Robotic cleaner station

Abstract

The present invention relates to a station for a robot cleaner, in which a housing includes a pair of outer walls arranged on both sides of a coupling portion in a left-right direction, and a rear support provided on each of the pair of outer walls and supporting a kitchen furniture cabinet. The rear support each includes a rear support portion coming into contact with the kitchen furniture cabinet with vertical movement, and is configured to move vertically with rotation of at least one gear, so that the height of the rear support which is out of reach of an operator during installation or removal can be easily adjusted by simply inserting and rotating a work tool from the front.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of this disclosure relate to a robotic cleaner station, and more specifically to a built-in station configured to collect dust from the dust collection bin of the robotic cleaner, clean the mop of the robotic cleaner, and dry the mop when the robotic cleaner is attached to the mop. Background Technology

[0002] With the latest developments in industrial technology, a robotic cleaner has been developed that can clean areas that require cleaning autonomously without user intervention.

[0003] This robotic cleaner is equipped with sensors configured to identify spaces to be cleaned, an agitator configured to sweep and clean floor surfaces, and a mop configured to wipe floor surfaces. It can move while sucking up dust from the floor surfaces of spaces identified by sensors and wiping the floor surfaces with a mop.

[0004] Robotic cleaners include dry and wet types. Dry robotic cleaners are configured to suck up and remove foreign objects scattered on the floor surface, while wet robotic cleaners are configured to wipe the floor surface with a mop containing water to effectively remove foreign objects adhering to the floor surface. Dry robotic cleaners are equipped with a dust collection box and use the suction force of a suction motor to suck up foreign objects from the floor surface. Wet robotic cleaners are equipped with a water tank and are configured such that water contained in the water tank is supplied to the mop, allowing the mop to wipe the floor surface while still containing water, effectively removing foreign objects adhering to the floor surface. Additionally, there is a type of robotic cleaner that includes an agitator and a mop.

[0005] The charging base for the robotic cleaner is a device into which the cleaned robotic cleaner is connected, and this device is configured to charge the battery by supplying power to a battery provided in the robotic cleaner. A power module is located in the charging base. The charging base has charging terminals that connect to the power module, and the robotic cleaner has corresponding terminals. When the charging terminals and corresponding terminals come into contact with each other, power is supplied to the battery to charge it.

[0006] Furthermore, when the charging base of a robotic cleaner is installed indoors, it occupies a certain area of ​​indoor space. In this case, indoor space efficiency may be compromised. Additionally, as users or companion animals pass by, they may collide with the robotic cleaner, potentially causing injury not only to the user or companion animal but also damage to the robotic cleaner.

[0007] Furthermore, there are limitations when a station with a dust collection function for robotic cleaners is added, as it may damage interior décor as its footprint increases.

[0008] In this regard, Chinese utility model patent registration CN 2192708414 U discloses a cleaning station in which a robotic cleaner is connected to the underside of a washing machine to charge the robotic cleaner and collect dust and clean the robotic cleaner's wet mop.

[0009] However, in the aforementioned cleaning station, the open space that the robot cleaner can enter is formed on the lower side of the washing machine, the cleaning agent and water supply equipment configured to wash wet mops are vertically arranged above the space that the robot cleaner enters, and the dust bag is arranged on the side surface of the space that the robot cleaner enters.

[0010] In this arrangement, the overall height of the cleaning station increases, which presents a limitation because it cannot utilize the lower space for installation, including furniture such as a sink.

[0011] Furthermore, since the aforementioned cleaning station should be installed below the washing machine, it is essentially essential to provide space for installing the washing machine, and there are limitations, as the installation space exceeding that height must be provided taking into account both the height of the washing machine itself and the height of the cleaning station.

[0012] In addition, in the aforementioned cleaning station, since the space for the robot cleaner to enter and leave is always open, dust may be dispersed during the dust collection process from the robot cleaner's dust collection box, and there is a risk of wastewater leakage during the cleaning of the robot cleaner's mop.

[0013] Meanwhile, Japanese Patent Registration No. JP4916266B2 discloses a building that collects dust from the dust collection box of a robotic cleaner by utilizing the lower space of the wall.

[0014] The building has a dust collection device built into the lower space of the wall, which allows dust to be collected from the robot cleaner's dust collection box when the robot cleaner approaches.

[0015] However, in the case of the aforementioned building, since air is simply drawn from the lower side of the wall, the dust is emptied without maintaining an airtight seal with the dust collection box of the robotic cleaner, and thus the dust may disperse into the room.

[0016] Furthermore, the effectiveness of improving indoor space efficiency is limited because buildings cannot power robotic cleaners and must provide charging bases for them.

[0017] In addition, when the height of the lower space varies depending on the building, the height of the support components of the dust collection equipment cannot be adjusted accordingly, and when using dust collection equipment that is lower than the height of the lower space, there is a limitation that the dust collection equipment cannot be fixed. Summary of the Invention

[0018] Technical issues

[0019] This disclosure has been created to address the problems of conventional robotic cleaner stations as described above, and one object of this disclosure is to provide a robotic cleaner station that can be built into the underside of a kitchen furniture cabinet without providing separate installation space.

[0020] Another object of this disclosure is to provide a robotic cleaner station configured to house a robotic cleaner in the lower space of a kitchen furniture cabinet with a predetermined height limit.

[0021] Another object of this disclosure is to provide a robotic cleaner station configured to automatically collect dust from the dust collection box when the robotic cleaner is connected to the dust collection box of the robotic cleaner.

[0022] Furthermore, one object of this disclosure is to provide a robotic cleaner station configured to automatically clean the mop when the robotic cleaner is attached to the mop of the robotic cleaner.

[0023] Furthermore, one object of this disclosure is to provide a robotic cleaner station configured to automatically dry the mop after washing the robotic cleaner mop.

[0024] Furthermore, one object of this disclosure is to provide a robotic cleaner station that can be pulled out as needed for cleaning and repair.

[0025] Furthermore, one object of this disclosure is to provide a robotic cleaner station configured to stably fix the station by adjusting the height of a support member according to the height of a kitchen furniture cabinet during installation.

[0026] Furthermore, one object of this disclosure is to provide a robotic cleaner station configured to allow for easy height adjustment even for the station's rear support, which is difficult for a worker's hands to reach during installation.

[0027] Technical solution

[0028] To achieve the above objectives, the robotic cleaner station according to this disclosure includes: a housing disposed at the lower part of a kitchen cabinet; and a connecting unit disposed within the housing, in which the robotic cleaner is housed. The housing includes: an outer set of outer walls disposed on the left and right sides of the connecting unit; and a rear support member disposed on the outer set of outer walls and supporting the kitchen cabinet.

[0029] At this time, the rear support includes a rear support portion that contacts the kitchen furniture cabinet as it moves vertically, and the rear support portion moves vertically as at least one or more gears rotate.

[0030] At this time, the rear support also includes: a head, one end of which is connected to the working tool in the longitudinal direction; and a worm gear that rotates together with the head as it rotates.

[0031] Therefore, the head and worm gear can be rotated by the operating force of the working tool.

[0032] Furthermore, the rear support member may also include a helical gear portion that engages with and connects to the rear support portion. Thus, the rotational force applied by the worm gear portion can be transmitted to the support portion, and the support portion can move upward or downward.

[0033] Additionally, the housing also includes a pair of front supports, which are respectively connected to one pair of outer walls, and each front support includes: a support body; and an operating hole formed in the support body to operate the rear support.

[0034] At this point, the extension line of the head's rotation axis can pass through the control hole. Thus, the worker can manipulate the height of the rear support using the work tools located at the front of the robotic cleaner station.

[0035] Meanwhile, the outer wall includes a support mounting portion in which the rear support is installed, and the worm gear portion can be rotatably connected to the support mounting portion.

[0036] Furthermore, at least a portion of the helical gear portion can be rotatably accommodated in the support mounting portion.

[0037] Meanwhile, the rear support member may include: a first rear support member, which is configured to move vertically from the outer wall and contact the kitchen furniture cabinet and be supported by the kitchen furniture cabinet; and a second rear support member, which is configured to move vertically from the outer wall and contact the kitchen floor and be supported by the kitchen floor.

[0038] Meanwhile, the outer wall may include: an outer wall cover; and a wall portion connected to the outer wall cover and providing space therein to accommodate at least a portion of the rear support member.

[0039] Technical effect

[0040] As described above, according to the present disclosure, the robot cleaner station is configured to charge the robot cleaner, collect dust, and wash the mop, and is arranged horizontally together with the robot cleaner, so that the lower space of the kitchen furniture cabinet can be utilized.

[0041] In addition, the charging terminal, dust collection unit, mop washing unit and mop drying unit are arranged around the robot cleaner as the center, which allows the robot cleaner to perform various functions at the same time.

[0042] Furthermore, since the surfaces other than the front surface are covered by kitchen furniture cabinets, there is an effect that can provide aesthetic appeal to users in terms of interior design.

[0043] In addition, when the robotic cleaner is connected, the dust in the robotic cleaner's dustbin is automatically collected, so that the user only needs to remove the dust bag at regular intervals, thus reducing the user's effort.

[0044] In addition, when the robot cleaner is connected, the robot cleaner's mop can be automatically cleaned, thus reducing the inconvenience of having to separate and wash the mop separately.

[0045] In addition, the ability to add detergent as needed can enhance the mop's cleaning effect.

[0046] In addition, since the mop is cleaned using the kitchen's water supply and drainage pipes, it reduces the inconvenience of users having to separately fill in water or drain wastewater.

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

[0048] In addition, during the mop drying process, the dried air is discharged downstream of the U-shaped water trap, thus preventing unpleasant odors from flowing back.

[0049] In addition, during installation or removal, the height of the support can be adjusted by simply rotating the control unit according to the height of the kitchen furniture cabinet, thus providing a stable fixation effect.

[0050] Furthermore, during installation or removal, even for rear supports that are difficult for workers to reach by hand, the height can be easily adjusted by simply inserting and rotating the work tool from the front. Attached Figure Description

[0051] Figure 1 This is a view used to describe the state in which a cleaner system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is installed on the underside of a kitchen furniture cabinet.

[0052] Figure 2 This is a view used to describe the pipe connections to the drain pipe of a cleaner system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0053] Figure 3 This is a perspective view used to describe a cleaner system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Floor plan.

[0055] Figure 5 It is along Figure 3 A cross-sectional view taken from the front and back directions.

[0056] Figure 6 This is a perspective view used to describe a robotic cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0057] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Side view.

[0058] Figure 8 yes Figure 6 A bottom view.

[0059] Figure 9 yes Figure 6 Rear view.

[0060] Figure 10 This is a perspective view used to describe a robotic cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0061] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 Floor plan.

[0062] Figure 12 This is a side view used to describe the dust collection flow path of a robotic cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0063] Figures 13 to 16 It is a cross-sectional view used to describe the dust collection flow path of a robotic cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0064] Figure 17 This is a cross-sectional view used to describe the discharge port of the dust collection motor housing of a robotic cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] Figures 18 to 20 This is a view used to describe the circulation path of a robotic cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0066] Figure 21 and Figure 22 This is a view showing a portion of the bottom surface of the bottom component body removed to illustrate the state of the circulation path of the robotic cleaner station according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0067] Figure 23 It is used for detailed description Figure 22 Perspective view of area A shown.

[0068] Figure 24 This is an enlarged view illustrating the mop cleaning unit of a robotic cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0069] Figure 25 This is an enlarged view illustrating the cleaning water discharge section of the mop cleaning unit of a robot cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0070] Figure 26 This is a view used to illustrate the state of the dust collection unit and cleaning agent container being removed from a robotic cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0071] Figure 27 It is a cross-sectional perspective view used to describe the space formed between the cleaning components and the cleaning component connecting unit of the robot cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0072] Figure 28 This is a perspective view used to describe the mop drying unit of a robotic cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0073] Figure 29 and Figure 30 This is an enlarged view of the mop drying unit of a robotic cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0074] Figure 31 It is a cross-sectional view used to describe the state of air flowing into the hot air supply module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0075] Figure 32 and Figure 33 This is a view used to describe the arrangement relationship of a robotic cleaner station on a horizontal plane according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0076] Figure 34 This is a view used to describe the state of a drawer being set in a robotic cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0077] Figure 35 This is a view used to describe the state of a drawer being pulled out in a robotic cleaner station according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0078] Figure 36This is a view used to describe the rear support member in a robotic cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0079] Figure 37 This is a view used to illustrate the operating principle of the rear support member in a robotic cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0080] In the following, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0081] Because this disclosure can have various modifications and several implementations, specific embodiments will be shown in the accompanying drawings and described in detail in the detailed description. This is not intended to limit this disclosure to a particular embodiment and should be construed as including all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions included within the spirit and technical scope of this disclosure.

[0082] In describing this disclosure, terms such as "first" and "second" may be used to describe various components, but components may not be limited by the terms. These terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. For example, without departing from the scope of this disclosure, a first component may be referred to as a second component, and similarly, a second component may be referred to as a first component.

[0083] The term “and / or” can include a combination of multiple related listed items or any of the items in the multiple related listed items.

[0084] When it is said that a component is "connected" or "linked" to another component, it can be understood that it can be directly connected or linked to the other component, but the other component may exist in between. On the other hand, when it is said that a component is "directly connected" or "directly linked" to another component, it can be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0085] The terminology used in this application is for describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit this disclosure. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, singular expressions may include plural expressions.

