Base station and cleaning system

Abstract

The application provides a base station and a cleaning system. The base station comprises a main body configured to be docked with a cleaning robot, and a functional assembly connected with the main body, the functional assembly being configured to perform a work task. The base station is further configured to move on a work surface by itself or under the driving of the cleaning robot. In this way, the corresponding functions can be realized by using the movable base station. Compared with the solution in which the position of the base station is fixed and the base station is only used to support the work of the cleaning robot, this is conducive to the diversified design of the functions of the base station, so as to meet diversified cleaning requirements.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the technical field of household appliances, specifically to base stations and cleaning systems. Background Technology

[0002] Common cleaning systems on the market mainly consist of two parts: cleaning robots and base stations. Cleaning robots are typically responsible for performing cleaning tasks outdoors, while base stations are usually fixed in locations such as corners and can be used to support the cleaning robots, such as charging them or collecting trash. However, immobile base stations have limited functionality and cannot meet diverse cleaning needs. Utility Model Content

[0003] This application provides a base station, which includes: a main body for docking with a cleaning robot; and a functional component connected to the main body, the functional component being used to perform work tasks; the base station is also configured to move on a work surface on its own or move on the work surface under the drive of the cleaning robot.

[0004] This application also provides a cleaning system comprising: a cleaning robot and the aforementioned base station; the cleaning robot is configured to move independently on the working surface.

[0005] The base station provided in this application can move on its own or under the drive of a cleaning robot on a working surface. The base station also has a main body that docks with the cleaning robot and functional components that are connected to the main body. This allows the base station to move and perform corresponding functions through the functional components. Compared with a solution where the base station is fixed in position and only used to support the work of the cleaning robot, this is conducive to the diversified design of the base station's functions, thereby meeting diverse cleaning needs. Attached Figure Description

[0006] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0007] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the cleaning system provided in this application embodiment in a home environment;

[0008] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the combined structure of the base station and the cleaning robot;

[0009] Figure 3 yes Figure 2A structural schematic diagram of the cleaning system from another perspective;

[0010] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A partial structural diagram of a mid-range base station;

[0011] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A partial structural diagram of a mid-range base station from another perspective;

[0012] Figure 6 yes Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the structure of a base station and a cleaning robot;

[0013] Figure 7 yes Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the structure of a cleaning robot;

[0014] Figure 8 This is another structural schematic diagram of the cleaning system provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0015] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the cleaning system climbing stairs provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0016] Figure 10 This is a structural schematic diagram of the cleaning system provided in this application embodiment, which climbs stairs, from another perspective. Detailed Implementation

[0017] The present application will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be particularly noted that the following embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the scope of the application. Similarly, the following embodiments are only some, not all, embodiments of the present application, and all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of the present application.

[0018] In this application, the reference to "embodiment" means that a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment of this application. The appearance of this phrase in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, nor is it a separate or alternative embodiment mutually exclusive with other embodiments. It will be explicitly and implicitly understood by those skilled in the art that the embodiments described herein can be combined with other embodiments.

[0019] Please see Figures 1 to 2 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the cleaning system 10 provided in this application embodiment in a home environment. Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the combined structure of the base station 100 and the cleaning robot 200.

[0020] The cleaning system 10 provided in this application embodiment can be used to perform household cleaning tasks. Of course, the cleaning system 10 is not limited to use in a home environment; the following description uses a household cleaning system 10 as an example. Figure 1 As shown, the cleaning system 10 may include a base station 100 and a cleaning robot 200. The base station 100 can interface with the cleaning robot 200 and support its operation. Both the base station 100 and the cleaning robot 200 can move independently on the work surface, or the cleaning robot 200 can move the base station 100 on the work surface. Compared to a fixed-position base station 100 that only supports the cleaning robot 200, the movable base station 100 can perform various functions, allowing for diverse design options to meet diverse cleaning needs.

[0021] Figure 1 The diagram illustrates four states of the cleaning system 10 in a home environment. Dashed circle A represents the state where the base station 100 and the cleaning robot 200 are connected and charging at the charging station. Dashed circle B represents the state where the base station 100 is charging at the charging station while the cleaning robot 200 independently performs its tasks. Dashed circle C represents the state where the base station 100 and the cleaning robot 200 are connected and jointly perform their tasks. Dashed circle D represents the state where the base station 100 and the cleaning robot 200 are separated and each independently performs its tasks.

[0022] It is understood that, in addition to the four states mentioned above, the cleaning system 10 may also exist in other states in a home environment, which will not be listed and described in this embodiment. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the base station 100 supporting the operation of the cleaning robot 200 means that the base station 100 can have one or more of the conventional functions for supporting the cleaning robot 200, such as power supply, garbage collection, mop cleaning, data storage and transmission, firmware upgrades, or storage, to support the cleaning robot 200 in completing the corresponding tasks. In addition, the working surface referred to in this embodiment can include not only the conventional ground but also object surfaces (including but not limited to flat surfaces) such as floors, carpets, and glass where the cleaning system 10 can be placed.

[0023] Please see Figures 3 to 5 , Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A structural schematic diagram of the cleaning system 10 from another perspective. Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A partial structural diagram of the Zhongji 100 base station. Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A partial structural diagram of the central base station 100 from another perspective.

