Sweeping robot base station

Abstract

The present invention relates to a base station for a robot cleaner, which is disposed in a lower space of a kitchen cabinet and includes a drawer drawn from a housing disposed in a lower portion of the kitchen cabinet, and when the drawer is drawn, a coupling portion for accommodating the robot cleaner is drawn from the kitchen cabinet to the outside, so that the base station for the robot cleaner can be drawn as needed to perform cleaning and repair, thereby having an effect of easy maintenance.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a base station for robotic vacuum cleaners, and more specifically, to an embedded base station that, when a robotic vacuum cleaner is attached to the base station, can collect dust from the dust collection box of the robotic vacuum cleaner, clean the cleaning cloth of the robotic vacuum cleaner, and dry the cleaning cloth. Background Technology

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

[0003] Such a 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 come in two main types: dry-type, which sucks up and removes debris scattered on the floor; and wet-type, which uses a damp cloth to wipe the floor and 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 that supplies water to a damp cloth, which then wipes the floor to effectively remove debris. There are also robotic vacuum cleaners that combine a stirrer and a cloth.

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

[0006] On the other hand, when the charging dock for a robotic vacuum cleaner is placed indoors, it will occupy a certain amount of indoor space. In this case, it may reduce the efficiency of indoor space. In addition, there is a possibility that users or pets may collide with the robotic vacuum cleaner while passing by, resulting in injury to the user or pet and damage to the robotic vacuum cleaner.

[0007] In addition, in the case of base stations equipped with dust collection functions of robotic vacuum cleaners, the increased size they occupy can damage interior decoration.

[0008] In this regard, a device for cleaning a sweeping robot at the bottom of a washing machine is disclosed in Chinese Utility Model Publication CN219206761U.

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

[0010] In addition, since the robot vacuum cleaner is cleaned using the water supply and drainage connected to the washing machine, there is no need for a separate water supply and drainage system.

[0011] However, the aforementioned cleaning devices have limited functionality; they only clean the robot vacuum cleaner and do not charge it or collect dust from it. Furthermore, cleaning the robot vacuum cleaner while it is charging it poses a risk of electric shock.

[0012] Therefore, the above-mentioned cleaning device can only be used when cleaning the robot vacuum cleaner and cannot provide basic functions such as charging, so a separate charging dock is required.

[0013] On the other hand, Japanese Patent Publication JP4916266B2 discloses a building that utilizes the space under the wall to collect dust from the dustbin of a robot vacuum cleaner.

[0014] The building has a built-in dust collection device in the lower part of the wall, which can collect the dust in the dust collection box of the robot vacuum cleaner when it approaches.

[0015] However, in the case of the aforementioned buildings, simply drawing in air from the lower side of the wall results in the dust not being airtight in relation to the dust collection box of the robot vacuum cleaner, which limits the possibility of dust scattering into the room.

[0016] In addition, buildings cannot power robotic vacuum cleaners, so they need to have charging docks, thus limiting their effectiveness in improving indoor space efficiency.

[0017] On the other hand, Chinese utility model publication CN2192708414U discloses a base station for cleaning a washing machine, which is combined with a robot vacuum cleaner on the lower side of the washing machine to charge the robot vacuum cleaner, collect dust, and clean the robot vacuum cleaner's wet cloth.

[0018] However, the aforementioned robot vacuum station forms an open space below the washing machine that allows the robot vacuum to enter. A detergent and water supply device for washing wet cloths are installed on the vertical upper side of the space where the robot vacuum enters, and a dust collection bag is installed on the side of the space where the robot vacuum enters.

[0019] With this configuration, the overall height of the robot vacuum station increases, which limits its installation because it cannot utilize the space under furniture, including sinks.

[0020] In addition, the aforementioned robot vacuum station needs to be installed below the washing machine, which presents the following limitations: space must be provided for the washing machine, taking into account not only the height of the washing machine itself but also the height of the robot vacuum station, thus requiring installation space exceeding these heights.

[0021] In addition, the space for the robot vacuum cleaner to enter and exit from the aforementioned robot vacuum cleaner base station is always open. Therefore, dust may be scattered during the process of collecting dust from the robot vacuum cleaner's dust collection box, and wastewater may leak during the process of cleaning the robot vacuum cleaner's mop.

[0022] On the other hand, a drawer-type robot base station is disclosed in US Patent US10610073B1.

[0023] The aforementioned robot base station is located on the underside of the cleaning cart to accommodate the robot and can be pulled out via a drawer.

[0024] However, the aforementioned robot base station has a trash can on its upper side, which limits its installation in spaces with limited height, such as kitchen cabinets.

[0025] In addition, since only the robot vacuum is removed, while other components are mounted on a separate cart, the main body of the cart needs to be disassembled for repair and management of the components. Summary of the Invention

[0026] Technical issues

[0027] The present invention is proposed to improve the problems existing in the existing robot vacuum base stations as described above, and its purpose is to provide a robot vacuum base station that can be embedded in the lower side of a kitchen cabinet without requiring additional installation space.

[0028] In addition, the purpose is to provide a robot vacuum station that can accommodate a robot vacuum in the lower space of a kitchen cabinet with a specified height limit.

[0029] 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.

[0030] In addition, the purpose is to provide a robot vacuum base station that can automatically clean the mop cloth of the robot vacuum when combined with a robot vacuum.

[0031] In addition, the purpose is to provide a robot vacuum cleaner base station that can automatically dry the mop after cleaning the robot vacuum cleaner's mop.

[0032] In addition, the purpose is to provide a robot vacuum cleaner base station that can be removed for cleaning and repair as needed.

[0033] In addition, the purpose is to provide a robot vacuum cleaner base station that can prevent the hose and wires from being damaged when the base station is pulled out.

[0034] In addition, the purpose is to provide a robot vacuum cleaner base station that allows the operator to easily install and remove the hose and power cord for the purpose of removing the base station.

[0035] Methods for solving problems

[0036] To achieve the above objectives, the robot vacuum cleaner base station of the present invention includes: a housing; and a drawer that is pulled out from the housing and has a connecting portion for engaging with the robot vacuum cleaner, the drawer including: a drawer sidewall that is movable relative to the outer wall of the housing; and a connector portion disposed on the drawer sidewall, at least one of a hose and a wire being detachably connected to the connector portion.

[0037] At this time, the outer casing includes an outer wall disposed at a position opposite to the drawer side wall, wherein the upper end of the drawer side wall is higher than the upper end of the outer wall.

[0038] Furthermore, the aforementioned connector can be positioned higher than the aforementioned outer wall.

[0039] This structure prevents interference between the joint and the outer wall during the process of pulling out the drawer.

[0040] On the other hand, the aforementioned housing includes a pair of support members, which are respectively hinged to the aforementioned one pair of outer walls, and the length of the joint from the position where it is joined to the drawer side wall to the end in the direction of the outer wall is longer than the shortest distance between the drawer side wall and the support member.

[0041] Therefore, when the support member is positioned in front of the outer wall, the joint interferes with the support member when the drawer is pulled out, and the drawer can be pulled out when the support member rotates outward toward the outer wall.

[0042] On the other hand, the robot vacuum cleaner base station of the present invention includes: a dust collection unit that empties the dust from the robot vacuum cleaner, and the robot vacuum cleaner and the dust collection unit can be pulled out when the drawer is pulled out.

[0043] In addition, the robot vacuum cleaner base station of the present invention also includes a cloth cleaning unit, which is used to clean the cloth of the robot vacuum cleaner. When the drawer is pulled out, the robot vacuum cleaner and the cloth cleaning unit can be pulled out.

[0044] In addition, the robot vacuum cleaner base station of the present invention also includes a cloth drying section, which is used to dry the cloth of the robot vacuum cleaner. When the drawer is pulled out, the robot vacuum cleaner and the cloth drying section can be pulled out.

[0045] On the other hand, the aforementioned connector may include: a water supply pipe connection part, which is connected to a water supply pipe for water supply; a drain pipe connection part, which is connected to a drain pipe for drainage; and a power supply connection part, which is connected to a power source.

[0046] In addition, the aforementioned connector may also include an exhaust pipe connection, which is connected to a steam exhaust pipe that discharges air from the interior of the drawer.

[0047] Invention Effects

[0048] As described above, the robot vacuum base station according to the present invention has the following effect: the modules that can charge the robot vacuum, collect dust, and clean the mop are arranged in a direction horizontal to the robot vacuum, thereby making use of the space under the kitchen cabinet.

[0049] In addition, it has the following effect: the charging terminal, dust collection section, mop cleaning section and mop drying section are configured to surround the robot vacuum cleaner, thereby enabling the robot vacuum cleaner to perform various functions at the same time.

[0050] In addition, it has the following effect: the other sides besides the front are covered by the kitchen cabinets, thus providing aesthetic appeal to the user in terms of decoration.

[0051] In addition, it has the following effect: when the robot vacuum is in use, it automatically collects the dust in the robot vacuum's dustbin, so users only need to remove the dust bag at certain intervals, which can reduce the user's workload.

[0052] In addition, it has the following effect: when combined with a robot vacuum cleaner, it can automatically clean the robot vacuum cleaner's mop, thus reducing the trouble of separating the mop and washing it separately.

[0053] In addition, it has the following effect: detergent can be added as needed, thus improving the cleaning effect of the rag.

[0054] In addition, it has the following effect: the kitchen's water supply and drainage pipes are used to wash the dishcloth, thus reducing the trouble for users who need to separately add water or drain wastewater.

[0055] In addition, it has the following effect: after cleaning the mop cloth of the robot vacuum cleaner, hot air can be supplied to the mop cloth to automatically dry it, thus preventing the odor from the wet mop cloth.

[0056] In addition, it has the following effect: during the drying process of the cloth, the dried air is discharged downstream of the U-shaped water trap, thereby preventing odor backflow.

[0057] Additionally, it has the following effect: it can separate the hose and wire from the drawer, thereby preventing damage to the hose and wire when the drawer is pulled out.

[0058] Additionally, it has the following effect: the connector can be pulled out from the front of the kitchen cabinet to a position accessible to the operator's hand, and the operator's hand can be inserted into the space between the outer casing and the drawer, thereby allowing the operator to easily install and remove hoses and wires. Attached Figure Description

[0059] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating the state in which the sweeping robot system of an embodiment of the present invention is installed on the underside of a kitchen cabinet.

[0060] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating the relationship between the piping and drainage pipe connections of the sweeping machine system in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] Figure 3 This is a perspective view illustrating an embodiment of the sweeping robot system of the present invention.

[0062] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Top view.

[0063] Figure 5 It is cut along the front and back direction. Figure 3 Cross-sectional view.

[0064] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of a sweeping robot used to illustrate embodiments of the present invention.

[0065] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Side view.

[0066] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 A bottom view.

[0067] Figure 9 yes Figure 6 Rear view.

[0068] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of a robot vacuum cleaner base station used to illustrate embodiments of the present invention.

[0069] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 Top view.

[0070] Figure 12 This is a side view illustrating the dust collection flow path of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] Figures 13 to 16 This is a cross-sectional view of the dust collection flow path of the robot vacuum cleaner base station used to illustrate an embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] Figure 17 This is a cross-sectional view of the discharge port of the dust collection motor housing of the robot vacuum cleaner base station used to illustrate an embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] Figures 18 to 20 This is a diagram illustrating the circulation path of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] Figure 21 and Figure 22 This diagram shows a state in which a portion of the bottom surface of the main body of the bottom component is removed in order to illustrate the circulation path of the robot vacuum base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0075] Figure 23 It is used for detailed explanation Figure 22 The diagram shows a 3D view of region A.

[0076] Figure 24 This is an enlarged view of the mop cleaning section of the robot vacuum cleaner base station used to illustrate an embodiment of the present invention.

[0077] Figure 25 This is an enlarged view of the cleaning water discharge section of the mop cleaning unit of the robot vacuum base station used to illustrate an embodiment of the present invention.

[0078] Figure 26 This diagram illustrates the state in which the dust collection unit and detergent dispenser are removed from the base station of the sweeping robot according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] Figure 27 This is a cross-sectional perspective view illustrating the space between the cleaning component and the joint portion of the cleaning component in the robot vacuum base station formed in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0080] Figure 28 This is a perspective view of the cloth drying section of a robot vacuum cleaner base station, used to illustrate an embodiment of the present invention.