[0086] In this application, terms such as “comprising” or “including” are intended to indicate the presence of features, quantities, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof described in the specification, and it is to be understood that they do not preclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, quantities, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0087] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein (including technical or scientific terms) may have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. Terms such as those defined in common dictionaries may be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with the context of the relevant field, and may not be interpreted as having an ideal or overly formal meaning unless expressly defined in this application.

[0088] In addition, the following embodiments are provided to explain more fully to those skilled in the art, and the shape and size of the elements in the figures can be enlarged for a clearer description.

[0089] Figure 1 This is a view used to illustrate the state in which the cleaner system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is installed on the underside of a kitchen furniture cabinet. Figure 2 This is a view used to describe the pipe connections to the drain pipe of a cleaner system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0090] The cleaning system 1 according to the embodiments of this disclosure can be installed on the underside of the kitchen cabinet 2. Specifically, the kitchen cabinet 2 is installed in the kitchen to accommodate bowls, plates, cups, etc., and can provide space configured for cooking food or washing dishes.

[0091] Additionally, kitchen cabinet 2 may be equipped with a top panel (work surface), which is configured to function as a sink, cooking table, or work surface.

[0092] For example, kitchen cabinet 2 may include a sink that provides space configured for washing dishes on its top panel. Alternatively, kitchen cabinet 2 may include a cooking countertop on which cooking operations are performed. Additionally, kitchen cabinet 2 may include a gas stovetop with a gas stove, induction cooktop, high-glow oven, or similar appliance mounted on its top panel.

[0093] Typically, as kitchen furniture cabinet 2, a standard cabinet with a width of 600mm in both the front and back directions can be used.

[0094] According to another embodiment of this disclosure, the cleaner system 1 can be disposed on the underside of a structure including at least one of a water supply pipe and a drain pipe. Specifically, the water supply pipe 160a can refer to a flow path connected to an external water supply source configured to supply fluid to the structure, and the drain pipe can refer to a flow path configured to discharge fluid discharged from the structure into a sewer.

[0095] Storage cabinets configured to hold tableware, kitchen utensils, etc., can be installed in the lower part of this kitchen furniture cabinet 2 or the structure thereof. Specifically, the kitchen furniture cabinet 2 or the structure may include: a top panel 22 providing space configured for operations such as cooking and washing dishes; a bottom panel 23 arranged at a predetermined height spaced from the ground; and storage space formed between the top panel 22 and the bottom panel 23 and configured to hold tableware, kitchen utensils, etc. In this case, when the kitchen furniture cabinet 2 is a sink, the sink basin 22a can be installed on the top panel 22.

[0096] Furthermore, the lower panel 23 can be supported by the support 21. The support 21 is arranged perpendicular to the kitchen floor and can support the load of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2. At this time, a space can be formed between the kitchen floor and the lower panel 23 according to the height of the support 21.

[0097] Alternatively, the kitchen cabinet 2 can be fixed to the wall of the building without the support 21. Even in this case, a space can be formed between the kitchen floor and the lower panel 23.

[0098] As described above, the cleaner system 1 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure is installed in the space between the kitchen floor and the subfloor 23 (hereinafter referred to as the installation space 24).

[0099] For example, the installation space 24 can have a height of less than 200mm, and typically can have a height of less than 160mm.

[0100] Therefore, according to this disclosure, since the cleaner system 1 is located in the lower space of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2, there is an effect of minimizing the exposure of the cleaner system 1 to the outside.

[0101] Furthermore, unlike the case where the charging base for the robotic cleaner is set in a specific space in the living room, bedroom, or kitchen, the cleaner system 1 is set in an unused space generated by the kitchen furniture cabinet 2 without occupying a separate space, thus maximizing space efficiency.

[0102] Simultaneously, the kitchen cabinet 2 or the structure is provided with a drain pipe 25, which is configured to discharge liquids used for cooking or water used for washing dishes. At least a portion of the drain pipe 25 may be located in a storage space formed between the top plate 22 and the bottom plate 23. Typically, the drain pipe 25 may be connected to a drain hole formed in the sink basin 22a of the sink. The drain pipe 25 includes a U-trap 25a, which is configured to prevent the backflow of polluting gases or unpleasant odors. The U-trap 25a may be located in the storage space. Liquid introduced through the drain hole flows downward by gravity in the upstream 25b of the U-trap, collects in the U-trap 25a, and when the water fills to a predetermined water level set by the U-trap 25a, it can flow downward along the downstream 25c of the U-trap to be discharged into the sewer.

[0103] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the cleaner system 1 can wash and dry the mop 242 of the robotic cleaner 200 by using the drain pipe 25 as described above.

[0104] Additionally, a water supply pipe 160a can be installed in the kitchen cabinet 2. Tap water (or purified water) can be supplied to the cleaner system 1 through the water supply pipe 160a.

[0105] The specific structure of the cleaner system 1 will be described below.

[0106] at the same time, Figures 3 to 5 This is a view used to describe a cleaner system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0107] The cleaner system 1 according to the embodiments of this specification may include a robotic cleaner station 100 and a robotic cleaner 200.

[0108] The cleaning system 1 includes a robotic cleaning station 100. A robotic cleaner 200 can be connected to the robotic cleaning station 100. Specifically, the robotic cleaner 200 can enter the front surface of the robotic cleaning station 100 and can be housed inside the robotic cleaning station 100. The robotic cleaning station 100 can remove dust from the dust collection box 220 of the robotic cleaner 200. The robotic cleaning station 100 can clean the rotating cleaning unit 240 of the robotic cleaner 200. The robotic cleaning station 100 can dry the rotating cleaning unit 240 of the robotic cleaner 200. The robotic cleaning station 100 can supply power to the robotic cleaner 200.

[0109] at the same time, Figures 6 to 9 This is a view used to describe a robotic cleaner in a cleaner system according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0110] The structure of the robot cleaner 200 will refer to Figures 6 to 9 The description is as follows.

[0111] The robotic cleaner 200 can automatically clean an area by sucking up foreign objects such as dust from the floor while autonomously moving through the area to be cleaned.

[0112] The robotic cleaner 200 according to an embodiment of this disclosure is placed on the floor and configured to clean the floor as it moves along the floor surface. Therefore, in the following description, the vertical direction will be defined and described based on the state in which the robotic cleaner 200 is placed on the floor.

[0113] Furthermore, based on the pair of wheels 260, the side where the auxiliary wheel 270, which will be described later, is located is defined as the front, and the side where the rotating cleaning unit 240, which will be described later, is located is defined as the rear.

[0114] The 'lowest part' of each component described in the embodiments of this disclosure may be the lowest part of each component when the robotic cleaner 200 according to the embodiments of this disclosure is used when placed on the floor, or it may be the part closest to the floor.

[0115] The robot cleaner 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a main body 210, a dust collection box 220, a water tank 230, a rotating cleaning unit 240, an agitator 250, a wheel 260, an auxiliary wheel 270, and a charging terminal 280.

[0116] The main body 210 can form the overall external shape of the robot cleaner 200. Each part constituting the robot cleaner 200 can be connected to the main body 210, and some parts constituting the robot cleaner 200 can be housed inside the main body 210.

[0117] Specifically, the main body 210 may house components of the robotic cleaner 200 within its internal space. As an example, the main body 210 may house a battery and at least one or more motors within its internal space.

[0118] In embodiments of this disclosure, the body 210 may be shaped such that its width (or diameter) in the horizontal direction (parallel to the X and Y directions) is greater than its height in the vertical direction (parallel to the Z direction). Such a body 210 can help the robotic cleaner 200 form a stable structure and can provide a structure that facilitates obstacle avoidance when the robotic cleaner 200 moves (travels).

[0119] When viewed from above or below, the main body 210 can be formed into various shapes, such as circles, ovals or quadrilaterals.

[0120] 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 connected to form a space therein.

[0121] The lower body can be connected to the upper body to form a space therein capable of accommodating a battery, at least one or more sensors, and at least one or more motors.

[0122] The lower body may have a suction unit 211 and a hole for accommodating a pair of wheels 260, into which air is introduced.

[0123] The suction unit 211 can be a channel through which dust on the floor surface is introduced. In addition, the suction unit 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.

[0124] Meanwhile, the lower body can also be provided with an exhaust flow path. One side of the exhaust flow path can communicate with the internal space of the dust collection box 220, and the other side can communicate with the exhaust port. At this time, the filter can be installed at the exhaust port.

[0125] With this structure, the air introduced through the suction unit 211 can flow into the dust collection box 220 through the suction flow path and can be discharged to the exhaust port through the exhaust flow path.

[0126] The agitator 250, which will be described later, can be rotatably housed in the suction unit 211. With this configuration, dust around the suction unit 211 can be guided into the suction unit 211 by the rotation of the agitator 250, and the efficiency of dust suction can be improved.

[0127] The upper body can form the upper appearance of the robotic cleaner 200. Although not shown, the upper body may be equipped with a display.

[0128] Although not shown, the robotic cleaner 200 of this disclosure may include a buffer. The buffer is attached along the edge of the body 210, but is configured to move relative to the body 210.

[0129] The buffer can be attached along a portion of the edge of the body 210, or it can be attached along the entire edge of the body 210. At least one or more elastic members (not shown) can be disposed between the buffer and the body 210. With this configuration, when the buffer contacts an obstacle or the like and moves relative to the center of the body 210, the buffer can return to its original position by the restoring force of the elastic members (not shown), and can absorb or distribute the impact applied to the buffer to prevent and reduce the transmission of the impact to the body 210.

[0130] A dust collection box 220 can be provided to suck up external dust and air and store dust.

[0131] The dust collection box 220 can store dust introduced through the suction flow path. The dust collection box 220 can have a dust inlet connected to the suction flow path, an internal space for storing dust, and an air outlet for discharging air.

[0132] The dust collection box 220 can be disposed inside the main body 210. In this case, the dust collection box 220 can be fixedly connected to the main body 210, and of course, it can be provided detachably according to the implementation method.

[0133] Meanwhile, in this disclosure, a dust discharge path can be formed in the dust collection box 220. The dust discharge path can connect the internal space of the dust collection box 220 and the external space of the robotic cleaner 200. Using this configuration, when dust is collected by the robotic cleaner station 100, the dust inside the dust collection box 220 can be removed.

[0134] Meanwhile, according to embodiments of this disclosure, a dust discharge port 221 communicating with a dust discharge flow path can be formed in the dust collection box 220. As an example, the dust discharge port 221 can be formed on a rear side of the outer surface (or outer circumferential surface) of the main body 210. As another example, the dust discharge port 221 can be formed on the outer surface of the dust collection box 220.

[0135] Furthermore, according to embodiments of this disclosure, a dust collection box door 222 configured to selectively open and close the dust discharge port 221 can be provided in the robotic cleaner 200. Specifically, the dust collection box door 222 can be attached to the main body 210 and positioned to block the dust discharge port 221. As an example, the dust collection box door 222 can be formed of rubber or resin material and configured to be flip-up, so that one side can be fixedly attached to the main body 210.

[0136] With this configuration, when the dust collection motor 152 of the robotic cleaner station 100, which will be described later, is operated, the dust collection box door 222 is elastically deformed by the driving force of the dust collection motor 152, and the dust in the dust collection box 220 can be collected into the dust collection unit 140 of the robotic cleaner station 100 while the dust discharge port 221 is open.

[0137] The water tank 230 is shaped as a container with an internal space for storing liquids such as water. The water tank 230 is disposed inside the main body 210 and can be fixedly or detachably connected to the main body 210.

[0138] The water tank 230 includes a supply unit 231 and a nozzle (not shown). The supply unit 231 may be provided to supply liquids such as water from the outside. For example, the supply unit 231 may have an injection port formed on another rear side of the outer surface (or outer circumferential surface) of the body 210 and may be connected to a storage space inside the water tank 230 via a water supply hose.

[0139] At this time, the supply unit 231 can be positioned on the side opposite to the dust exhaust port 221 in the left-right direction of the robot cleaner 200. For example, if the dust exhaust port 221 is located on the left rear side of the main body 210, the supply unit 231 can be located on the right rear side of the main body 210.

[0140] With this configuration, when the robot cleaner 200 is connected to the robot cleaner station 100, the robot cleaner station 100 can simultaneously perform dust collection and water injection.

[0141] Meanwhile, 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. One side of the nozzle (not shown) is connected to the water tank 230, and the other end is positioned above a pair of rotating plates 241 respectively, so that the liquid in the water tank 230 can be supplied to a pair of mops 242 respectively.

[0142] In other words, the nozzle (not shown) can be shaped into a tube branching into two, and at this time, one branch end can be located on the upper side of the left rotating plate, while the other branch end can be located on the upper side of the right rotating plate.

[0143] Meanwhile, although not shown, a pump is installed in the water tank 230 to allow water in the water tank 230 to flow to the nozzle (not shown). Therefore, when the pump in the water tank 230 is operating, the liquid stored in the water tank 230 can be discharged to the rotary cleaning unit 240 through the nozzle (not shown).

[0144] The rotating cleaning unit 240 includes a rotating plate 241 and a mop 242.

[0145] The rotating plate 241 can be provided as a pair including a left rotating plate and a right rotating plate, and the mop 242 can be provided as a pair including a left mop and a right mop.