[0024] The base station 100 can be connected to an external power source and can store electrical energy transmitted from the external power source. The base station 100 can also supply power to the cleaning robot 200. For example, the cleaning system 10 may also include a charging dock placed on a working surface, which can be connected to an external power source such as a socket. The base station 100 can move to the charging position on the charging dock and make electrical contact with the contact structure on the charging dock, allowing the external power source to transmit electrical energy to the base station 100 through the charger. Alternatively, the base station 100 can first store the electrical energy required for its own operation and then supply the electrical energy transmitted from the external power source to the cleaning robot 200. Or, the base station 100 can first supply the electrical energy transmitted from the external power source to the cleaning robot 200 and then store the electrical energy required for its own operation. Or, the base station 100 can simultaneously store the electrical energy required for its own operation and supply power to the cleaning robot 200. Of course, the charging modes of the base station 100 and the cleaning robot 200 can be adaptively adjusted according to design requirements and are not limited to the above charging schemes.

[0025] Base station 100 is mobile and can perform corresponding functions. For example... Figures 3 to 4 As shown, the base station 100 may include a functional component 110 and a main body 120. The functional component 110 can be connected to the main body 120 and can be used to perform work tasks, enabling the base station 100 to achieve corresponding functions. The main body 120 can be used to interface with the cleaning robot 200 and can integrate various functional devices required by the base station 100 to support the functional component 110 and the cleaning robot 200 in performing corresponding work tasks. In this embodiment, the conventional functions of the base station 100 used to support the operation of the cleaning robot 200 can be implemented by the main body 120, while the functional component 110 can be used to implement other functions of the base station 100 besides conventional functions, thereby achieving a diversified design of the base station 100's functions.

[0026] For example, functional component 110 can be used to perform cleaning tasks, enabling base station 100 to not only support the work of cleaning robot 200 but also to have cleaning functions. Base station 100 can perform cleaning tasks independently using functional component 110, or jointly with cleaning robot 200, which improves the cleaning efficiency of cleaning system 10. For instance, when base station 100 is self-moving, base station 100 and cleaning robot 200 can not only perform cleaning tasks together after docking but also independently after separating. Similarly, when base station 100 can only move under the influence of cleaning robot 200, base station 100 can only perform cleaning tasks jointly with cleaning robot 200.

[0027] Furthermore, to achieve the cleaning function of functional component 110, functional component 110 may include a first cleaning component 111, and the first cleaning component 111 may be disposed on the main body 120 and can be used to clean dirt in the external environment. Figures 3 to 4 The first cleaning component 111 may include a first suction port 1111 located at the bottom of the main body 120, i.e., on the side of the main body 120 facing the working surface, and the first suction port 1111 may communicate with a corresponding dust collection structure inside the main body 120. When the base station 100 moves on the working surface, the dust collection structure inside the main body 120 can use the first suction port 1111 to draw in smaller solid debris such as dust, paper scraps, or hair into the main body 120, thereby achieving the dust collection function of the base station 100.

[0028] Furthermore, the first cleaning component 111 may further include a first roller brush 1112. The first roller brush 1112 may be located at the first suction inlet 1111 and rotatably connected to the main body 120. The first roller brush 1112 can also rotate under the control of the main body 120 and can sweep the working surface as the base station 100 moves, thereby achieving the sweeping function of the base station 100. Simultaneously, the first roller brush 1112 can also move relative to the main body 120 in a direction closer to or further away from the working surface. This not only adjusts the position of the first roller brush 1112 but also serves to tap the working surface. The first suction inlet 1111 can then suck in the dust swept or tapped by the first roller brush 1112, thereby improving the dust collection effect of the base station 100.

[0029] Furthermore, the first cleaning component 111 may also include: a water outlet 1113 and a second suction port 1114 disposed at the bottom of the main body 120. The water outlet 1113 and the second suction port 1114 can be connected to two corresponding water tank structures within the main body 120, respectively. The water outlet 1113 can spray clean water for cleaning to wet or rinse the work surface, while the second suction port 1114 can suck up wastewater from the work surface for recycling. The wastewater can be generated from contaminated clean water sprayed from the water outlet 1113, or other liquids spilled on the work surface.

[0030] Furthermore, the first cleaning component 111 may also include a roller 1115. The roller 1115 may be located at the water outlet 1113 and rotatably connected to the main body 120. The roller 1115 can also rotate under the control of the main body 120 and wipe the working surface as the base station 100 moves, thus cooperating with the clean water sprayed from the water outlet 1113 to achieve the mopping function of the base station 100. Similarly, the roller 1115 can also move relative to the main body 120 in a direction closer to or farther from the working surface, which not only adjusts the position of the roller 1115 but also serves to pat the working surface.

[0031] In some embodiments, the first suction port 1111 and the water outlet 1113 can be shared to form a composite port that can both suck in dust and spray clean water. In this case, a control valve, including but not limited to a three-way valve, can be provided in the pipe connecting to the composite port to control the dust collection structure and the water tank structure to collect dust and spray water through the composite port respectively. That is, the composite port can only perform one of the functions of dust suction and water spraying at the same time.

