Base station for a robot vacuum cleaner

Abstract

The base station for the sweeping robot can include: a main body constituting a main body of the base station; a cleaning plate arranged in the main body and forming a cleaning space for cleaning a cleaning cloth; a first supply flow path forming a flow path for water movement in the main body; a second supply flow path forming a flow path for water movement in the main body, different from the first supply flow path; a heater heating water passing through the first supply flow path; and an integrated flow path, an inlet of the integrated flow path being connected with an end of the first supply flow path and an end of the second supply flow path, and an outlet of the integrated flow path being communicated with the cleaning space. According to the embodiment of the utility model, the supply of raw water and hot water (or steam) can be realized quickly, raw water and hot water (or steam) can be supplied to the cleaning space through one flow path, the problem of water leakage at the connection of the flow path can be easily solved, and the cleaning of the cleaning cloth can be concentrated and effectively carried out.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to a sweeping robot and a base station for sweeping robots. More specifically, it relates to a sweeping robot and a base station for sweeping robots that can perform charging, dust collection, and mop cleaning based on the base station when the sweeping robot, including a mop, is combined with the base station. Background Technology

[0002] Robotic vacuum cleaners, which include motors, various sensors, batteries, and artificial intelligence (AI), can autonomously drive and clean the areas that need cleaning.

[0003] Robotic vacuum cleaners can clean dust by vacuuming it in or by sweeping it up and / or by wiping the surface with a cloth.

[0004] Robotic vacuum cleaners typically have their base stations located in designated areas. After completing cleaning, the robotic vacuum cleaner approaches and docks with the base station. If the robotic vacuum cleaner docks with the base station, the base station and the charging terminal connect to each other, allowing the robotic vacuum cleaner to charge via the base station, and the base station to collect dust from the robotic vacuum cleaner's dustbin.

[0005] Chinese Patent Publication CN114601400A (Publication Date: 2022.06.10) (hereinafter referred to as "Patent Document 1") and Chinese Utility Model Patent Publication CN217592769U (Publication Date: 2022.10.18) (hereinafter referred to as "Patent Document 2") respectively disclose base stations that achieve self-cleaning.

[0006] Although the aforementioned Patent Documents 1 and 2 disclose base stations for implementing cleaning and sweeping devices, they do not consider steam-based cleaning of cloths, and therefore require improvement. Utility Model Content

[0007] When a robot vacuum cleaner uses water for cleaning, measures need to be taken to prevent water leakage, and measures also need to be taken to address potential problems when using steam.

[0008] One problem this invention aims to solve is to provide a base station for a sweeping robot that can quickly supply raw water and hot water (and steam) respectively when cleaning the parts (objects to be cleaned) in the sweeping robot, and can prevent scale formation when supplying steam.

[0009] One of the problems to be solved by this utility model is to provide a base station for a sweeping robot that can supply raw water, hot water and steam to the cleaning plate of the base station through a flow path.

[0010] One problem this invention aims to solve is to provide a base station for a sweeping robot that can centrally supply raw water and steam when cleaning objects in the robot and effectively prevent water leakage.

[0011] One problem this invention aims to solve is to provide a base station for a sweeping robot that can effectively allow steam to penetrate into the mop of the sweeping robot, prevent steam waste, and effectively clean the mop.

[0012] The sweeping robot and the base station for the sweeping robot according to the embodiments of this utility model can constitute a sweeping robot system. That is, the sweeping robot system includes the sweeping robot and the base station for the sweeping robot described in this utility model.

[0013] The sweeping robot of this utility model uses a base station as a base station for the sweeping robot to be integrated with, including a main body, a cleaning plate, a first supply flow path and a second supply flow path.

[0014] The sweeping robot can be equipped with a mop.

[0015] The base station for the robotic vacuum cleaner may include a heater. The base station for the robotic vacuum cleaner may include an integrated flow path.

[0016] The main body constitutes the main body of the base station.

[0017] The cleaning plate is disposed on the main body.

[0018] The cleaning plate includes a cleaning space. The cleaning plate includes a washing water inlet.

[0019] The cleaning space forms a space for cleaning the objects to be cleaned by the robot vacuum cleaner. The cleaning space can be used to clean the robot vacuum cleaner's mop. The cleaning space can also form a space for washing water to flow in. The cleaning space can be located below the robot vacuum cleaner. The cleaning space can also form a space for washing water to flow in for cleaning the mop.

[0020] The washing water inlet can open towards the inside of the washing space.

[0021] The first supply flow path forms a flow path for water movement within the main body. The first supply flow path can also form a flow path for hot water or steam movement within the main body. The first supply flow path can be connected to the washing water inlet.

[0022] The second supply flow path forms a water flow path within the main body. The second supply flow path is distinct from the first supply flow path. The second supply flow path can be connected to the washing water inlet.

[0023] The heater can heat the water passing through the first supply path.

[0024] The integrated flow path forms a flow path for fluid movement. The inlet of the integrated flow path can be connected to the end of the first supply flow path and the end of the second supply flow path, and the outlet of the integrated flow path can communicate with the cleaning space.

[0025] The outlet of the integrated flow path can be connected to the washing water inlet.

[0026] The cleaning plate may include a cleaning bottom surface and boundary walls.

[0027] The cleaning bottom surface can be formed facing the rag. The cleaning bottom surface can form the bottom surface of the cleaning space. The cleaning bottom surface can be circular in a top view.

[0028] The boundary wall may protrude upwards from the edge of the cleaning bottom surface. The boundary wall may be circular in a top view.

[0029] The washing water inlet can be shaped to extend through the inside and outside of the boundary wall.

[0030] The base station for the sweeping robot may include a washer.

[0031] The gasket can be sandwiched between the outlet of the integrated flow path and the inlet of the washing water flow.

[0032] The cleaning plate may include a first guide wall and a second guide wall.

[0033] The first guide wall extends inward from the boundary wall. The first guide wall may be positioned adjacent to the washing water inlet. The first guide wall protrudes upward from the bottom surface of the washing surface.

[0034] The second guide wall extends inward from the boundary wall on the opposite side of the first guide wall, with the washing water inlet as a reference. The second guide wall protrudes upward from the bottom surface of the washing surface.

[0035] The cleaning bottom surface can be divided into a first cleaning bottom surface and a second cleaning bottom surface.

[0036] The first cleaning bottom surface is disposed on the inner side of the first guide wall and the second guide wall.

[0037] The second cleaning bottom surface is disposed on the outside of the first guide wall and the second guide wall.

[0038] The first cleaning bottom surface can form a higher step than the second cleaning bottom surface.

[0039] All or part of the first guide wall and the second guide wall may be formed such that the spacing between them becomes narrower as it gets closer to the center of the cleaning bottom surface.

[0040] The cleaning plate may include a first protrusion.

[0041] The first protrusion may be provided in multiples. The first protrusion protrudes upward from the bottom surface of the cleaning surface between the first guide wall and the second guide wall.

[0042] The plurality of the first protrusions and the washing water inlets may be arranged radially along the washing bottom surface.

[0043] The cleaning plate may include a second protrusion.

[0044] The second protrusion protrudes upward from the bottom surface of the cleaning surface at a position spaced apart from the first guide wall and the second guide wall. Multiple second protrusions may be provided. These multiple second protrusions may be arranged towards the center of the bottom surface of the cleaning surface.

[0045] The cleaning plate may include a third guide wall.

[0046] The third guide wall protrudes upward from the bottom surface of the cleaning surface.

[0047] The third guide wall may be formed radially along the bottom surface of the cleaning surface at a position spaced apart from the first guide wall and the second guide wall in the circumferential direction of the cleaning surface.

[0048] The second protrusion may be formed on the upper side of the second guide wall.

[0049] The base station for the robotic vacuum cleaner may include a washing tank.

[0050] The washing tank can be configured on the underside of the washing plate.

[0051] The cleaning plate may include internal through holes. These internal through holes can penetrate vertically through the bottom surface of the cleaning plate. Multiple internal through holes may be provided.

[0052] The cleaning plate may include an outer bottom surface and an outer boundary wall.

[0053] The outer bottom surface can be located on the outer side of the boundary wall.

[0054] The outer boundary wall can protrude upward from the outer bottom surface and surround the boundary wall.

[0055] The cleaning plate may include external through holes. These external through holes can extend vertically through the outer bottom surface. Multiple external through holes may be provided.

[0056] The base station for the robotic vacuum cleaner may include a water treatment filter. The water treatment filter may be located upstream of the heater in the first supply flow path.

[0057] The base station for a sweeping robot according to an embodiment of this utility model includes a main body, a cleaning plate, a first supply flow path, and a second supply flow path. A cleaning space is provided on the cleaning plate. The base station for the sweeping robot may include a heater. The base station for the sweeping robot may include an integrated flow path. The integrated flow path communicates with the cleaning space. A washing water inlet may be provided on the cleaning plate. The washing water inlet communicates with the cleaning space. The ends of the first and second supply flow paths may be connected to the integrated flow path. The first and second supply flow paths may be connected to the washing water inlet. According to an embodiment of this utility model, a base station for a sweeping robot is provided in which hot water and / or steam supplied through the first supply flow path and water (raw water) supplied through the second supply flow path can be supplied to the cleaning space via an integrated flow path and used in the cleaning of objects (e.g., a rag), minimizing the parts that need to be sealed and facilitating the prevention of water leakage.