[0146] The rotating plate 241 can be rotatably mounted on the bottom surface of the main body 210, and the mop 242 can be attached to its underside.

[0147] The rotating plate 241 is formed to have a predetermined area and is shaped as a flat plate or planar frame. This rotating plate 241 is typically placed horizontally and is therefore shaped such that its width (or diameter) in the horizontal direction is sufficiently greater than its height in the vertical direction. The rotating plate 241, connected to the body 210, may be parallel to the floor surface B or may be inclined to the floor surface B. The rotating plate 241 may be formed as a circular plate, its bottom surface may be approximately circular, and it may be approximately rotationally symmetrical.

[0148] A pair of rotating plates 241 can be symmetrical to each other.

[0149] The mop 242 can be attached to the underside of the rotating plate 241 to face the floor surface B.

[0150] The mop 242 is formed such that its bottom surface facing the floor has a predetermined area, and the mop 242 is formed in a flat shape. The mop 242 is formed such that its width (or diameter) in the horizontal direction is sufficiently greater than its height in the vertical direction. When the mop 242 is attached to one side of the body 210, the bottom surface of the mop 242 may be parallel to the floor surface B, or it may be inclined to the floor surface B.

[0151] The bottom surface of the mop 242 can typically be formed into a circular shape, and the mop 242 can typically be formed into a rotationally symmetrical shape. In addition, the mop 242 can be detachably attached to the bottom surface of the rotating plate 241, and can be connected to the rotating plate 241 to rotate together with the rotating plate 241.

[0152] Meanwhile, although not shown, a drive unit configured to apply rotational force to the rotating plate 241 may be provided in the rotating cleaning unit 240. For example, the drive unit may include a motor and at least one or more gears. Thus, when the drive unit is operated, the rotating plate 241 and the mop 242 can rotate to wipe and clean the floor surface.

[0153] The agitator 250 may be equipped with multiple brushes that rotatably guide external dust and air into the dust collection box 220. At this time, at least one or more gears may be provided in the agitator 250.

[0154] Meanwhile, the agitator 250 according to this embodiment may be provided with a separate agitator motor (not shown) to receive rotational power, and of course, it may also receive rotational power from the drive motor according to the embodiment, and may also receive rotational power from the drive unit of the rotating cleaning unit 240.

[0155] Wheel 260 can be mounted on the bottom surface of body 210 and can be connected to drive unit (not shown). At this time, drive unit (not shown) can be connected to body 210.

[0156] Wheel 260 is mounted on body 210 and can roll on the floor surface.

[0157] Wheel 260 may include a first drive wheel and a second drive wheel. The first drive wheel may be formed identically to the second drive wheel, or they may be formed symmetrically. For example, if the first drive wheel is located on the left side of the robot cleaner 200, the second drive wheel may be located on the right side of the robot cleaner 200, and in this case, the first drive wheel and the second drive wheel may be symmetrical to each other.

[0158] The drive unit (not shown) may be configured to include a drive motor and gears. In this case, the drive motor is housed within the main body 210 and can provide power to the wheel 260. The drive motor may include a first drive motor and a second drive motor.

[0159] The drive motor can be formed from an electric motor. Multiple gears are configured to rotate in engagement with each other, connecting the drive motor and wheel 260, and transmitting the rotational power of the drive motor to wheel 260. Therefore, when the drive motor's rotating shaft rotates, wheel 260 can rotate.

[0160] With this configuration, when the drive motor is operated, the wheel 260 rotates, and the main body 210 can travel on the floor surface at a predetermined speed.

[0161] The auxiliary wheel 270 is disposed on the lower surface of the main body 210 and can roll on the floor surface (the surface to be cleaned). The auxiliary wheel 270, together with a pair of wheels 260, can support the main body 210 on the floor surface. With this configuration, the auxiliary wheel 270 can minimize the friction between the robotic cleaner 200 and the floor surface, and at the same time guide the movement of the robotic cleaner 200.

[0162] A suction motor (not shown) can generate a suction force capable of drawing external dust and air through the suction unit 211. As an example, the suction motor (not shown) can be an electric motor. External dust and air can be introduced into the suction unit 211 by the suction force generated in the suction motor (not shown) and can reach the dust collection box 220 after passing through the suction flow path.

[0163] Although not shown, the battery is connected to the main body 210 and configured to power other components constituting the robotic cleaner 200. The battery can power at least one or more motors disposed in the robotic cleaner 200. For example, the battery can power the motors, agitator 250, wheel 260, and suction motor (not shown) disposed in the rotary cleaning unit 240.

[0164] In addition, the battery can power the sensor unit (not shown) and the control unit (not shown).

[0165] 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 provided on the rear side of the outer surface of the main body 210. When the robot cleaner 200 is connected to the robot cleaner station 100, the charging terminal 280 contacts the power terminal 123b of the robot cleaner station 100 and can be powered.

[0166] Figure 10 This is a perspective view used to describe a robotic cleaning station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 11 yes Figure 10 Floor plan.

[0167] refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11 The robot cleaner station 100 disclosed herein will be described as follows.

[0168] The robot cleaner 200 can be housed in the robot cleaner station 100. The robot cleaner 200 can be connected to the connection unit 120 of the robot cleaner station 100.

[0169] The robotic cleaner station 100 may include a housing 110.

[0170] The housing 110 can form the appearance of the robotic cleaner station 100. As an example, the housing 110 can be formed into a shape similar to a hexahedron including at least one or more outer wall surfaces.

[0171] The housing 110 can be formed with a space capable of accommodating the connection unit 120, the dust collection flow path 130, the dust collection unit 140, the dust collection motor 152, the mop washing unit 160, the mop drying unit 170, and the circulation flow path 125a.

[0172] The housing 110 can be installed on the underside of the kitchen cabinet 2. Specifically, the housing 110 can be installed in the mounting space 24 formed between the lower panel 23 of the kitchen cabinet 2 and the kitchen floor.

[0173] The 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.

[0174] A pair of outer walls 111 can be installed at predetermined intervals on the underside of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2. At this time, the housing 110 also includes a bottom surface facing the kitchen floor, and the pair of outer walls 111 can be connected through the bottom surface.

[0175] Using this construction, the components of the robotic cleaner station 100 can be housed inside the housing 110 (between a pair of outer walls 111).

[0176] Specifically, the outer wall 111 may include an outer wall cover 111a, a wall portion 111b, and a support mounting portion 111c.

[0177] At this time, the outer wall cover 111a is respectively provided on the outermost side in the left and right directions of the robot cleaner station 100 to form an appearance, and is connected to the wall portion 111b to provide space therein for accommodating gear components, etc., of the rear support members 114 and 115. That is, a support member mounting portion 111c, in which at least a portion of the rear support members 114 and 115 is mounted and accommodated, can be provided between the outer wall cover 111a and the wall portion 111b. The support member mounting portion 111c will be described later together with the rear support members 114 and 115.

[0178] Furthermore, drawer 190 can be disposed between a pair of wall portions 111b. That is, the pair of wall portions 111b are configured to face the side walls 191 of the pair of drawers, and connecting unit 120, dust collection path 130, dust collection unit 140, dust collection motor 152, mop washing unit 160, mop drying unit 170 and circulation path portion 180 can be disposed between the side walls 191 of the pair of drawers.

[0179] Drawer 190 will be described later.

[0180] Additionally, the housing 110 may also include a bottom surface facing the kitchen floor and an upper surface 113 facing the lower panel 23 of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2 (see...). Figure 34 In addition, the housing 110 may also include a rear surface connecting the bottom surface and the top surface.

[0181] With this design, the housing 110 can block the upper and lower sides of the robotic cleaner station 100. Therefore, even when foreign objects fall from the kitchen cabinet 2, the components of the robotic cleaner 200 and the robotic cleaner station 100 can be prevented from becoming contaminated.

[0182] Furthermore, the robotic cleaner 200 can be housed within the housing 110. The housing 110 can be configured such that the spacing between one pair of outer walls 111 is greater than the maximum horizontal width of the robotic cleaner 200. With this configuration, the robotic cleaner 200 can enter and exit the interior of the housing 110.

[0183] In this embodiment, the robot cleaner 200 can enter and exit the front of the robot cleaner station 100. Here, "front" can refer to the direction from which a door 126 is provided inside the robot cleaner station 100.

[0184] Furthermore, based on the interior of the robotic cleaner station 100, the rear can represent the opposite direction to the front. For example, a wall of a building (not shown) can be located at the rear of the robotic cleaner station 100.

[0185] In addition, based on the view from inside the robot cleaner station 100, the left side can be referred to as the left direction, and the right side can be referred to as the right direction.

[0186] In other words, the outer wall of the robot cleaner station 100 can be set in the left and right directions respectively.

[0187] Therefore, the upper side of the housing 110 is covered by the kitchen cabinet 2, and the lower side of the housing 110 can be covered by the kitchen floor. Additionally, the left and right surfaces of the housing 110 are covered by the outer wall 111, but are located at the lower part of the kitchen cabinet 2. At this time, since the lower part of the kitchen cabinet 2, except for the robot cleaner station 100, is completed by the base plate 26, only the front surface of the housing 110 can be exposed to the outside.

[0188] This minimizes the exposure of the robot cleaner station 100 and robot cleaner 200 to the outside.

[0189] With this construction, the robot cleaner station 100 disclosed herein has the effect of providing aesthetic value to users in terms of internal design.

[0190] Furthermore, in embodiments of this disclosure, the height of the upper end of the outer wall 111 may be lower than the height of the upper surface 113 of the housing 110. Therefore, a height difference may be generated between the upper end of the outer wall 111 and the upper surface of the housing 110.

[0191] Therefore, a space can be formed between the upper end of the outer wall 111 and the upper surface of the housing 110 through which a water supply hose connected to the water supply pipe 160a passes, and a space can be formed through which a drain hose for discharging wastewater generated after washing the mop 242 passes, and a space can also be formed through which a hose for discharging water generated during the drying process of the mop 242 passes. Additionally, a space can be formed between the upper end of the outer wall 111 and the upper surface of the housing 110 through which a power supply wire for powering the robot cleaner station 100 passes.

[0192] Therefore, according to this disclosure, when drawer 190 is pulled out, the hose and wire can be pulled out together with the drawer, thereby providing convenience to the user.

[0193] Additionally, the housing 110 according to this disclosure also includes a front support 112, which is configured to be accessible to the kitchen furniture cabinet 2.

[0194] The front support 112 is disposed between the kitchen floor and the lower panel 23 of the kitchen cabinet 2, and can be supported by contacting the kitchen floor and the lower panel 23 of the kitchen cabinet 2. Thus, by supporting the lower panel 23 of the kitchen cabinet 2, space can be maintained for the installation of the robot cleaner station 100, and the robot cleaner station 100 can be fixed to the kitchen cabinet 2.

[0195] The front support 112 is hinged to the outer wall 111. Specifically, the front support 112 is rotatably connected to the front end of the outer wall 111.

[0196] refer to Figure 36 The front support member 112 includes a support member body 112a, a hinge part 112b, a support part 112c, a height adjustment part 112d, and an operating hole 112e.

[0197] The support body 112a forms the appearance of the front support 112 and is located at the front of the robotic cleaner station 100 and can be exposed to the outside. The support body 112a is similar to a column shape, but at least one edge can be a curved surface. With this construction, the support body 112a can provide support between the kitchen floor and the lower panel 23 of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2.

[0198] The hinge portion 112b can extend radially outward from the support body 112a and can be hinged to the outer wall 111. In this case, the hinge portion of the front support 112 is inserted into the inner side of the outer wall 111 and can be hinged to a pin or protrusion formed inside the outer wall 111 to form a hinge axis. Therefore, the hinge axis of the front support 112 can be formed inside the outer wall 111.

[0199] The support portion 112c is provided on the upper side of the support body 112a and can contact and support the lower plate 23 of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2. For example, the support portion 112c is formed in a flat plate shape, such that the upper surface can support the lower plate 23 of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2, and the lower surface can be supported by the support body 112a.

[0200] The height adjustment part 112d is rotatably connected to the support body 112a, and the height of the support part 112c can be adjusted according to the rotation. Therefore, when the worker rotates the height adjustment part 112d, the support part 112c moves in the vertical direction and can contact and support the lower plate 23 of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2 or can release the contact with the lower plate 23.

[0201] With this configuration, when the front support 112 is positioned at the front of the outer wall 111, when the worker rotates the height adjustment unit 112d, the support unit 112c lowers and the fixation between the front support 112 and the kitchen furniture cabinet 2 is released. Subsequently, when the worker grasps and rotates the support body 112a, the front support 112 can rotate at the front end of the outer wall 111 to the outer side in the left-right direction of the robot cleaner station 100. Therefore, the front of the outer wall 111 can be opened.

[0202] Therefore, according to this disclosure, the front support 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.

[0203] A control hole 112e can be formed in the support body 112a to operate the rear supports 114 and 115, which will be described later. Specifically, with the front support 112 positioned at the front of the outer wall 111, the control hole 112e can be formed to penetrate the support body 112a along the front-rear direction of the robot cleaner station 100. As an example, the control holes 112e are formed to penetrate the support body 112a along the front-rear direction of the robot cleaner station 100, and both of them can be formed vertically side by side. In this case, an imaginary line passing through each of the side-by-side control holes 112e can be positioned on the same line as the head 114d of the first rear support 114 and the head 115d of the second rear support 115.