[0032] In some embodiments, since the base station 100 is larger than the cleaning robot 200, a larger first roller brush 1112 can be installed on the main body 120 to expand the cleaning area of ​​the first roller brush 1112, thereby improving the cleaning efficiency of the base station 100. Simultaneously, the first roller brush 1112 can also use bristles with higher hardness to enhance the cleaning ability of the base station 100 against stubborn stains, allowing the base station 100 to clean heavily soiled areas, while the cleaning robot 200, with its weaker cleaning ability, can clean lightly soiled areas. For example, the base station 100 can clean hard-to-clean objects such as carpets by using the first suction inlet 1111, the first roller brush 1112, the water outlet 1113, the second suction inlet 1114, and the roller 1115 to suck, sweep, beat, and rinse the carpet, while the cleaning robot 200 can clean easy-to-clean objects such as floors. With this configuration, the base station 100 and the cleaning robot 200 can be designed differently for the objects being cleaned, thereby improving the applicability and cleaning effect of the cleaning system 10 in different scenarios.

[0033] It is understandable that, in addition to the cleaning solutions described above, the specific design of the first cleaning component 111 can also be selected according to cleaning needs. The primary requirement is that the first cleaning component 111 can clean dirt from the external environment to improve the cleaning efficiency of the cleaning system 10. Furthermore, besides cleaning the work surface, the first cleaning component 111 can also be positioned on the side of the main body 120 to clean areas other than the work surface. That is, the placement of the first cleaning component 111 can be adjusted according to cleaning needs, and is not limited to the aforementioned placement on the side of the main body 120 closer to the work surface.

[0034] To enable the mobility of the base station 100, the base station 100 may include a roller assembly 130 disposed on the main body 120, and the roller assembly 130 may roll and rub against the working surface, allowing the main body 120 to move on the working surface. Figures 4 to 5 As shown, the roller assembly 130 may include a traveling wheel 131 and an auxiliary wheel 132. Both the traveling wheel 131 and the auxiliary wheel 132 may be located on the bottom of the main body 120 near the working surface, and both may contact the working surface to generate rolling friction, so that the main body 120 can move on the working surface.

[0035] For example, there can be two traveling wheels 131, which are arranged opposite to and spaced apart on the side of the main body 120 near the working surface. The line connecting the auxiliary wheel 132 and the two traveling wheels 131 can form a triangle. The traveling wheels 131 are rotatably connected to the main body 120, and the roller assembly 130 may also include a drive structure, such as a motor, for driving the traveling wheels 131 to rotate, thereby moving the main body 120 on the working surface. The auxiliary wheel 132 can be connected to the main body 120 and can be a swivel wheel, allowing the main body 120 to turn on the working surface via the auxiliary wheel 132.

[0036] Furthermore, the auxiliary wheel 132 can also be driven by the drive structure of the traveling wheel 131, or by an independent drive structure, so that the auxiliary wheel 132 can actively rotate relative to the main body 120, thereby realizing the steering function of the main body 120. Alternatively, the drive structure can control a speed difference between the two traveling wheels 131, so that the two traveling wheels 131 can turn in place, while the auxiliary wheel 132 can passively follow the two traveling wheels 131 to turn, which helps to simplify the structure of the base station 100.

[0037] Alternatively, besides the above-mentioned arrangement of two traveling wheels 131 and one auxiliary wheel 132 in a triangular shape, the specific number and arrangement of the traveling wheels 131 and auxiliary wheels 132 can also be selected according to design requirements. For example, the number of auxiliary wheels 132 can also be two, and the two auxiliary wheels 132 can be arranged opposite each other and spaced apart, and respectively opposite to and spaced apart from the two traveling wheels 131, so that the line connecting the two auxiliary wheels 132 and the two traveling wheels 131 can form a rectangle.

[0038] Optionally, the design of the auxiliary wheel 132 can be omitted, and the roller assembly 130 can consist only of the traveling wheel 131. There can be multiple traveling wheels 131, and these multiple traveling wheels 131 can collectively support the main body 120. For example, there can be four traveling wheels 131, and the lines connecting the four traveling wheels 131 can form a rectangle. Simultaneously, the multiple traveling wheels 131 can be controlled by a drive structure to create a speed difference, enabling the main body 120 to have a steering function. It is understood that, besides the above-described scheme, there can be various other arrangements of the traveling wheels 131 and the auxiliary wheel 132, which will not be listed in this embodiment.

[0039] Optionally, the roller assembly 130 can be a combination of the traveling wheel 131 and the auxiliary wheel 132, or it can adopt other structures with similar functions. For example, the roller assembly 130 may also include multiple rollers and a track wound around the multiple rollers, so as to use the multiple rollers to drive the track to generate rolling friction with the working surface, thereby realizing the movement function of the base station 100. That is, the specific implementation of the roller assembly 130 can be selected according to design requirements, and is not limited to the solutions shown in the above embodiments. This embodiment will not list them all here.

[0040] The auxiliary wheel 132 can also be located on the path of the cleaning robot 200 to dock with the main body 120. To prevent the auxiliary wheel 132 from obstructing the docking of the main body 120 and the cleaning robot 200, the auxiliary wheel 132 can also be movably connected to the main body 120. Specifically, when the cleaning robot 200 separates from the main body 120, the auxiliary wheel 132 can contact the working surface to assist the walking wheel 131 in moving the main body 120. When the cleaning robot 200 docks with the main body 120, the auxiliary wheel 132 can separate from the working surface to avoid the cleaning robot 200.