[0058] The base station for the robotic vacuum cleaner according to this embodiment includes a gasket. According to this embodiment, a gasket can be used to seal the flow path for supplying hot water and / or steam, as well as water (raw water).

[0059] Since steam can not only flow along the flow path, but also diffuse in all directions due to factors such as heat energy and pressure difference, the more parts connected to the flow path, the higher the risk of steam leakage. Therefore, in the base station for the sweeping robot of this utility model embodiment, the flow path for steam movement is integrated with the flow path for water (raw water) movement and connected to the cleaning plate, thereby easily preventing accidental steam leakage.

[0060] In the base station for the sweeping robot of this utility model embodiment, hot water and / or steam can be supplied to the cleaning space through the first supply flow path, and raw water can be supplied to the cleaning space through the second supply flow path. The supply of hot water (and / or steam) and raw water can be quickly switched, which can improve the cleaning efficiency of the object to be cleaned.

[0061] The robot vacuum cleaner base station of this embodiment may include a water treatment filter. Water filtered through the water treatment filter can be supplied to a heater, and the water heated by the heater can be supplied to the cleaning space and used in cleaning the robot vacuum cleaner's mop. By using hot water and steam, the cleaning efficiency of the mop can be improved, and scaling can be prevented from forming on the heater of the base station and in the flow path connected to the heater.

[0062] In the base station for the robotic vacuum cleaner according to this embodiment of the invention, the cleaning plate may include a cleaning bottom surface, boundary walls, and a washing water inlet. The cleaning plate may include a first guide wall and a second guide wall. Fluid (water and / or steam) flowing in from the washing water inlet flows into the space formed by the cleaning bottom surface, the boundary walls, and the bottom surface of the object being cleaned (e.g., a rag), and concentrates the supply of raw water and steam towards the object being cleaned. Therefore, even in the case of steam particle diffusion, the boundary walls can prevent the steam particles from flowing outwards, and they are absorbed by the rag located on the upper side of the cleaning bottom surface, thus preventing steam waste.

[0063] In the base station for a sweeping robot of this embodiment, the fluid (water and / or steam) flowing in from the washing water inlet can first come into contact with or be absorbed into the object to be cleaned (e.g., a mop) between the first and second guide walls. Therefore, the soaking and cleaning functions of the mop can be effectively utilized by centrally supplying hot water to the mop, and the sterilization function of the mop can be effectively utilized by centrally supplying steam to the mop. Furthermore, since the mop of the sweeping robot integrated into the base station of this embodiment can rotate, the entire area (area) of the mop can be effectively soaked, cleaned, and sterilized. In addition, even in the case of steam particle diffusion, it can be absorbed into the mop located on the upper side of the cleaning bottom surface while preventing external outflow through the first and second guide walls. Even if the steam flows to the outside of the first and second guide walls, most of the steam can be absorbed by the mop, which can more effectively prevent steam waste.

[0064] In the base station for the robotic vacuum cleaner according to this embodiment of the invention, the cleaning plate may include a plurality of first protrusions. The first protrusions reduce the movement speed of water or steam moving between the first guide wall and the second guide wall, and help to ensure that the water or steam moving between the first guide wall and the second guide wall comes into full contact with the mop or is absorbed by the mop.

[0065] When the plurality of first protrusions come into contact with the lower part of the cloth, they form gaps between the cloths. Water or steam that enters the cleaning space through these gaps can be absorbed by the cloths, thus effectively soaking, cleaning and sterilizing the cloths.

[0066] In the base station for the sweeping robot of this utility model embodiment, the cleaning plate may include a plurality of second protrusions. When the plurality of second protrusions come into contact with the lower part of the cloth, they can form gaps between the cloths and scrape the lower side of the cloth, so that water or steam is effectively absorbed by the cloth in the entire inner area of ​​the boundary wall, thereby improving the cleaning effect and more effectively soaking, cleaning and sterilizing the cloth.

[0067] The additional effects of the base station for the sweeping robot and the sweeping robot system according to the embodiments of the present invention will be described in the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0068] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a sweeping robot and a base station for the sweeping robot according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] Figure 2 This is a top sectional view schematically illustrating a base station housing a robotic vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] Figure 3 This is a schematic side sectional view showing a base station housing a robotic vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the movement of liquid or vapor in a sweeping robot system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] Figure 5 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the connection between the cleaning space, the first supply flow path, and the second supply flow path in a base station for a sweeping robot according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a portion of a base station for a sweeping robot according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] Figure 7 yes Figure 6 An enlarged image of a portion of the base station used by a robotic vacuum cleaner.

[0075] Figure 8 This is a perspective view showing the cleaning plate according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0076] Figure 9 It is shown Figure 8 Top view of the cleaning plate.

[0077] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of a base station for a sweeping robot according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0078] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in order to illustrate the present invention more specifically. Throughout the detailed embodiments, the same reference numerals denote the same constituent elements.

[0079] In the attached diagram, the X, Y, and Z directions are marked as mutually orthogonal. This can be understood as the X direction being forward, the Y direction being to the left, and the Z direction being upward.

[0080] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a sweeping robot 3 and a base station 2 for the sweeping robot according to an embodiment of the present invention. Unless otherwise specified, "base station" as described in this invention refers to "base station for sweeping robot".

[0081] The sweeping robot system 1 of this utility model embodiment includes a sweeping robot 3 and a base station 2.

[0082] The sweeping robot 3 of this embodiment is placed on ground B and moves along ground B. Ground B can be the object to be cleaned. Therefore, the following description is based on the state in which the sweeping robot 3 is placed on ground B according to its purpose, defining the up and down directions.

[0083] The base station 2 in this embodiment of the utility model is configured such that if the sweeping robot 3 is combined with the base station 2, it can charge the sweeping robot 3, collect dust from the dustbin 265 of the sweeping robot 3, and clean the mop 225 of the sweeping robot 3.

[0084] In this embodiment of the invention, the base station 2 is used to automatically clean the cleaning cloth 225 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 3. The base station 2 supplies hot water, steam, and hot air (the cloth 225 is dried by hot air) to the cleaning cloth 225 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 3, thereby improving the cleaning power and sterilization performance of the cloth 225.

[0085] In base station 2, hot water can be variably supplied to the cloth 225 according to the cleaning process to improve the cleaning performance. Hot water and steam can be effectively supplied to the cloth 225 for sterilization. Hot air can be used to dry the cloth 225, thereby enabling the deodorization and sterilization of the cloth 225.

[0086] As described above, the base station 2 and the sweeping robot system 1 according to the present invention can improve the cleaning performance, deodorizing and sterilizing performance of the rag 225 by utilizing hot water and steam supply and hot air drying function.

[0087] In the base station 2 of this embodiment, the sweeping robot 3 can be moved to or separated from the base station 2. Therefore, the following description is based on the state in which the base station 2 is placed on the ground B, allowing the sweeping robot 3 to be moved to or separated from the base station 2, defining the vertical direction.

[0088] The base station 2 of this utility model embodiment can be formed in various sizes and shapes.

[0089] In one embodiment, the base station 2 of this utility model has a length D1 in the front-to-back direction, a width D2 in the left-to-right direction, and a height D3 in the vertical direction, where D3 can be smaller than D1 and D2. That is, the vertical height D3 of the base station 2 is smaller than the length D1 in the front-to-back direction and the width D2 in the left-to-right direction. D3 can be less than half of D1 and D2, and D3 can be less than one-third of D1 and D2. As described above, the base station 2 of this utility model can be formed with a relatively flat structure.

[0090] Therefore, the base station 2 in this embodiment of the present invention can be set in a space with a relatively low vertical height.

[0091] The base station 2 of this utility model embodiment can be installed on the underside of furniture. That is, the base station 2 can be installed in the underside space of a specified piece of furniture supported by a plurality of legs. By using the underside space of the furniture as the installation space for the base station 2, the space for installing the base station 2 and the robot vacuum cleaner 3 can be effectively utilized indoors.

[0092] Figure 2 This is a top sectional view schematically showing a base station 2 housing a robotic vacuum cleaner 3 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0093] Figure 3 This is a schematic side sectional view of a base station 2 that houses a robotic vacuum cleaner 3, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0094] The sweeping robot 3 of this utility model embodiment includes a vacuum cleaner body 200, a rotating plate 220, and a mop 225. The rotating plate 220 and the mop 225 can be provided in pairs, in which case one mop 225 is combined with one rotating plate 220.

[0095] The vacuum cleaner body 200 can form the overall appearance of the robotic vacuum cleaner 3 or be formed in a frame shape. Various components constituting the robotic vacuum cleaner 3 can be integrated into the vacuum cleaner body 200, and some of the components constituting the robotic vacuum cleaner 3 can be housed inside the vacuum cleaner body 200.