[0204] With this configuration, a working tool, including a screwdriver, passes through the operating hole 112e and can be connected to the heads 114d and 115d of the rear supports 114 and 115, which will be described later, and the operating force of the working tool can be applied to the heads 114d and 115d.

[0205] Therefore, this disclosure provides convenience for workers to manipulate rear supports 114 and 115 that are inaccessible by simple operation of inserting a work tool into the control hole 112e.

[0206] The robotic cleaner station 100 may include a connection unit 120.

[0207] The robot cleaner 200 and the robot cleaner station 100 can be physically, electrically and / or path-connected via the connection unit 120.

[0208] The connecting unit 120 can be disposed inside the housing 110. In this case, the connecting unit 120 of this embodiment can be pulled out from the housing 110 via the drawer 190.

[0209] With this design, when the connection unit 120 needs to be cleaned or repaired, or when some parts need to be replaced, the user can easily remove and manage the connection unit 120.

[0210] An entrance 127 for the robot cleaner 200 can be formed in the connection unit 120. The entrance 127 can refer to the space formed on the front surface of the robot cleaner station 100.

[0211] The entrance 127 can be sized to allow the robot cleaner 200 to pass through. That is, the height of the entrance 127 is greater than the height of the robot cleaner 200. In this case, the entrance 127 can refer to the space formed vertically upward from the front end of the bottom member 121 described later, and the upper end of the entrance can be the same as the lower surface of the lower plate 23 of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2 or the upper end of the shell 110.

[0212] Furthermore, the inlet 127 is formed with a left-right width greater than the maximum width of the robotic cleaner 200. In this case, at least one of the dust collection unit 140 and the mop cleaning unit 160 can be located on the left and right sides of the inlet 127. Therefore, the left and right ends of the inlet 127 can form boundaries with the dust collection unit 140 and the mop cleaning unit 160. If neither the dust collection unit 140 nor the mop cleaning unit 160 is present, the outer wall surface of the housing 110 may also serve as a boundary.

[0213] At this time, the entrance 127 can be opened and closed via the door 126. The door 126 can be located at the upper end of the entrance 127 and can be arranged along a direction parallel to the bottom member 121. The door 126 can be hinged to the housing 110. Alternatively, the door 126 can be hinged to the side wall 124 of the connecting unit 120. The door 126 can be rotated by the door drive unit 126a. For example, the door drive unit 126a can be a motor.

[0214] For example, the door 126 can be formed into a rectangular flat plate shape, with a hinge portion 126b disposed at its upper end, and a door drive unit 126a can be connected to one end of the hinge portion 126b in the axial direction. In this case, the hinge portion 126b of the door 126 can be directly connected to the shaft of the door drive unit 126a, or it can be connected to transmit power through at least one or more gears.

[0215] Door 126 can keep entrance 127 closed while the robot cleaner 200 is housed in the connecting unit 120. Furthermore, it can rotate to open entrance 127 when the robot cleaner 200 begins to move from the connecting unit 120. After the robot cleaner 200 passes through entrance 127, door 126 can rotate to close entrance 127. Additionally, door 126 can rotate to open entrance 127 when the robot cleaner 200 approaches from outside the robot cleaner station 100.

[0216] The connecting unit 120 may include a receiving space S, a bottom member 121, a connecting wall 123, and a side wall 124.

[0217] The robotic cleaner 200 can be housed in the receiving space S of the connecting unit 120. As an example, the receiving space S can represent the space surrounded by the bottom member 121, the connecting wall 123, and the side wall 124. As another example, the receiving space S can represent the space surrounded by the bottom member 121, the cleaning member 122, the connecting wall 123, and the side wall 124. As yet another example, the receiving space S can refer to the space where the robotic cleaner 200 is located when it is connected to the power terminal 123b, or the space where the robotic cleaner 200 is located when its dust collection box 220 is in communication with the dust channel hole 123a.

[0218] The bottom member 121 can be configured to allow the robotic cleaner station 100 to contact the floor surface, and is configured to support the robotic cleaner 200 when it is attached to the robotic cleaner station 100. The bottom member 121 may include a bottom member body 121a, an inclined portion 121b, a wheel connection portion 121c, an agitator receiving portion 121d, and a cleaning member connection portion 121e.

[0219] The bottom component body 121a can form the overall external shape of the bottom component 121. The inclined part 121b, the wheel connecting part 121c, the agitator receiving part 121d, and the cleaning component connecting part 121e can be provided in the bottom component body 121a.

[0220] The bottom component body 121a can be formed such that its width (or diameter) in the horizontal direction (parallel to the X and Y directions) is greater than its height in the vertical direction (parallel to the Z direction). Due to this structure, the robot cleaner station 100 can be stably supported on the floor surface.

[0221] The circulation path 125a can be provided inside the bottom component body 121a. Therefore, the air discharged from the dust collection motor 152 can flow through the circulation path 125a formed inside the bottom component body 121a to be discharged to the exhaust port 125b.

[0222] The inclined part 121b can be set at the entrance of the bottom component body 121a of the robot cleaner 200 crawling.

[0223] The tilting portion 121b can tilt forward in the direction in which the robot cleaner 200 enters. More specifically, the tilting portion 121b is connected such that the front end on the entrance side has no height difference from the ground, but can have an upward tilt in the direction in which the robot cleaner 200 enters. In this case, the front part in the direction in which the robot cleaner 200 enters refers to the rear part relative to the robot cleaner station 100. As a result, the robot cleaner 200 can easily climb from the ground to the robot cleaner station 100.

[0224] The wheel guide 121ba can be provided in the inclined part 121b.

[0225] The wheel guide portion 121ba can be formed in a groove shape to guide the movement of the wheel 260 of the robotic cleaner 200. The surface of the wheel guide portion 121ba can be formed corresponding to the surface of the wheel 260, allowing the robotic cleaner 200 to move stably. Furthermore, the wheel guide portion 121ba can be formed such that the width of the groove is greater than the width of the wheel 260 at the entry point of the robotic cleaner 200's crawling path, and the width of the groove becomes narrower than the entry point at the front of the crawling path of the robotic cleaner 200. As a result, the wheel 260 of the robotic cleaner 200 can easily enter the robotic cleaner station 100, but lateral movement is limited by the gradually narrowing groove, allowing the wheel 260 to be guided to the correct position.

[0226] The auxiliary wheel guide 121bb can be provided in the tilting part 121b.

[0227] The auxiliary wheel guide portion 121bb can be formed in a groove shape to guide the movement of the auxiliary wheel 270 of the robot cleaner 200. Alternatively, the auxiliary wheel guide portion 121bb can be formed in a protruding shape to contact the auxiliary wheel 270 when the wheel 260 of the robot cleaner 200 is positioned on the wheel guide portion 121ba. As a result, when the robot cleaner 200 travels on the inclined portion 121b, it can travel while being stably supported by the auxiliary wheel 270 and the wheel 260.

[0228] The wheel 260 of the robot cleaner 200, which has already moved upward along the wheel guide 121ba, can be mounted on the wheel connection 121c. When the wheel 260 of the robot cleaner 200 is mounted on the wheel connection 121c, a physical connection between the robot cleaner 200 and the robot cleaner station 100 can be achieved. The surface of the wheel connection 121c can be formed to correspond to the surface of the wheel 260, allowing the robot cleaner 200 to stop stably. The wheel connection 121c can extend from the upper end of the wheel guide 121ba. The wheel connection 121c can be connected to the wheel guide 121ba without any step difference. As a result, the robot cleaner 200 can easily move through the inclined portion 121b to reach the wheel connection 121c.

[0229] The wheel connection part 121c can be located at the stop position of the left and right wheels 260 of the robot cleaner 200, so that the robot cleaner 200 stops in the correct position. Here, the stop position of the wheels 260 refers to the position determined to stop so that the robot cleaner 200 is connected to the power terminal 123b and / or the position determined to stop so that the dust collection box 220 of the robot cleaner 200 is connected to the dust channel hole 123a.

[0230] The shape of the wheel connecting part 121c can correspond to the shape of the wheel 260 of the robot cleaner 200, that is, it can be formed as an arch. With this configuration, the robot cleaner 200 can move along the wheel guide part 121ba, and then the wheel 260 can stop when it is inserted into the wheel connecting part 121c, and the wheel 260 can be stably placed in the arched wheel connecting part 121c.

[0231] The agitator 250 of the robot cleaner 200 can be accommodated in the agitator accommodating portion 121d. Specifically, the agitator accommodating portion 121d can provide space to accommodate the agitator 250 of the robot cleaner 200 while the wheel 260 of the robot cleaner 200 is mounted on the wheel connecting portion 121c.

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

[0233] The recess 121da can be formed to be recessed from the bottom member 121. The recess 121da can form a receiving space 121dc, in which at least a portion of the agitator 250 is received. Thus, when the wheel 260 of the robot cleaner 200 is located on the wheel connection portion 121c, at least a portion of the agitator 250 can be received in the receiving space 121dc of the recess 121da.

[0234] The receiving space 121dc of the recess 121da can communicate with the receiving space S of the connecting unit 120.

[0235] 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 surface 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.

[0236] The protrusion 121db can be formed to protrude from the bottom member 121. The protrusion 121db can be provided along the edge of the recess 121da. In addition, when the agitator 250 is received in the receiving space 121dc of the recess 121da, the protrusion 121db can be provided to be spaced apart from the body 210 of the robot cleaner 200 by a predetermined distance.

[0237] The protrusion 121db can guide the air discharged through the exhaust port 125b to the suction unit 211 of the robot cleaner 200. Thus, the air discharged into the receiving space 121dc of the recess 121da can be guided to the suction unit 211 of the robot cleaner 200 through the protrusion 121db.

[0238] An agitator receiving portion 121d can be formed between the wheel connecting portions 121c. The agitator receiving portion 121d can be shaped to correspond to the agitator 250 of the robot cleaner 200. The agitator receiving portion 121d can be shaped as a cuboid with an open upper portion. The lower surface of the agitator receiving portion 121d can be sealed by the bottom surface of the bottom member body 121a or the bottom surface of the housing 110. Therefore, the agitator 250 of the robot cleaner 200, which has moved upward along the inclined portion 121b, can be placed in the recess 121da through the open upper surface of the agitator receiving portion 121d. At this time, the depth of the recess 121da can be shallower than the depth of the wheel connecting portion 121c.

[0239] An exhaust port 125b may be formed in the agitator housing 121d. The exhaust port 125b may also be formed on a side surface of the agitator housing 121d. The exhaust port 125b can connect the recess 121da of the agitator housing 121d and the dust collector motor 152 via a circulation path 125a. The recess 121da of the agitator housing 121d and the circulation path 125a can communicate with each other via the exhaust port 125b. Therefore, air discharged from the dust collector motor 152 can pass through the exhaust port 125b and be discharged into the recess 121da of the agitator housing 121d.

[0240] The connecting wall 123 is configured to include a dust channel hole 123a, a power terminal 123b, and a water supply nozzle 123c of the robot cleaner station 100. The connecting wall 123 spatially separates the housing space S from the components of the robot cleaner station 100. The connecting wall 123 can extend from the rear side of the bottom member 121 in a direction intersecting with the bottom member 121. The connecting wall 123 can also extend vertically from the rear side of the bottom member 121. The connecting wall 123 can be formed in a shape corresponding to the robot cleaner 200. For example, the connecting wall 123 can be formed as an arc shape with a predetermined radius. With this configuration, it can surround the outer periphery of the robot cleaner 200 and increase the area that can face the outer surface of the robot cleaner 200. Furthermore, the robot cleaner 200 can be stably supported.

[0241] A dust channel hole 123a can be formed in the connecting unit 120, allowing air from outside the housing 110 to flow into the interior. Specifically, the dust channel hole 123a can be formed in the connecting wall 123 of the connecting unit 120, allowing air from outside the housing 110 to flow into the interior. The dust channel hole 123a can communicate with the dust collection box 220 of the robot cleaner 200. The dust channel hole 123a can communicate with the dust discharge port 141b of the dust collection box 220 of the robot cleaner 200. The dust channel hole 123a can be formed with a hole shape corresponding to the shape of the dust collection box 220, allowing dust in the dust collection box 220 to flow into the dust collection unit 140. The dust channel hole 123a can be formed with a shape corresponding to the dust discharge port 141b of the dust collection box 220. The dust channel hole 123a can be formed to communicate with the dust collection flow path 130. Air drawn into the dust channel hole 123a can flow through the dust collection path 130 and then be discharged through the exhaust section 125.

[0242] Power terminal 123b can supply power to the robot cleaner 200 connected to the connection unit 120. Power terminal 123b can contact the charging terminal 280 of the robot cleaner 200 for electrical connection. Power terminal 123b can be disposed in the connection unit 120. Specifically, power terminal 123b can be disposed on the connection wall 123. Power terminal 123b can be electrically connected to the robot cleaner 200 connected to the connection wall 123. Power terminal 123b can supply power to the battery of the robot cleaner 200 connected to the connection wall 123.

[0243] The robotic cleaner station 100 may also include a water supply nozzle 123c.

[0244] The water supply nozzle 123c can be connected to the supply unit 231 of the water tank 230 of the robot cleaner 200. Specifically, the water supply nozzle 123c can be connected to the inlet port of the water tank 230. The inlet port is a structure that connects to the water tank 230 of the robot cleaner 200. The water supply nozzle 123c can supply water from the water supply pipe 160a of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2 to the storage space inside the water tank 230 of the robot cleaner 200.