[0081] Figure 29 and Figure 30 This is an enlarged view of the cloth drying section of a robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0082] Figure 31 This is a cross-sectional view illustrating the state of air flowing into the interior of a hot gas supply module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0083] Figure 32 and Figure 33This is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the robot vacuum cleaner base stations on a horizontal plane according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0084] Figure 34 and Figure 35 This diagram illustrates the state in which a drawer is provided in the base station of a sweeping robot according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] Figures 36 to 38 This is a diagram illustrating the state of the drawer being pulled out from the base station of the sweeping robot according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0086] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0087] This invention can be modified in various ways and can have various embodiments; therefore, specific embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings and described in detail in the accompanying description. This does not mean that the invention is limited to the specific implementation, but should be interpreted as including all modifications, equivalents, or substitutions within the scope of the invention's ideas and techniques.

[0088] In describing this invention, terms such as "first" and "second" are used to describe various constituent elements, but these terms do not limit the constituent elements. These terms are only used to distinguish one constituent element from others. For example, without departing from the scope of this invention, a first constituent element may be named a second constituent element, and similarly, a second constituent element may be named a first constituent element.

[0089] The term "and / or" may include a combination of the contents of multiple related records or any one of the contents of multiple related records.

[0090] When it is mentioned that one element is "connected" or "linked" to another element, it should be understood that it can be directly connected or linked to another element, or that there are other elements between them. Conversely, when it is mentioned that one element is "directly connected" or "directly linked" to another element, it should be understood that there are no other elements between them.

[0091] The terminology used in this application is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the invention. Unless otherwise expressly stated in the context, the singular includes plural meanings.

[0092] In this application, terms such as "comprising" or "having" are used only to specify the presence of features, figures, steps, operations, 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, operations, constituent elements, components, or combinations thereof.

[0093] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, may have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art. Terms defined in common dictionaries may be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the relevant technical context, and should not be interpreted as having an ideal or overly formal meaning unless otherwise explicitly defined in this application.

[0094] Furthermore, the following embodiments are provided to enable those skilled in the art to more fully understand the present invention. For clearer illustration, the shape and size of the elements in the drawings may be shown in enlarged form.

[0095] Figure 1 A diagram illustrating an embodiment of the present invention shows a sweeping robot system positioned under a kitchen 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.

[0096] The sweeping robot system 1 of this invention can be installed on the lower side of the kitchen cabinet 2. Specifically, the kitchen cabinet 2 can be configured in the kitchen to store bowls, plates, cups, etc., and provide space for cooking food or washing dishes.

[0097] In addition, kitchen cabinet 2 may be equipped with an upper panel (workbench) that can function as a sink, cooking table, or work surface.

[0098] For example, kitchen cabinet 2 may include a sink on the upper panel to provide space for washing dishes. Alternatively, kitchen cabinet 2 may include a cooking countertop for performing cooking tasks. Additionally, kitchen cabinet 2 may include a gas stovetop on the upper panel for mounting a gas stove, induction cooktop, ceramic cooktop, or oven.

[0099] Typically, kitchen cabinet 2 can use a standard cabinet with a front-to-back width of 600mm.

[0100] In another embodiment of the present invention, the sweeping system 1 may be disposed on the underside of a structure including at least one of a water supply pipe and a drain pipe. Specifically, the water supply pipe 160a may refer to a flow path connected to an external water supply source that supplies fluid to the structure, and the drain pipe may refer to a flow path that discharges fluid discharged from the structure into a sewer.

[0101] A storage cabinet for storing tableware and kitchen utensils can be installed at the lower part of this kitchen cabinet 2 or the aforementioned structure. Specifically, the kitchen cabinet 2 or the aforementioned structure may include: an upper panel 22 providing space for cooking or washing dishes; a lower side panel 23 configured to be at a predetermined height above the ground; 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 cabinet 2 is a sink, a sink 22a can be installed on the upper panel 22.

[0102] 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 cabinet 2. In this case, a space can be formed between the kitchen floor and the lower side panel 23 depending on the height of the support column 21.

[0103] In contrast, the kitchen cabinet 2 can also be fixed to the wall of the building without the need for the support column 21. In this case, a space can be formed between the kitchen floor and the lower side panel 23.

[0104] The sweeping robot system 1 of the present invention is installed in the space between the floor and the lower side panel 23 of the kitchen as described above (hereinafter referred to as the installation space 24).

[0105] For example, the installation space 24 may have a height of less than 200 mm, and typically may have a height of less than 160 mm.

[0106] Therefore, according to the present invention, the sweeping system 1 is disposed in the lower space of the kitchen cabinet 2, thus having the effect of minimizing the degree of exposure of the sweeping system 1 to the outside.

[0107] In addition, compared to arranging a charging dock for a robot vacuum cleaner in a certain space in the living room, bedroom, or kitchen, the robot vacuum cleaner system 1 is arranged in the unused space created by the kitchen cabinet 2 without occupying additional space, thus maximizing space efficiency.

[0108] On the other hand, a drain pipe 25 is provided in the kitchen cabinet 2 or the aforementioned structure to drain liquids used in cooking or water used in washing dishes. At least a portion of the drain pipe 25 may be configured in the aforementioned 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 basin. The drain pipe 25 includes a U-shaped water trap 25a for preventing the backflow of contaminated gases or odors. The U-shaped water trap 25a may be configured in the aforementioned storage space. Liquid flowing in through the drain outlet may flow downwards due to gravity in the upstream 25b of the U-shaped water trap and accumulate in the U-shaped water trap 25a. When the water rises above a predetermined water level set by the U-shaped water trap 25a, it may flow downwards along the downstream 25c of the U-shaped water trap and be discharged into the sewer.

[0109] The sweeping robot system 1 of the present invention can use the drain pipe 25 as described above to clean and dry the mop 242 of the sweeping robot 200.

[0110] Additionally, a water supply pipe 160a can be installed in the kitchen cabinet 2. Tap water (or purified water) can be supplied to the sweeping robot system 1 through the water supply pipe 160a.

[0111] The specific structure of the sweeping robot system 1 will be described below.

[0112] on the other hand, Figures 3 to 5 A diagram is shown illustrating a sweeping robot system for demonstrating an embodiment of the present invention.

[0113] The sweeping robot system 1 of the embodiments of this specification may include a sweeping robot base station 100 and a sweeping robot 200.

[0114] The robotic vacuum system 1 includes a robotic vacuum base station 100. A robotic vacuum 200 can be integrated into the robotic vacuum base station 100. Specifically, the robotic vacuum 200 can enter from the front of the robotic vacuum base station 100 and can be housed inside the robotic vacuum base station 100. The robotic vacuum base station 100 can remove dust from the dustbin 220 of the robotic vacuum 200. The robotic vacuum base station 100 can clean the rotating cleaning section 240 of the robotic vacuum 200. The robotic vacuum base station 100 can dry the rotating cleaning section 240 of the robotic vacuum 200. The robotic vacuum base station 100 can supply power to the robotic vacuum 200.

[0115] on the other hand, Figures 6 to 9 A diagram is disclosed illustrating a sweeping robot in a sweeping robot system for illustrating embodiments of the present invention.

[0116] Reference Figures 6 to 9 The structure of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is described below.

[0117] 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.

[0118] The robotic vacuum cleaner 200 of this embodiment 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 placed on the ground, with the vertical direction set as a reference.

[0119] Furthermore, taking a pair of wheels 260 as a reference, the side with the auxiliary wheel 270 (described later) is set as the front, and the side with the rotating cleaning unit 240 (described later) is set as the rear.

[0120] In the embodiments of the present invention, the “lowest part” of each component may be the part located at the lowest position among the various components when the sweeping robot 200 of the present invention is placed on the ground for use, or it may be the part closest to the ground.

[0121] The sweeping robot 200 of the present invention includes a main body 210, a dust collection box 220, a water tank 230, a rotating sweeping part 240, an agitator 250, wheels 260, auxiliary wheels 270 and a charging terminal 280.

[0122] The main body 210 can form the overall shape of the sweeping robot 200. Various components constituting the sweeping robot 200 can be integrated into the main body 210, and some of the components constituting the sweeping robot 200 can be accommodated inside the main body 210.

[0123] 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.

[0124] In embodiments of the present invention, the main body 210 may be configured such that its width (or diameter) in the horizontal direction (parallel to X and Y) is greater than its height in the vertical direction (parallel to Z). Such a main body 210 can help the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 form a stable structure and can provide a structure that facilitates the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 in avoiding obstacles during movement (driving).

[0125] When viewed from above or below, the main body 210 can take on various shapes such as circles, ovals, or quadrilaterals.

[0126] 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.

[0127] The lower body can be combined with the upper body to form an internal space that can accommodate a battery, at least one sensor, and at least one motor.

[0128] The lower body may have an intake section 211 for air to flow in and a hole for accommodating a pair of wheels 260.

[0129] 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 collection box 220.

[0130] 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 collection box 220, and the other side can communicate with the exhaust port. At this time, a filter can be installed at the exhaust port.

[0131] With this structure, the air flowing in through the suction section 211 can flow into the interior of the dust collection box 220 through the suction flow path, and be discharged from the exhaust port through the exhaust flow path.

[0132] The agitator 250, described later, can be rotatably housed in the suction section 211. With this structure, dust around the suction section 211 can be guided into the interior of the suction section 211 by the rotation of the agitator 250, thereby improving the efficiency of dust suction.

[0133] 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.

[0134] Although not illustrated, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 of the present invention may include a buffer. The buffer may be attached along the edge of the body 210 and configured to move relative to the body 210.

[0135] The buffer member may be attached to a portion of the edge of the body 210 or to the entire edge of the body 210. At least one elastic member (not shown) may be provided between the buffer member and the body 210. With such a structure, when 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.

[0136] The dust collection box 220 can be configured to draw in external dust and air and store the dust.

[0137] The dust collection box 220 can store dust that flows in through the suction flow path. The dust collection box 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.

[0138] The dust collection box 220 can be disposed inside the main body 210. In this case, the dust collection box 220 can be fixedly attached to the main body 210, or it can be disposed detachably according to the embodiment.

[0139] On the other hand, in this invention, a dust discharge path can be formed in the dust collection box 220. This dust discharge path allows the internal space of the dust collection box 220 to communicate with the external space of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. With this structure, when dust is collected by the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100, the dust inside the dust collection box 220 can be removed.

[0140] On the other hand, in embodiments of the present invention, the dust collection box 220 may be provided with a dust discharge outlet 221 that communicates with the aforementioned dust discharge path. As one example, the dust discharge outlet 221 may be formed on one side behind the outer side (or outer peripheral surface) of the main body 210. As another example, the dust discharge outlet 221 may be formed on the outer side of the dust collection box 220.

[0141] Furthermore, in embodiments of the present invention, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 may be provided with a dust collection box door 222 capable of selectively opening and closing the aforementioned dust outlet 221. Specifically, the dust collection box door 222 may be attached to the main body 210 and positioned to block the dust outlet 221. As an example, the dust collection box door 222 may be formed of rubber or resin material and configured to be flip-up, with one side fixedly attached to the main body 210.

[0142] With this structure, when the dust collection motor 152 of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 (described later) is working, the dust collection box door 222 can be elastically deformed by the driving force of the dust collection motor 152, and the dust discharge port 221 is opened, so that the dust in the dust collection box 220 can be collected into the dust collection section 140 of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0143] The water tank 230 is formed as a container with an internal space for storing liquids such as water. The water tank 230 can be disposed inside the main body 210 and can be fixedly coupled to the main body 210 or detachably coupled to the main body 210.

[0144] 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.

[0145] At this time, the supply unit 231 can be arranged on the opposite side of the sweeping robot 200 in the left-right direction in relation to the dust discharge port 221. For example, when the dust discharge port 221 is arranged on the rear left side of the main body 210, the supply unit 231 can be arranged on the rear right side of the main body 210.

[0146] With this structure, when the robot vacuum cleaner 200 is combined with the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 can simultaneously perform dust collection and water injection.

[0147] On the other hand, the nozzle (not shown) is formed in the shape of a tube or pipe and is connected to the water tank 230 so that the liquid inside the water tank 230 can flow through it. The nozzle (not shown) is configured such that one side is connected to the water tank 230 and the other end is located above a pair of rotating plates 241, thereby allowing the liquid inside the water tank 230 to be supplied to a pair of wiping cloths 242 respectively.

[0148] That is, the nozzle (not shown) can be formed into a tube that is branched into two. In this case, one end of the branch can be located on the upper side of the left rotating plate, and the other end of the branch can be located on the upper side of the right rotating plate.

