear surface 111b of the cover 110. The connector joint 114 can extend in the left-right direction of the cover 110. The connector joint 114 can be formed with a surface parallel to the ground. The connector joint 114 can be disposed at the rear end of the upper cover 113. The connector joint 114 can be disposed behind the cleaning tank 121.

[0496] A connector 166 may be connected to the connector joint 114. Alternatively, a power cable for supplying power to the robot vacuum base station 100 may be connected to the connector joint 114.

[0497] The connector joint 114 may have a step. The connector joint 114 may have a step formed between the portion where the water supply connector 166a is attached and the portion where the drain hole 114a (described later) is formed. Alternatively, the connector joint 114 may have a step formed between the portion where the upper cover 113 is attached and the portion where the drain hole 114a is formed.

[0498] This configuration prevents water that accumulates in the drain hole 114a from flowing into the part where the power cord is connected or into the interior of the enclosure.

[0499] The joint portion 114 may include a drain hole 114a and an inclined surface 114b.

[0500] The drain hole 114a guides water leakage from the connector 166 into the cleaning tank. An internal chamber 129, described later, can be provided below the drain hole 114a. That is, water flowing from between the connector 166 and the connecting pipe 165 can flow through the drain hole 114a into the internal chamber 129. The water flowing into the internal chamber 129 can then flow back into the cleaning tank 121.

[0501] A drain hole 114a may be formed at the joint portion 114. A drain hole 114a may be formed at the portion where the drain connector portion 166b is joined. A drain hole 114a may be formed in the direction where the inclined surface 114b of the joint portion 114 ends. The portion where the drain hole 114a is formed may have a step with the portion where the water supply connector portion 166a is joined. A drain hole 114a may be formed at a position lower than the portion where the water supply connector portion 166a is joined, below the ground level.

[0502] The connector joint 114 may include an inclined surface 114b that slopes downward toward the drain hole 114a. A drain connector 166b may be disposed in the direction where the inclined surface 114b ends. A drain hole 114a may be disposed in the direction where the inclined surface 114b ends. The inclined surface 114b may be disposed between the water supply connector 166a and the rear surface 111b of the cover 110.

[0503] According to this configuration, water on the joint 114 can be guided to the drain hole 114a.

[0504] The robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to the present invention may further include an internal chamber 129. The internal chamber 129 may be housed within a cover 110, forming a space for liquid accumulation. The internal chamber 129 may have a structure surrounded by sidewalls to enable liquid accumulation.

[0505] The internal chamber 129 can be integrally formed with the inner cover 113a covering the upper part of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. A portion of the side wall of the internal chamber 129 can be formed as the rear face 111b or the left face 111c facing the cover 110. One side wall of the internal chamber 129 can be configured to extend from the inner cover 113a. The configuration described above allows the inner cover 113a and the internal chamber 129 to be designed as an integral unit, thereby minimizing the number of parts through a continuously formed structure without additional parts.

[0506] The internal chamber 129 can be disposed in the space formed between the cleaning tank 121 and the rear side 111b of the cover. The internal chamber 129 can be disposed below the connector joint 114. The internal chamber 129 can be disposed vertically below the drain hole 114a. Liquid on the connector joint 114 can flow into the internal chamber 129 through the drain hole 114a.

[0507] An internal chamber 129 may be formed with a flow path 129b for guiding liquid into the cleaning tank 121. The internal chamber 129 may communicate with the receiving space S through the flow path 129b. The flow path 129b may be disposed in the receiving space S between the cleaning tank wall 128b and the connecting wall 123.

[0508] Liquid passing through the flow path hole 129b can fall onto the upper part of the cleaning plate 122. Liquid can flow into the cleaning tank 121 through the through hole 122b formed in the cleaning plate 122.

[0509] The flow path 129b can be configured at a constant height spaced from the bottom surface of the internal chamber 129. Therefore, if the water level in the internal chamber 129 reaches the height of the flow path 129b, liquid can flow into the cleaning tank 121.

[0510] On the other hand, a flow path guide groove 129ba can be formed on the side wall of the internal chamber 129 to help the fluid flow to the flow path hole 129b. The flow path guide groove 129ba can be formed on the wall of the internal chamber.

[0511] The flow path guide groove 129ba can be separately configured from the adjacent components on the left and right. The flow path guide groove 129ba can be formed to be lower than the adjacent components on the left and right. The flow path guide groove 129ba can have a shape in which the width gradually narrows towards the flow path hole 129b. The flow path guide groove 129ba can prevent fluid from flowing out from the inside of the cover 110 to other components or paths.