[0096] In embodiments of this invention, the vacuum cleaner body 200 can be formed with a shape that is larger in the horizontal direction (width or diameter) than in the vertical direction (parallel to Z) dimension (height). This vacuum cleaner body 200 helps the sweeping robot 3 to form a stable structure and can provide a structure that facilitates the sweeping robot 3 in avoiding obstacles during movement (driving).

[0097] When viewed from above or below, the vacuum cleaner body 200 can be formed in a variety of shapes, such as round, oval, or quadrilateral.

[0098] The rotating plate 220 is attached to the lower side of the vacuum cleaner body 200 and rotates with respect to the vacuum cleaner body 200.

[0099] The rotating plate 220 is formed with a specified area and is shaped as a flat plate or a flat frame. The rotating plate 220 is generally placed horizontally, therefore, it is formed with a width (or diameter) in the horizontal direction that is sufficiently greater than its height in the vertical direction. The rotating plate 220, which is combined with the vacuum cleaner body 200, can be parallel to the ground B or can be tilted relative to the ground B.

[0100] The rotating plate 220 can be formed in a circular plate shape, and the bottom surface of the rotating plate 220 can be generally circular.

[0101] The rotating plate 220 can be formed in a rotationally symmetrical shape as a whole.

[0102] The rotation axis 220a of the rotating plate 220 is formed at the center of the rotating plate 220. The rotation axis 220a of the rotating plate 220 can be formed along the vertical direction, or generally along the vertical direction.

[0103] In the robotic vacuum cleaner 3 of this embodiment, a pair of rotating plates 220 can be formed to be identical to each other, or they can be formed to be symmetrical about the central line passing through the front and rear of the robotic vacuum cleaner 3. If any rotating plate 220 is located on the left side of the robotic vacuum cleaner 3, the other rotating plate 220 can be located on the right side of the robotic vacuum cleaner 3, and at this time the pair of rotating plates 220 can be symmetrical to each other.

[0104] The rag 225 overlaps with the rotating plate 220 and is attached to the underside of the rotating plate 220.

[0105] The rag 225 is formed with a defined area on its bottom surface facing the floor surface, and the rag 225 is formed in a flat shape. The rag 225 is formed with a width (or diameter) in the horizontal direction that is sufficiently greater than its height in the vertical direction. The bottom surface of the rag 225 may be parallel to the ground B, or it may be inclined relative to the ground B.

[0106] The bottom surface of the rag 225 can be generally circular. The rag 225 can be formed in a rotationally symmetrical shape. The rag 225 can be formed from various materials that can contact the ground B while wiping the ground B. The bottom surface of the rag 225 can be formed from a cloth made of fabric or woven material, non-woven fabric, and / or a brush with a specified area, etc.

[0107] In the sweeping robot 3 of this utility model embodiment, the mop 225 is detachably attached to the bottom surface of the rotating plate 220 and combined with the rotating plate 220 to rotate together with the rotating plate 220.

[0108] The cloth 225 can be detachably attached to the rotating plate 220 using various means and methods. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the cloth 225 can be attached to the rotating plate 220 by snap-fit, insertion, or other means. In another embodiment, a separate device, such as a clamp, can be provided for attaching the cloth 225 and the rotating plate 220. In yet another embodiment, one side of a pair of fastening devices that are attached and detachable (as specific examples of fastening devices, a pair of magnets that attract each other, a pair of Velcro fasteners that are attached to each other, or a pair of buttons (male and female) that are attached to each other) can be fixed to the cloth 225, while the other side is fixed to the rotating plate 220.

[0109] When the rag 225 is combined with the rotating plate 220, the rag 225 and the rotating plate 220 can be combined to overlap each other, and the center of the rag 225 and the rotating plate 220 can be combined to coincide with the center of the rotating plate 220.

[0110] The floor B is wiped by rotating the rotating plate 220 with the wiping cloth 225 around the rotating axis 220a.

[0111] The sweeping robot 3 of this embodiment may include drive wheels 230. The drive wheels 230 are configured to rotate around a rotation axis in the left-right direction (parallel to Y) around the vacuum cleaner body 200. The sweeping robot 3 may have two drive wheels 230, which may be located on the left and right sides respectively. Through the movement of the drive wheels 230, the sweeping robot 3 can move on the ground B.

[0112] The sweeping robot 3 of this embodiment may include auxiliary wheels 235. The auxiliary wheels 235 are configured to rotate around a horizontal axis of rotation on the main body 200 of the vacuum cleaner.

[0113] The sweeping robot 3 of this utility model embodiment includes a plurality of actuators 241, 242, a water tank 250, a pump 255, a suction port 260, a dust bin 265, and a battery 270.

[0114] According to embodiments, in the robotic vacuum cleaner 3, the actuators 241 and 242, the water tank 250, the pump 255, the suction port 260, the dustbin 265, and the battery 270 can each be configured in various ways. For example, in one embodiment, the water tank 250 can be configured on the front part of the vacuum cleaner body 200, and in another embodiment, the water tank 250 can be configured on the rear part of the vacuum cleaner body 200.

[0115] Each actuator 241, 242 may include a motor, gears, etc., and is configured to transmit power to various components (rotating plate 220, drive wheel 230, etc.) of the sweeping robot 3.

[0116] The water bucket 250 can store a specified amount of water, and can perform wet mopping cleaning by supplying water from the water bucket 250 to the mop 225 through a pump 255 or similar device installed in the robot vacuum cleaner 3.

[0117] The suction port 260 can be set in the shape of an opening on the bottom surface of the robot vacuum cleaner 3. Dust on the ground B moves into the robot vacuum cleaner 3 through the suction port 260. This dust moves into the dust bin 265 set inside the robot vacuum cleaner 3 and is stored.

[0118] The battery 270 of the robot vacuum cleaner 3 supplies power to various components of the robot vacuum cleaner 3, such as actuators 241, 242, pump 255, etc.

[0119] The base station 2 for the sweeping robot in this embodiment of the utility model is configured to be combined with or separated from the sweeping robot 3.

[0120] Based on base station 2, the direction in which the sweeping robot 3 separates is defined as the front direction (X direction), and the direction opposite to the front direction is defined as the rear direction (opposite to the X direction) and explained.

[0121] Base station 2 may include main body 100 and installation part 110.

[0122] Base station 2 includes a control unit 190.

[0123] The control unit 190 can be associated with each component constituting the base station 2 and control the operation of each component. The control unit 190 can receive information from various sensors constituting the base station 2 and control the operation of various valves, heaters, pumps, fans, etc. constituting the base station 2.

[0124] For the control unit 190 to control the base station 2, a storage medium for storing the application program can be provided in the base station 2. The control unit 190 can be configured to drive the application program and control the base station 2 based on information input to the base station 2, information output from the base station 2, etc.

[0125] The main body 100 forms the main body of the base station 2. The main body 100 may include an entrance / exit 102. The main body 100 may include a main door 104.

[0126] The main body 100 can form the overall appearance of the base station 2, or it can be formed in the shape of a frame. Various components constituting the base station 2 can be integrated into the main body 100, and some of the components constituting the base station 2 can be housed inside the main body 100.

[0127] In an embodiment of this utility model, the main body 100 is formed with a shape in which the dimensions (width and length) in the horizontal direction (parallel to XY) are greater than the dimensions (height) in the vertical direction (parallel to Z).

[0128] When viewed from above or below, the main body 100 can take on various shapes such as circular, elliptical, or quadrilateral.

[0129] The mounting section 110 is provided on one side of the main body 100 and houses the robotic vacuum cleaner 3. The mounting section 110 may be provided on the lower interior side of the main body 100.

[0130] The base station 2 can be formed in a shape that can accommodate the robotic vacuum cleaner 3. At this time, a accommodating space 101 can be provided inside the base station 2, and the mounting part 110 can form the bottom surface of the accommodating space 101.

[0131] The sweeping robot 3 located in front of the base station 2 can move backward and be placed in the placement part 110 of the base station 2. At this time, the sweeping robot 3 and the base station 2 can be combined (connected).

[0132] Additionally, at this time, the robot vacuum cleaner 3 can be combined with the base station 2 with the rotating plate 220 and the mop 225 positioned relatively behind it.

[0133] The entrance / exit 102 of the base station 2 is located on the front side of the installation part 110, forming an opening in the front-to-back direction, for the sweeping robot 3 to enter and exit.

[0134] The main door 104 is connected to the front side of the main body 100 to open and close the entrance 102. The main door 104 can be hinged to the front side of the main body 100. At this time, it can be configured to be parallel to the left-right direction (Y direction) of the rotation axis of the main door 104.

[0135] The mounting portion 110 may include a front portion 111 and a rear portion 112. The front portion 111 forms the opposite front side of the mounting portion 110, and the rear portion 112 forms the opposite rear side of the mounting portion 110.

[0136] The top surface of the front portion 111 can be formed to slope downwards towards the front. The top surface of the front portion 111 can be formed to be closer to the ground B as it is closer to the front end, and further away from the ground B as it is closer to the rear end. With this front portion 111, the sweeping robot 3 can easily move from the ground B to the upper side of the front portion 111 (the mounting portion 110) (or in the opposite direction).