[0041] For example, the main body 120 may have a connection space 1201, and the cleaning robot 200 may dock with the main body 120 within this connection space 1201. Figures 3 to 4As shown, the presence of the roller assembly 130 causes the main body 120 to be raised a certain height above the working surface. Therefore, in addition to forming an opening on the side of the main body 120, the connecting space 1201 also needs to form an opening on the bottom surface of the main body 120 near the working surface. This allows the cleaning robot 200 to enter or exit the connecting space 1201 through this opening and dock with the main body 120. Furthermore, the presence of the connecting space 1201 also increases the distance between the main body 120 and the working surface at the connecting space 1201, thereby reducing the probability of the main body 120 colliding or scraping against the protrusions on the working surface during movement.

[0042] Furthermore, since the presence of the connecting space 1201 affects the layout of the auxiliary wheel 132, the auxiliary wheel 132 can also be located within the connecting space 1201 and can be retractably connected to the main body 120 via structures such as telescopic rods or lifting rods. When the cleaning robot 200 needs to move into the connecting space 1201, the auxiliary wheel 132 can retract into the corresponding avoidance area of ​​the connecting space 1201 to avoid the movement of the cleaning robot 200. When the cleaning robot 200 moves out of the connecting space 1201, the auxiliary wheel 132 can extend out of the connecting space 1201 to contact the working surface and, together with the walking wheel 131, support the main body 120, thus cooperating with the walking wheel 131 to realize the movement and turning of the base station 100. In this embodiment, the telescopic rod or lifting rod and other transmission structures can extend or retract under the drive of the electrode or other driving structures, thereby driving the auxiliary wheel 132 to actively avoid the cleaning robot 200.

[0043] In some embodiments, the auxiliary wheel 132 can actively avoid obstacles under the drive of structures such as telescopic rods or lifting rods, or passively avoid obstacles. For example, an elastic structure such as a spring is provided on the telescopic rod or lifting rod, and this elastic structure can generate elastic force to cause the telescopic rod or lifting rod to drive the auxiliary wheel 132 to extend out of the connecting space 1201 and contact the working surface. When the cleaning robot 200 enters the connecting space 1201, the cleaning robot 200 can push the auxiliary wheel 132 back into the connecting space 1201, causing the elastic structure to undergo elastic deformation. When the cleaning robot 200 leaves the connecting space 1201, the auxiliary wheel 132 can extend out of the connecting space 1201 and contact the working surface under the elastic force of the elastic structure.

[0044] In some embodiments, when the base station 100 moves under the drive of the cleaning robot 200, the drive structure included in the aforementioned roller assembly 130 may be omitted. In this case, the walking wheels 131 and the auxiliary wheels 132 can roll on the working surface with the cleaning robot 200, so that the main body 120 can move on the working surface with the cleaning robot 200.

[0045] Optionally, base station 100 may further include: tray assembly 140. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the tray assembly 140 can also be disposed within the connecting space 1201 and can be telescopically connected to the main body 120 via a structure such as a telescopic rod or a lifting rod. The tray assembly 140 can also have a baking function. Specifically, when the cleaning robot 200 needs to move into the connecting space 1201, the tray assembly 140 can extend from the connecting space 1201 onto the working surface, and the cleaning robot 200 can move from the working surface onto the tray assembly 140, allowing the tray assembly 140 to dry the parts of the cleaning robot 200 that need baking. When the cleaning robot 200 moves out of the connecting space 1201, the tray assembly 140 can retract into the connecting space 1201 to avoid obstructing the movement of the base station 100. For example, the tray assembly 140 may include a tray for supporting the cleaning robot 200 and telescopically connected to the main body 120, and a coil embedded in the tray to generate heat by energizing the coil to dry the cleaning robot 200. Of course, the tray assembly 140 can also adopt other structural designs with load-bearing and baking functions, and is not limited to the above-mentioned tray and coil combination scheme. This embodiment will not list them one by one.

[0046] Please combine Figure 4 See Figures 6 to 7 , Figure 6 yes Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the structural composition of the base station 100 and the cleaning robot 200. Figure 7 yes Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the structure of the cleaning robot 200.

[0047] To enable a reliable electrical connection with the cleaning robot 200, the base station 100 may further include a docking assembly 150. For example... Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, the docking component 150 can be disposed on the main body 120 and exposed within the connection space 1201. Simultaneously, the docking component 150 can be detachably connected to the cleaning robot 200, and while detachably connected to the cleaning robot 200, it is also electrically connected to the cleaning robot 200, allowing the base station 100 to supply power to the cleaning robot 200 through the docking component 150. With this configuration, the base station 100 can utilize the docking component 150 to simultaneously establish both mechanical and electrical connections with the cleaning robot 200, thereby improving the reliability of the electrical connection between the base station 100 and the cleaning robot 200 while achieving a detachable connection.