[0245] The sidewall 124 is a structure that spatially separates the receiving space S of the connecting unit 120 from the components of the robot cleaner station 100. A pair of sidewalls 124 can be provided on the left and right sides of the bottom member 121. The sidewalls 124 can be connected to both ends of the connecting wall 123. The sidewalls 124 can extend from the left and right sides of the bottom member 121 in a direction intersecting with the bottom member 121. Specifically, the sidewalls 124 can extend from the left and right sides of the bottom member 121 in a vertical direction. The height of the sidewalls 124 can be formed to correspond to the height of the support 21. Specifically, the height of the sidewalls 124 can be formed to be equal to the height of the support 21.

[0246] Meanwhile, various components such as the dust collection path 130, dust collection unit 140, dust collection motor 152, detergent container 163, and wastewater container 164 can be disposed on the outer side of the side wall 124. Specifically, the dust collection unit 140, detergent container 163, and wastewater container 164 can be accommodated in the space between the side wall 124 and the outer wall surface of the housing 110.

[0247] The dust collection unit 140 and the detergent container 163 can be slidably separated from the space between the sidewall 124 and the outer wall surface of the housing 110 (see [link]). Figure 19 The left and right widths of the dust collection unit 140 and the detergent container 163 can be formed to correspond to the distance between the side wall 124 and the outer wall surface of the housing 110.

[0248] The cleaning component connecting portion 121e is a structure for mounting the cleaning component 122, which will be described later. The cleaning component connecting portion 121e may be provided on the rear side of the bottom component body 121a. The cleaning component connecting portion 121e may be formed to correspond to the cleaning component 122, so that the cleaning component 122 can be inserted.

[0249] The cleaning component 122 is a mop structure for the cleaning robot cleaner 200, and the cleaning component 122 can be mounted on the cleaning component connecting part 121e of the bottom component 121.

[0250] The protrusion 122a and the drain hole 122b can be formed in the cleaning member 122. When the drive unit of the rotating cleaning unit 240 is driven while the mop 242 of the robot cleaner 200 is mounted on the cleaning member 122, the mop 242 rotates. At this time, when the mop 242 rotates while cleaning water is supplied to the cleaning member, the mop 242 can be cleaned while rubbing against the fixed protrusion 122a.

[0251] Additionally, the cleaning member 122 can be formed to slope downward toward the center. Therefore, the cleaning water flowing along the inclined cleaning member 122 can clean the mop 242 and then fall through the drain hole 122b into the space formed between the cleaning member 122 and the cleaning member connecting part 121e.

[0252] The dust collection unit 140 can collect dust from the dust collection box 220 of the robot cleaner 200. The dust collection unit 140 can be disposed inside the housing 110. The dust collection unit 140 can also be disposed on the outside of the connecting unit 120. In this case, the receiving space S can be disposed inside the connecting unit 120.

[0253] The dust collection unit 140 may include a dust collection unit housing 141, a dust bag (not shown), a filter 142, and a dust collection unit drawer 144.

[0254] The dust collection unit housing 141 can form a space in which a dust bag (not shown), a filter 142, and a dust collection unit drawer 144 can be accommodated.

[0255] The dust collection unit drawer 144 is connected to the interior of the dust collection unit housing 141 so that it can be pulled out, and the dust bag (not shown) can be accommodated inside the dust collection unit drawer 144. For example, the dust collection unit housing 141 can be formed as a rectangular tube shape with an open front, and the rear interior space can communicate with the first flow path 131 and the second flow path 132.

[0256] One inner side 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 bag (not shown) is connected to the dust collection unit housing 141, the dust bag (not shown) can communicate with the first flow path 131 inside the dust collection unit housing 141.

[0257] A dust bag (not shown) can refer to a bag that collects dust sucked from the interior of the dust collection box 220 of the robotic cleaner 200 by the dust collection motor 152. The dust bag (not shown) can be detachably attached to the dust collection unit housing 141. Therefore, the dust bag (not shown) can be separated from the dust collection unit housing 141 and discarded, and a new dust bag (not shown) can be attached to the dust collection unit housing 141. That is, the dust bag (not shown) can be defined as a consumable part.

[0258] A dust bag (not shown) may be provided, which increases in volume and contains dust when suction is generated by the dust collection motor 152.

[0259] For this purpose, the dust bag (not shown) can be made of a material that allows air to pass through but does not allow foreign objects such as dust to pass through. For example, the dust bag (not shown) can be made of a non-woven fabric material and can have a hexahedral shape corresponding to the shape of the dust collection unit housing 141 based on when the volume increases.

[0260] Alternatively, the dust bag (not shown) can be formed of an impermeable material. For example, the dust bag (not shown) may comprise a vinyl roll (not shown). With this construction, when the dust bag (not shown) is sealed or sealed, leakage of dust or unpleasant odors collected inside the dust bag (not shown) to the outside of the dust bag (not shown) can be prevented. In this case, the dust bag (not shown) can be installed in the dust collection unit housing 141 via a dust bag liner (not shown). If necessary, the dust bag (not shown) can be replaced via the dust bag liner.

[0261] Filter 142 can be disposed between the dust collection unit housing 141 and the second flow path 132. Filter 142 can be disposed at the dust discharge port 141b. Filter 142 can be a pre-filter or a HEPA filter. Air passing through the dust bag (not shown) can flow into the second flow path 132 through filter 142.

[0262] The dust collection unit drawer 144 is connected to the dust collection unit housing 141 so that it can be pulled out and a dust bag (not shown) can be accommodated therein.

[0263] At this time, refer to Figure 26 The dust collection unit drawer 144 includes a dust collection unit drawer body 144a, a handle 144d, and a drawer slide 144e.

[0264] The dust collection unit drawer body 144a can provide space to which a dust bag (not shown) can be attached. For example, the dust collection unit drawer body 144a can be formed as a box shape with an open upper side, and the inlet 144b and the discharge port 144c can be formed on the rear side to communicate with the first flow path 131 and the second flow path 132.

[0265] For example, the dust collection unit drawer body 144a can be formed such that the left and right widths of the upper side and the lower side are different. For example, the dust collection unit drawer body 144a can be formed such that the left and right width of the upper side is greater than the left and right width of the lower side. That is, the interior of the dust collection unit drawer body 144a can be formed into a step. As a result, the upper space where the dust bag (not shown) is provided can be maximized, and a flow path can be formed so that the air passing through the dust bag (not shown) can easily escape downwards.

[0266] The upper side of the dust collection unit drawer body 144a can be connected to the first flow path 131 through the inlet 144b. The inlet 144b can be a structure that guides the air flowing through the first flow path 131 into the interior of the dust bag (not shown). The inlet 144b can connect the first flow path 131 and the dust bag (not shown). Therefore, dust sucked from the dust collection box 220 of the robotic cleaner 200 can move into the interior of the dust bag (not shown) through the first flow path 131 and the inlet 144b.

[0267] The dust collection unit drawer 144 can communicate with the second flow path 132 through a discharge port 144c formed on the lower side of its side surface. The discharge port 144c can be configured to guide air passing through the dust collection unit drawer 144 to the second flow path 132. The discharge port 144c can be located at a height different from that of the inlet 144b. The discharge port 144c can be positioned below the inlet 144b. The discharge port 144c can connect the internal space of the dust collection unit drawer 144 and the second flow path 132. Therefore, air filtered by dust passing through a dust bag (not shown) can move to the second flow path 132 via the discharge port 144c.

[0268] A handle 144d may be provided at the front of the dust collection unit drawer body 144a. The handle 144d may be provided so that a user can grip it. For example, the handle 144d may include a pair of connecting portions hinged to the front surface of the dust collection unit drawer body 144a, and a gripping portion connecting the pair of connecting portions and formed to allow the user to grip it.

[0269] With this construction, when a user grasps the grip and pulls it forward, the dust collection unit drawer body 144a can be pulled forward together. Therefore, according to this disclosure, the user can easily pull the dust collection unit drawer 144 forward and then lift the dust bag (not shown) upward to remove and replace the dust bag.

[0270] Drawer slides 144e can be formed on the left and right surfaces of the dust collection unit drawer body 144a. Drawer slides 144e can guide the movement of the dust collection unit drawer body 144a.

[0271] For example, the drawer slide 144e can be formed as a groove or rib shape along the front-back direction on the left and right surfaces of the dust collection unit drawer body 144a.

[0272] With this configuration, when the user connects the dust collection unit drawer 144 to the dust collection unit housing 141, it can be connected in the correct position, and flow loss can be reduced by connecting the dust collection unit 140, the first flow path 131 and the second flow path 132 in the correct position.

[0273] Meanwhile, the track 141a can also be formed on the inner surface of the dust collection unit housing 141 corresponding to the drawer track 144e. The track 141a of the dust collection unit housing 141 can be formed in a shape and position corresponding to the drawer track 144e. For example, when the drawer track 144e is formed in a groove shape, the track 141a of the dust collection unit housing 141 can be formed in a rib or protruding step shape.

[0274] Figure 12 This is a side view used to describe the dust collection flow path of a robotic cleaning station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figures 13 to 16 This is a cross-sectional view used to describe the dust collection flow path of a robotic cleaning station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 17 This is a cross-sectional view used to describe the discharge port of the dust collection motor housing of a robotic cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0275] refer to Figures 12 to 17 The dust collection path 130 will be described as follows.

[0276] The robotic cleaning station 100 may include a dust collection flow path 130. The dust collection flow path 130 may refer to the flow path through which air drawn in through the dust channel hole 123a flows through the dust collection unit 140 to the dust collection motor 152.

[0277] Specifically, when the robot cleaner 200 is connected to the robot cleaner station 100 and the dust channel hole 123a is connected to the dust collection box 220 of the robot cleaner 200, the dust collection flow path 130 may include a first flow path 131 connecting the dust collection box 220 and the dust collection unit 140 and a second flow path 132 connecting the dust collection unit 140 and the dust collection motor 152.

[0278] In this specification, the first flow path 131 may be referred to as the suction flow path 131. For ease of description, both the first flow path 131 and the suction flow path 131 will be referred to as the first flow path 131 in the following text.

[0279] The first flow path 131 can connect the dust collection box 220 and the dust collection unit 140 of the robot cleaner 200. The first flow path 131 can connect the dust collection box 220 and the dust collection unit 140 of the robot cleaner 200. The first flow path 131 can connect the dust channel hole 123a of the connecting unit 120 and the dust collection unit 140. The first flow path 131 can refer to the space between the dust collection box 220 and the dust collection unit 140 of the robot 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 from the dust channel hole 123a to the rear side, and can be a flow path formed by bending from the dust channel hole 123a toward the side surface, allowing dust and air to flow. Dust in the dust collection box 220 of the robot cleaner 200 can move to the dust collection unit 140 through the first flow path 131.

[0280] The second flow path 132 can connect 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 131 and the second flow path 132 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 set lower than the first flow path 131. With this configuration, the left and right width and overall volume of the robot cleaning station 100 can be minimized.

[0281] The dust collection module 150 can provide a suction airflow to the dust collection flow path 130.

[0282] Specifically, the dust collection module 150 may include a dust collection motor housing 151 and a dust collection motor 152.

[0283] The dust collector motor housing 151 can be disposed within the housing 110. The dust collector motor housing 151 can accommodate the dust collector motor 152 therein.

[0284] Inlet hole 151a and outlet hole 151b can be formed in dust collector motor housing 151.

[0285] The internal space of the dust collector motor housing 151 can be connected to the second flow path 132 through the inlet hole 151a. Therefore, the inlet hole 151a can guide the air flowing through the second flow path 132 to the dust collector motor 152.

[0286] The internal space of the dust collector motor housing 151 can be connected to the circulation path 125a through the discharge port 151b. Therefore, the discharge port 151b can guide the air passing through the dust collector motor 152 to the circulation path 125a.

[0287] The dust collection motor 152 can generate suction force in the dust collection flow path 130. The dust collection motor 152 can be installed inside the dust collection motor housing 151.

[0288] The dust collection motor 152 can be located at the rear of the dust collection unit 140. Thus, the dust collection motor 152 can provide suction power to draw dust from the dust collection box 220 of the robot cleaner 200.

[0289] The dust collection motor 152 can generate suction force by rotating. For example, the dust collection motor 152 can be formed into a shape similar to a cylinder.

[0290] One side of the dust collector 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 collector motor 152 is driven, air flowing through the second flow path 132 can be introduced into the interior of the dust collector motor housing 151 through the inlet hole 151a. Additionally, the air introduced into the dust collector motor housing 151 can pass through the dust collector motor 152 and then be discharged through the outlet hole 151b. Furthermore, the air discharged through the outlet hole 151b can flow through the circulation flow path 125a and be discharged to the exhaust port 125b.

[0291] Meanwhile, the rotation shaft of the dust collection motor 152 can be configured to be nearly horizontal. Additionally, the inlet port 151a and outlet port 151b of the dust collection motor housing 151 can also be opened horizontally. Furthermore, the outlet port 151b can be located at the same height as the exhaust port 125b. With this configuration, the total volume of the robotic cleaning station 100 housed in the storage space 21a of the kitchen cabinet 2 or structure can be minimized.