[0149] On the other hand, although not shown, a pump may be installed in the water tank 230 to direct the water inside the water tank 230 to the nozzle (not shown). Therefore, when the pump in the water tank 230 is working, the liquid stored in the water tank 230 can be ejected through the nozzle (not shown) to the rotating cleaning unit 240.

[0150] The rotating cleaning unit 240 includes a rotating plate 241 and a cleaning cloth 242.

[0151] The rotating plate 241 can be configured as a pair including a left rotating plate and a right rotating plate, and the rag 242 can be configured as a pair including a left rag and a right rag.

[0152] 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.

[0153] 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 sufficiently greater than the height in the vertical direction. The rotating plate 241, combined with the main body 210, can be parallel to the ground B or can be inclined relative to the ground B. The rotating plate 241 can be formed into a circular plate shape, the bottom surface of the rotating plate 241 can be generally formed into a circle, and the rotating plate 241 as a whole can be formed into a rotationally symmetrical shape.

[0154] A pair of rotating plates 241 can form a left-right symmetry with each other.

[0155] The rag 242 can be attached to the underside of the rotating plate 241 with the ground B facing it.

[0156] The rag 242 is formed with a specified area on its bottom surface facing the ground, and the rag 242 is formed in a flat shape. 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 B or can be inclined relative to the ground B.

[0157] The bottom surface of the rag 242 can be roughly circular, and the rag 242 as a whole can be rotate symmetrical. In addition, the rag 242 can be detached and attached to the bottom surface of the rotating plate 241, and can be combined with the rotating plate 241 to rotate together with the rotating plate 241.

[0158] On the other hand, although not shown, the rotary cleaning unit 240 may be provided with a drive unit that applies rotational force to the rotating plate 241. For example, the drive unit may be provided with a motor and at least one gear. Therefore, when the drive unit is working, the rotating plate 241 and the cloth 242 rotate to wipe the floor for cleaning.

[0159] The agitator 250 is rotatably equipped with multiple brushes that guide external dust and air into the dust collection box 220. At this time, at least one gear may be provided in the agitator 250.

[0160] On the other hand, the agitator 250 of this embodiment can not only be provided with an agitator motor (not shown) to receive rotational power, but can also receive rotational power from a driving motor according to the embodiment, and can also receive rotational power from the drive unit of the rotating cleaning unit 240.

[0161] Wheel 260 can be disposed on the bottom surface of main body 210 and can be connected to drive unit (not shown). At this time, drive unit (not shown) can be attached to main body 210.

[0162] Wheel 260 can be installed on the main body 210 and roll on the ground.

[0163] Wheel 260 may consist of a first driving wheel and a second driving wheel. In this case, the first driving wheel may be formed in the same or symmetrical manner as the second driving wheel. As an example, if the first driving wheel is located on the left side of the sweeping robot 200, then the second driving wheel may be located on the right side of the sweeping robot 200, in which case the first driving wheel and the second driving wheel may be symmetrical to each other.

[0164] The drive unit (not shown) may include a travel motor and gears. In this case, the travel motor may be housed inside the main body 210 and may provide power to the wheel 260. The travel motor may include a first travel motor and a second travel motor.

[0165] The travel motor can be composed of an electric motor. Multiple gears are configured to mesh with each other and rotate, connecting the travel motor and wheel 260, and 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.

[0166] With this structure, when the driving motor is working, the wheel 260 rotates, and the main body 210 can travel on the ground at a specified speed.

[0167] The auxiliary wheel 270 can be disposed on the underside of the main body 210 and can roll on the ground (the surface to be cleaned). The auxiliary wheel 270, together with a pair of wheels 260, can support the main body 210 on the ground. With this structure, the auxiliary wheel 270 can minimize the friction between the robot vacuum cleaner 200 and the ground while guiding the movement of the robot vacuum cleaner 200.

[0168] 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. Through the suction generated by the suction motor (not shown), external dust and air flow into the suction section 211 and reach the dust collection box 220 after passing through the suction flow path.

[0169] Although not shown, the battery is integrated into the main body 210 and supplies power to other components constituting the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The battery can power at least one motor provided in the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. For example, the battery can power motors provided for the rotating cleaning unit 240, the agitator 250, the wheels 260, and the suction motor (not shown).

[0170] In addition, the battery can supply power to the sensing unit (not shown) and the control unit (not shown).

[0171] 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 disposed on the rear side of the outer surface of the main body 210. When the robot vacuum cleaner 200 is attached to 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.

[0172] Figure 10 A perspective view of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station is shown to illustrate embodiments of the present invention. Figure 11 Show Figure 10 Top view.

[0173] Reference Figure 10 and Figure 11 The sweeping robot base station 100 of the present invention is described below.

[0174] The robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 can accommodate a robot vacuum cleaner 200. The robot vacuum cleaner 200 can be attached to the attachment part 120 of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0175] The robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 may include a housing 110.

[0176] The housing 110 can form the appearance of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100. As an example, the housing 110 can be formed in a shape similar to a hexahedron including at least one outer wall surface.

[0177] The outer casing 110 may have a space inside that can accommodate the joint 120, the dust collection flow path 130, the dust collection section 140, the dust collection motor 152, the cloth washing section 160, the cloth drying section 170, and the circulation flow path 125a.

[0178] The outer casing 110 can be installed on the lower side of the kitchen cabinet 2. Specifically, the outer casing 110 can be disposed in the installation space 24 formed between the lower side panel 23 of the kitchen cabinet 2 and the kitchen floor.

[0179] The outer shell 110 includes a pair of outer walls 111 facing each other. The outer walls 111 may be configured to include surfaces formed along the direction of gravity. In this case, the outer walls 111 may not only be formed as a plate with a specified thickness, but may also be configured as a component with internal space in order to reduce overall weight.

[0180] One pair of outer walls 111 can be installed on the underside of the kitchen cabinet 2 at predetermined intervals. In this case, the outer casing 110 may also include a bottom surface opposite to the kitchen floor, and the one pair of outer walls can be connected through the bottom surface.

[0181] With this structure, the components of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 can be accommodated inside the outer shell 110 (between a pair of outer walls 111).

[0182] Specifically, a drawer 190 may be arranged between a pair of outer walls 111. That is, a pair of outer walls 111 are arranged opposite to a pair of drawer side walls 191, and a connecting part 120, a dust collection path 130, a dust collection part 140, a dust collection motor 152, a cloth washing part 160, a cloth drying part 170, and a circulation path part 180 may be arranged between the pair of drawer side walls 191.

[0183] Drawer 190 will be discussed later.

[0184] On the other hand, the outer casing 110 may also include a bottom surface opposite to the kitchen floor and an upper side surface 113 opposite to the lower side panel 23 of the kitchen cabinet 2 (see reference). Figure 34 Additionally, the housing 110 may also include a rear side that connects the aforementioned bottom surface and the aforementioned upper side surface.

[0185] With this structure, the outer casing 110 can seal the upper and lower sides of the robot vacuum base station 100. Therefore, even if foreign objects fall from the kitchen cabinet 2 to the lower side, the robot vacuum 200 and the components of the robot vacuum base station 100 can be prevented from being contaminated.

[0186] Additionally, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can be housed inside the housing 110. The housing 110 can be configured such that a pair of outer walls 111 have a spacing greater than the maximum width of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 in the horizontal direction. With this structure, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can enter and exit the interior of the housing 110.

[0187] In this embodiment, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can enter and exit from the front of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100. Here, "front" can refer to the direction in which the door 126 is provided with reference to the interior of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0188] 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.

[0189] 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.

[0190] That is, the outer wall of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 can be configured on the left and right sides respectively.

[0191] Therefore, the upper side of the outer casing 110 can be covered by the kitchen cabinet 2, and the lower side of the outer casing 110 can be covered by the kitchen floor. In addition, the left and right sides of the outer casing 110 are covered by the outer wall and are located in the lower part of the kitchen cabinet 2. At this time, except for the part of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100, which is closed by the baseboard 26, only the front of the outer casing 110 is exposed to the outside.

[0192] This minimizes the external exposure of the robot vacuum base station 100 and the robot vacuum 200.

[0193] With this structure, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention has the effect of bringing aesthetic appeal to users in terms of decoration.

[0194] On the other hand, in one embodiment of the invention, the height of the upper end of the outer wall 111 may be lower than the height of the upper side surface 113 of the outer casing 110. Therefore, a height difference may be generated between the upper end of the outer wall 111 and the upper side surface of the outer casing 110.

[0195] Therefore, a space can be formed between the upper end of the outer wall 111 and the upper side of the outer casing 110 for a water supply hose connected to the water supply pipe 160a to pass through, and a space can be formed between the upper end of the outer wall 111 and the upper side of the outer casing 110 for a drainage hose to pass through for draining wastewater generated after washing the rag 242. Additionally, a space can be formed between the upper end of the outer wall 111 and the upper side of the outer casing 110 for a power cable to pass through for supplying power to the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0196] Therefore, according to the present invention, when the drawer 190 is pulled out, the hose and wire can be pulled out together with the drawer, thus providing convenience to the user.

[0197] On the other hand, the housing 110 of this embodiment also includes a support member 112 that is contactably disposed with the kitchen cabinet 2.

[0198] The support member 112 is disposed between the kitchen floor and the lower side panel 23 of the kitchen cabinet 2, and can contact the kitchen floor and the lower side panel 23 of the kitchen cabinet 2 for support. Thus, the lower side panel 23 of the kitchen cabinet 2 is supported, and space is maintained for installing the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0199] The support member 112 is hinged to the outer wall 111. Specifically, the support member 112 is rotatably coupled to the front end of the outer wall 111.

[0200] Reference Figure 37 The support member 112 includes a support member body 112a, a hinge part 112b, a support part 112c, and a height adjustment part 112d.

[0201] The support body 112a forms the appearance of the support member 112 and is positioned in front of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 and is exposed to the outside. The support body 112a is formed in a columnar shape, and at least one corner may be curved. With this structure, the support body 112a can provide support between the kitchen floor and the lower side panel 23 of the kitchen cabinet 2.

[0202] The hinge portion 112b can be formed to extend outward from the support body 112a along the radial direction and hinge with the outer wall 111. In this case, the hinge portion of the support member 112 is inserted into the inner side of the outer wall 111 and hinges with a pin or protrusion formed inside the outer wall 111 to form a hinge axis. Therefore, the hinge axis of the support member 112 can be formed inside the outer wall 111.

[0203] The support portion 112c is disposed on the upper side of the support body 112a and can contact the lower side panel 23 of the kitchen cabinet 2 for support. For example, the support portion 112c is formed in the form of a flat plate, with its upper side supporting the lower side panel 23 of the kitchen cabinet 2 and its lower side being supported by the support body 112a.

[0204] The height adjustment part 112d is rotatably coupled to the support body 112a, and the height of the support part 112c can be adjusted as it rotates. Therefore, when the operator rotates the height adjustment part 112d, the support part 112c moves in the vertical direction, thereby contacting the lower side panel 23 of the kitchen cabinet 2 to support or release the contact with the lower side panel 23.

[0205] With this structure, when the support member 112 is positioned in front of the outer wall 111, and the operator rotates the height adjustment unit 112d, the support member 112 descends, releasing the fixation between the support member 112 and the kitchen cabinet 2. Then, when the operator grasps and rotates the support member body 112a, the support member 112 can rotate outward from the front end of the outer wall 111 along the left-right direction of the robot vacuum base station 100. This opens the front of the outer wall 111.

[0206] Therefore, according to the present invention, the support member 112 can block the front end of the outer wall 111, and the blocked front end of the outer wall 111 can be opened by rotation.

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

[0208] The robotic vacuum cleaner 200 and the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 can be physically connected, electrically connected, and / or connected via the joint 120.

[0209] The connecting portion 120 may be disposed inside the housing 110. In this case, the connecting portion 120 of this embodiment may be configured to be removable from the housing 110 via the drawer 190.

[0210] With this structure, when the joint 120 needs to be cleaned or repaired, or when a part needs to be replaced, the user can easily pull out the joint 120 for management.

[0211] An entrance 127 for the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to enter may be formed in the joint 120. The entrance 127 may refer to the space formed on the front side of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0212] The entrance / exit 127 can be configured to allow the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to pass through. That is, the height of the entrance / exit 127 is greater than the height of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. In this case, the entrance / exit 127 can refer to the space formed vertically upward from the front end of the bottom component 121 (described later), and the upper end of the entrance / exit can be the same as the lower side of the lower side panel 23 of the kitchen cabinet 2 or the upper end of the outer casing 110.