[0137] The rear portion 112 is configured to allow all or part of it to clean the mop 225 of the robot vacuum cleaner 3. The rear portion 112 may have a space that is recessed downwards in part, and may be shaped such that its edges bulge upwards more than its center. When the robot vacuum cleaner 3 is placed in the mounting portion 110, the mop 225 of the robot vacuum cleaner 3 is located on the upper side of the rear portion 112.

[0138] In an embodiment of this invention, the rear portion 112 may include a cleaning plate 170. With the robotic vacuum cleaner 3 positioned in the mounting portion 110, the cleaning plate 170 is located below the mop 225. At least a portion of the cleaning plate 170 is arranged adjacent to the mop 225.

[0139] A cleaning space 171 is provided in the main body 100. The cleaning space 171 can be any area inside the main body 100. The cleaning space 171 can form a defined space inside the main body 100.

[0140] The cleaning space 171 can be located directly above the cleaning plate 170. The cleaning space 171 can be a space that is in contact with the upper surface of the cleaning plate 170. The cleaning space 171 can be provided on part or the entire upper side of the upper surface of the cleaning plate 170.

[0141] The cleaning space 171 can be the space between the cleaning plate 170 and the mop 225 when the robot vacuum cleaner 3 is docked with the base station 2.

[0142] When the robotic vacuum cleaner 3 is docked with the base station 2, part or all of the cleaning space 171 can be set to be adjacent to the object being cleaned. When the robotic vacuum cleaner 3 is docked with the base station 2, part or all of the cleaning space 171 can be set to be adjacent to the mop 225.

[0143] When the robot vacuum cleaner 3 is connected to the base station 2, part or all of the cleaning space 171 can be set under the mop 225.

[0144] In embodiments of this invention, the cleaning space 171 is connected to the space where the object to be cleaned is located. Fluid in the cleaning space 171 moves towards the space, surface, or point where the object to be cleaned is located and is used in cleaning, sterilization, etc., of the object to be cleaned. A portion of the sweeping robot 3 may be the object to be cleaned. The mop 225 of the sweeping robot 3 may also be the object to be cleaned.

[0145] In an embodiment of this invention, hot water, steam, etc., heated by the heater 137 can be supplied to the cleaning space 171 of the cleaning plate 170 and used in the cleaning of the cloth 225. Hot water, steam, etc., heated by the heater 137 can be supplied to the cleaning space 171 on the upper side of the cleaning plate 170 and used in the cleaning of the cloth 225.

[0146] With the cleaning cloth 225 positioned above the cleaning plate 170, steam or heated water can be supplied from the base station 2 to the upper side of the cleaning plate 170 and simultaneously to the cleaning cloth 225, thereby cleaning the cleaning cloth 225. When cleaning the cleaning cloth 225, by rotating the rotating plate 220 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 3 and the cleaning cloth 225 around the rotation axis 220a, the cleaning effect on the entire area of ​​the cleaning cloth 225 can be improved. Furthermore, at this time, the protrusions 176 and 177b of the cleaning plate 170 can come into contact or rub against the cleaning cloth 225, thereby improving the cleaning effect of the cleaning cloth 225.

[0147] With the robot vacuum cleaner 3 installed in the mounting part 110 of the main body 100, the terminal (first terminal 103) of the base station 2 and the terminal (second terminal 275) of the robot vacuum cleaner 3 can be electrically connected to each other, thereby enabling the charging of the battery 270 of the robot vacuum cleaner 3 via the base station 2.

[0148] With the robotic vacuum cleaner 3 installed in the mounting section 110 of the main body 100, the dustbin 265 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 3 can be connected to the dust bag drawer 120 and dust bag 121 of the base station 2 via the dust-moving flow path 106. The dust bag 121 is connected to the dust collection motor 125 inside the base station 2 via the dust-moving flow path 106. When the dust collection motor 125 generates suction, the dust inside the dustbin 265 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 3 can be collected into the dust bag 121 of the base station 2.

[0149] In the base station 2 of this utility model embodiment, water from outside the base station 2 is supplied to the inside of the base station 2, and the supplied water (raw water) can be used for cleaning the mop 225 of the sweeping robot 3.

[0150] The washing water described in this utility model refers to the water or steam used in cleaning the object being cleaned.

[0151] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the movement of liquid or vapor in the sweeping robot system 1 of this utility model embodiment.

[0152] Base station 2 has multiple valves, pumps, and flow paths to control the movement of water.

[0153] In the base station 2 of this utility model embodiment, the supplied water can be used directly (without being heated) in the washing of the rag 225. Alternatively, the supplied water can be heated to make it into hot water or steam, and then used in the washing of the rag 225.

[0154] The base station 2 of this utility model embodiment includes a supply flow path 131, a flow regulating valve 136, and a heater 137.

[0155] The base station 2 in this embodiment of the present invention includes a temperature sensor 138.

[0156] The supply flow path 131 can be divided into a first supply flow path 133 and a second supply flow path 134.

[0157] The base station 2 in this embodiment of the present invention includes a flow path regulating valve 132.

[0158] The base station 2 in this embodiment of the present invention includes a water treatment filter 135.

[0159] The supply flow path 131 forms a flow path for the movement of fluids (e.g., raw water, hot water, steam, etc.), and the fluids can move to the cleaning space 117 through the supply flow path 131.

[0160] A ball valve 141, a pressure reducing valve 142, and a flow sensor 143 may be installed in the supply flow path 131.

[0161] Ball valve 141 can be located at the upstream end of supply flow path 131. When supply flow path 131 is connected to a flow path outside base station 2, ball valve 141 allows or blocks external water (raw water) from flowing into supply flow path 131.

[0162] Pressure reducing valve 142 allows water (raw water) flowing into supply path 131 through ball valve 141 to flow in supply path 131 at a specified pressure level.

[0163] The flow sensor 143 can sense the flow of raw water through the supply flow path 131.

[0164] The first supply flow path 133 is a flow path through the heater 137. Water passing through the first supply flow path 133 can be heated by the heater 137. Thus, hot water and / or steam can be supplied to the cleaning space 117 after moving through the first supply flow path 133.

[0165] The second supply path 134 is a path that does not pass through the heater 137. Raw water can be supplied to the cleaning space 117 after moving through the second supply path 134.

[0166] The first supply path 133 and the second supply path 134 can be branched off from each other.

[0167] That is, the supply flow path 131 can branch into a first supply flow path 133 and a second supply flow path 134. At this time, a flow path regulating valve 132 can be provided at the branch of the first supply flow path 133 and the second supply flow path 134.

[0168] The flow path regulating valve 132 can be composed of a two-way valve or a three-way valve.

[0169] The flow regulating valve 132 may include a raw water inlet 132a, a first outlet 132b, and a second outlet 132c.

[0170] The raw water inlet 132a serves as the inlet for the flow regulating valve 132, allowing raw water to flow in. The raw water inlet 132a can be connected to the flow sensor 143.

[0171] The first outlet 132b is connected to or blocked from the original water inlet 132a and is connected to the first supply flow path 133. The second outlet 132c is connected to or blocked from the original water inlet 132a and is connected to the second supply flow path 134.

[0172] If the first outlet 132b is connected to the raw water inlet 132a and the second outlet 132c is blocked from the raw water inlet 132a, the raw water can move along the first supply path 133 and be heated by the heater 137 to become hot water and / or steam, and then supplied to the cleaning space 117.

[0173] If the first outlet 132b is blocked from the raw water inlet 132a and the second outlet 132c is connected to the raw water inlet 132a, the raw water moves along the second supply path 134 and is directly supplied to the cleaning space 117 without being heated by the heater 137.

[0174] All or part of the water passing through the flow regulating valve 132 can move toward the water treatment filter 135, or all or part of the water passing through the flow regulating valve 132 can move toward the cleaning chamber 140 without passing through the water treatment filter 135.

[0175] The downstream of the first supply path 133 and the downstream of the second supply path 134 can be connected to each other.

[0176] When the robotic vacuum cleaner 3 is equipped with a pair of mop pads 225 positioned on the left and right sides respectively, the end of the first supply flow path 133 can branch out to both sides and face the mop pads 225 on the left and right sides respectively. Thus, water (or hot water, steam) expelled from the end of the first supply flow path 133 can be sprayed onto the mop pads 225 on the left and right sides respectively.

[0177] When the robotic vacuum cleaner 3 is equipped with a pair of mop pads 225 positioned on the left and right sides respectively, the end of the second supply flow path 134 can branch out to both sides and face the mop pads 225 on the left and right sides respectively. Thus, the water ejected from the end of the second supply flow path 134 can be sprayed onto the mop pads 225 on the left and right sides respectively.

[0178] The water treatment filter 135 is disposed on the main body 100 and on the first supply flow path 133.

[0179] Water treatment filter 135 is used to reduce the mineral content in water. Water treatment filter 135 is used to filter hard substances (calcium or magnesium, etc.) from raw water. The water treatment filter 135 of this embodiment can be referred to as a water softener or water filter. Water treatment filter 135 can remove calcium or magnesium from the water supplied to water treatment filter 135 from the flow path regulating valve 132.