[0292] 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 and the external space of the housing 110.

[0293] The exhaust section 125 may be configured with a circulation path 125a and an exhaust port 125b.

[0294] The circulation path 125a provides a flow path through which air discharged from the dust collection motor 152 flows. The circulation path 125a can be located inside the bottom component body 121a.

[0295] The circulation path 125a can be connected to the dust collector motor 152. The circulation path 125a can refer to the 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 collector 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.

[0296] The circulation path 125a can be a horizontally formed path within the housing 110. The circulation path 125a can be flowably connected to the dust collection motor 152. Specifically, one end of the circulation path 125a is connected to the dust collection unit 140, and the other end of the circulation path 125a can be connected to the exhaust port 125b.

[0297] The exhaust port 125b can be used as an outlet to guide 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 through the circulation path 125a can be discharged to the outside of the housing 110 through the exhaust port 125b.

[0298] The vent 125b can be formed in the bottom member 121. The vent 125b can be formed in the agitator receiving portion 121d. The vent 125b can be formed in the recess 121da of the agitator receiving portion 121d. The vent 125b can be formed on the side surface of the recess 121da.

[0299] Figures 18 to 20 This is a view used to describe the circulation path of a robotic cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 21 and Figure 22 This is a view showing a portion of the bottom surface of the bottom component body removed to illustrate the state of the circulation path of the robotic cleaner station according to an embodiment of this disclosure, and Figure 23 It is used for detailed description Figure 22 The perspective view of region A shown.

[0300] Reference Figures 18 to 23 The circulation path of the robotic cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below.

[0301] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the circulation path 125a can guide the air discharged from the dust collection motor 152 to the suction unit 211 of the robot cleaner 200.

[0302] The circulation path 125a guides the air discharged from the dust collection motor 152 to the suction unit 211 of the robotic cleaner 200 instead of venting it to the outside, thus creating a structure in which air continuously circulates between the robotic cleaner 200 and the robotic cleaner station 100. Therefore, the hot air discharged from the dust collection motor 152 is not discharged into the installation space 24 of the kitchen cabinet 2, but is instead guided back into the interior of the robotic cleaner 200 to form a circulation path, thus preventing damage to the interior of the kitchen cabinet 2.

[0303] The circulation path 125a may refer to the space between the exhaust port 125b of the robot cleaner station 100 and the suction unit 211 of the robot cleaner 200. The circulation path 125a may refer to the recess 121da of the agitator receiving portion 121d. The circulation path 125a may refer to a connecting pipe (not shown) that communicates with the suction unit 211 of the robot cleaner 200 and has its other end communicating with the exhaust port 125b of the robot cleaner station 100.

[0304] Air passing through the dust collection motor 152 is discharged into the containment space S through the exhaust port 125b, and the air discharged into the containment space S can be drawn back into the suction unit 211 by the suction force of the dust collection motor 152. Therefore, the air drawn from the dust collection box 220 by the suction force of the dust collection motor 152 can flow sequentially through the dust channel hole 123a, the first flow path 131, the dust collection unit 140, the second flow path 132, the dust collection motor 152, the circulation flow path 125a and the exhaust port 125b, and then be discharged into the containment space S.

[0305] When the dust collection motor 152 is driven with the dust collection box 220 of the robot cleaner 200 and the suction unit 211 of the robot cleaner station 100 connected to each other, air can be drawn in through the suction unit 211 of the robot cleaner 200. Furthermore, since the agitator 250 is housed within the suction unit 211, air discharged from the dust collection motor 152 and discharged to the exhaust port 125b can be drawn into the suction unit 211 of the robot cleaner 200 by the suction force of the dust collection motor 152.

[0306] At this time, when the suction motor (not shown) of the robot cleaner 200 is driven, the dust collection motor 152 can also be driven. Since the air discharged through the exhaust port 125b is drawn into the suction unit 211 by the suction force of the suction motor (not shown) other than the dust collection motor 152, the dust collection efficiency is improved.

[0307] Figure 24 This is an enlarged view used to describe the mop washing unit of a robotic cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 25 This is an enlarged view illustrating the cleaning water discharge section of the mop cleaning unit of a robotic cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 26 This is a view used to illustrate the structure of the detergent container 163 in a robotic cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 27 It is a cross-sectional perspective view used to describe the space formed between the cleaning component and the connecting part of the cleaning component of the robot cleaning station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0308] refer to Figures 24 to 26The mop cleaning unit 160 of the robot cleaner station 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below.

[0309] The robotic cleaner station 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a mop washing unit 160. The mop washing unit 160 can wash the mop 242 of the robotic cleaner 200 connected to the connection unit 120.

[0310] The mop cleaning unit 160 may include a cleaning water discharge section 161 that discharges cleaning water to the cleaning member 122, a detergent container 163 that stores liquid containing detergent, and a wastewater container 164 that stores cleaning water after the mop 242 has been cleaned.

[0311] In the cleaning water discharge section 161, purified water and detergent can be mixed to generate cleaning water for cleaning mop 242.

[0312] A pair of cleaning water discharge sections 161 can be spaced apart from each other on the rear side of the connecting wall 123. The cleaning water discharge sections 161 can discharge cleaning water from the upper sides of both ends of the cleaning member 122 toward the cleaning member 122. At this time, purified water supplied from the water supply pipe 160a of the kitchen cabinet 2 and passing through the regulator 162 can be branched to both sides via the branch flow path 161a and connected to each of the spaced-apart cleaning water discharge sections 161. That is, the branch flow path 161a can be formed in the shape of a single pipe branching into two, in which case one branch end can be connected to either of the pair of cleaning water discharge sections 161, and the other branch end can be connected to the remaining one of the pair of cleaning water discharge sections 161.

[0313] The cleaning water discharge section 161 can be integrally formed with the connecting wall 123 at the rear side of the connecting wall 123, or it can be detachably connected to the connecting wall 123.

[0314] Purified water inlet 161b, detergent inlet 161c and cleaning water discharge port (not shown) may be formed in cleaning water discharge section 161.

[0315] The purified water inlet 161b is configured to guide 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 is connected to a regulator 162, allowing adjustment of the flow rate supplied from the water supply pipe 160a. Additionally, a portion of the purified water that has passed through the regulator 162 is supplied to the water tank 230 of the robotic cleaner 200 via the water supply nozzle 123c, and the remainder is introduced through the purified water inlet 161b into a pair of cleaning water outlets 161 spaced apart from each other.

[0316] The detergent inlet 161c is configured to guide liquid containing detergent supplied from the detergent container 163 to the cleaning water outlet 161. Specifically, the liquid containing detergent stored in the detergent container 163 can be supplied to the cleaning water outlet 161 by a pump (not shown).

[0317] Furthermore, detergent and purified water introduced into the cleaning water discharge section 161 can be mixed and used as cleaning water. The cleaning water discharge section 161 can discharge cleaning water to the upper surface of the cleaning member 122 through the cleaning water discharge port. The cleaning water discharge port can be formed on the lower surface of the cleaning water discharge section 161. The cleaning water discharge port can be opened in a direction facing the upper surface of the mop 242 mounted on the cleaning member 122.

[0318] Detergent container 163 can store liquid containing detergent.

[0319] The detergent container 163 includes a detergent container body 163a, a handle 163b, and a detergent container track 163c.

[0320] The detergent container body 163a can provide a space for storing liquid containing detergent. For example, the detergent container body 163a can be formed as a box with an open upper side and the rear side can be connected to the washing water drain 161.

[0321] A handle 163b may be provided at the front of the detergent container body 163a. ​​A handle 163b may be provided so that a user can grip it. For example, the handle 163b may include a pair of connecting portions hinged to the front surface of the detergent container body 163a, and a gripping portion connecting the pair of connecting portions and formed so that a user can grip it.

[0322] With this construction, when a user grasps the grip and pulls it forward, the detergent container body 163a can be pulled forward along with it. Therefore, according to this disclosure, a user can easily pull the detergent container 163 forward to dispense detergent.

[0323] Detergent container tracks 163c can be formed on the left and right surfaces of the detergent container body 163a. ​​Detergent container tracks 163c can guide the movement of the detergent container body 163a.

[0324] For example, the detergent container track 163c can be formed as a groove or rib shape along the front-back direction on the left and right surfaces of the detergent container body 163a.

[0325] With this design, when the user attaches the detergent container 163 to the housing 110, it can be attached in the correct position and prevents cleaning water leakage.

[0326] Meanwhile, although not shown, a track corresponding to the detergent container track 163c can be formed in the housing 110. The track can be formed to correspond to the shape and position of the detergent container track 163c.

[0327] Wastewater container 164 provides space for storing the cleaning water from washing the mop 242. Cleaning water discharged onto the upper surface of the cleaning member 122 can be drained into the drain hole 122b, and then flows down the slope of the cleaning member 122 after washing the mop 242. The cleaning water through the drain hole 122b is collected between the cleaning member connection 121e and the cleaning member 122. Additionally, the cleaning water collected between the cleaning member connection 121e and the cleaning member 122 can be introduced into the wastewater container 164 via the pump flow path 164b.

[0328] The cleaning water stored in the wastewater container 164 can be discharged to the drain pipe 25 of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2 through the drain passage 164a. One end of the drain passage 164a can be connected to the wastewater container 164, and the other end can be connected to the drain pipe 25. At this time, the cleaning water stored in the wastewater container 164 can be discharged to the drain pipe by flowing through the drain passage 164a through a centrifugal pump (not shown).

[0329] The drain path 164a connected to the wastewater container 164 can be connected upstream 25b of the U-trap 25a of the drain pipe 25 relative to the kitchen cabinet 2. This is because when the drain path 164a is connected downstream 25c of the U-trap 25a of the drain pipe 25, unpleasant odors or fluids inside the drain pipe 25 may flow back into the drain path 164a.

[0330] In addition, the mop cleaning unit 160 may include a check valve (not shown). The check valve prevents fluid in 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.

[0331] Meanwhile, the detergent container 163 and the wastewater container 164 can be accommodated in the space formed between the side wall 124 and the outer wall 111 of the housing. The detergent container 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 container 164 can be disposed on the upper side of the detergent container 163 in the space between the side wall 124 and the outer wall 111 of the housing.

[0332] Figure 28 This is a perspective view used to describe the mop drying unit of a robotic cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 29 and Figure 30This is an enlarged view of the mop drying unit of a robotic cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 31 It is a cross-sectional view used to describe the state of air flowing into the hot air supply module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0333] refer to Figures 28 to 31 The robot cleaner station 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may include a mop drying unit 170. In this case, the mop drying unit 170 can dry the mop 242 of the robot cleaner 200 that has been cleaned by the mop washing unit 160 or is in a wet state after the water cleaning operation is completed.

[0334] The mop drying unit 170 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure may include a hot air supply module 171, a steam exhaust pipe 172, an exhaust fan 173, and a check valve (not shown).

[0335] The hot air supply module 171 can supply hot air to the accommodating space S and may include a connecting flow path 171a, a blower fan (not shown), and a heater 171d.

[0336] The connecting flow path 171a can connect the external space of the housing 110 and the receiving space S. The air inlet 171b of the connecting flow path 171a can communicate with the external space, and the air outlet port 171c of the connecting flow path 171a can communicate with the receiving space S.

[0337] An air inlet 171b connecting the flow path 171a can be formed on the rear surface of the housing 110.

[0338] An air exhaust port 171c connecting the flow path 171a can be located on the upper side of the cleaning member 122. The air exhaust port 171c can open in the direction facing the cleaning member 122. A pair of air exhaust ports 171c can be configured to open downwards.

[0339] With the mop 242 mounted on the cleaning member 122, the air exhaust port 171c can be opened towards the upper surface of the mop 242. The air exhaust port 171c can be positioned adjacent to the mop 242 while it is mounted on the cleaning member 122, and can open downwards to allow exhausted air to flow towards the mop 242. With the robot cleaner 200 connected to the connection unit 120, the air exhaust port 171c can be opened facing the mop 242.

[0340] A blower fan (not shown) is provided on the connecting flow path 171a and can blow air toward the receiving space S when the blower fan (not shown) is driven. The air introduced through the air inlet 171b is heated by the heater 171d and can be discharged into the receiving space S through the air outlet port 171c.

[0341] Heater 171d is disposed on connecting flow path 171a and can heat the air flowing through connecting flow path 171a. Heater 171d can also heat the air discharged through air discharge port 171c. Heater 171d can be disposed on connecting flow path 171a, but alternatively, it can be disposed at air discharge port 171c. That is, there is no limitation on a particular form or arrangement as long as it can heat the air discharged into the receiving space S.

[0342] The heater 171d may include a heater housing 171da and a heating element (not shown). The heater housing 110 may be disposed on the connection flow path 171a and may provide space therein for accommodating the heater 171d. The heating element may heat external air introduced into the heater housing 110. Therefore, the air heated by the heating element may be discharged into the accommodating space S through the air exhaust port 171c to dry the wet mop 242.

[0343] Steam exhaust pipe 172 can exhaust the hot and humid air generated in the containment space S when drying mop 242 to drain pipe 25. Steam exhaust pipe 172 can connect the containment space S of kitchen furniture cabinet 2 and drain pipe 25.

[0344] One end of the steam exhaust pipe 172 can be connected to the containment space S, and the other end can be connected to the drain pipe 25. Specifically, the air inlet 172a, which is one end of the steam exhaust pipe 172, can be connected to the containment space S, and the air exhaust port (not shown), which is the other end, can be connected to the drain pipe 25.