[0048] To achieve a detachable connection between the docking component 150 and the cleaning robot 200, the docking component 150 allows the corresponding mating component 201 of the cleaning robot 200 to be inserted, and can be detachably connected to the mating component 201 inserted into the cleaning robot 200 via a movable snap-fit. The mating component 201 may have a slot, into which the movable snap-fit ​​can engage to achieve the engagement between the docking component 150 and the mating component 201. Simultaneously, the movable snap-fit ​​can also disengage from the slot to release the engagement with the mating component 201, allowing the mating component 201 to exit the docking component 150, thus enabling a detachable connection between the base station 100 and the cleaning robot 200. The snap-fit ​​can be moved under the drive of a drive structure such as a motor or cylinder. In addition, the slot in which the docking component 150 is inserted into the mating component 201 may also be provided with conductive structures such as contacts or electrode plates, and the mating component 201 may also be provided with conductive structures that contact the contacts or electrode plates, so that the docking component 150 and the mating component 201 can be detachably connected while also making electrical contact, so as to realize the mechanical and electrical connection between the base station 100 and the cleaning robot 200.

[0049] It is understood that there are various other ways to detachably connect the docking component 150 and the mating component 201, and these methods are not limited to the solutions described in the above embodiments. For example, after being inserted into the docking component 150, the mating component 201 can also be rotated, and after rotation, it can engage with the corresponding slot on the docking component 150 in the direction of disengagement from the docking component 150. Furthermore, the mating component 201 can also be rotated in the opposite direction to release the engagement with the docking component 150, thereby achieving a detachable connection between the docking component 150 and the mating component 201. That is, the specific connection method between the docking component 150 and the mating component 201 can be selected according to design requirements, and will not be listed in detail in this embodiment.

[0050] In some embodiments, the docking component 150 may be detachably connected only to the mating component 201, while the electrical connection between the base station 100 and the cleaning robot 200 can be achieved through other conductive structures. For example, the aforementioned conductive structures such as contacts or electrode plates can be independently disposed on the housing of the main body 120 and the cleaning robot 200, and the electrical connection between the base station 100 and the cleaning robot 200 can be achieved through electrical contact, rather than being limited to being disposed on the docking component 150 and the mating component 201. It is sufficient that the conductive structures on the housing of the main body 120 and the cleaning robot 200 can make synchronous contact after the docking component 150 and the mating component 201 are connected. Of course, in some embodiments, the detachable connection between the docking component 150 and the mating component 201 can also be omitted, and it is sufficient that the docking component 150 and the mating component 201 can make electrical contact.

[0051] To support the operation of the first cleaning component 111, the base station 100 may further include a first dust collection component 121 and a first fan 122 disposed within the main body 120, which is the aforementioned dust collection structure. Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, the first dust collection component 121 can be connected to the first fan 122 and the first suction port 1111. The first fan 122 can suck in solid waste such as dust into the first dust collection component 121 through the first suction port 1111 to realize the dust collection function of the base station 100.

[0052] Furthermore, the base station 100 may also include a first clean water tank 123 and a first wastewater tank 124 disposed within the main body 120, which is the water tank structure described above. The first clean water tank 123 can be connected to a water outlet 1113, and the first clean water tank 123 can spray water onto the working surface through the water outlet 1113, while the first wastewater tank 124 can suck up wastewater from the working surface through a second suction port 1114.

[0053] To support the operation of the cleaning robot 200, the cleaning robot 200 may include a second fan 210 and a second dust collection component 220, and the main body 120 may also be provided with a dust collection port 1202 communicating with the first dust collection component 121. When the cleaning robot 200 docks with the main body 120, the dust collection port 1202 can connect the first dust collection component 121 and the second dust collection component 220, and the first fan 122 can adsorb dust from the second dust collection component 220 into the first dust collection component 121 through the dust collection port 1202, thereby realizing the garbage collection function of the cleaning robot 200 by the base station 100. In this embodiment, the power of the first fan 122 can be greater than the power of the second fan 210, making the dust collection effect of the base station 100 better than that of the cleaning robot 200.

[0054] Furthermore, the cleaning robot 200 may also include a second clean water tank 230 and a second wastewater tank 240, and the main body 120 may also be provided with a first connection port 1203 and a second connection port 1204 respectively communicating with the first clean water tank 123 and the first wastewater tank 124. When the cleaning robot 200 docks with the main body 120, the first connection port 1203 can connect the first clean water tank 123 and the second clean water tank 230, and the first clean water tank 123 can supply water to the second clean water tank 230 through the first connection port 1203. Similarly, when the cleaning robot 200 docks with the main body 120, the second connection port 1204 can connect the first wastewater tank 124 and the second wastewater tank 240, and the first wastewater tank 124 can collect wastewater from the second wastewater tank 240 through the second connection port 1204.

[0055] To control the operation of base station 100 and cleaning robot 200 as needed, base station 100 may further include: environmental detection component E. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the environmental detection component E can be mounted on the main body 120, and can be used to detect the external environment so that the base station 100 and the cleaning robot 200 can work together or separately. Simultaneously, the environmental detection component E can also enable the visual function of the base station 100 to guide its movement and obstacle avoidance, allowing the base station 100 to operate independently. In this embodiment, the environmental detection component E may include a camera, enabling it to detect and identify the external environment through images.