[0512] The robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to the present invention may further include a water level detection sensor 128e. The water level detection sensor 128e may be disposed on the wall 128b of the cleaning tank. Water used for cleaning the mop 242 may be contained in the cleaning tank 121. If the water level detection sensor 128e detects water overflowing inside the cleaning tank 121, the fluid may flow to the wastewater tank 164 through the wastewater outlet 164a.

[0513] On the other hand, the liquid contained in the internal chamber 129 can flow into the cleaning tank 121 through the flow path 129b. When the water level in the cleaning tank 121 rises, the water level detection sensor 128e can detect this. That is, the water level detection sensor 128e can indirectly detect leakage water flowing into the internal chamber 129.

[0514] Therefore, the present invention has the effect of managing water leakage by utilizing existing components.

[0515] As another example, the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention may include a leak detection sensor 129d to directly detect leaks. The leak detection sensor 129d may be configured on the bottom surface of the internal chamber 129. When the leak detection sensor 129d detects liquid in the internal chamber 129, it may send a signal to the control unit 300.

[0516] With this configuration, the leak detection sensor 129d can detect potential leaks in the housing 110 at an early stage. Furthermore, it can prevent damage or functional degradation of internal components that may occur due to leaks.

[0517] On the other hand, various components for realizing the movement of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 can be accommodated inside the housing 110. These components can be housed in the space surrounded by the cleaning tank 121 and the rear side 111b of the housing 110. Some components can be configured in conjunction with the internal chamber 129. That is, the components can be accommodated inside the housing 110 in a state of being integrated with the internal chamber 129.

[0518] The internal chamber 129 may have a chamber body 129a forming the overall shape and a component mounting portion 129c protruding from the chamber body 129a and accommodating the component. The component mounting portion 129c may support the lower part of the component. The component mounting portion 129c may be formed to surround at least a portion of the outer peripheral surface of the component.

[0519] The component mounting section 129c can be a cylindrical shape with an open top. Operators can move the component vertically to engage or disengage it from the internal chamber 129.

[0520] The component housing 129c may house the components of the cloth washing unit 160. As an example, the component housing 129c may be equipped with an regulator 161. As another example, the component housing 129c may be equipped with a centrifugal pump for discharging wastewater.

[0521] On the other hand, the components housed in the component placement section 129c may include electronic components. If moisture penetrates such electronic components, it may cause malfunctions.

[0522] Therefore, the parts of the component that require electrical connection or operation can be arranged at the upper end, while the parts that do not require electrical connection or operation can be combined with the component mounting part 129c in a state where they are arranged at the lower end.

[0523] On the other hand, the component mounting portion 129c may include a configuration that protrudes from the chamber body 129a and contacts and supports the side of the component. This support configuration may be formed around the outer periphery of the component, allowing the component to be inserted into and accommodated in a groove disposed within it. The height of this support configuration may be set to be higher than the height of the flow path hole 129b. That is, the uppermost point of the component mounting portion 129c may be configured to be higher than the flow path hole 129b.

[0524] With this configuration, the liquid can be designed to be discharged through the flow path 129b before reaching the upper end of the component not contained in the component placement part 129c.

[0525] Various components for realizing the operation of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 can be accommodated at the rear of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to the present invention. In the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100, a space can be formed between the cleaning tank 121 and the rear surface 111b of the cover 110.

[0526] On the other hand, the printed circuit board 310 of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention can be disposed behind the cleaning tank 121. The printed circuit board can be disposed on the rear side 111b of the cover 110.

[0527] On the other hand, the cloth drying unit 170 can expel hot air between the pair of cloths 242 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200. Therefore, the cloth drying unit 170 can be positioned behind the cleaning tank 121. Furthermore, the cloth drying unit 170 can be aligned with the left and right axes of symmetry of the cleaning tank 121.

[0528] When viewing the robot vacuum base station 100 from the rear, the internal chamber 129 can be positioned on the right side with reference to the cloth drying unit 170. The printed circuit board 310 can be positioned on the left side with reference to the cloth drying unit 170. That is, the internal chamber 129 can be located on the opposite side of the direction in which the printed circuit board 310 is positioned, with reference to the cloth drying unit 170.

[0529] Furthermore, when viewing the robot vacuum base station 100 from the rear, the cloth washing unit 160 can be positioned on the right side with the cloth drying unit 170 as a reference. The wastewater tank 164 can also be positioned on the right side with the cloth drying unit 170 as a reference. The water supply connector 166a, the drain connector 166b, and the drain hole 114a, which are used for supplying and draining water to the robot vacuum base station 100, can all be located on the right side with the cloth drying unit 170 as a reference.

[0530] Wastewater tank 164 can hold wastewater used in washing rags 242. The liquid contained in wastewater tank 164 can be discharged to the outside through wastewater outlet 164a. Wastewater outlet 164a can be located at the rear of wastewater tank 164. Liquid contained inside wastewater tank 164 can flow to the outside through a pipe connected to wastewater outlet 164a. However, leakage may occur between wastewater outlet 164a and the connected pipe.