[0213] Furthermore, the width of the entrance / exit 127 in the left-right direction is greater than the maximum width of the sweeping robot 200. At this time, at least one of a dust collection section 140 and a mop cleaning section 160 can be arranged on the left and right sides of the entrance / exit 127. Therefore, the left and right ends of the entrance / exit 127 can form boundaries with the dust collection section 140 and the mop cleaning section 160. If neither the dust collection section 140 nor the mop cleaning section 160 is present, the boundary can also be formed by the outer wall surface of the outer casing 110.

[0214] At this time, the entrance / exit 127 can be opened and closed via the door 126. The door 126 can be disposed at the upper end of the entrance / exit 127 and has a rotation axis arranged in a direction parallel to the bottom component 121. The door 126 can be hinged relative to the housing 110. Alternatively, the door 126 can be hinged relative to the side wall 124 of the connecting part 120. The door 126 can be rotated via the door drive unit 126a. As an example, the door drive unit 126a can be a motor.

[0215] For example, the door 126 may be formed as a rectangular flat plate, and a hinge portion 126b may be provided at the upper end. A door drive portion 126a may be connected to the axial end of the hinge portion 126b. In this case, the hinge portion 126b of the door 126 may be directly connected to the shaft of the door drive portion 126a, or it may be connected in a power-transmitting manner through at least one gear.

[0216] Door 126 can remain closed at the entrance / exit 127 while the robot vacuum 200 is housed in the connecting portion 120. Furthermore, when the robot vacuum 200 begins to move from the connecting portion 120, door 126 can rotate to open the entrance / exit 127. Also, door 126 can rotate to close the entrance / exit 127 after the robot vacuum 200 has passed through it. Additionally, door 126 can rotate to open the entrance / exit 127 when the robot vacuum 200 approaches the outside of the robot vacuum base station 100.

[0217] The joint 120 may include a receiving space S, a bottom component 121, a joint wall 123, and a side wall 124.

[0218] The receiving space S of the joint 120 can accommodate the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. As one example, the receiving space S can refer to the space surrounded by the bottom component 121, the joint wall 123, and the side wall 124. As another example, the receiving space S can refer to the space surrounded by the bottom component 121, the cleaning component 122, the joint wall 123, and the side wall 124. As yet another example, the receiving space S can refer to the space where the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is located when it is connected to the power supply terminal 123b, or the space where the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is located when its dust collection box 220 is connected to the dust passage hole 123a.

[0219] The bottom component 121 can be configured to allow the robot vacuum base station 100 to contact the ground, and can support the robot vacuum 200 when the robot vacuum 200 is combined with the robot vacuum base station 100. The bottom component 121 may include a bottom component body 121a, an inclined portion 121b, a wheel engagement portion 121c, an agitator receiving portion 121d, and a cleaning component engagement portion 121e.

[0220] The bottom component body 121a can form the overall shape of the bottom component 121. The bottom component body 121a may be provided with an inclined part 121b, a wheel engagement part 121c, an agitator receiving part 121d, and a cleaning component engagement part 121e.

[0221] The bottom component body 121a can be formed such that its width (or diameter) in the horizontal direction (parallel to X and Y) is greater than its height in the vertical direction (parallel to Z). With such a structure, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 can be stably supported on the ground.

[0222] A circulation path 125a may be provided inside the bottom component body 121a. Therefore, the air discharged from the dust collection motor 152 can flow in the circulation path 125a formed inside the bottom component body 121a and be discharged from the exhaust port 125b.

[0223] The tilting part 121b can be configured in the bottom component body 121a at the entrance for the sweeping robot 200 to climb.

[0224] The tilting portion 121b can tilt upwards toward the direction in which the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 enters. More specifically, the front end of the aforementioned entrance side of the tilting portion 121b can be connected to the ground without any height difference, and tilts upwards further away from the direction in which the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 enters. In this case, "front" in the direction in which the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 enters refers to the rear when the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 is used as a reference. As a result, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can easily climb from the ground to the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0225] A wheel guide 121ba may be provided in the inclined section 121b.

[0226] The wheel guide portion 121ba can be formed in the shape of a groove to guide the movement of the wheels 260 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The surface of the wheel guide portion 121ba can be formed correspondingly to the surface of the wheel 260 to enable the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to move stably. In addition, the width of the groove at the entrance for the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to climb the ramp can be greater than the width of the wheel 260, and the width of the groove can be formed to gradually narrow compared to the entrance as it approaches the front of 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 left and right movement by the gradually narrowing groove, thereby guiding the wheels 260 to an accurate position.

[0227] An auxiliary wheel guide 121bb may be provided in the inclined section 121b.

[0228] The auxiliary wheel guide portion 121bb can be formed in a groove shape to guide the movement of the auxiliary wheel 270 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. Alternatively, the auxiliary wheel guide portion 121bb can be formed in a protruding shape so that it contacts the auxiliary wheel 270 when the wheel 260 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is mounted on the wheel guide portion 121ba. Thus, when the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 moves on the tilting portion 121b, it is stably supported and moved by the wheel 260 and the auxiliary wheel 270.

[0229] The wheels 260 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200, which move upwards along the wheel guide 121ba, can be installed in the wheel engagement portion 121c. When the wheels 260 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 are installed in the wheel engagement portion 121c, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 and the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 can be physically connected. The surface of the wheel engagement portion 121c can be formed correspondingly to the surface of the wheel 260 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 forming a step. Thus, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can easily move to the wheel engagement portion 121c via the tilting portion 121b.

[0230] 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 dust collection box 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to the dust passage hole 123a.

[0231] The wheel engagement portion 121c can be formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the wheel 260 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200, i.e., an arc shape. With this structure, 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 installed in the arc-shaped wheel engagement portion 121c.

[0232] The agitator receiving portion 121d can accommodate the agitator 250 of the sweeping robot 200. Specifically, the agitator receiving portion 121d can provide space to accommodate the agitator 250 of the sweeping robot 200 when the wheel 260 of the sweeping robot 200 is installed in the wheel engagement portion 121c.

[0233] The agitator receiving portion 121d may include a recessed portion 121da and a protruding portion 121db.

[0234] A recess 121da may be recessed from the bottom component 121. The recess 121da may form a receiving space 121dc for accommodating at least a portion of the agitator 250. Thus, with the wheels 260 of the sweeping robot 200 mounted to the wheel engagement portion 121c, at least a portion of the agitator 250 may be accommodated in the receiving space 121dc of the recess 121da.

[0235] The receiving space 121dc of the recess 121dc can communicate with the receiving space S of the joint 120.

[0236] An exhaust port 125b may be formed on one side of the recess 121da. Specifically, the exhaust port 125b may be formed on the side of the recess 121da. Therefore, air discharged from the dust collection motor 152 and passing through the circulation path 125a can be discharged through the exhaust port 125b into the receiving space 121dc of the recess 121da.

[0237] The protrusion 121db can be formed to protrude from the bottom component 121. The protrusion 121db can be arranged along the edge of the recess 121da. In addition, when the agitator 250 is accommodated in the accommodating space 121dc of the recess 121da, the protrusion 121db can be arranged to be spaced a predetermined distance from the main body 210 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200.

[0238] The protrusion 121db can guide the air expelled through the exhaust port 125b to the suction section 211 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200. Thus, the air discharged from the receiving space 121dc of the recess 121da can be guided to the suction section 211 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200 through the protrusion 121db.

[0239] An agitator receiving portion 121d may be formed between the wheel engagement portion 121c. The agitator receiving portion 121d may be shaped to correspond to the agitator 250 of the sweeping robot 200. The agitator receiving portion 121d may be shaped as a cuboid with an open upper portion. The bottom surface of the agitator receiving portion 121d may be sealed by the bottom surface of the bottom component body 121a or the bottom surface of the outer shell 110. Therefore, the agitator 250 of the sweeping robot 200, which moves upward along the inclined portion 121b, may be mounted to 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 may be shallower than the depth of the wheel engagement portion 121c.

[0240] An exhaust port 125b may be formed in the agitator housing 121d. The exhaust port 125b may be formed on the side of the agitator housing 121d. The exhaust port 125b connects the recess 121da of the agitator housing 121d and the dust collection motor 152 through the circulation flow path 125a. The recess 121da of the agitator housing 121d and the circulation flow path 125a are connected through the exhaust port 125b. Therefore, air discharged from the dust collection motor 152 can be discharged through the exhaust port 125b to the recess 121da of the agitator housing 121d.

[0241] The connecting wall 123 is a structure in which the dust passage 123a, power supply terminal 123b, and water nozzle 123c of the robot vacuum base station 100 are disposed. The connecting wall 123 spatially divides the accommodating space S with the components of the robot vacuum base station 100. The connecting wall 123 can extend from the rear side of the bottom component 121 in a direction intersecting with the bottom component 121. The connecting wall 123 can extend vertically from the rear side of the bottom component 121. The connecting wall 123 can be formed corresponding to the shape of the robot vacuum 200. For example, the connecting wall 123 can be formed into an arc shape with a specified radius. With such a structure, the outline of the robot vacuum 200 can be surrounded, and the area opposite to the outer surface of the robot vacuum 200 can be increased. In addition, the robot vacuum 200 can be stably supported.

[0242] A dust passage hole 123a is formed in the joint 120 to allow air from outside the outer casing 110 to flow inwards. Specifically, a dust passage hole 123a is formed in the joint wall 123 of the joint 120 to allow air from outside the outer casing 110 to flow inwards. The dust passage hole 123a can communicate with the dust collection box 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The dust passage hole 123a can communicate with the dust discharge outlet 141b of the dust collection box 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The dust passage hole 123a can be formed in a hole shape corresponding to the shape of the dust collection box 220 so that dust from the dust collection box 220 flows into the dust collection section 140. The dust passage hole 123a can be formed in a shape corresponding to the dust discharge outlet 141b of the dust collection box 220. The dust passage hole 123a can be formed to communicate with the dust collection flow path 130. Air drawn into the dust through the hole 123a can be discharged through the exhaust section 125 after flowing through the dust collection path 130.

[0243] The power supply terminal 123b can supply power to the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 coupled to the connecting portion 120. The power supply terminal 123b can contact and be electrically connected to the charging terminal 280 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The power supply terminal 123b can be disposed in the connecting portion 120. Specifically, the power supply terminal 123b can be disposed in the connecting wall 123. The power supply terminal 123b can be electrically connected to the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 coupled to the connecting wall 123. The power supply terminal 123b can supply power to the battery of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 coupled to the connecting wall 123.

[0244] The robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 may also include a water supply nozzle 123c.

[0245] The water supply nozzle 123c can be connected to the supply section 231 of the water tank 230 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. Specifically, the water supply nozzle 123c can be connected to the inlet of the water tank 230. The inlet is a structure that connects to the water tank 230 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The water supply nozzle 123c can supply water from the water supply pipe 160a of the kitchen cabinet 2 to the storage space inside the water tank 230 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200.

[0246] The sidewall 124 is a structure that spatially divides the accommodating space S of the connecting portion 120 with the components of the robot vacuum base station 100. A pair of sidewalls 124 may be arranged on the left and right sides of the bottom component 121. The sidewalls 124 may be connected to both ends of the connecting wall 123. The sidewalls 124 may extend from the left and right sides of the bottom component 121 in a direction intersecting with the bottom component 121. Specifically, the sidewalls 124 may extend vertically from the left and right sides of the bottom component 121. The height of the sidewalls 124 may be configured to correspond to the height of the support column 21. Specifically, the height of the sidewalls 124 may be configured to be the same as the height of the support column 21.

[0247] On the other hand, various components such as a dust collection path 130, a dust collection unit 140, a dust collection motor 152, a detergent box 163, and a wastewater tank 164 can be arranged on the outer side of the side wall 124. Specifically, the dust collection unit 140, the detergent box 163, and the wastewater tank 164 can be accommodated in the space between the side wall 124 and the outer wall surface of the outer casing 110.

[0248] The dust collection unit 140 and the detergent dispenser 163 can slide apart from the space between the side wall 124 and the outer wall of the outer casing 110 (see reference). Figure 19 The widths of the dust collection section 140 and the detergent box 163 in the left-right direction can be configured to correspond to the distance between the side wall 124 and the outer wall surface of the outer casing 110.

[0249] The cleaning component joint 121e is a structure for mounting the cleaning component 122, which will be described later. The cleaning component joint 121e can be disposed on the rear side of the bottom component body 121a. The cleaning component joint 121e can be formed correspondingly to the cleaning component 122 so that the cleaning component 122 can be clamped in the cleaning component joint 121e.