[0056] For example, the environmental detection component E can identify facilities in a home environment such as carpets, sofas, or floors, and can determine the degree of dirtiness of these facilities. When the environmental detection component E detects a heavily soiled carpet, it can control the base station 100 to clean the carpet independently, or control the base station 100 and the cleaning robot 200 to work together to clean the carpet, thus meeting the cleaning needs for heavily soiled surfaces. When the environmental detection component E detects a lightly soiled floor, it can send a signal to the cleaning robot 200, which, upon receiving the signal, can clean the floor independently, thus meeting the cleaning needs for light to moderate dirt.

[0057] In some embodiments, in addition to detecting dirt and / or facilities in the external environment, the environmental detection component E can also detect the size of the external environment to control the operation of the base station 100 and the cleaning robot 200 based on the size of the external environment. For example, if the space to be cleaned is large, the base station 100 and the cleaning robot 200 are controlled to clean in different areas to improve cleaning efficiency. If the space to be cleaned is small, the cleaning robot 200 is controlled to clean alone to reduce the energy consumption of the cleaning system 10.

[0058] In some embodiments, when the base station 100 and the cleaning robot 200 work together, the base station 100 can also move under the drive of the cleaning robot 200, without having the aforementioned environmental recognition component E and drive component. That is, the base station 100 can only move under the drive of the cleaning robot 200, and does not have the function of independent movement. This configuration simplifies the structure of the base station 100 and reduces the production cost of the base station 100.

[0059] To realize the various functions of the main body 120, the base station 100 may further include a battery assembly 125 disposed within the main body 120, which can be electrically connected to the functional component 110 and can supply power to the functional component 110. Of course, in addition to the functional component 110, the battery assembly 125 can also supply power to other functional devices integrated within the main body 120 to realize the corresponding functions of the base station 100.

[0060] The cleaning robot 200 is detachably mounted within the connection space 1201 and can be mechanically and electrically connected to the base station 100 via the docking component 150. For example... Figures 6 to 7 As shown, the cleaning robot 200 has a second cleaning component 250, which can be located on the side of the cleaning robot 200 closer to the working surface. The cleaning robot 200 can move and separate from the base station 100, that is, when it moves out of the connection space 1201 to perform cleaning tasks, the cleaning robot 200 can use the second cleaning component 250 to clean dirt from the external environment. Simultaneously, the cleaning intensity of the first cleaning component 111 can be greater than that of the second cleaning component 250, to differentiate the cleaning capabilities of the base station 100 and the cleaning robot 200. In this embodiment, the movement scheme of the cleaning robot 200 can be the same as or similar to that of the base station 100; that is, the cleaning robot 200 can also be equipped with a roller assembly 130 to realize the movement function of the cleaning robot 200.

[0061] The second cleaning component 250 may include at least one of a side brush 251, a second roller brush 252, and a mop 253, and all three may be positioned on the side of the cleaning robot 200 closest to the work surface. Since the cleaning robot 200 is used to clean lightly soiled areas, the bristles of the second roller brush 252 may be less stiff than those of the first roller brush 1112. That is, the side brush 251 and the second roller brush 252 can use softer bristles to meet the cleaning requirements of lightly soiled areas. Furthermore, when the cleaning robot 200 enters the connecting space 1201, the area containing the mop 253 can be positioned on the tray assembly 140, allowing the tray assembly 140 to dry the mop 253.

[0062] In some embodiments, the bristle hardness of the side brush 251 and the second roller brush 252 can also be selected according to cleaning needs, and is not limited to the above-mentioned scheme where the bristle hardness is weaker than that of the first roller brush 1112. Furthermore, the specific design of the second cleaning component 250 can also be selected according to cleaning needs, and is not limited to the side brush 251, the second roller brush 252, and the mop 253 in the above-mentioned scheme, as long as the cleaning robot 200 can use the second cleaning component 250 to clean dirt from the external environment.

[0063] To support the operation of the second cleaning component 250, the cleaning robot 200 may also have a suction port similar to the first suction port 1111 on the bottom facing the work surface. This suction port can be connected to the second dust collection component 220, allowing the second fan 210 to suck dust from the work surface into the second dust collection component 220. Similarly, the cleaning robot 200 may also have two openings similar to the water outlet 1113 and the second suction port 1114. The second clean water tank 230 can be connected to the mop 253 through one opening to supply water to the mop 253 for mopping, while the second wastewater tank 240 can collect wastewater from the work surface through the other opening.

[0064] Furthermore, since the base station 100 has a larger volume, the volume of the first clean water tank 123 can be larger than the volume of the second clean water tank 230, the volume of the first wastewater tank 124 can be larger than the volume of the second wastewater tank 240, and the volume of the first dust collection component 121 is also larger than the volume of the second dust collection component 220. When the base station 100 and the cleaning robot 200 work together to perform cleaning tasks, the first cleaning component 111 of the base station 100 may not be operational, and the base station 100 can utilize the second cleaning component 250 of the cleaning robot 200 for cleaning, thereby enhancing the cleaning capability of the cleaning robot 200 by utilizing the large-capacity water tank and the high-power fan. Of course, the first cleaning component 111 and the second cleaning component 250 can also operate simultaneously; their specific operating modes can be selected according to cleaning needs, which will not be listed in detail in this embodiment.