[0345] The steam exhaust pipe 172 can be connected to the downstream 25c of the U-trap 25a relative to the drain pipe 25 of the kitchen cabinet 2. This is because when the steam exhaust pipe 172 is connected to the upstream 25b of the U-trap 25a relative to the drain pipe 25, the hot air exhausted through the steam exhaust pipe 172 may not pass through the drain pipe 25 due to the water collected in the U-trap 25a.

[0346] Simultaneously, the steam discharge pipe 172 can branch into two pipes inside the housing 110 to penetrate both sides of the housing 110. One branch can penetrate the left outer wall surface of the housing 110, while the other branch can penetrate the right outer wall surface. 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, steam drawn from the containment space S by the steam discharge pipe 172 can flow through the branched steam discharge pipes 172 on both sides and be discharged downstream 25c relative to the U-shaped water trap 25a of the drain pipe 25.

[0347] The exhaust fan 173 can discharge air from the containment space S to the drain pipe 25 through the steam exhaust pipe 172. The exhaust fan 173 can cause an airflow along the steam exhaust pipe 172. The exhaust fan 173 can be installed on the steam exhaust pipe 172.

[0348] When the exhaust fan 173 is driven, air in the containment space S can flow into the air inlet 172a. The air introduced into the air inlet 172a can flow through the steam exhaust pipe 172 to be discharged into the drain pipe 25. Specifically, the air flowing through the steam exhaust pipe 172 by driving the exhaust fan 173 can be discharged downstream 25c relative to the U-shaped water trap 25a of the drain pipe 25.

[0349] The mop drying unit 170 may include a check valve (not shown). The check valve prevents fluid in 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 connected to the drain pipe 25.

[0350] Figure 32 This is a front view used to describe the arrangement relationship of the robotic cleaner station on a horizontal plane according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 33 yes Figure 32 Side view.

[0351] refer to Figure 4 , Figure 32 and Figure 33 The arrangement of the robot cleaner station 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below.

[0352] The robot cleaning station 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is characterized in that it is installed in the lower space of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2.

[0353] Therefore, the robot cleaning station 100 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure is characterized in that the robot cleaning station 100 is arranged horizontally according to the space formed between the lower plate 23 of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2 and the kitchen floor.

[0354] Specifically, in the robot cleaning station 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a dust collection unit 140 and / or a mop cleaning unit 160 may be disposed on the side surface of the inlet 127.

[0355] At this time, when both the dust collection unit 140 and the mop cleaning unit 160 are provided, the connecting unit 120 can be provided between the dust collection unit 140 and the mop cleaning unit 160.

[0356] For example, entrance 127 and door 126 can be located at the front of the robot cleaner station 100. Furthermore, the connection unit 120 to which the robot cleaner 200 is connected can be positioned rearward from entrance 127. In this case, the dust collection unit 140 can be positioned a predetermined length rearward from the front of the robot cleaner station 100. Additionally, the mop cleaning unit 160 can also be positioned a predetermined length rearward from the front of the robot cleaner station 100.

[0357] Therefore, when the robot cleaner 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 positioned on the left and right sides of the inlet 127.

[0358] At this time, a dust bag (not shown) for the dust collection unit 140 can be provided so that it can be pulled out to the front of the housing 110. In addition, a detergent container 163 for the mop cleaning unit 160 can be provided so that it can be pulled out to the front of the housing.

[0359] In other words, a handle 144d can be provided at the front end of the dust collection unit 140, allowing a user to grip the dust collection unit housing 141. In addition, a handle 163b can be provided at the front end of the mop cleaning unit 160 to pull the detergent container 163.

[0360] With this design, when a user wants to remove the dust bag (not shown) or detergent container 163, the removal location can be immediately identified, and the user can easily remove the dust bag (not shown) or detergent container 163 by pulling the handle.

[0361] Meanwhile, the rear ends of the dust collection unit 140 and the mop cleaning unit 160 can be positioned at a predetermined distance from the rear end of the housing 110. Furthermore, the dust collection motor 152 can be disposed between the rear end of the housing 110 and the rear end of the dust collection unit 140. With this configuration, the power supply wire to the dust collection motor 152 can be easily connected. In addition, this minimizes the total space occupied by the connecting unit 120, the dust collection unit 140, and the dust collection motor 152 within a limited space.

[0362] Furthermore, at least a portion of the flow path through which the cleaning water for washing the mop 242 can flow and the pump providing the flow force for the cleaning water can be disposed between the rear end of the housing 110 and the rear end of the mop cleaning unit 160. With this configuration, the distance of the path through which cleaning water is introduced from the water supply pipe 160a can be minimized. Additionally, it minimizes the total space occupied by the connecting unit 120, the mop cleaning unit 160, and the flow path through which the cleaning water flows within a limited space.

[0363] Meanwhile, in the robot cleaner station 100, the mop drying unit 170 can be located behind the connecting unit 120. In this case, the mop drying unit 170 can be located between the rear end of the connecting unit 120 and the rear end of the housing 110.

[0364] Therefore, in the robot cleaning station 100 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure, the dust collection unit 140 and the mop washing unit 160 can be provided on the left and right surfaces based on the connection unit 120, and the mop drying unit 170 can be provided on the rear side.

[0365] In other words, in the robot cleaning station 100 according to the embodiments of the present disclosure, the dust collection unit 140, the mop washing unit 160 and the mop drying unit 170 can all be arranged within a predetermined distance range from the outer periphery of the connecting unit 120.

[0366] With this arrangement, the following effects are achieved: the connecting unit 120, the dust collection unit 140, the mop cleaning unit 160, and the mop drying unit 170 can all be placed in the narrowest space on the horizontal plane.

[0367] This has the effect of minimizing flow path loss by reducing the distance between the dust collection box 220 and the dust collection unit 140 of the robotic cleaner 200. Furthermore, by minimizing the distances between the mop 242 and the mop washing unit 160 of the robotic cleaner 200, and between the mop 242 and the mop drying unit 170 of the robotic cleaner 200, the extent of cleaning water and wastewater remaining after cleaning is limited.

[0368] Furthermore, through this arrangement, the robotic cleaner station 100 disclosed herein can house all components within a limited height.

[0369] Specifically, based on the state where the robot cleaner 200 is connected to the connection unit 120, at least a portion of the dust collection unit 140 can be positioned below the uppermost point of the robot cleaner 200. Furthermore, at least a portion of the mop washing unit 160 can be positioned below the uppermost point of the robot cleaner 200. Additionally, at least a portion of the mop drying unit 170 can be positioned below the uppermost point of the robot cleaner 200. Also, at least a portion of the mop washing unit 160 can be positioned below the uppermost point of the dust collection unit 140.

[0370] Furthermore, based on the state where the robot cleaner 200 is connected to the connection unit 120, the uppermost point of the robot cleaner 200 can be set higher than the dust bag (not shown). Additionally, the uppermost point of the robot cleaner 200 can be set higher than the detergent container 163. Furthermore, the uppermost point of the dust bag (not shown) can be set higher than the detergent container 163.

[0371] From another perspective, when the robotic cleaner 200 is connected to the connection unit 120, and an imaginary plane H parallel to the kitchen floor is drawn based on the kitchen floor, plane H can pass through the robotic cleaner 200, dust collection unit 140, mop washing unit 160, and mop drying unit 170. This means that all components can be positioned within a predetermined height range.

[0372] From another perspective, with the robotic cleaner 200 connected to the connecting unit 120, the connecting unit 120 can be divided into three regions along the vertical direction. At this time, the connecting unit 120 can include a first region (the space between B and H1) located in the same horizontal space as the detergent container 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 container 163 can both be located on either side of the first region in the left-right direction, the dust bag (not shown) and wastewater container 164 can both be located on either side of the second region in the left-right direction, and only the upper end of the robotic cleaner 200 can be located in the third region.

[0373] As a result, in the robotic cleaner station 100 according to an embodiment of this disclosure, the dust collection unit 140, the mop washing unit 160, and the mop drying unit 170 can be arranged on three surfaces surrounding the connecting unit 120, except for the front surface where the robotic cleaner 200 enters. With this arrangement, even in cases where the vertical height is limited, there is an effect of not only charging the robotic cleaner 200 with minimal horizontal space, but also collecting dust from the robotic cleaner 200, washing the mop 242, and drying the mop 242.

[0374] Meanwhile, when the charging base for the robot cleaner is located in the lower part of a kitchen cabinet, exposure to the outside is minimized, thus providing an internal effect. However, there are limitations: if the robot cleaner malfunctions while it is already inside the lower part of the kitchen cabinet, or if the charging base for the robot cleaner malfunctions, it may be difficult for the user to remove and repair it. To address this issue, in this disclosure, a drawer 190 can be added to the robot cleaner station 100.

[0375] Figure 34 This is a view used to describe the state in which drawers are set in a robotic cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 35 This is a view used to describe the state of a drawer being pulled out in a robotic cleaner station according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

[0376] refer to Figure 34 and Figure 35 The drawer 190 of the robot cleaner station 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below.

[0377] The robotic cleaner station 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure may also include a drawer 190 that can be pulled out from the housing 110.

[0378] With drawer 190 retracted into housing 110, door 126 can be closed when robot cleaner 200 enters connection unit 120. In this state, the robot cleaner 200 can be blocked from both the inside and outside of housing 110 by door 126.

[0379] Therefore, when the robot cleaner 200 performs dust collection in the dust collection box 220 inside the housing 110, dust can be prevented from being dispersed to the outside of the robot cleaner station 100. Furthermore, wastewater can be prevented from leaking to the outside of the robot cleaner station 100 while the mop 242 is being used for cleaning.

[0380] Drawer 190 can move relative to housing 110. For example, housing 110 is fixedly connected to kitchen cabinet 2, and drawer 190 can be pulled forward from housing 110.

[0381] At this time, with the connecting unit 120 installed, the drawer 190 can be pulled out. Using this configuration, when the drawer 190 is pulled out, the connecting unit 120 and / or the robotic cleaner 200 can be pulled out of the kitchen cabinet 2.

[0382] At this time, when the drawer 190 is pulled out from the housing 110 with the door 126 closed and the entrance 127 closed, the robot cleaner 200 installed in the connection unit 120 can be exposed to the outside.

[0383] Therefore, according to this embodiment, when maintenance such as repair or cleaning of the robot cleaner station 100 is required, the user can easily pull out the connection unit 120 and / or the robot cleaner 200 through the drawer 190 to expose the internal components of the robot cleaner station 100 or the robot cleaner 200.

[0384] Meanwhile, the drawer 190 according to the embodiments of this disclosure can be pulled out while the dust collection unit 140 is disposed therein. That is, the drawer 190 can be pulled out together with the dust collection unit 140.

[0385] On the other hand, the dust collection unit 140 of this disclosure can be pulled out of the housing 110 separately from the drawer 190. In this case, the direction in which the dust collection unit 140 is pulled out can be parallel to the direction in which the drawer 190 is pulled out. For example, the direction in which the dust collection unit drawer 144 is pulled out can be parallel to the direction in which the drawer 190 is pulled out.

[0386] Furthermore, according to embodiments of this disclosure, the drawer 190 can be pulled out while at least a portion of the mop cleaning unit 160 is disposed therein. That is, the drawer 190 can be pulled out together with at least a portion of the mop cleaning unit 160. For example, the drawer 190 can be pulled out together with the detergent container 163 and the wastewater container 164.

[0387] On the other hand, the wastewater container 164 of this disclosure can be pulled out of the housing 110 separately from the drawer 190. In this case, the direction in which the wastewater container 164 is pulled out can be parallel to the direction in which the drawer 190 is pulled out.

[0388] With this configuration, in the robot cleaning station 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the drawer 190, the dust collection unit 140 and the wastewater container 164 can all be arranged in parallel directions for extraction.

[0389] Therefore, users can easily identify the direction in which the components of the robot cleaner station 100 of this disclosure are pulled out, and there is an effect that they can be easily pulled out for repair and maintenance.

[0390] Drawer 190 includes drawer sidewalls 191, assembly 192, and drawer slides 193.

[0391] The drawer sidewalls 191 are configured to be movable relative to each other between the outer wall surfaces of the housing 110. For example, a pair of drawer sidewalls 191 may be configured to face the outer walls 111 of a pair of housings 110.

[0392] Meanwhile, in this disclosure, the upper end of the drawer side wall 191 is higher than the upper end of the outer wall 111. That is, a height difference can be created between the upper end of the drawer side wall 191 and the upper end of the outer wall 111. This height difference provides space for the assembly 192, which will be described later, to move within it.

[0393] At this point, the pair of drawer sidewalls 191 can be positioned further within the robot cleaner station 100 than the outer walls 111 of the pair of housings 110. That is, the pair of drawer sidewalls 191 can be positioned closer to the connecting unit 120 than the outer walls 111 of the pair of housings 110. At this point, the pair of drawer sidewalls 191 can be positioned with a spacing greater than the maximum horizontal width of the robot cleaner 200.

[0394] At this time, the pair of drawer sidewalls 191 can be directly connected to the bottom member 121 of the connecting unit 120. Alternatively, the pair of drawer sidewalls 191 can be connected via a drawer base (not shown), and the connecting unit 120 can be connected to the upper side of the drawer base (not shown) to move together.