[0531] The internal chamber 129 can be configured to accommodate any leakage that may occur between the sewage outlet 164a and the connected pipe. The internal chamber 129 can be located on the vertically lower side of the sewage outlet 164a.

[0532] Additionally, a detergent tank 163 for storing detergent for washing the rags 242 can be disposed below the wastewater tank 164. The detergent contained in the detergent tank 163 can flow to the washing water supply unit through a discharge port disposed at the rear. An internal chamber 129 can be disposed vertically below the discharge port of the detergent tank 163.

[0533] On the other hand, the internal chamber 129 can be configured on the vertical lower side of the cleaning water supply section where the detergent in the cleaning tub is mixed with the clean water supplied through the water supply connection pipe 165a.

[0534] Therefore, the internal chamber 129 can be disposed within the lower part of the components that use water within the robot vacuum base station 100. The internal chamber 129 can accommodate any leakage that may occur at the connection points between these components. Thus, the internal chamber 129 can prevent liquid from flowing out to other parts of the robot vacuum base station 100.

[0535] Control Structure

[0536] Figure 28 A block diagram illustrating the control configuration in a cleaning machine base station according to an embodiment of the present invention is disclosed.

[0537] Reference Figure 28 The control configuration of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention will be described below.

[0538] The robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention also includes a control unit 300 for controlling the placement unit 120, the dust collection motor 145, the cloth washing unit 160, and the cloth drying unit 170.

[0539] The control unit 300 may consist of a printed circuit board 310 and components mounted on the printed circuit board 310. The control unit 300 may include a plurality of printed circuit boards 310.

[0540] The printed circuit board 310 can control the power supply of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100. Alternatively, the printed circuit board 310 can control the operation of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0541] The control unit 300 can receive signals from the entry sensor 135 and can control the door drive unit 134.

[0542] The control unit 300 can detect the approach of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 and can rotate the door 131 by controlling the door drive unit 134. Specifically, the control unit 300 can detect whether the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 has entered or not by the entry sensor 135. If the distance between the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 and the door 131 is closer than a preset distance, the entrance 127 can be opened by rotating the door 131. In addition, the control unit 300 can close the entrance 127 by rotating the door 131 when the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is combined with the placement unit 120.

[0543] If power is supplied to the battery of the robot vacuum cleaner 200 from the power supply terminal 123b, the control unit 300 can determine that the robot vacuum cleaner 200 is connected to the mounting unit 120.

[0544] The control unit 300 can drive the dust collection motor 145 to suck up the dust inside the dust bin 220 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200.

[0545] On the other hand, the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a memory (not shown). The memory may store various data for driving and operating the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0546] On the other hand, the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a communication unit (not shown). The communication unit may support wireless communication with other devices located outside the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100, including the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 or a terminal (not shown). As a wireless communication module for supporting wireless communication, a short-range communication module or a long-range communication module may be provided.

[0547] For example, short-range communication can be Bluetooth communication, Near Field Communication (NFC), etc.

[0548] For example, long-distance communication can be Wireless LAN (WLAN), Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA), Wireless Broadband (Wibro), World Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX), Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM), Code Division Multi Access (CDMA), Code Division Multi Access 2000 (CDMA2000), Enhanced Voice-Data Optimized or Enhanced Voice-Data Only (EV-DO), Wideband CDMA (WCDMA), High Speed ​​Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA), High Speed ​​Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA), IEEE 802.16, Long Term Evolution (LTE), and Long Term Advanced Evolution (LTEA). Evolution-Advanced, Wireless Mobile Broadband Service (WMBS), Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Zigbee, Radio Frequency (RF), and LoRa (Long Range), etc.

[0549] The control unit 300 can control the cloth washing unit 160.

[0550] Specifically, the control unit 300 can control the detergent pump 163e. The control unit 300 can operate the detergent pump 163e to dispense detergent stored in the detergent tank 163 into the dishcloth 242.

[0551] Additionally, the control unit 300 can control the regulator 161. The control unit 300 can adjust the amount of clean water dispensed into the wiping cloth 242 by operating the regulator 161.

[0552] Additionally, the control unit 300 can control the drain pump 168. The control unit 300 can discharge the wastewater after washing the rags 242 by operating the drain pump 168.

[0553] The control unit 300 can control the cloth drying unit 170.

[0554] Specifically, the control unit 300 can control the heater 171d. The control unit 300 can heat the air expelled to the wiping cloth 242 by operating the heater 171d.

[0555] Additionally, the control unit 300 can control the air supply fan 171e. The control unit 300 can expel air to the wiping cloth 242 by operating the air supply fan 171e.