[0065] Please see Figures 8 to 10 , Figure 8 This is another structural schematic diagram of the cleaning system 10 provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the stair-climbing structure of the cleaning system 10 provided in this application embodiment. Figure 10 This is a structural schematic diagram of the cleaning system 10 provided in this application embodiment, which climbs stairs, from another perspective.

[0066] Considering that obstacles such as shoes, toys, and clothing may exist during the cleaning process on the work surface, the cleaning system 10 provided in this embodiment can also have a gripping function to move the obstacles to the corresponding positions during the cleaning process, so that the cleaning system 10 can clean the area where the obstacles are located. Figure 8 As shown, to realize the grasping function of base station 100, functional component 110 may further include a grasping component 112. The grasping component 112 can be connected to the main body 120 and can have a grasping function to grasp objects in the external environment. For example, when base station 100 goes to a children's play area to perform a cleaning task, the grasping component 112 can grasp toys scattered on the work surface and place the toys in the corresponding storage area. This not only clears obstacles from the work surface to facilitate the base station 100's cleaning task but also achieves the function of household chores organization.

[0067] Optionally, in addition to grasping obstacles during cleaning tasks, the cleaning system 10 can also use the grasping component 112 to grasp items needed by the user, such as medicines, remote controls, or slippers, and place these items in the corresponding area for the user's use. For example, when a user is unwell and unable to move, the user can give a voice command to the base station 100 requesting the delivery of medicine. The base station 100 can then go to the corresponding medicine storage area according to the command, grasp the corresponding medicine, and place it in the user's area for the user to use. That is, in addition to cleaning functions, the base station 100 provided in this embodiment can also use the grasping component 112 to realize home service functions such as housework, elderly and child care, and family companionship.

[0068] Optionally, to expand the cleaning range of the cleaning system 10, the cleaning system 10 may also have a stair-climbing function, allowing it to be used in multi-story residences and other home environments with stairs. Figures 9 to 10 As shown, the base station 100 may further include a telescopic component 160, which can connect the main body 120 and the gripping component 112. The telescopic component 160 may have a telescopic function, and the gripping component 112 can be supported on a working surface. When the gripping component 112 is supported on the working surface, the telescopic component 160 can extend or retract to move the main body 120 towards or away from the working surface.

[0069] Furthermore, the telescopic assembly 160 may include a telescopic member 161 and a connecting member 162. The telescopic member 161 can be connected to both the main body 120 and the connecting member 162, and the gripping assembly 112 can be connected to the connecting member 162. When the gripping assembly 112 is supported on the working surface, the telescopic assembly 160 can retract to move the main body 120 away from the working surface, and the telescopic assembly 160 can also extend to move the main body 120 closer to the working surface.

[0070] Specifically, when the cleaning system 10 needs to climb stairs, the gripping component 112 can be supported on the working surface, while the telescopic component 160 can retract to move the main body 120 away from the working surface, allowing the main body 120 to be lifted off the working surface. Once the main body 120 is lifted above the height of the stairs, the gripping component 112 can tilt towards the stairs, allowing the main body 120 to be placed on the stairs, while the gripping component 112 continues to support it on the stair surface. This cycle repeats to achieve the function of the cleaning system 10 climbing stairs. In this embodiment, in addition to the base station 100 climbing stairs independently, the base station 100 and the cleaning robot 200 can climb stairs in a combined state. It is understood that the above-described stair-climbing process is merely illustrative, and the stair-climbing action of the cleaning system 10 can be adaptively adjusted according to design requirements, and is not limited to the above solution.

[0071] In some embodiments, the telescopic component 160 may also be disposed on the gripping component 112. For example, the telescopic component 160 may be disposed on the end of the gripping component 112 connected to the body 120, and may be connected to the body 120. When the gripping component 112 is supported on the working surface, the telescopic component 160 may extend to move the body 120 away from the working surface, and may retract to move the body 120 closer to the working surface.

[0072] To achieve the aforementioned home service and stair-climbing functions, the grasping component 112 may include a robotic arm 1121 and a robotic hand 1122. The robotic arm 1121 can be movably connected to the connector 162, allowing it to move relative to the connector 162 and improving the flexibility of the grasping component 112. The robotic hand 1122 can be connected to the robotic arm 1121 and can grasp objects such as toys, shoes, chairs, and medicines. Furthermore, the robotic hand 1122 is designed to resemble a human hand, thus possessing high flexibility and the ability to grasp various objects, making it more versatile. Additionally, when the cleaning system 10 needs to climb stairs, the robotic hand 1122 can unfold and support itself on the work surface, and can tilt upwards with the robotic arm 1121 to place the main body 120 on the stairs. In this embodiment, there can be two gripping components 112, which can be located on opposite sides of the connector 162.

[0073] Alternatively, the gripping component 112 can be a combination of the robotic arm 1121 and the robotic hand 1122, or other gripping solutions. For example, the robotic hand 1122 can be replaced with other grippers with holding functions to grip the aforementioned types of objects. In this case, the gripping component 112 can only have a gripping function, and the gripping component 112 can be directly connected to the side of the main body 120 without needing to cooperate with the telescopic component 160 to achieve the function of climbing stairs.