[0250] The cleaning component 122 is a structure for cleaning the mop of the sweeping robot 200. The cleaning component 122 can be installed into the cleaning component joint 121e of the bottom component 121.

[0251] The cleaning component 122 may have protrusions 122a and drainage holes 122b. When the mop 242 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is installed on the cleaning component 122, the mop 242 will rotate when the drive unit of the rotating cleaning unit 240 is driven. At this time, with cleaning water supplied to the cleaning component, when the mop 242 rotates, the mop 242 can rub against the stationary protrusions 122a and be cleaned.

[0252] Furthermore, the cleaning component 122 may be configured to slope downwards towards the center. Therefore, the cleaning water flowing along the inclined cleaning component 122 can flow through the drain hole 122b into the space formed between the cleaning component 122 and the cleaning component joint 121e after cleaning the cloth 242.

[0253] The dust collection unit 140 can collect dust from the dustbin 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The dust collection unit 140 can be disposed inside the outer casing 110. The dust collection unit 140 can also be disposed outside the connecting portion 120. In this case, the receiving space S can be disposed inside the connecting portion 120.

[0254] The dust collection unit 140 may include a dust collection unit housing 141, a dust collection bag (not shown), a filter 142, and a dust collection unit drawer 144.

[0255] The dust collection unit housing 141 can form a space inside that can accommodate a dust collection bag (not shown), a filter 142, and a dust collection unit drawer 144.

[0256] The dust collection unit housing 141 has a dust collection unit drawer 144 that can be pulled out internally, and a dust collection bag (not shown) can be accommodated inside the dust collection unit drawer 144. For example, the dust collection unit housing 141 is formed into a rectangular tube shape with the front open, and the rear internal space can communicate with the first flow path 131 and the second flow path 132.

[0257] One side of the interior of the dust collection unit housing 141 can communicate with the first flow path 131, and the other side can communicate with the second flow path 132. In addition, when a dust collection bag (not shown) is attached to the dust collection unit housing 141, the dust collection bag (not shown) can communicate with the first flow path 131 inside the dust collection unit housing 141.

[0258] A dust bag (not shown) is a bag that collects dust sucked into the dustbin 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 by the dust collection motor 152. The dust bag (not shown) can be detachably attached to the dust collection housing 141. Therefore, the dust bag (not shown) can be removed from the dust collection housing 141 and discarded, and a new dust bag (not shown) can be attached to the dust collection housing 141. That is, the dust bag (not shown) can be defined as a consumable part.

[0259] The dust bag (not shown) can be configured to increase its volume and contain dust when suction is generated by the dust collection motor 152.

[0260] Therefore, the dust collection bag (not shown) can be made of a material through which air can pass but which foreign objects such as dust cannot. For example, the dust collection bag (not shown) can be formed of a non-woven fabric material, and based on the increase in volume, it can have a hexahedral shape corresponding to the shape of the dust collection part housing 141.

[0261] In contrast, the dust collection bag (not shown) can be formed of a non-permeable material. For example, the dust collection bag (not shown) may include a roll-up plastic bag (not shown). With this structure, when the dust collection bag (not shown) is sealed or closed, it prevents dust or odors collected inside the dust collection bag (not shown) from leaking to the outside of the dust collection bag (not shown). At this time, the dust collection bag (not shown) can be installed onto the dust collection unit housing 141 via a dust collection bag holder (not shown). The dust collection bag (not shown) can be replaced as needed via the dust collection bag holder.

[0262] Filter 142 may be disposed between the dust collection housing 141 and the second flow path 132. Filter 142 may be disposed at the outlet 141b. Filter 142 may be a pre-filter or a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. Air that has passed through the dust collection bag (not shown) may flow into the second flow path 132 through filter 142.

[0263] Filter 142 may be disposed between the dust collection housing 141 and the second flow path 132. Filter 142 may be disposed at the outlet 141b. Filter 142 may be a pre-filter or a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. Air that has passed through the dust collection bag (not shown) may flow into the second flow path 132 through filter 142.

[0264] The dust collection drawer 144 is removably attached to the dust collection housing 141 and can accommodate a dust collection bag (not shown).

[0265] At this time, refer to Figure 26 The dust collection drawer 144 includes a dust collection drawer body 144a, a handle 144d, and a drawer slide 144e.

[0266] The dust collection drawer body 144a can provide internal space for assembling a dust collection bag (not shown). For example, the dust collection drawer body 144a can be formed as a box with an open top, and an inlet 144b and an outlet 144c can be formed at the rear to communicate with the first flow path 131 and the second flow path 132.

[0267] For example, the dust collection drawer body 144a may be formed such that the width of the upper side in the left-right direction is different from the width of the lower side in the left-right direction. For example, the width of the upper side in the left-right direction may be greater than the width of the lower side in the left-right direction. That is, a step may be formed inside the dust collection drawer body 144a. As a result, the upper space containing the dust collection bag (not shown) can be maximized, and an airflow path can be formed to facilitate the downward flow of air passing through the dust collection bag (not shown).

[0268] The upper side of the dust collection drawer body 144a can be connected to the first flow path 131 via the inlet 144b. The inlet 144b can be a structure that guides the air flowing in the first flow path 131 into the interior of the dust collection bag (not shown). The inlet 144b connects the first flow path 131 with the dust collection bag (not shown). Therefore, dust sucked in from the dust collection box 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can move into the interior of the dust collection bag (not shown) via the first flow path 131 and the inlet 144b.

[0269] The dust collection drawer 144 can communicate with the second flow path 132 through an outlet 144c formed on the lower side. The outlet 144c is a structure that guides air passing through the dust collection drawer 144 to the second flow path 132. The outlet 144c and the inlet 144b can be configured at different heights. The outlet 144c can be configured at a position lower than the inlet 144b. The outlet 144c communicates the internal space of the dust collection drawer 144 with the second flow path 132. Therefore, air that has been filtered of dust while passing through the dust bag (not shown) can move towards the second flow path 132 through the outlet 144c.

[0270] A handle 144d may be provided at the front of the dust collection section drawer body 144a. The handle 144d may be configured to be gripped by a user. For example, the handle 144d may include a pair of connecting parts that are hinged to the front surface of the dust collection section drawer body 144a and a gripping part that connects the pair of connecting parts and is formed to be gripped by a user.

[0271] With this structure, when the user grips the handle and pulls it forward, the dust collection drawer body 144a can also be pulled forward and drawn out. Therefore, according to the present invention, the user can easily pull the dust collection drawer 144 forward, and then lift the dust bag (not shown) upward to remove and replace it.

[0272] Drawer slides 144e can be formed on the left and right sides of the dust collection section drawer body 144a. The drawer slides 144e can guide the movement of the dust collection section drawer body 144a.

[0273] For example, the drawer slide 144e can be formed as a groove or rib on the side of the dust collection section drawer body 144a in the left-right direction and in the front-back direction.

[0274] With this structure, when the user attaches the dust collection drawer 144 to the dust collection housing 141, it can be attached to the correct position, and the dust collection 140, the first flow path 131 and the second flow path 132 can be connected to the correct position, thereby reducing flow loss.

[0275] On the other hand, corresponding to the drawer slide 144e, a slide 141a may also be formed on the inner side of the dust collection housing 141. The slide 141a of the dust collection housing 141 may be formed to correspond to the shape and position of the drawer slide 144e. For example, if the drawer slide 144e is formed in the form of a groove, the slide 141a of the dust collection housing 141 may be formed in the form of a rib or a boss.

[0276] Figure 12 A side view of the dust collection flow path of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station used to illustrate an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figures 13 to 16 A cross-sectional view of the dust collection flow path of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station used to illustrate embodiments of the present invention is shown. Figure 17 A cross-sectional view of the discharge port of the dust collection motor housing of a robot vacuum cleaner base station used to illustrate an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0277] Reference Figures 12 to 17 The dust collection path 130 is described as follows.

[0278] The robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 may include a dust collection flow path 130. The dust collection flow path 130 refers to the flow path through which air drawn in by the dust through the hole 123a flows to the dust collection section 140 and then to the dust collection motor 152.

[0279] Specifically, the dust collection flow path 130 may include a first flow path 131 and a second flow path 132. When the robot vacuum cleaner 200 is connected to the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 and the dust is connected to the dust collection box 220 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200 through the hole 123a, the first flow path 131 connects the dust collection box 220 to the dust collection part 140, and the second flow path 132 connects the dust collection part 140 to the dust collection motor 152.

[0280] On the other hand, in this specification, the first flow path 131 may also be referred to as the suction flow path 131. Hereinafter, for ease of explanation, both the first flow path 131 and the suction flow path 131 will be referred to as the first flow path 131.

[0281] The first flow path 131 connects the dust collection box 220 and the dust collection section 140 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The first flow path 131 allows communication between the dust collection box 220 and the dust collection section 140 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The first flow path 131 connects the dust in the connecting portion 120 through the hole 123a to the dust collection section 140. The first flow path 131 refers to the space between the dust collection box 220 and the dust collection section 140 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The first flow path 131 can be formed in a near-horizontal direction. The first flow path 131 can be a space formed rearward from the dust through hole 123a, and is a flow path formed by bending laterally from the dust through hole 123a to allow dust and air to flow. Dust in the dust collection box 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can move towards the dust collection section 140 through the first flow path 131.

[0282] The second flow path 132 connects the dust collection unit 140 and the dust collection motor 152. The second flow path 132 can be formed in a near-horizontal direction. In this case, the first flow path 132 and the second flow path 131 can be formed at different heights. The first flow path 131 and the second flow path 132 can be formed in a stacked structure. The second flow path 132 can be positioned lower than the first flow path 131. With this structure, the width in the left-right direction and the overall volume of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 can be minimized.

[0283] The dust collection module 150 can provide suction airflow to the dust collection flow path 130.

[0284] Specifically, the dust collection module 150 may include a dust collection motor housing 151 and a dust collection motor 152.

[0285] The dust collection motor housing 151 can be configured inside the housing 110. The dust collection motor housing 151 can accommodate the dust collection motor 152 inside.

[0286] The dust collection motor housing 151 may have an inlet 151a and an outlet 151b.

[0287] The internal space of the dust collection motor housing 151 can communicate with the second flow path 132 through the inlet 151a. Therefore, the inlet 151a can guide the air flowing in the second flow path 132 to the dust collection motor 152.

[0288] The internal space of the dust collection motor housing 151 is connected to the circulation path 125a through the discharge port 151b. Therefore, the discharge port 151b can guide the air that has passed through the dust collection motor 152 to the circulation path 125a.

[0289] The dust collection motor 152 can generate suction on the dust collection flow path 130. The dust collection motor 152 can be disposed inside the dust collection motor housing 151.

[0290] The dust collection motor 152 can be configured behind the dust collection section 140. Thus, the dust collection motor 152 can provide suction power to suck up dust from the dust collection box 220 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200.

[0291] The dust collection motor 152 generates suction by rotating. As an example, the dust collection motor 152 can be formed in a shape similar to a cylinder.

[0292] One side of the dust collection motor 152 can be connected to the second flow path 132, and the other side can be connected to the circulation flow path 125a. When the dust collection motor 152 is driven, the air flowing in the second flow path 132 can flow into the interior of the dust collection motor housing 151 through the inlet hole 151a. In addition, the air flowing into the interior of the dust collection motor housing 151 can be discharged through the outlet hole 151b after passing through the dust collection motor 152. Furthermore, the air discharged through the outlet hole 151b can flow in the circulation flow path 125a and be discharged through the exhaust port 125b.

[0293] On the other hand, the rotation axis of the dust collection motor 152 can be formed in a near-horizontal direction. Furthermore, the inlet 151a and outlet 151b of the dust collection motor housing 151 can also be opened in a horizontal direction. Additionally, the outlet 151b and the exhaust port 125b can be located at the same height. With this structure, the overall volume of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100, configured in the installation space 21a of the kitchen cabinet 2 or structure, can be minimized.

[0294] The exhaust section 125 can guide the air discharged from the dust collection motor 152 to the outside of the housing 110. The exhaust section 125 can connect the internal space of the housing 110 with the external space.

[0295] The exhaust section 125 may be composed of a circulation path 125a and an exhaust port 125b.

[0296] The circulation path 125a provides a flow path for the air discharged from the dust collection motor 152. The circulation path 125a can be configured inside the bottom component body 121a.