[0180] Water treatment filter 135 can be constructed from various materials and with various structures to reduce the mineral content in water. Water treatment filter 135 can also be constructed from various materials and with various structures to remove hard substances or scale-causing substances contained in raw water.

[0181] Hard substances can react and form scale at temperatures above or below room temperature. Scale, such as calcium carbonate (CaCO3), refers to the accumulation of mineral components remaining in water after the water evaporates.

[0182] Since scale buildup that occurs along the water flow path can cause malfunctions or performance degradation in base station 2, it is necessary to prevent scale formation.

[0183] Since scaling formation increases further when raw water without removing hard substances is heated, it is necessary to prevent scaling.

[0184] To prevent this problem, the base station 2 of this embodiment includes a water treatment filter 135. The water treatment filter 135 can be configured in various ways to prevent scaling.

[0185] The water treatment filter 135 of this embodiment may contain at least one of ion exchange resin 151, polyphosphate, and hardness-reducing catalyst. Furthermore, the water treatment filter 135 can be configured in various ways to prevent scale formation.

[0186] Water treatment filter 135 may include a carbon filter.

[0187] Ion exchange resins can remove limestone, magnesium, iron, heavy metals, and other substances from water. They prevent scaling by reducing or inhibiting hard substances (calcium, magnesium, etc.) in the water.

[0188] Polyphosphates can prevent scale formation by releasing polyphosphate into the water and binding with calcium and magnesium ions in the water.

[0189] The hardness-reducing catalyst may contain calcium carbonate (CaCO3) or magnesium carbonate (MgCO3). The hardness-reducing catalyst may include a silicate-based support, on which calcium carbonate (CaCO3) or magnesium carbonate (MgCO3) may be formed on the surface of the support.

[0190] Carbon filters use the adsorption power of activated carbon to remove impurities from water.

[0191] Base station 2 may include a second flow path regulating valve 139.

[0192] At this point, the above-mentioned flow path regulating valve 132 can be referred to as the first flow path regulating valve 132.

[0193] The second flow path regulating valve 139 is located in the first supply flow path 133. The second flow path regulating valve 139 can be located further downstream than the water treatment filter 135.

[0194] The second flow path regulating valve 139 can be composed of a two-way valve or a three-way valve. The second flow path regulating valve 139 can be connected to the water treatment filter 135, and can also be connected to the flow regulating valve 136 and the heater 137.

[0195] All or part of the water passing through the second flow path regulating valve 139 can be supplied to the sweeping robot 3, or the water passing through the second flow path regulating valve 139 can move to the flow regulating valve 136 and the heater 137. The water supplied to the sweeping robot 3 can be stored in the water tank 250.

[0196] The water supplied to the robotic vacuum cleaner 3 can be recycled back to the supply flow path 131 through the first recycling flow path 117. The first recycling flow path 117 can be connected to the flow path regulating valve 132.

[0197] A flow control valve 136 is disposed in the first supply flow path 133. The flow control valve 136 is configured to regulate the flow rate supplied to the heater 137 per unit time. In the first supply flow path 133, the flow control valve 136 may be disposed upstream of the heater 137. The valve opening degree of the flow control valve 136 may be variable, and the flow rate moving in the first supply flow path 133 is regulated according to the valve opening degree, thereby regulating the flow rate supplied to the heater 137 per unit time.

[0198] Temperature sensor 138 is disposed in the first supply flow path 133 and measures the temperature of the fluid passing through the first supply flow path 133. In the first supply flow path 133, temperature sensor 138 is disposed downstream of heater 137.

[0199] In the base station 2 of this utility model embodiment, the valve opening amount of the flow regulating valve 136 can be controlled according to the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 138.

[0200] The base station 2 in this embodiment of the present invention is designed to supply hot water at a temperature that meets the specified set temperature.

[0201] If the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 138 is lower than the set temperature, the opening amount of the flow regulating valve 136 can be reduced. This can increase the temperature of the water sprayed into the cleaning space 117 through the heater 137 by reducing the flow rate supplied to the heater 137 per unit time, thereby reaching the set temperature, or spraying it in the form of steam, or increasing the amount of steam.

[0202] If the temperature sensed by the temperature sensor 138 is higher than the set temperature, the opening amount of the flow regulating valve 136 can be increased. This can reduce the temperature of the water sprayed into the cleaning space 117 through the heater 137 by increasing the flow rate supplied to the heater 137 per unit time, thereby reaching the set temperature, or reduce the amount of steam.

[0203] A heater 137 is disposed on one side of the main body 100 and heats water. The heater 137 may be incorporated inside the main body 100.

[0204] In this embodiment of the invention, the heater 137 may include a heater housing 137a, a heater inlet 137b, and a heater outlet 137c. The heater housing 137a is configured to form a defined internal space and constitute part of a first supply flow path 133. A heat source 137d for heating water is disposed inside the heater housing 137a. In this embodiment of the invention, the heat source 137d of the heater 137 may be a thin-film heater. The heater inlet 137b forms the inlet of the heater housing 137a, and the heater outlet 137c forms the outlet of the heater housing 137a.

[0205] The water heated by heater 137 can become hot water or steam. Heater 137 can function as a steam generator.

[0206] As described above, since hard components (such as calcium and magnesium) in the water are removed by the water treatment filter 135 before the water moves to the heater 137, scale formation can be prevented even when the water is heated by the heater 137 to generate steam or the like.

[0207] The heater 137 is connected to the cleaning space 171 via the first supply flow path 133, and the water (or steam) heated by the heater 137 moves to the cleaning space 171.

[0208] As described above, the base station 2 for the robotic vacuum cleaner according to this embodiment of the invention regulates the flow rate moving through the first supply flow path 133 via the flow regulating valve 136, thereby controlling the degree to which the water in the first supply flow path 133 is heated by the heater 137, and thus controlling the required hot water temperature and / or steam quantity. Furthermore, by sensing the temperature of the fluid (e.g., water) in the first supply flow path 133 via the temperature sensor 138, the opening amount of the flow regulating valve 136 can be controlled, allowing for more accurate regulation of the required hot water temperature and / or steam quantity.

[0209] In the base station 2 and the sweeping robot system 1 of this utility model embodiment, the temperature of hot water and the supply of steam can be controlled, and the hot water mode and the steam mode can be operated separately.

[0210] In addition, in the base station 2 and the sweeping robot system 1 of this utility model embodiment, a cloth 225 care mode based on supplying steam to the cloth 225 and drying the cloth 225 can be operated, and a flow path sterilization mode can be operated by using hot water movement and / or circulation in the flow path.

[0211] In addition, in the base station 2 and the sweeping robot system 1 of this utility model embodiment, hot water and steam can be used to effectively clean the oil stains on the rag 225 and improve the cleaning performance of the rag 225.

[0212] In addition, in the base station 2 and the sweeping robot system 1 of this utility model embodiment, the soaking function of the mop 225 can be utilized by supplying hot water to the mop 225, and then the cleaning power can be improved by supplying hot water and steam.

[0213] In the base station 2 of this utility model embodiment, water passing through the water treatment filter 135 is supplied to the heater 137, and the water heated by the heater 137 is supplied to the placement part 110 (rear part 112) and used in the cleaning of the rag 225.

[0214] Therefore, it is possible to prevent scaling in the heater 137 and the flow path 133 connected to the heater 137 in the base station 2.

[0215] Water supplied to the cleaning space 171 can be recycled back to the supply flow path 131 via the second recycling flow path 118. The second recycling flow path 118 can be connected to the flow path regulating valve 132.

[0216] The base station 2 of this utility model embodiment may include a detergent flow path 145, a detergent tank 146, and a detergent pump 147.

[0217] The detergent flow path 145 forms a flow path for the movement of detergent, fabric softener, etc. The detergent flow path 145 can be connected to the first supply flow path 133 or the second supply flow path 134.

[0218] Detergent tank 146 and detergent pump 147 are connected to detergent flow path 145.

[0219] The detergent tank 146 is configured to hold detergent, which can be used for washing the cloth 225. The detergent tank 146 can be connected to the washing space 171 via a detergent pump 147 and a detergent flow path 145, thereby allowing detergent to be supplied to the washing space 171 for use in washing.

[0220] The detergent dispenser 146 can be located on the left or right side of the entrance / exit 102.

[0221] In an embodiment of this invention, the detergent tank 146 can be located on the same side as the water treatment filter 135, with the inlet / outlet 102 as the reference. That is, the detergent tank 146 and the water treatment filter 135 can be located together on the left side of the inlet / outlet 102, or the detergent tank 146 and the water treatment filter 135 can be located together on the right side of the inlet / outlet 102.

[0222] At this time, the detergent tank 146 and the water treatment filter 135 can be arranged vertically. That is, the detergent tank 146 can be arranged on the upper side of the water treatment filter 135 or on the lower side.

[0223] The base station 2 in this embodiment of the present invention may include a drainage path 151.

[0224] The drainage path 151 forms a path for water to move from the cleaning space 171 to the outside.

[0225] A wastewater tank 152 may be provided in the drainage path 151. Water and other wastewater used for washing the rag 225 in the placement section 110 (rear section 112) can move through the drainage path 151 to the wastewater tank 152 and then be discharged to the outside of the base station 2.