[0395] Meanwhile, the dust collection unit 140 and / or the mop cleaning unit 160 can be disposed between the drawer side wall 191 and the connecting unit 120. That is, based on the state of the robot cleaner 200 being connected to the connecting unit 120, the dust collection unit 140 and / or the mop cleaning unit 160 can be disposed between the robot cleaner 200 and the drawer side wall 191.

[0396] With this structure, the dust collection unit 140 and the mop cleaning unit 160 can be set up in the smallest horizontal space.

[0397] The assembly 192 is provided on the drawer side wall 191, and at least one of the hose and the wire is detachably connected to the drawer side wall 191. For example, the assembly 192 is provided on the drawer side wall 191, and the hose and / or wire can be connected thereto.

[0398] The assembly part 192 is connected to the drawer side wall 191. One side of the assembly part 192 is located in the internal space of the drawer 190 rather than in the drawer side wall 191, and the other side of the assembly part 192 is located on the outside of the drawer side wall 191.

[0399] At least one of the hose and the wire is detachably connected to the assembly 192.

[0400] In this case, in terms of height, the mounting part 192 can be located between the upper end of the drawer side wall 191 and the upper end of the outer wall 111. Alternatively, the mounting part 192 can be located between the upper end of the front support member 112 and the upper end of the outer wall 111.

[0401] With this configuration, the assembly part 192 moves together with the drawer side wall 191 during the process of the drawer 190 being pulled out, and since the assembly part 192 moves linearly above the upper end of the outer wall 111 during the process of the assembly part 192 being pulled out, it is possible to prevent the assembly part 192 from interfering with the outer wall 111.

[0402] However, the mounting portion 192 can be configured to be lower than the upper end of the front support member 112. That is, in terms of height, the mounting portion 192 can be located between the upper end of the front support member 112 and the upper end of the outer wall 111.

[0403] This is because the upper end of the front support 112 should be at the height of the lower panel 23 of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2, which is configured to contact the lower panel 23.

[0404] Therefore, when the front support member 112 is located at the front of the outer wall 111, the front support member 112 is located on the movement path of the assembly part 192 when the drawer 190 is pulled out, and the assembly part 192 may interfere with the front support member 112.

[0405] To solve this problem, since the front support 112 of this disclosure is hinged to the outer wall 111, when the front support 112 rotates, it moves to the outside of the outer wall 111 and can avoid interference between the assembly 192 and the drawer 190.

[0406] Therefore, in this disclosure, the worker can rotate the front support 112 provided at the front of the outer wall 111 and then pull out the assembly part 192.

[0407] Meanwhile, the robotic cleaning station 100 of this disclosure can have a predetermined interval between the outer surface of the drawer side wall 191 and the outer wall cover 111a. Furthermore, when the front support member 112 is rotated to the outside of the outer wall 111, a space with a predetermined interval can be formed between the drawer side wall 191 and the front support member 112. Preferably, the interval is larger than the diameter of a human finger.

[0408] With this design, when a worker pulls the drawer 190 and the assembly 192 is pulled closer to the front support 112, the worker can rotate the front support 112, insert their fingers into the space between the drawer sidewall 191 and the front support 112, and disconnect one or more hoses and / or wires connected to the assembly 192. Subsequently, when the worker pulls the drawer 190 further, the entire drawer 190 can be fully pulled out of the housing 110.

[0409] Therefore, according to this disclosure, a worker can simply pull the drawer 190 completely out of the housing 110 without disassembling the base plate of the kitchen furniture cabinet 2.

[0410] Drawer slide 193 is disposed on drawer sidewall 191 and guides the movement of drawer sidewall 191. Drawer slide 193 may be fixedly connected to drawer sidewall 191 or integrally formed with drawer sidewall 191, and may be connected to a slide mounted on outer wall 111 of housing 110 to guide the movement path of drawer sidewall 191. While this disclosure describes slides disposed in drawer 190 and housing 110, it is not necessarily limited to the form of slides and may include all forms that can replace slides, such as rollers, guide grooves, or guide ribs.

[0411] Figure 36 This is a view used to describe the rear support member in a robotic cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 37 This is a view used to illustrate the operating principle of the rear support member in a robotic cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0412] refer to Figure 36 and Figure 37 The rear support member according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below.

[0413] According to the embodiments of this disclosure, rear support members 114 and 115 are respectively disposed on an outer wall 111 and configured to support the kitchen cabinet 2. In this case, it is certainly possible that one rear support member 114 and 115 is configured to contact and support the lower panel 23 of the kitchen cabinet 2, and it is also possible that a first rear support member 114 is contacted and supported by the kitchen cabinet 2 and a second rear support member 115 is contacted and supported by the kitchen floor, so as to match overall balance according to the condition of the kitchen floor.

[0414] Meanwhile, the first rear support member 114 and the second rear support member 115 are arranged symmetrically to each other, but have the same structure and operation method.

[0415] The rear support members 114 and 115 include rear support portions 114a and 115a, helical gear portions 114b and 115b, worm gear portions 114c and 115c, and heads 114d and 115d.

[0416] At this time, the rear support portions 114a and 115a are connected to the helical gear portions 114b and 115b so that they can move relative to each other, the helical gear portions 114b and 115b and the worm gear portions 114c and 115c engage with each other, and the worm gear portions 114c and 115c and the heads 114d and 115d are connected to each other.

[0417] The rear support portions 114a and 115a support the kitchen cabinet 2 and the kitchen floor as they move vertically. Specifically, the rear support portion 114a of the first rear support member 114 is configured to move vertically from the outer wall 111 to contact and support the lower plate 23 of the kitchen cabinet 2, and the rear support portion 115a of the second rear support member 115 is configured to move vertically from the outer wall 111 and contact and support the kitchen floor.

[0418] The rear support portions 114a and 115a are typically formed in a bolt-like shape, but the head that contacts the kitchen cabinet 2 or the kitchen floor can be disc-shaped or have slits formed in the disc at predetermined intervals along the circumference.

[0419] In other words, the rear support portions 114a and 115a can be composed of a support portion with threads formed therein and a head with a diameter larger than the diameter of the support portion. In this case, the head can be formed in a radial shape in order to distribute the external force applied from the supported object.

[0420] With this structure, when the helical gears 114b and 115b rotate, the support portions of the rear support portions 114a and 115a move up or down along the threads to adjust the height.

[0421] The helical gear portions 114b and 115b can engage with the worm gear portions 114c and 115c and are connected to the rear support portions 114a and 115a.

[0422] The helical gear portions 114b and 115b can transmit the rotational force applied from the worm gear portions 114c and 115c to the rear support portions 114a and 115a.

[0423] For example, the helical gear portions 114b and 115b can be formed as annular rings, such that the helical gear is formed on the outer circumferential surface, and the thread can be formed on the inner circumferential surface.

[0424] Meanwhile, at least a portion of the helical gear portions 114b and 115b can be rotatably accommodated in the support mounting portion 111c. That is, the support mounting portion 111c can be formed to protrude from the wall portion 111b in order to block at least a portion of the helical gear portions 114b and 115b in the vertical direction. Therefore, the helical gear portions 114b and 115b can rotate in the appropriate position while their vertical movement is restricted.

[0425] Therefore, the helical gear portions 114b and 115b engage with the worm gear portions 114c and 115c, and rotate into place as the worm gear portions 114c and 115c rotate. Since the threads of the rear support portions 114a and 115a move along the threads of the helical gear portions 114b and 115b, the rear support portions 114a and 115a can move upward or downward.

[0426] Worm gears 114c and 115c are connected to heads 114d and 115d to rotate together, and can also rotate helical gears 114b and 115b.

[0427] Specifically, the worm gear portions 114c and 115c can be formed in a cylindrical shape, but the worm gear can be formed on the outer circumferential surface, with one end in the longitudinal direction (axial direction) connected to the head 114d and 115d, and the other end in the longitudinal direction rotatably connected to the support mounting portion 111c.

[0428] With this structure, the operating force applied from the heads 114d and 115d can be transmitted to the helical gear sections 114b and 115b.

[0429] Heads 114d and 115d can be connected to work tools to receive the operator's manipulator force.

[0430] For example, the heads 114d and 115d are formed in the shape of round rods, such that one end in the longitudinal direction is configured to be connected to the working tool, and the other end in the longitudinal direction can be connected to the worm gear parts 114c and 115c.

[0431] At this point, one end of the heads 114d and 115d can be shaped to resemble the head of a screw. That is, one end of the heads 114d and 115d can be shaped to allow a tool such as a flathead screwdriver or a Phillips screwdriver to be inserted to receive rotational force.

[0432] Meanwhile, with the front support 112 positioned at the front of the outer wall 111, the extension lines (longitudinal direction) of the rotation axes of the heads 114d and 115d can pass through the control hole 112e. Thus, the worker can manipulate the height of the rear support using the work tools located at the front of the robot cleaner station.

[0433] Therefore, according to this disclosure, the heads 114d and 115d and the worm gear portions 114c and 115c can be rotated by the operating force of the working tool.

[0434] Therefore, the process of a worker manipulating the rear supports 114 and 115 to adjust the height of the robotic cleaner station 100 or to fix it to the kitchen furniture cabinet 2 in the robotic cleaner station 100 will be described below according to this disclosure.

[0435] The worker inserts a working tool, such as a screwdriver, into the operating hole 112e formed at the front of the front support 112. At this time, the worker can choose to operate the first rear support 114 or the second rear support 115, and insert the working tool into the upper operating hole 112e or the lower operating hole 112e.

[0436] Next, as the worker pushes the working tool further in the horizontal direction, the end of the working tool can be inserted into the head 114d and 115d.

[0437] Next, the worker can rotate the working tool to rotate the heads 114d and 115d. Therefore, the heads 114d and 115d, as well as the worm gears 114c and 115c, rotate together, and the helical gears 114b and 115b rotate together with the rotation of the worm gears 114c and 115c.

[0438] As a result, when the rear support portions 114a and 115a move up or down along the threads formed on the inner circumferential surfaces of the helical gear portions 114b and 115b, they can adjust the height of the robot cleaner station 100 or press the kitchen furniture cabinet 2 to contact and support it.

[0439] Alternatively, even when the worker removes the robotic cleaner station 100, the fixation between the robotic cleaner station 100 and the kitchen furniture cabinet 2 can be released through the process described above. At this time, the worker can rotate the work tool in the opposite direction to the direction in which the robotic cleaner station 100 was fixed.

[0440] Therefore, according to this disclosure, when the robot cleaner station 100 is installed or removed, even for the rear support that is difficult for the worker's hands to reach, there is an effect that the height can be easily adjusted by inserting and rotating the working tool from the front.

[0441] Although the present disclosure has been described in detail above with reference to specific embodiments, this is for the purpose of describing the present disclosure in detail, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications and improvements can be made to it within the technical spirit of the present disclosure.

[0442] Since all simple modifications to this disclosure fall within its scope, the specific scope of protection of this disclosure will become apparent from the appended claims.

Claims

1. A robotic cleaning station, the robotic cleaning station comprising: A housing, wherein the housing is disposed at the lower part of the kitchen furniture cabinet; as well as A connection unit is disposed within the housing, and the robotic cleaner is housed within the housing. The housing includes: A pair of outer walls, the pair of outer walls being disposed on the left and right sides of the connecting unit; and Rear support members are respectively disposed on one outer wall and support the kitchen furniture cabinet.

2. The robotic cleaner station according to claim 1, wherein, The rear support member includes a rear support portion that contacts the kitchen furniture cabinet as it moves vertically. The rear support moves vertically as at least one or more gears rotate.

3. The robotic cleaner station according to claim 2, wherein, The rear support member also includes: A head, the head being disposed on one side in the longitudinal direction and connected to the working tool; and The worm gear section rotates together with the rotation of the head.

4. The robotic cleaner station according to claim 3, wherein, The rear support member also includes: The helical gear portion engages with the worm gear portion and is connected to the rear support portion.

5. The robotic cleaner station according to claim 1, wherein, The housing also includes: A pair of front support members, the pair of front support members being respectively connected to one pair of outer walls, and The front support member includes: Support body; and An operating hole is formed in the support body to operate the rear support.

6. The robotic cleaner station according to claim 5, wherein, The rear support member includes: A head, the head being disposed on one side in the longitudinal direction and connected to the working tool; and The worm gear section, the turbine section rotates together with the rotation of the head, and The extension line of the rotation axis of the head passes through the operating hole.

7. The robotic cleaner station according to claim 3, wherein, The outer wall includes a support mounting portion, and the rear support is mounted in the support mounting portion. The worm gear portion is rotatably connected to the support mounting portion.

8. The robotic cleaner station according to claim 4, wherein, The outer wall includes a support mounting portion, and the rear support is mounted in the support mounting portion. At least a portion of the helical gear portion can be rotatably accommodated in the support mounting portion.

9. The robotic cleaner station according to claim 1, wherein, The rear support member includes: A first rear support member, configured to move vertically from the outer wall and contacting and being supported by the kitchen furniture cabinet; and A second rear support member is configured to move vertically from the outer wall and to contact and be supported by the kitchen floor.

10. The robotic cleaner station according to claim 1, wherein, The outer wall includes: Outer wall cover; and A wall portion, which is connected to the outer wall cover and provides space therein for accommodating at least a portion of the rear support member.

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