[0074] Optionally, the base station 100 may further include a detection component 103 on the connector 162. For example... Figures 8 to 10 As shown, the detection component 103 can be used to implement the machine vision function of the cleaning system 10, enabling the cleaning system 10 to acquire real-time images of the external environment through the detection component 103, and to control its own movement distance, movement direction, and movement posture in real time based on the acquired image data. The detection component 103 can be composed of structures with detection functions, such as a camera, a distance sensor, and a speed sensor, to realize the detection function of the detection component 103. In some embodiments, the detection component 103 can also replace the environmental detection component E in the above embodiment.

[0075] Optionally, the functional component 110 may include only one of the first cleaning component 111 and the gripping component 112, and is not limited to including both the first cleaning component 111 and the gripping component 112. Of course, in addition to the first cleaning component 111 and the gripping component 112, the functional component 110 may also include structural components for implementing other functions, such as display components, speaker components, and storage components, etc., which will not be listed and described in detail in this embodiment.

[0076] The base station 100 provided in this application can move on its own or under the drive of the cleaning robot 200 on the working surface. The base station 100 also has a main body 120 that docks with the cleaning robot 200 and a functional component 110 connected to the main body 120. This allows the base station 100 to move and perform corresponding functions through the functional component 110. Compared with the solution where the base station 100 is fixed in position and only used to support the operation of the cleaning robot 200, this is conducive to realizing the diversified design of the base station 100's functions, thereby meeting diverse cleaning needs.

[0077] The above description is only a part of the embodiments of this application and does not limit the scope of protection of this application. Any equivalent device or equivalent process transformation made based on the content of this application specification and drawings, or direct or indirect application in other related technical fields, are similarly included in the patent protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A base station, characterized in that, The base station includes: The main body is used to dock with the cleaning robot; and A functional component, connected to the main body, is used to perform work tasks; The base station is also configured to move on the working surface by itself or move on the working surface under the drive of the cleaning robot.

2. The base station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The functional components include: a first cleaning component, which is used to clean dirt in the external environment.

3. The base station according to claim 2, characterized in that, The main body is provided with a first fan and a first dust collection component connected to the first fan. The first cleaning component includes a first suction port located at the bottom of the main body. The first suction port is connected to the first dust collection component. The main body is also provided with a dust collection port connected to the first dust collection component. The cleaning robot includes a second fan and a second dust collection component connected to the second fan. When the cleaning robot docks with the main body, the dust collection port is used to connect with the second dust collection component.

4. The base station according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first cleaning component further includes a first roller brush, which is disposed at the first suction port and is rotatably connected to the main body.

5. The base station according to claim 4, characterized in that, The cleaning robot further includes a second cleaning component, and the second cleaning component includes a second roller brush; the bristle hardness of the first roller brush is greater than the bristle hardness of the second roller brush.

6. The base station according to claim 3, characterized in that, The power of the first fan is greater than that of the second fan.

7. The base station according to claim 2, characterized in that, The main body is provided with a first clean water tank and a first wastewater tank. The first cleaning component includes: a water outlet and a second suction port located at the bottom of the main body. The water outlet and the second suction port are respectively connected to the first clean water tank and the first wastewater tank. The main body is also provided with a first connection port and a second connection port that are respectively connected to the first clean water tank and the first sewage tank. The cleaning robot includes a second clean water tank and a second sewage tank. When the cleaning robot docks with the main body, the first connection port is used to connect to the second clean water tank and the second connection port is used to connect to the second sewage tank.

8. The base station according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first cleaning component further includes a roller, which is located at the water outlet and is rotatably connected to the main body.

9. The base station according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The functional component includes: a grasping component connected to the main body, the grasping component being used to grasp objects in the external environment.

10. The base station according to claim 9, characterized in that, The base station also includes: a telescopic component; The telescopic component connects the main body and the gripping component, and the gripping component is configured to be supported on the working surface; When the gripping component is supported on the working surface, the telescopic component is configured to extend and retract to move the main body toward or away from the working surface.

11. The base station according to claim 10, characterized in that, The telescopic assembly includes: a telescopic component and a connecting component; The telescopic member connects the main body and the connecting member respectively, and the gripping assembly is connected to the connecting member; when the gripping assembly is supported on the working surface, the telescopic member is configured to retract to move the main body away from the working surface, and is configured to extend to move the main body closer to the working surface.

12. The base station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The base station includes a roller assembly, which includes a walking wheel rotatably connected to the main body, and the walking wheel is located at the bottom of the main body.

13. The base station according to claim 12, characterized in that, The roller assembly also includes a drive structure connected to the walking wheel, the drive structure being used to drive the walking wheel to rotate relative to the main body, thereby moving the base station.

14. The base station according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that, The roller assembly also includes an auxiliary wheel, which is movably connected to the main body. The auxiliary wheel is located on the path of the cleaning robot entering and exiting the base station. When the cleaning robot is separated from the main body, the auxiliary wheel is used to contact the working surface. When the cleaning robot docks with the main body, the auxiliary wheel is separated from the working surface.

15. The base station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The base station also includes a battery assembly, which is disposed within the main body and electrically connected to the functional components.

16. The base station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The base station also includes an environmental detection component, which is connected to the main body and is used to detect the external environment.

17. A cleaning system, characterized in that, The cleaning system includes: a cleaning robot and a base station as described in any one of claims 1-16; the cleaning robot is configured to move independently on the working surface.

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