[0226] A check valve 153 can be installed at the inlet of the sewage tank 152.

[0227] A first air pump 154 ​​and an air check valve 155 can be connected to the wastewater tank 152. The air check valve 155 can be connected to the cleaning space 171 or the rear part 112. The first air pump 154 ​​can create negative pressure inside the wastewater tank 152, thereby allowing the fluid inside the wastewater tank 152 to move to the cleaning space 171 or the rear part 112 via the first air pump 154 ​​and the air check valve 155, thus preventing water from overflowing from the wastewater tank 152.

[0228] A second air pump 156 and a check valve 157 can be connected to the sewage tank 152. The second air pump 156 can apply positive pressure to the inside of the sewage tank 152, thereby allowing the fluid inside the sewage tank 152 to move to the outside of the base station 2 via the check valve 157.

[0229] In an embodiment of this utility model, the water treatment filter 135 may be located on the left or right side of the inlet / outlet 102 of the base station 2.

[0230] The water treatment filter 135 can be installed adjacent to the left or right side of the main door 104.

[0231] As described above, the base station 2 may include a dust bag drawer 120, which is configured to allow dust from the sweeping robot 3 placed in the placement section 110 to flow in. In this case, the dust bag drawer 120 may be located on the opposite side of the water treatment filter 135 with the inlet / outlet 102 and the placement section 110 as the center.

[0232] By installing a water treatment filter 135 on the left or right side of the main door 104, the vertical height of the base station 2 can be prevented from increasing due to the installation of the water treatment filter 135.

[0233] Figure 5 This is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the connection of the cleaning space 171, the first supply flow path 133, and the second supply flow path 134 in a base station 2 for a sweeping robot according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0234] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional perspective view showing a portion of a base station 2 for a sweeping robot according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 yes Figure 6 A magnified image of a portion of base station 2 used by a robotic vacuum cleaner. Figure 6 and Figure 7 The image shows a portion of the washing plate 170 and the washing tank 180 cut open.

[0235] Figure 8 This is a perspective view showing the cleaning plate 170 of an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 and Figure 7 The cleaning plate 170 shown can be formed as follows: Figure 8 The shape.

[0236] One embodiment of the present invention includes a base station 2 for a robotic vacuum cleaner, which may include a washing tank 180. The washing tank 180 is disposed on the lower side of the cleaning plate 170.

[0237] The cleaning plate 170 and the washing tank 180 can form part of the mounting section 110. The cleaning plate 170 and the washing tank 180 can form the rear section 112.

[0238] The cleaning plate 170 is configured to have a predetermined area along the horizontal direction. A cleaning space 171 is provided on the upper side of the cleaning plate 170. To form the cleaning space 171, one or more downwardly recessed portions may be provided on the upper side of the cleaning plate 170. The cleaning space 171 may be formed into a shape that is generally open to the upper side.

[0239] The cleaning plate 170 may include a cleaning bottom surface 172 and a boundary wall 173.

[0240] In the cleaning plate 170, the cleaning space 171, the cleaning bottom surface 172, and the boundary wall 173 can be respectively formed to match the cleaning cloth 225. One cleaning space 171, one cleaning bottom surface 172, and one boundary wall 173 can correspond to one cleaning cloth 225.

[0241] The robotic vacuum cleaner 3 is equipped with two mop pads 225. When the two mop pads 225 are cleaned inside the base station 2, the cleaning plate 170 is provided with two cleaning spaces 171, two cleaning bottom surfaces 172, and two boundary walls 173. Furthermore, when the two mop pads 225 are symmetrically positioned on the left and right sides of the robotic vacuum cleaner 3, the two cleaning spaces 171, the two cleaning bottom surfaces 172, and the two boundary walls 173 can also be symmetrically positioned on the left and right sides of the cleaning plate 170. Within the cleaning plate 170, the two cleaning spaces 171, the two cleaning bottom surfaces 172, and the two boundary walls 173 can each be symmetrical about a first reference line RL1 passing through the center of the cleaning plate in the front-to-back direction. The two boundary walls 173 can be connected to each other.

[0242] The cleaning bottom surface 172 can form a surface facing the cleaning cloth 225. The cleaning bottom surface 172 can be separated from the bottom surface of the cleaning cloth 225. The cleaning bottom surface 172 can constitute the bottom surface of the cleaning space 171. The cleaning bottom surface 172 can be circular in a top view.

[0243] The bottom surface 172 forms the upper surface of the cleaning plate 170.

[0244] The cleaning bottom surface 172 forms a predetermined area in the front-back and left-right directions. The cleaning bottom surface 172 forms a predetermined area in the horizontal direction. The cleaning bottom surface 172 may be parallel to the horizontal direction, but is not limited thereto. The cleaning bottom surface 172 may be inclined relative to the horizontal direction, and may be formed in a curved shape.

[0245] Boundary wall 173 can be formed by protruding upward from the edge of the cleaning bottom surface 172. The overall shape of boundary wall 173 can be circular in the top view. Boundary wall 173 can be formed by protruding upward from the entire edge of the cleaning bottom surface 172. Boundary wall 173 can be circular in the top view.

[0246] The protrusion height of the boundary wall 173 can be made constant along the circumferential direction of the boundary wall 173.

[0247] The protrusion heights of the boundary walls 173 can be varied along their circumference. The protrusion height of the boundary walls 173 along their circumference can match the inclination of the bottom surface of the rag 225. The height of the boundary walls 173 can be set such that the upper end of the boundary walls 173 is approximately close to or in contact with the bottom surface or edge of the rag 225 at a uniform distance along its circumference.

[0248] In the top view, the overall dimensions of the boundary wall 173 can be similar to the dimensions of the rag 225. In the top view, the dimensions of the boundary wall 173 can be the same as, slightly smaller than, or slightly larger than the dimensions of the rag 225. In the top view, if the boundary wall 173 and the rag 225 are circular, the diameter (or inner diameter) of the boundary wall 173 can be the same as, slightly smaller than, or slightly larger than the diameter of the rag 225.

[0249] The space provided inside the bottom surface 172 and the boundary wall 173 can form a cleaning space 171.

[0250] The washing basin 180 is formed in a shape capable of containing water. The washing basin 180 may be formed as a container shape that is generally wide and open to the upward side. The washing basin 180 may be formed in a shape in which its edge 182 protrudes upward from the overall edge of its base plate 181, and water can be contained in the internal space defined by the base plate 181 and the edge 182 of the washing basin 180.

[0251] The washing plate 170 can be engaged with the washing tank 180 in such a way that its edge (outer boundary wall 179) is in close contact with the edge 182 of the washing tank 180. The washing plate 170 can also be engaged with the washing tank 180 in such a way that its edge is inserted into the inner side of the edge of the washing tank 180.

[0252] Water discharged downward from the washing plate 170 can be contained inside the washing tank 180. The interior of the washing tank 180 can be connected to the drain passage 151, and the water inside the washing tank 180 can be discharged to the outside through the drain passage 151.

[0253] In the rear section 112, the cleaning plate 170 can be made detachable.

[0254] The washing plate 170 can be detachably attached to the washing tank 180.

[0255] If the robot vacuum cleaner 3 is installed in the mounting part 110 of the base station 2, the rotating plate 220 and the mop 225 of the robot vacuum cleaner 3 are located on the upper side of the cleaning plate 170. In this state, the mop 225 can be cleaned.

[0256] The cleaning space 171 on the upper side of the cleaning plate 170 can be completely or partially covered by a cloth 225 located on top of it. The cleaning space 171 on the upper side of the cleaning plate 170 can be mostly covered by a cloth 225 located on top of it.

[0257] In the cleaning plate 170 of this embodiment, the overall shape and size of the cleaning space 171 can be formed to correspond to the shape and size of the rag 225. In the top view, the shape of the cleaning space 171 can be formed to correspond to the rag 225. In the top view, if the rag 225 is circular, then the cleaning space 171 can be circular.

[0258] A washing water inlet 174 may be provided on the washing plate 170. The washing water inlet 174 may be integrally formed with the washing plate 170.

[0259] The washing water inlet 174 can be shaped to open inward toward the washing space 171.

[0260] The washing water inlet 174 can be formed as a hole extending through the inside and outside of the boundary wall 173. The washing water inlet 174 can also be formed as a pipe extending through the inside and outside of the boundary wall 173. The washing water inlet 174 can be formed on the rear side of the boundary wall 173. The washing water inlet 174 can also be formed as a shape extending through the boundary wall 173 in the front-to-back direction.

[0261] The washing water inlet 174 is connected to the cleaning space 171. The washing water inlet 174 forms the inlet of the cleaning space 171, and water from outside the cleaning plate 170 flows into the cleaning space 171 through the washing water inlet 174.

[0262] In an embodiment of this invention, the first supply flow path 133 and the second supply flow path 134 can be connected to the washing water inlet 174. Thus, the fluid supplied through the first supply flow path 133 moves into the cleaning space 171, and the fluid supplied through the second supply flow path 134 also moves into the cleaning space 171.

[0263] The base station 2 for the sweeping robot in this embodiment of the present invention may include an integrated flow path 160.