[0297] The circulation path 125a can be connected to the flow path of the dust collection motor 152. The circulation path 125a2 can refer to the flow path connecting the discharge port 151b and the exhaust port 125b. One end of the circulation path 125a can communicate with the internal space of the dust collection motor housing 151, and the other end of the circulation path 125a can communicate with the receiving space 121dc of the recess 121da. Specifically, one end of the circulation path 125a can be connected to the discharge port 151b, and the other end of the circulation path 125a can be connected to the exhaust port 125b.

[0298] The circulation path 125a can be a horizontally formed path inside the housing 110. The circulation path 125a can be connected to the flow path of the dust collection motor 152. Specifically, one end of the circulation path 125a can be connected to the dust collection section 140, and the other end of the circulation path 125a can be connected to the exhaust port 125b.

[0299] The exhaust port 125b serves as an outlet for guiding the air discharged from the dust collection motor 152 to the receiving space 121dc of the recess 121da. Therefore, the air discharged from the dust collection motor 152 and flowing in the circulation path 125a can be discharged to the outside of the housing 110 through the exhaust port 125b.

[0300] The vent 125b may be formed on the bottom component 121. The vent 125b may be formed on the agitator housing portion 121d. The vent 125b may be formed on the recess 121da of the agitator housing portion 121d. The vent 125b may be formed on the side of the recess 121da.

[0301] Figures 18 to 20 A diagram illustrating the circulation path of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station for explaining embodiments of the present invention is shown. Figure 21 and Figure 22 The diagram shows a state in which a portion of the bottom surface of the bottom component body is removed to illustrate the circulation path of the robot vacuum base station according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 23 Showing details Figure 22 The 3D view of region A shown.

[0302] Reference Figures 18 to 23 The circulation path of the robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention is described below.

[0303] The circulation path 125a of the present invention can guide the air discharged from the dust collection motor 152 to the suction section 211 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200.

[0304] The circulation path 125a can be configured such that the air expelled from the dust collection motor 152 is not discharged to the outside but is guided to the suction section 211 of the robot vacuum 200, thereby allowing the air to continue circulating between the robot vacuum 200 and the robot vacuum base station 100. As a result, the hot air expelled from the dust collection motor 152 is not discharged into the installation space 24 of the kitchen cabinet 2, but instead flows back into the interior of the robot vacuum 200 to form a circulation path, thus preventing damage to the interior of the kitchen cabinet 2.

[0305] The circulation path 125a may refer to the space between the exhaust port 125b of the robot vacuum base station 100 and the suction section 211 of the robot vacuum 200. The circulation path 125a may also refer to the recess 121da of the agitator receiving section 121d. The circulation path 125a may also refer to a connecting pipe (not shown) that communicates with the suction section 211 of the robot vacuum 200 at one end and with the exhaust port 125b of the robot vacuum base station 100 at the other end.

[0306] Air passing through the dust collection motor 152 is discharged into the receiving space S through the exhaust port 125b. The air discharged into the receiving space S can flow back into the suction section 211 by the suction of the dust collection motor 152. Therefore, the air drawn in from the dust collection box 220 by the suction of the dust collection motor 152 flows sequentially through the dust passage 123a, the first flow path 131, the dust collection section 140, the second flow path 132, the dust collection motor 152, the circulation flow path 125a, and the exhaust port 125b before being discharged into the receiving space S.

[0307] When the dust collection box 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is connected to the suction section 211 of the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100, the dust collection motor 152 is driven, and air can be drawn in through the suction section 211 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. In addition, an agitator 250 is housed inside the suction section 211, so air discharged from the dust collection motor 152 and discharged through the exhaust port 125b is drawn into the suction section 211 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 by the suction force of the dust collection motor 152.

[0308] At this time, when the suction motor (not shown) of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is driven, the dust collection motor 152 can also be driven together. The air discharged through the exhaust port 125b is sucked into the suction unit 211 by the suction of the dust collection motor 152 and the suction motor (not shown), thus improving the dust collection efficiency.

[0309] Figure 24 An enlarged view of the mop cleaning unit of the robot vacuum cleaner base station used to illustrate embodiments of the present invention is shown. Figure 25 This diagram shows an enlarged view of the cleaning water discharge section of the mop cleaning unit of the robot vacuum cleaner base station used to illustrate an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 26 A diagram illustrating the structure of the detergent dispenser 163 in a robot vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 27 A cross-sectional perspective view is shown of the space formed between the cleaning component and the joint of the cleaning component in the base station of the sweeping robot, which is used to illustrate an embodiment of the present invention.

[0310] Reference Figures 24 to 26 The cleaning unit 160 of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below.

[0311] The robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention may include a cloth cleaning unit 160. The cloth cleaning unit 160 can clean the cloth 242 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200 which is coupled to the coupling part 120.

[0312] The rag cleaning unit 160 may include a cleaning water discharge unit 161 that discharges cleaning water to the cleaning unit 122, a detergent box 163 that stores liquid containing detergent, and a wastewater tank 164 that stores the cleaning water after cleaning the rags 242.

[0313] Clean water and detergent can be mixed in the cleaning water outlet 161 to generate cleaning water for cleaning the rag 242.

[0314] A pair of cleaning water outlets 161 are separately disposed on the rear side of the connecting wall 123. The cleaning water outlets 161 can discharge cleaning water from the upper sides of both ends of the cleaning component 122. At this time, clean water supplied from the water supply pipe 160a of the kitchen cabinet 2 and passing through the regulator 162 is branched to both sides via the branch flow path 161a, thereby connecting with the separately disposed cleaning water outlets 161. That is, the branch flow path 161a forms a single pipe branching into two pipes. At this time, either end of the branch can be connected to either of the pair of cleaning water outlets 161, and the other end of the branch can be connected to the other of the pair of cleaning water outlets 161.

[0315] The cleaning water discharge section 161 is integrally formed with the connecting wall 123 on the rear side of the connecting wall 123 or is detachably connected with the connecting wall 123.

[0316] The cleaning water discharge section 161 may have a clean water inlet 161b, a detergent inlet 161c, and a cleaning water outlet (not shown).

[0317] The purified water inlet 161b is a component that guides purified water supplied from the water supply pipe 160a of the kitchen cabinet 2 to the cleaning water outlet 161. Specifically, the water supply pipe 160a of the kitchen cabinet 2 can be connected to a regulator 162 to regulate the flow rate supplied from the water supply pipe 160a. In addition, a portion of the purified water that has passed through the regulator 162 can be supplied to the water tank 230 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200 through the water supply nozzle 123c, while the remainder can flow into a pair of separately arranged cleaning water outlets 161 through the purified water inlet 161b.

[0318] The detergent inlet 161c is a component that guides liquid containing detergent supplied from the detergent cartridge 163 to the cleaning water outlet 161. Specifically, liquid containing detergent stored in the detergent cartridge 163 can be supplied to the cleaning water outlet 161 by a pump (not shown).

[0319] Additionally, the detergent and purified water flowing into the cleaning water outlet 161 are mixed to form cleaning water. The cleaning water outlet 161 discharges the cleaning water onto the top surface of the cleaning component 122 through the cleaning water outlet. The cleaning water outlet may be formed on the bottom surface of the cleaning water outlet 161. The cleaning water outlet opens in a direction opposite to the top surface of the cloth 242 mounted on the cleaning component 122.

[0320] The detergent dispenser 163 can store liquid containing detergent.

[0321] The detergent dispenser 163 includes a detergent dispenser body 163a, a handle 163b, and a detergent dispenser track 163c.

[0322] The detergent dispenser body 163a provides a space for storing liquid containing detergent. For example, the detergent dispenser body 163a can be formed into a box shape with an open top, and can be connected to the washing water dispensing part 161 at the rear.

[0323] A handle 163b may be provided at the front of the detergent dispenser body 163a. ​​The handle 163b may be configured to be gripped by a user. For example, the handle 163b may include: a pair of connecting parts that are hinged to the front surface of the detergent dispenser body 163a; and a gripping part configured to connect the pair of connecting parts for the user to grip.

[0324] With this structure, when the user grips the handle and pulls it forward, the detergent dispenser body 163a can also be pulled forward and drawn out. Therefore, according to the present invention, the user can easily pull the detergent dispenser 163 forward to dispense detergent.

[0325] Detergent cartridge tracks 163c can be formed on the left and right sides of the detergent cartridge body 163a. ​​The detergent cartridge tracks 163c can guide the movement of the detergent cartridge body 163a.

[0326] For example, the detergent box track 163c may be formed as a groove or rib on the side of the detergent box body 163a in the left-right direction and in the front-back direction.

[0327] With this structure, the detergent dispenser 163 can be attached to the housing 110 in the correct position when the user attaches it, and water leakage during cleaning can be prevented.

[0328] On the other hand, although not shown, a track can be formed on the outer casing 110 corresponding to the detergent dispenser track 163c. The track can be formed in a shape and position corresponding to the detergent dispenser track 163c.

[0329] Wastewater tank 164 provides space for storing the washing water after washing the cloth 242. After the washing water discharged onto the top surface of the washing component 122 has finished washing the cloth 242, it flows down the slope of the washing component 122 and is discharged through the drain hole 122b. The washing water that has passed through the drain hole 122b accumulates between the washing component joint 121e and the washing component 122. Furthermore, the washing water accumulated between the washing component joint 121e and the washing component 122 flows into wastewater tank 164 through pump flow path 164b.

[0330] The cleaning water stored in the wastewater tank 164 can be discharged to the drain pipe 25 of the kitchen cabinet 2 through the drain passage 164a. One end of the drain passage 164a can be connected to the wastewater tank 164, and the other end can be connected to the drain pipe 25. At this time, the cleaning water stored in the wastewater tank 164 can be flowed through the drain passage 164a and discharged to the drain pipe by a centrifugal pump (not shown).

[0331] The drain path 164a, which is connected to the waste tank 164, can be connected to the upstream 25b of the drain pipe 25 of the kitchen cabinet 2, based on the U-trap 25a. This is because, if the drain path 164a is connected to the downstream 25c of the drain pipe 25, based on the U-trap 25a, odors or fluids inside the drain pipe 25 may flow back into the drain path 164a.

[0332] Additionally, the cloth washing unit 160 may include a check valve (not shown). This check valve prevents fluid inside the drain pipe 25 from flowing back into the drain path 164a. The check valve may be located at the other end of the drain path 164a connected to the drain pipe 25.

[0333] On the other hand, the detergent dispenser 163 and the wastewater tank 164 can be accommodated in the space formed between the side wall 124 and the outer wall 111 of the housing. The detergent dispenser 163 can be disposed on the lower side of the space between the side wall 124 and the outer wall 111 of the housing, and the wastewater tank 164 can be disposed on the upper side of the detergent dispenser 163 in the space between the side wall 124 and the outer wall 111 of the housing.

[0334] Figure 28 A perspective view of the mop drying section of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station, used to illustrate an embodiment of the present invention, is shown. Figure 29 and Figure 30 An enlarged view of the mop drying section of a robotic vacuum cleaner base station according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 31 A cross-sectional view is shown illustrating the state of air flow into the interior of a hot gas supply module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0335] Reference Figures 28 to 31 In one embodiment of the present invention, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 may include a cloth drying section 170. At this time, the cloth drying section 170 can dry the cloth 242 of the robot vacuum cleaner 200 that has been cleaned by the cloth washing section 160 or the cloth 242 that is wet after water cleaning.

[0336] The cloth drying unit 170 of the first embodiment of the present invention may include a hot air supply module 171, a steam exhaust pipe 172, an exhaust fan 173 and a check valve (not shown).

[0337] The hot air supply module 171 can supply hot air to the accommodating space S and may include a connecting flow path 171a, a fan (not shown) and a heater 171d.

[0338] The connecting flow path 171a can connect the external space of the housing 110 and the containing space S. The air inlet 171b of the connecting flow path 171a can communicate with the external space, and the air outlet 171c of the connecting flow path 171a can communicate with the containing space S.

[0339] An air inlet 171b connecting the flow path 171a may be formed on the rear side of the housing 110.

[0340] An air outlet 171c connecting the flow path 171a can be configured on the upper side of the cleaning component 122. The air outlet 171c can open in a direction opposite to the cleaning component 122. A pair of air outlets 171c are provided in a downward opening state.

[0341] The air exhaust port 171c is open towards the upper side of the mop 242 when the mop 242 is installed on the cleaning component 122. The air exhaust port 171c is also positioned adjacent to the mop 242 and opens downwards when the mop 242 is installed on the cleaning component 122, allowing the exhausted air to flow towards the mop 242. When the robot vacuum cleaner 200 is engaged with the engagement part 120, the air exhaust port 171c opens in a direction opposite to the mop 242.