[0556] Additionally, the control unit 300 can control the exhaust fan 172c. The control unit 300 can use the exhaust fan 172c to expel the air after drying the cloth 242 to the outside.

[0557] Additionally, the control unit 300 can receive signals from the temperature sensor 174. The control unit 300 can measure the temperature of the air inside the enclosure 110 using the temperature information received from the temperature sensor 174. Furthermore, the control unit 300 can control the operation of the heater 171d based on the temperature information received from the temperature sensor 174, thereby sterilizing bacteria present in the cloth 242.

[0558] Additionally, the control unit 300 can receive signals from the dust bag detection unit 141c. If the dust bag detection unit 141c detects that a dust bag 143 is attached, it can send a signal to the control unit 300, which can then control the dust collection unit 140 accordingly. For example, the control unit 300 can operate the dust collection motor 145 only when a dust bag 143 is attached. Furthermore, the control unit 300 can operate the sterilization module 150 only when a dust bag 143 is attached.

[0559] In addition, the control unit 300 can receive signals from the water level detection sensor 128e.

[0560] The 128e water level sensor can detect the water level in the cleaning tank.

[0561] Specifically, the water level detection sensor 128e can be an electrode sensor that detects the current flowing in a liquid. The electrode sensor can utilize two or more electrodes to detect the current flow based on the dielectric properties of the liquid. For example, if the water level in the cleaning tank 121 reaches a set upper limit, the current flow between the electrodes can be detected and a signal can be sent to the control unit 300.

[0562] At this time, the control unit 300 can provide the user with information about the water level in the cleaning tank 121 through the output unit. The user can lead the cleaning tank 121 out of the robot vacuum base station 100 to drain the liquid. Alternatively, the control unit 300 can operate the pump to drain the liquid in the cleaning tank 121.

[0563] In addition, the control unit 300 can receive signals from the leakage detection sensor 129d.

[0564] The leak detection sensor 129d can detect liquid in the internal chamber 129. Upon detecting liquid, the leak detection sensor 129d can send a signal to the control unit 300. At this time, the control unit 300 can stop the operation of the robot vacuum base station 100. Alternatively, the control unit 300 can inform the user of the corresponding information through the output unit.

[0565] The present invention has been described in detail above through specific embodiments, but this is only for specific illustration of the present invention. The present invention is not limited thereto. Obviously, the present invention can be modified or improved by those skilled in the art within the technical concept of the present invention.

[0566] Simple variations or modifications of this invention are all within the scope of this invention, and the specific scope of protection of this invention will be clearly defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A base station for a robotic vacuum cleaner, characterized in that, include: Cover; The cleaning tank supports the lower part of the sweeping robot and can be extended and attached to the cover; The connecting pipe supplies water from the outside for cleaning the mop of the sweeping robot, or discharges wastewater that has been used for cleaning to the outside. The connector portion connects the connecting pipe and the cover; and A connector joint is located behind the cleaning tank for the connector to engage; The joint portion is provided with a drain hole for guiding any leakage that occurs at the joint portion to the cleaning tank.

2. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The connector includes a water supply connector, to which a water supply connection pipe that supplies water from an external water source to the interior of the enclosure is detachably connected. The joint portion forms a step between the portion where the water supply joint portion is joined and the portion where the drain hole is formed.

3. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The joint portion includes an inclined surface that slopes downward toward the drain hole.

4. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, wherein, Also includes: An internal chamber, located on the lower side of the joint, is used for liquid accumulation.

5. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 4, characterized in that, The internal chamber is formed with flow path holes for guiding the liquid that accumulates in the internal chamber to the cleaning tank.

6. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 5, characterized in that, The internal chamber includes: The chamber body; and A component placement section protrudes from the chamber body and accommodates components inside the cover; The uppermost part of the component mounting section is located at a position higher than the flow path hole.

7. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 4, characterized in that, Also includes: The mop drying section emits hot air between a pair of mops symmetrically arranged at the bottom of the sweeping robot; and A printed circuit board, located at the rear of the cleaning tank, controls the power supply; The internal chamber is located on the opposite side of the direction in which the printed circuit board is arranged, with the cloth drying section as a reference.

8. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 4, characterized in that, Also includes: A wastewater bucket is used to store water used to wash the rags; and A wastewater discharge outlet is located on the rear side of the wastewater tank to discharge the water inside the wastewater tank to the outside. The internal chamber is located vertically below the sewage outlet.

9. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 4, characterized in that, Also includes: The cleaning water supply unit mixes detergent for cleaning the rag with the clean water supplied through the connecting pipe; The internal chamber is located on the vertically lower side of the cleaning water supply unit.

10. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 4, characterized in that, The internal chamber is equipped with a water leakage detection sensor on its bottom surface.

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