[0264] The base station 2 for the sweeping robot in this embodiment of the present invention may include a washer 165.

[0265] The integrated flow path 160 constitutes a flow path for fluid movement. The integrated flow path 160 can be formed in the form of a pipe, tube, or conduit. The integrated flow path 160 is combined with the cleaning plate 170 and communicates with the cleaning space 171.

[0266] The inlet of the integrated flow path 160 is connected to the end of the first supply flow path 133 and the end of the second supply flow path 134. According to an embodiment, the inlet of the integrated flow path 160 can be configured as a branch to have two inlets. In this case, the outlet of the integrated flow path 160 can be one.

[0267] The outlet of the integrated flow path 160 is connected to the cleaning space 171.

[0268] The integrated flow path 160 can be connected to the wash water inlet 174. The integrated flow path 160 can be inserted into the interior of the wash water inlet 174.

[0269] Fluid supplied through the first supply flow path 133 and the integrated flow path 160 moves into the cleaning space 171. In addition, fluid supplied through the second supply flow path 134 and the integrated flow path 160 moves into the cleaning space 171.

[0270] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 A top view of the cleaning plate 170 is shown.

[0271] In the base station 2 of this utility model embodiment, the cleaning plate 170 may include a first guide wall 175a and a second guide wall 175b.

[0272] If the boundary wall 173 is circular in the top view, then the cleaning space 171 is circular.

[0273] The first guide wall 175a extends from the boundary wall 173 toward the inside of the cleaning space 171. The first guide wall 175a may be located adjacent to the washing water inlet 174. The first guide wall 175a protrudes upward from the bottom surface 172 of the cleaning space.

[0274] The first guide wall 175a may extend from the boundary wall 173 to near the center of the cleaning space 171. The length of the first guide wall 175a may be slightly smaller than the radius of the cleaning space 171.

[0275] The height of the first guide wall 175a protruding from the bottom surface 172 can be constant along its length. The height of the first guide wall 175a protruding from the bottom surface 172 can vary along its length.

[0276] The height of the first guide wall 175a protruding from the bottom surface 172 can match the bottom surface of the cloth 225. The height of the first guide wall 175a can be set such that the upper end of the first guide wall 175a approaches or contacts the bottom surface of the cloth 225 at the same distance along the entire length direction.

[0277] The second guide wall 175b extends inward from the boundary wall 173 on the opposite side of the first guide wall 175a, with the washing water inlet 174 as a reference. The second guide wall 175b protrudes upward from the washing bottom surface 172.

[0278] The second guide wall 175b extends from the boundary wall 173 toward the inside of the washing space 171. The second guide wall 175b may be located adjacent to the washing water inlet 174.

[0279] The second guide wall 175b can extend from the boundary wall 173 to near the center of the cleaning space 171. The length of the second guide wall 175b can be slightly smaller than the radius of the cleaning space 171.

[0280] The height of the second guide wall 175b protruding from the cleaning bottom surface 172 can be constant along its length. The height of the second guide wall 175b protruding from the cleaning bottom surface 172 can vary along its length.

[0281] The height of the second guide wall 175b protruding from the bottom surface 172 can match the bottom surface of the cloth 225. The height of the second guide wall 175b can be set such that the upper end of the second guide wall 175b approaches or contacts the bottom surface of the cloth 225 at the same distance along the entire length direction.

[0282] The second guide wall 175b can be formed in the same way as the first guide wall 175a. The second guide wall 175b can be symmetrical with respect to the first guide wall 175a with the center 170a of the cleaning space 171 and the second reference line RL2 passing through the washing water inlet 174 as the center.

[0283] In an embodiment of this utility model, the cleaning bottom surface 172 can be divided into a first cleaning bottom surface 172a and a second cleaning bottom surface 172b.

[0284] The first cleaning bottom surface 172a is disposed between the first guide wall 175a and the second guide wall 175b.

[0285] The second cleaning bottom surface 172b is located on the outside of the first guide wall 175a and the second guide wall 175b.

[0286] The first cleaning bottom surface 172a can be formed in a stepped shape, which is higher than the second cleaning bottom surface 172b. The height of the first cleaning bottom surface 172a can be greater than the height of the second cleaning bottom surface 172b.

[0287] In an embodiment of this utility model, the cleaning space 171 can be divided into a first cleaning space 171a and a second cleaning space 171b.

[0288] The first cleaning space 171a is the space within the cleaning space 171 located between the first guide wall 175a and the second guide wall 175b. The second cleaning space 171b is the space within the cleaning space 171 located outside the first guide wall 175a and the second guide wall 175b.

[0289] The second cleaning space 171b is larger than the first cleaning space 171a.

[0290] The first cleaning space 171a is directly connected to the washing water inlet 174, and the water flowing in through the washing water inlet 174 can move from the first cleaning space 171a to the second cleaning space 171b.

[0291] Because the first cleaning bottom surface 172a is stepped and higher than the second cleaning bottom surface 172b, the vertical height of the first cleaning space 171a is reduced. That is, the distance between the bottom surface of the cloth 225 and the first cleaning bottom surface 172a remains relatively close, so that water or steam flowing into the first cleaning space 171a through the washing water inlet 174 can effectively contact and be absorbed by the cloth 225.

[0292] In the base station 2 of this utility model embodiment, all or part of the first guide wall 175a and the second guide wall 175b can be formed such that the interval between them is narrower as it gets closer to the center of the cleaning bottom surface 172 (the center 170a of the cleaning space 171).

[0293] This prevents water or steam in the first cleaning space 171a from easily flowing out into the second cleaning space 171b. Water or steam flowing into the cleaning space 171 through the washing water inlet 174 can quickly and effectively come into contact with and be absorbed by the cloth 225, without stagnating in the first cleaning space 171a.

[0294] As described above, the fluid (water and / or steam) flowing in from the washing water inlet 174 can first come into contact with or be absorbed by the cloth 225 between the first guide wall 175a and the second guide wall 175b. Therefore, the soaking and cleaning functions of the cloth 225 can be effectively utilized by supplying hot water to the cloth 225, and the sterilization function of the cloth 225 can be effectively utilized by supplying steam to the cloth 225.

[0295] Since the mop 225 of the sweeping robot 3 combined with the base station 2 can rotate around the rotation axis 220a, it can effectively soak, clean and sterilize the entire area of ​​the mop 225. Even when steam particles diffuse, the first guide wall 175a and the second guide wall 175b can prevent the fluid from flowing out to the outside, while the steam particles are absorbed by the mop 225 located on the upper side of the cleaning bottom surface 172. Even when the steam flows to the outside of the first guide wall 175a and the second guide wall 175b, most of the steam can be absorbed by the mop 225, which can effectively prevent the waste of steam.

[0296] The cleaning plate 170 of this utility model embodiment may include a first protrusion 176.

[0297] A plurality of first protrusions 176 may be provided and may be spaced apart from each other. The first protrusions 176 are formed to protrude upward from the cleaning bottom surface 172 between the first guide wall 175a and the second guide wall 175b.

[0298] The first protrusion 176 can protrude upward from the first cleaning bottom surface 172a.

[0299] A plurality of first protrusions 176 and washing water inlets 174 may be arranged radially along the bottom surface 172 of the cleaning surface. A plurality of first protrusions 176 and washing water inlets 174 may be arranged along a second reference line RL2 passing through the center 170a of the cleaning space 171 and the washing water inlets 174.

[0300] The height of the upper end of the first protrusion 176 can be the same as or similar to the height of the upper end of the first guide wall 175a and the upper end of the second guide wall 175b.

[0301] In the base station 2 for the sweeping robot of this utility model embodiment, a plurality of first protrusions 176 help to reduce the movement speed of water or steam moving between the first guide wall 175a and the second guide wall 175b, and enable the water or steam moving between the first guide wall 175a and the second guide wall 175b to fully contact or be absorbed by the wiping cloth 225.

[0302] When the plurality of first protrusions 176 come into contact with the lower part of the cloth 225, they form gaps between the cloth 225. Water or steam entering the cleaning space 171 through these gaps can be absorbed by the cloth 225, thereby effectively soaking, cleaning and sterilizing the cloth 225.

[0303] The cleaning plate 170 may include a second protrusion 177b.

[0304] The second protrusion 177b is formed by protruding upward from the cleaning bottom surface 172 at a position spaced apart from the first guide wall 175a and the second guide wall 175b. The second protrusion 177b can protrude upward from the second cleaning bottom surface 172b. A plurality of second protrusions 177b can be provided and spaced apart from each other. The plurality of second protrusions 177b can be arranged toward the center of the cleaning bottom surface 172. The plurality of second protrusions 177b can be arranged radially along the cleaning bottom surface 172.

[0305] The cleaning plate 170 may include a third guide wall 177a. A plurality of third guide walls 177a may be provided.

[0306] The third guide wall 177a protrudes upward from the bottom surface 172 of the cleaning surface. The third guide wall 177a may be formed radially along the bottom surface 172 of the cleaning surface.

[0307] The height of the third guide wall 177a protruding from the cleaning bottom surface 172 can be constant along its length. The height of the third guide wall 177a protruding from the cleaning bottom surface 172 can vary along its length.