[0342] An air supply fan (not shown) is configured on the connecting flow path 171a to blow air into the receiving space S. When the air supply fan (not shown) is driven, the air flowing in through the air inlet 171b is heated by the heater 171d and then discharged into the receiving space S through the air outlet 171c.

[0343] Heater 171d is disposed on connecting flow path 171a and can heat the air flowing in connecting flow path 171a. Heater 171d can also heat the air discharged through air outlet 171c. Heater 171d can be disposed on connecting flow path 171a, but unlike that, it can also be disposed on air outlet 171c. That is, as long as it can heat the air discharged into the accommodating space S, the specific shape or arrangement is not limited.

[0344] The heater 171d may include a heater housing 171da and a heating element (not shown). The heater housing 110 may be disposed on the connecting flow path 171a, forming an internal space for accommodating the heater 171d. The heating element heats external air flowing into the interior of the heater housing 110. Therefore, the air heated by the heating element is discharged through the air outlet 171c into the accommodating space S to dry the wet cloth 242.

[0345] The steam exhaust pipe 172 can exhaust the hot and humid air generated in the containing space S during the drying of the dishcloth 242 to the drain pipe 25. The steam exhaust pipe 172 can connect the containing space S and the drain pipe 25 of the kitchen cabinet 2.

[0346] One end of the steam exhaust pipe 172 is connected to the containment space S, and the other end is connected to the drain pipe 25. Specifically, one end of the steam exhaust pipe 172, i.e. the air inlet 172a, can be connected to the containment space S, and the other end, i.e. the air outlet (not shown), can be connected to the drain pipe 25.

[0347] The steam exhaust pipe 172 can be connected to the downstream 25c of the drain pipe 25 of the kitchen cabinet 2, based on the U-trap 25a. This is because, if the steam exhaust pipe 172 is connected to the upstream 25b of the drain pipe 25, based on the U-trap 25a, the hot steam exhausting through the steam exhaust pipe 172 may not be able to pass through the drain pipe 25 due to water accumulating in the U-trap 25a.

[0348] On the other hand, the steam discharge pipe 172 can branch into two from a single pipe inside the housing 110 and penetrate both sides of the housing 110. In this case, one branch pipe can penetrate the left outer wall of the housing 110, and the other branch pipe can penetrate the right outer wall of the housing 110. The steam discharge pipes 172 penetrating the outer walls 111 on both sides of the housing 110 can be connected to the drain pipe 25. Therefore, the steam drawn into the containing space S from the steam discharge pipe 172 can flow through the steam discharge pipes 172 that branch to both sides and be discharged downstream 25c of the drain pipe 25, based on the U-shaped water trap 25a.

[0349] The exhaust fan 173 can discharge air from the containing space S to the drain pipe 25 through the steam exhaust pipe 172. The exhaust fan 173 allows air to flow along the steam exhaust pipe 172. The exhaust fan 173 can be configured on the steam exhaust pipe 172.

[0350] When the exhaust fan 173 is driven, air in the accommodating space S can flow into the air inlet 172a. The air flowing into the air inlet 172a can flow through the steam exhaust pipe 172 and be discharged into the drain pipe 25. Specifically, by driving the exhaust fan 173, the air flowing through the steam exhaust pipe 172 can be discharged to the downstream 25c of the drain pipe 25, based on the U-shaped water trap 25a.

[0351] The cloth drying section 170 may include a check valve (not shown). This check valve prevents fluid inside the drain pipe 25 from flowing back into the steam discharge pipe 172. The check valve may be located at the other end of the steam discharge pipe 172, which is connected to the drain pipe 25.

[0352] Figure 32 This is a front view showing the configuration of the robot vacuum cleaner base stations on a horizontal plane, illustrating an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 33 Show Figure 32 Side view.

[0353] Reference Figure 4 , Figure 32 and Figure 33 The configuration of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is described below.

[0354] The robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention is characterized in that it is installed in the lower space of the kitchen cabinet 2.

[0355] Therefore, the robot vacuum base station 100 of the present invention is characterized in that it is arranged in a horizontal direction corresponding to the space between the lower side panel 23 formed in the kitchen cabinet 2 and the kitchen floor.

[0356] Specifically, in the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the embodiment of the present invention, the dust collection unit 140 and / or the cloth cleaning unit 160 may be configured on the side of the entrance 127.

[0357] At this time, when both the dust collection unit 140 and the cloth cleaning unit 160 are provided, the connecting part 120 can be disposed between the dust collection unit 140 and the cloth cleaning unit 160.

[0358] For example, an entrance / exit 127 and a door 126 may be configured at the front of the robot vacuum base station 100. Furthermore, a connecting part 120 for the robot vacuum 200 to engage may be configured from the entrance / exit 127 to the rear. In this case, the dust collection part 140 may be configured to a predetermined length from the front to the rear of the robot vacuum base station 100. Additionally, the mop cleaning part 160 may also be configured to a predetermined length from the front to the rear of the robot vacuum base station 100.

[0359] 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.

[0360] At this time, the dust collection bag (not shown) of the dust collection unit 140 can be configured to be pulled out towards the front of the outer casing 110. In addition, the detergent box 163 of the cloth washing unit 160 can be configured to be pulled out towards the front of the outer casing.

[0361] That is, a handle 144d can be provided at the front end of the dust collection section 140 so that the user can hold the dust collection section housing 141. In addition, a handle 163b can also be provided at the front end of the cloth washing section 160 so that the detergent box 163 can be gripped and pulled.

[0362] With this structure, when a user wants to pull out the dust bag (not shown) or detergent dispenser 163, it provides the convenience of being able to immediately identify the pull-out position and pull out the dust bag (not shown) or detergent dispenser 163 with a simple action of pulling the handle.

[0363] On the other hand, the rear ends of the dust collection section 140 and the cloth washing section 160 can be arranged at a predetermined interval from the rear end of the housing 110. Furthermore, a dust collection motor 152 can be arranged between the rear end of the housing 110 and the rear end of the dust collection section 140. With this structure, it is easy to connect the power supply wire to the dust collection motor 152. Additionally, it has the effect of minimizing the overall space occupied by the connecting section 120, the dust collection section 140, and the dust collection motor 152 within a limited space.

[0364] Furthermore, at least a portion of a flow path for the flow of cleaning water for cleaning the cloth 242 and a pump that provides the flow force for the cleaning water can be disposed between the rear end of the outer casing 110 and the rear end of the cloth cleaning section 160. This structure minimizes the path of the cleaning water flowing from the water supply pipe 160a. Additionally, it minimizes the overall space occupied by the joint 120, the cloth cleaning section 160, and the flow path for the cleaning water within a limited space.

[0365] On the other hand, in the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100, the cloth drying section 170 can be configured at a position further rearward than the connecting section 120. In this case, the cloth drying section 170 can be configured between the rear end of the connecting section 120 and the rear end of the outer casing 110.

[0366] Therefore, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention may be provided with a dust collection part 140 and a cloth washing part 160 on the left and right sides with the joint part 120 as the reference, and a cloth drying part 170 may be provided on the rear side.

[0367] That is, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the embodiment of the present invention can be configured with all the dust collection part 140, the cloth washing part 160 and the cloth drying part 170 within a predetermined distance range from the outer contour of the joint part 120.

[0368] With this configuration, the joint 120, dust collection section 140, cloth washing section 160, and cloth drying section 170 can all be arranged in the narrowest space on the horizontal plane.

[0369] This shortens the distance between the dust collection box 220 and the dust collection unit 140 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200, thereby minimizing flow path loss. Furthermore, minimizing the distances between the mop 242 and the mop washing unit 160, and between the mop 242 and the mop drying unit 170 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200, effectively limits the range of washing water and wastewater generated during cleaning.

[0370] Furthermore, with this configuration, the robotic vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention can arrange all its components within a limited height.

[0371] Specifically, with the robot vacuum cleaner 200 engaged with the connecting part 120, at least a portion of the dust collection part 140 may be positioned lower than the uppermost point of the robot vacuum cleaner 200. Additionally, at least a portion of the mop washing part 160 may be positioned lower than the uppermost point of the robot vacuum cleaner 200. Furthermore, at least a portion of the mop drying part 170 may be positioned lower than the uppermost point of the robot vacuum cleaner 200. Also, at least a portion of the mop washing part 160 may be positioned lower than the uppermost point of the dust collection part 140.

[0372] Furthermore, based on the state where the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 is engaged with the joint 120, the uppermost point of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can be positioned higher than the dust bag (not shown). Additionally, the uppermost point of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 can be positioned higher than the detergent dispenser 163. Furthermore, the uppermost point of the dust bag (not shown) can be positioned higher than the detergent dispenser 163.

[0373] From another perspective, with the robot vacuum cleaner 200 engaged in the connecting part 120, if an imaginary plane H is drawn parallel to the kitchen floor, the plane H can be accessed by the robot vacuum cleaner 200, the dust collection part 140, the cloth washing part 160, and the cloth drying part 170. This means that all components can be arranged within a certain height range.

[0374] From another perspective, with the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 engaged in the connecting portion 120, the connecting portion 120 can be divided into three regions along the vertical direction. In this case, the connecting portion 120 may include a first region (the space between B and H1) located in the same horizontal space as the detergent dispenser 163, a second region (the space between H1 and H2) located above the first region and in the same horizontal space as at least a portion of the dust bag (not shown), and a third region (the space between H2 and H3) located above the second region. In this case, the dust bag (not shown) and detergent dispenser 163 may be arranged on both sides in the left-right direction of the first region, the dust bag (not shown) and wastewater tank 164 may be arranged on both sides in the left-right direction of the second region, and only the upper part of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 may be arranged in the third region.

[0375] As a result, the robot vacuum base station 100 of the embodiment of the present invention can be configured with a dust collection section 140, a mop washing section 160, and a mop drying section 170 on three sides of the surrounding joint 120, excluding the front side where the robot vacuum 200 enters. This configuration has the following effects: even with limited vertical height, 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.

[0376] On the other hand, when the charging dock for the robot vacuum is positioned under the kitchen cabinet, the degree of external exposure is minimized, thus achieving a decorative effect. However, if the robot vacuum malfunctions while it is under the kitchen cabinet, or if the charging dock itself malfunctions, it may be difficult for the user to remove and repair it. To solve this problem, the present invention adds a drawer 190 to the robot vacuum base station 100.

[0377] Figure 34and Figure 35 A diagram illustrating the state in which a drawer is provided in the base station of a robotic vacuum cleaner, used to explain an embodiment of the present invention, is shown. Figures 36 to 38 A diagram is shown illustrating the state of a drawer being pulled out from the base station of a robotic vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0378] Reference Figures 34 to 38 The drawer 190 of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention is described below.

[0379] In one embodiment of the present invention, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 may further include a drawer 190 that can be pulled out from the housing 110.

[0380] With drawer 190 pushed into outer casing 110, if robot vacuum 200 enters joint 120, door 126 can be closed. In this case, robot vacuum 200 can isolate the inside and outside of outer casing 110 through door 126.

[0381] Therefore, while the robot vacuum cleaner 200 is collecting dust in the dust collection box 220 inside the outer casing 110, it can prevent dust from scattering to the outside of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100. In addition, during the washing of the mop 242, it can prevent wastewater from leaking to the outside of the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100.

[0382] Drawer 190 is movable relative to housing 110. For example, housing 110 may be fixedly attached to kitchen cabinet 2, and drawer 190 may be pulled forward from housing 110.

[0383] At this point, drawer 190 can be pulled out with the connecting part 120 provided inside. With this structure, when drawer 190 is pulled out, the connecting part 120 and / or the robot vacuum cleaner 200 can be pulled out from the kitchen cabinet 2.

[0384] At this time, with the door 126 closing the entrance 127, when the drawer 190 is pulled out from the outer casing 110, the robot vacuum cleaner 200 located at the joint 120 can be exposed to the outside.

[0385] Therefore, according to this embodiment, when maintenance such as repair or cleaning of the robot vacuum base station 100 is required, the user can easily pull out the joint 120 and / or the robot vacuum 200 through the drawer 190, thereby exposing the internal components of the robot vacuum base station 100 or the robot vacuum 200.

[0386] On the other hand, the drawer 190 of one embodiment of the present invention can be pulled out with the dust collection section 140 provided inside. That is, the drawer 190 and the dust collection section 140 can be pulled out together.