[0308] The height of the third guide wall 177a protruding from the bottom surface 172 can match the bottom surface of the cloth 225. The height of the third guide wall 177a can be set such that the upper end of the third guide wall 177a approaches or contacts the bottom surface of the cloth 225 at the same distance along the entire length direction.

[0309] The third guide wall 177a is formed at a position that is separated from the first guide wall 175a and the second guide wall 175b in the circumferential direction of the cleaning bottom surface 172.

[0310] The aforementioned second protrusion 177b can be formed on the upper side of the second guide wall 175bd. The second protrusion 177b can be formed along the length direction of the third guide wall 177a.

[0311] The upper height of the second protrusion 177b can be the same as or similar to the upper height of the first guide wall 175a and the upper height of the second guide wall 175b.

[0312] In the base station 2 for the sweeping robot of this utility model embodiment, when the plurality of second protrusions 177b come into contact with the lower part of the mop 225, they form gaps between the mop 225. When the mop 225 moves relative to each other (or rotates), it can scrape the lower side of the mop 225. Water or steam can be effectively absorbed by the mop 225 in the entire inner area of ​​the boundary wall 173, thereby improving the cleaning effect and thus more effectively soaking, cleaning and sterilizing the mop 225.

[0313] The cleaning plate 170 of this utility model embodiment may include an inner through hole 172c.

[0314] Additionally, the cleaning plate 170 may include an outer bottom surface 178a and an outer boundary wall 179. The cleaning plate 170 may include an outer through hole 178b.

[0315] The inner through hole 172c can penetrate vertically through the bottom surface 172 of the cleaning surface. The inner through hole 172c can be formed on the second bottom surface 172b of the cleaning surface. There can be a plurality of inner through holes 172c. The inner through holes 172c can be repeatedly formed along the circumference of the second bottom surface 172b and repeatedly formed radially.

[0316] Water in the washing space 171 can move into the washing tub 180 through the inner through-hole 172c. According to an embodiment, water in the washing tub 180 can move into the washing space 171 through the inner through-hole 172c.

[0317] The outer bottom surface 178a can be located outside the boundary wall 173. The outer bottom surface 178a is set to be lower than the boundary wall 173. The heights of a portion of the outer bottom surface 178a and a portion of the cleaning bottom surface 172 located on both sides with any position of the boundary wall 173 as the center can be the same or similar to each other.

[0318] The outer boundary wall 179 can be formed to protrude upward from the outer bottom surface 178a and surround the boundary wall 173.

[0319] The outer boundary wall 179 can form a wall to prevent water from flowing outward from the outer bottom surface 178a. The outer boundary wall 179 can be formed along the entire edge of the cleaning plate 170.

[0320] In the cleaning plate 170, an outer boundary wall 179 can surround the two boundary walls 173 together.

[0321] The cleaning plate 170 may include an outer through hole 178b. The outer through hole 178b may be formed by penetrating the outer bottom surface 178a vertically. A plurality of outer through holes 178b may be provided.

[0322] Water on the upper side of the outer bottom surface 178a can move towards the washing tank 180 through the outer through hole 178b. According to the embodiment, water in the washing tank 180 can move towards the upper side of the outer bottom surface through the outer through hole 178b.

[0323] Figure 10 This is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of a base station 2 for a sweeping robot according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0324] The base station 2 for the sweeping robot of this embodiment may include a washer 165. The washer 165 is formed to surround the integrated flow path 160. The washer 165 may be adjacent to and connected to the outlet of the integrated flow path 160. The washer 165 may be annular in shape. The washer 165 may be formed of an elastically deformable material.

[0325] The gasket 165 can be sandwiched between the outlet of the integrated flow path 160 and the washing water inlet 174. When the washing water inlet 174 is formed in a tube shape, the outlet of the integrated flow path 160 can be inserted into the washing water inlet 174. At this time, the outer peripheral surface of the gasket 165 can be tightly attached to the inner peripheral surface of the washing water inlet 174, and the inner peripheral surface of the gasket 165 can be tightly attached to the outer peripheral surface of the integrated flow path 160.

[0326] Ribs 165a protruding outward in the circumferential direction can be formed on the outer peripheral surface of the washer 165, and a plurality of ribs 165a can be provided axially. The ribs 165a of the washer 165 are tightly attached to the inner surface of the washing water inlet 174, thereby preventing water leakage.

[0327] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a gasket 165 can be used to seal the flow path for supplying hot water and / or steam as well as water (raw water).

[0328] As described above, according to the embodiments of the present invention, hot water and / or steam supplied through the first supply flow path 133 and water (raw water) supplied through the second supply flow path 134 are supplied to the cleaning space 171 via an integrated flow path and used in the cleaning of the object to be cleaned (e.g., a rag), thereby enabling the construction of a robot vacuum cleaner base station 2 with a structure that minimizes the parts that need to be sealed and facilitates the prevention of water leakage.

[0329] The above description and illustrations illustrate specific embodiments of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to the described embodiments, and those skilled in the art will understand that modifications or variations can be made to other specific embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of the present invention should be determined by the technical concept described in the claims, rather than the described embodiments.

[0330] Industrial applicability

[0331] The base station for the sweeping robot of this utility model embodiment can quickly supply raw water and hot water (or steam) respectively. The raw water and hot water (or steam) are supplied to the cleaning space through a flow path, thereby easily solving the water leakage problem at the connection of the flow path. The cleaning of the mop can be carried out in a concentrated and effective manner, thus having significant industrial applicability.

Claims

1. A base station for a robotic vacuum cleaner, combined with a robotic vacuum cleaner equipped with a mop, characterized in that, include: The main body constitutes the main body of the base station; A cleaning plate is disposed on the main body to form a cleaning space for cleaning the rag; The first supply flow path forms a flow path for water movement within the main body; The second supply flow path forms a water supply movement path within the main body, which is different from the first supply flow path; Heater, for heating water passing through the first supply path; as well as An integrated flow path is provided, wherein the inlet of the integrated flow path is connected to the end of the first supply flow path and the end of the second supply flow path, and the outlet of the integrated flow path is connected to the cleaning space.

2. The base station for a sweeping robot according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cleaning plate includes a washing water inlet that opens toward the inside of the cleaning space; The outlet of the integrated flow path is connected to the inlet of the washing water flow.

3. The base station for a sweeping robot according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cleaning plate includes: Clean the bottom surface, facing the cloth; The boundary wall protrudes upward from the edge of the cleaning bottom surface; and The washing water inlet extends through both the inside and outside of the boundary wall; The outlet of the integrated flow path is connected to the inlet of the washing water flow.

4. The base station for a sweeping robot according to claim 3, characterized in that, The base station for the sweeping robot includes a gasket sandwiched between the outlet of the integrated flow path and the inlet of the washing water flow; The cleaning plate includes: The first guide wall extends inward from the boundary wall at a position adjacent to the washing water inlet and protrudes upward from the bottom surface of the washing surface; as well as The second guide wall extends inward from the boundary wall on the opposite side of the first guide wall, with the washing water inlet as a reference, and protrudes upward from the bottom surface of the washing surface.

5. The base station for a sweeping robot according to claim 4, characterized in that, The bottom surface to be cleaned is divided into: The first cleaning bottom surface is located on the inner side of the first guide wall and the second guide wall; as well as The second cleaning bottom surface is located on the outer side of the first guide wall and the second guide wall; The first cleaning bottom surface is stepped and is higher than the second cleaning bottom surface; The first guide wall and the second guide wall are formed in a shape in which the spacing between them becomes narrower as they approach the center of the cleaning bottom surface.

6. The base station for a sweeping robot according to claim 4, characterized in that, The cleaning plate includes: A plurality of first protrusions protrude upward from the bottom surface of the cleaning surface between the first guide wall and the second guide wall; A plurality of second protrusions, spaced apart from the first guide wall and the second guide wall, protrude upward from the bottom surface of the cleaning surface and are arranged toward the center of the bottom surface of the cleaning surface; and The third guide wall protrudes upward from the bottom surface of the cleaning surface; The second protrusion is formed on the upper side of the second guide wall.

7. The base station for a sweeping robot according to claim 3, characterized in that, The base station for the sweeping robot includes a washing tank disposed on the lower side of the washing plate; The cleaning plate includes a plurality of internal through holes that extend vertically through the bottom surface of the cleaning plate.

8. The base station for a sweeping robot according to claim 3, characterized in that, The bottom surface to be cleaned and the boundary wall are circular in the top view.

9. The base station for a sweeping robot according to claim 3, characterized in that, The cleaning plate includes: The outer bottom surface is located on the outer side of the boundary wall; and The outer boundary wall protrudes upward from the outer bottom surface and surrounds the boundary wall; The base station for the sweeping robot includes a washing tank disposed on the lower side of the washing plate; The cleaning plate includes a plurality of external through holes extending vertically through the outer bottom surface.

10. The base station for a sweeping robot according to claim 1, characterized in that, The base station for the sweeping robot includes a water treatment filter, which is located upstream of the heater in the first supply flow path.

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