[0387] Conversely, the dust collection unit 140 of the present invention can be pulled out of the outer casing 110 independently of the drawer 190. In this case, the pulling direction of the dust collection unit 140 can be parallel to the pulling direction of the drawer 190. For example, the pulling direction of the dust collection unit drawer 144 can be parallel to the pulling direction of the drawer 190.

[0388] Alternatively, in one embodiment of the present invention, the drawer 190 can be pulled out with at least a portion of the cloth cleaning section 160 internally provided. That is, the drawer 190 can be pulled out together with at least a portion of the cloth cleaning section 160. For example, the drawer 190 can be pulled out together with the detergent dispenser 163 and the wastewater tank 164.

[0389] Conversely, the wastewater tank 164 of the present invention can be pulled out of the outer casing 110 independently of the drawer 190. In this case, the direction of pulling out the wastewater tank 164 can be parallel to the direction of pulling out the drawer 190.

[0390] With this structure, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of one embodiment of the present invention can be configured such that the drawer 190, dust collection section 140 and wastewater tank 164 are all parallel in the direction of being pulled out.

[0391] Therefore, users can easily identify the extraction direction of the components of the robot vacuum base station 100 of the present invention, and can easily extract and repair and maintain them.

[0392] Drawer 190 includes drawer sidewall 191, joint 192 and drawer slide 193.

[0393] The drawer sidewalls 191 are configured to be movable relative to the outer wall surface of the housing 110. For example, a pair of drawer sidewalls 191 may be configured to face the outer wall 111 of a pair of housings 110.

[0394] On the other hand, in this invention, the height of the upper end of the drawer side wall 191 is higher than the height of the upper end of the outer wall 111. That is, a height difference can be generated between the upper end of the drawer side wall 191 and the upper end of the outer wall 111. This height difference h provides space for the joint portion 192, which will be described later, to move.

[0395] At this time, the pair of drawer sidewalls 191 are configured closer to the inside of the robot vacuum base station 100 than the pair of outer walls 111 of the outer shell 110. That is, the pair of drawer sidewalls 191 are configured closer to the joint 120 than the pair of outer walls 111 of the outer shell 110. At this time, the pair of drawer sidewalls 191 can be configured to have a greater spacing than the maximum width of the robot vacuum 200 in the horizontal direction.

[0396] At this time, a pair of drawer sidewalls 191 can be directly connected to the bottom part 121 of the connecting part 120. In contrast, a pair of drawer sidewalls 191 can be connected by a drawer base (not shown), and the connecting part 120 can also be connected to the upper side of the drawer base (not shown) and move together.

[0397] On the other hand, a dust collection section 140 and / or a cloth cleaning section 160 may be arranged between the drawer side wall 191 and the connecting part 120. That is, based on the state in which the robot vacuum cleaner 200 is connected to the connecting part 120, a dust collection section 140 and / or a cloth cleaning section 160 may be arranged between the robot vacuum cleaner 200 and the drawer side wall 191.

[0398] With this structure, the dust collection section 140 and the cloth washing section 160 can be configured using minimal horizontal space.

[0399] A connector 192 is provided on the drawer side wall 191 and is detachably connected to at least one of a flexible hose and a wire. For example, the connector 192 may be configured on the drawer side wall 191 and connected to a flexible hose and / or a wire.

[0400] The connector 192 is attached to the drawer side wall 191. One side of the connector 192 is located closer to the inner space of the drawer 190 than the drawer side wall 191, and the other side of the connector 192 is located on the outer side of the drawer side wall 191.

[0401] The connector 192 is detachably coupled with at least one of a hose and an electrical wire. For example, the connector 192 is detachably coupled with at least one of a water supply pipe connection 192a for connection with a water supply pipe 160a, a drain pipe connection 192b for connection with a drain pipe, an exhaust pipe connection 192c for connection with a steam exhaust pipe for discharging air from inside the drawer 190, and a power connection 192d for power connection.

[0402] At this time, the water supply pipes of the rag washing unit 160 and the water supply pipe 160a connected to an external water source can be respectively connected to both sides of the water supply pipe connection 192a. In addition, the drain pipes of the rag washing unit 160 and the drain pipes connected to the upstream 25b of the U-shaped water trap of the kitchen cabinet 2 can be respectively connected to both sides of the drain pipe connection 192b.

[0403] That is, the connector 192 of the present invention can be a structure in which the water supply pipe 160a and the drain pipe for direct water inlet and outlet using the water supply and drain pipe provided in the kitchen cabinet 2, and the water supply pipe 160a and the drain pipe inside the robot vacuum base station 100 are detachably connected to each other.

[0404] Additionally, steam exhaust pipes connected to the air outlet 171c of the cloth drying section 170 and the downstream steam exhaust pipe connected to the U-shaped water trap of the kitchen cabinet 2 can be respectively connected to the exhaust pipe connection 192c on both sides.

[0405] Therefore, the air discharged from the cloth drying section 170 can be discharged to the downstream 25c of the U-shaped water trap.

[0406] In addition, the power connection part 192d can be connected to a wire to connect to an external power source. In this case, the power connection part 192d can be directly connected to the wire, or the wire can be connected using a wire connection device such as a connector or adapter.

[0407] In this case, in terms of height, the connector 192 can be positioned between the upper end of the drawer side wall 191 and the upper end of the outer wall 111. Alternatively, the connector 192 can be positioned between the upper end of the support member 112 and the upper end of the outer wall 111.

[0408] With this structure, during the process of pulling out the drawer 190, the connector 192 moves together with the drawer side wall 191. During the process of pulling out, the connector 192 moves in a straight line at a position higher than the upper end of the outer wall 111, thus preventing interference between the connector 192 and the outer wall 111.

[0409] However, the connector 192 may be positioned at a height lower than the upper end of the support member 112. That is, in terms of height, the connector 192 may be positioned between the upper end of the support member 112 and the upper end of the outer wall 111.

[0410] This is because the upper end of the support member 112 needs to be formed at a height that allows it to contact the lower side panel 23 of the kitchen cabinet 2.

[0411] In addition, the length of the joint portion 192 from the position where it is joined to the drawer side wall 191 to the end in the direction of the outer wall 111 is longer than the shortest distance between the drawer side wall 191 and the support member 112.

[0412] Therefore, when the support member 112 is positioned in front of the outer wall 111, when the drawer 190 is pulled out, the support member 112 is positioned on the moving path of the connector 192, and the connector 192 and the support member 112 may interfere with each other.

[0413] To solve this problem, the support member 112 of the present invention is hinged to the outer wall 111, so that when the support member 112 rotates, it moves to the outside of the outer wall 111, thus avoiding interference between the joint 192 and the drawer 190.

[0414] Therefore, in this invention, after the operator rotates the support member 112 located in front of the outer wall 111, the connector 192 can be pulled out.

[0415] On the other hand, the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention may have a predetermined interval w between the outer side surface of the drawer side wall 191 and the end of the outer wall 111 in the left-right direction. Furthermore, when the support member 112 is rotated outward toward the outer wall 111, a space with a predetermined interval w may be formed between the drawer side wall 191 and the support member 112. In this case, the interval w is preferably larger than the diameter of a human finger.

[0416] With this structure, when the operator pulls the drawer 190 and the connector 192 is pulled close to the support 112, the operator rotates the support 112 and inserts their fingers into the space between the drawer side wall 191 and the support 112 to detach one or more hoses and / or wires connected to the connector 192. Afterwards, when the operator pulls the drawer 190 further, the entire drawer 190 can be completely pulled out of the outer casing 110.

[0417] Therefore, according to the present invention, the operator can easily pull the drawer 190 completely out of the outer casing 110 without removing the baseboard of the kitchen cabinet 2.

[0418] Drawer slide 193 is disposed on drawer side wall 191 and guides the movement of drawer side wall 191. Drawer slide 193 can be fixedly connected to drawer side wall 191 or formed integrally, and can be connected with the slide provided on outer wall 111 of housing 110, thereby guiding the movement path of drawer side wall 191. On the other hand, the present invention describes the provision of slides on drawer 190 and housing 110, but is not limited to the form of slides, and can include all forms such as rollers, guide grooves or guide ribs that can replace slides.

[0419] Therefore, in the robot vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention, the process of the operator pulling out the drawer 190 is as follows.

[0420] The operator can rotate the height adjustment part 112d to lower the support part 112c, thereby releasing the fixation between the support 112 and the kitchen cabinet 2. Then, the operator can grasp the support body 112a and rotate it. Through this process, the upper space of the outer wall 111 can be opened.

[0421] Alternatively, the operator pulls the drawer 190 so that the connector 192 is positioned close to the support 112. At this time, the operation of rotating the height adjustment part 112d and pulling the drawer 190 can be performed simultaneously, or one operation can be performed first and then the other.

[0422] As described above, with the support 112 rotated and the connector 192 pulled to a position close to the support 112, the operator can insert their fingers into the space between the support 112 and the drawer side wall 191, thereby separating the water supply pipe 160a, drain pipe 164a, steam exhaust pipe 172 and electrical wire connected to the connector 192.

[0423] Then, the operator pulls the drawer 190 further to separate the entire drawer 190 from the outer casing 110.

[0424] Conversely, without having to pull out the entire drawer 190, the operator can simply pull the drawer 190 to expose the components or the robot vacuum cleaner 200 located inside the drawer 190 to the outside without operating the support 112.

[0425] Therefore, according to the present invention, the following effect is achieved: either only a portion of the drawer 190 can be pulled out, or the entire drawer 190 can be pulled out, depending on the operator's needs, thereby improving the operator's work efficiency.

[0426] The present invention has been described in detail above through specific embodiments, but this is only for the purpose of specific illustration of the present invention. The present invention is not limited thereto, and those skilled in the art can obviously modify or improve the present invention within the technical concept of the present invention.

[0427] Simple modifications and alterations to this invention fall within the scope of this invention, and the specific scope of protection of this invention can be clearly understood through the appended claims.

Claims

1. A base station for a robotic vacuum cleaner, comprising: shell; and The drawer is pulled out from the aforementioned outer casing and has a connecting part for the aforementioned robotic vacuum cleaner to engage with. The above drawers include: The drawer sidewalls move relative to the outer wall of the aforementioned outer casing; and A connector is disposed on the side wall of the drawer, to which at least one of the hose and wire is detachably connected.

2. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The aforementioned housing includes: The outer wall, which is positioned opposite the drawer side wall mentioned above, The height of the upper end of the drawer side wall is higher than the height of the upper end of the outer wall.

3. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The aforementioned housing includes: The outer wall, which is positioned opposite the drawer side wall mentioned above, The aforementioned joint is positioned at a higher position than the aforementioned outer wall.

4. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The aforementioned housing includes: The outer wall, which is positioned opposite the drawer side wall mentioned above; and The support member, whose hinges are attached to the aforementioned outer wall and contact the kitchen cabinet, The aforementioned joint is located between the upper end of the aforementioned support member and the upper end of the aforementioned outer wall.

5. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The aforementioned housing includes: A pair of outer walls, positioned opposite the side walls of the aforementioned pair of drawers; and A pair of support members, each hinged to one of the aforementioned outer walls, The length of the joint from its position where it is joined to the drawer sidewall to its end in the direction of the outer wall is longer than the shortest distance between the drawer sidewall and the support member.

6. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 5, characterized in that, When the aforementioned support member is positioned in front of the aforementioned outer wall, when the aforementioned drawer is pulled out, the aforementioned joint portion interferes with the aforementioned support member. When the support is rotated outward from the outer wall, the drawer can be pulled out.

7. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The aforementioned robot vacuum cleaner base stations include: The dust collection section empties the dust from the robot vacuum cleaner. When the drawer is pulled out, the robotic vacuum cleaner and the dust collection unit are removed.

8. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The aforementioned robot vacuum cleaner base stations also include: The mop cleaning unit is used to clean the mops of the aforementioned robotic vacuum cleaner. When the drawer is pulled out, the robot vacuum cleaner and the cleaning cloth unit are removed.

9. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The aforementioned robot vacuum cleaner base stations also include: The cloth drying section is used to dry the cloths of the aforementioned robotic vacuum cleaner. When the drawer is pulled out, the robot vacuum cleaner and the cloth drying unit are removed.

10. The robot vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The aforementioned connector includes: a water supply pipe connection part, which is connected to a water supply pipe for water supply; a drain pipe connection part, which is connected to a drain pipe for drainage; and a power supply connection part, which is connected to a power source.

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