Cleaner and control method thereof

Abstract

A cleaner according to an embodiment includes: a cleaner head; an illuminance sensor disposed to face the front of the cleaner head; and a processor configured to adjust the operation intensity of the cleaner on the basis of a measured light amount value detected and measured by the illuminance sensor.

Description

Vacuum cleaner and method of controlling same

[0001] Various embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a vacuum cleaner and a method for controlling the same.

[0002] A vacuum cleaner is a home appliance that performs the role of cleaning the floor by sucking in air from the floor using a motor, removing various foreign substances such as dust, fine dust, bacteria, and mold from the sucked air using a dust collection assembly or filter member provided inside the main body, and then discharging the air again.

[0003] Recently, research is being conducted on a vacuum cleaner that efficiently cleans the floor by identifying the condition of the floor surface of the vacuum cleaner and adjusting the output of the suction motor and / or the output of the drive motor appropriately to the identified floor surface.

[0004] The above information may be provided as background art to aid in understanding the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the above is applicable as prior art related to the present disclosure.

[0005] Various embodiments of the present disclosure can utilize a sensor capable of measuring the amount of light to determine the surrounding environment of a vacuum cleaner and control the optimized vacuum cleaner output according to the environment.

[0006] A cleaner according to one embodiment may include a cleaner head, a light sensor positioned to face the front of the cleaner head, and a processor configured to adjust an operating intensity of the cleaner based on a measured light amount detected and measured by the light sensor.

[0007] According to one embodiment, the processor may be configured to increase the operating intensity of the vacuum cleaner when the measured light amount value is below a preset reference value.

[0008] According to one embodiment, the processor may determine that the vacuum cleaner head is located adjacent to a wall or under a piece of furniture when the measured light amount is less than or equal to a preset reference value.

[0009] According to one embodiment, the preset reference value may include a first reference value and a second reference value smaller than the first reference value. The processor may control the operation of the cleaner in one of a first operation mode for operating the cleaner, a second operation mode having a relatively greater operating intensity than the first operation mode when the measured light quantity value is less than or equal to the first reference value and greater than the second reference value, or a third operation mode having a relatively greater operating intensity than the second operation mode when the measured light quantity value is less than or equal to the second reference value.

[0010] According to one embodiment, the device may further include a sensor cover that surrounds the upper and side portions of the light sensor and extends in a forward direction of the cleaner head.

[0011] In one embodiment, the light sensor can detect the intensity of light entering only from the front through the sensor cover.

[0012] According to one embodiment, when the front of the cleaner head is a wall surface and the cleaner head is adjacent to the wall surface, the intensity of light detected by the light sensor may be substantially 0.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the processor can perform control to increase the output of the vacuum cleaner when the intensity of light detected by the light sensor is substantially 0.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the processor can measure the light quantity value detected by the light sensor during an initial preset time of operation of the vacuum cleaner, and perform calibration using the measured light quantity value.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the processor may measure the light quantity value detected by the light sensor during a preset time period during the initial operation of the vacuum cleaner, and if the measured light quantity value is outside a preset normal range, it may be determined that an abnormality has occurred in the light sensor.

[0016] In one embodiment, the vacuum cleaner may further include a communication unit. The processor may transmit information indicating that contamination has occurred in the light sensor to the user terminal using the communication unit.

[0017] In one embodiment, the vacuum cleaner may further include a battery and a charging terminal electrically connected to the battery. The processor may perform control to check the status of the light sensor while the vacuum cleaner is mounted on a charging device for charging the battery.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the processor can determine whether contamination has occurred on the surface of the light sensor based on the amount of light detected by the light sensor while the cleaner is mounted on the charging device.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the cleaner may further include a suction motor configured to generate a suction force to suck up foreign substances on a surface to be cleaned in contact with the cleaner head, a brush rotatably mounted within the cleaner head, and a drive motor accommodated within the cleaner head to rotate the brush.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the processor may perform control to increase the operating strength of the cleaner by increasing the rotational speed of at least one of the suction motor and the drive motor.

[0021] A method for controlling a cleaner according to one embodiment may include an operation of measuring a measured light intensity value using a light sensor mounted on a cleaner head so as to face the front of the cleaner head, and an operation of adjusting a rotation speed of at least one motor among a suction motor that generates a suction force of the cleaner or a drive motor that rotates a brush accommodated in the cleaner head using the measured light intensity value. An operation may include increasing a rotation speed of at least one motor among the suction motor or the drive motor when the measured light intensity value is lower than a preset reference value.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the control method of the vacuum cleaner may further include an operation of measuring a light quantity value received by the light sensor during a preset time period during the initial operation of the vacuum cleaner, and determining that an abnormality has occurred in the light sensor if the measured light quantity value is outside a preset normal range.

[0023] According to one embodiment, the control method of the vacuum cleaner may further include an operation of measuring a light quantity value received by the light sensor during an initial preset time of operation of the vacuum cleaner, and performing calibration using the measured light quantity value.

[0024] According to one embodiment, the preset reference value may include a first reference value and a second reference value smaller than the first reference value. In the operation of operating the cleaner, the operation of the cleaner may be controlled in one of a first operation mode, a second operation mode having a relatively greater operation intensity than the first operation mode when the measured light quantity value is less than or equal to the first reference value and greater than the second reference value, or a third operation mode having a relatively greater operation intensity than the second operation mode when the measured light quantity value is less than or equal to the second reference value.

[0025] According to one embodiment, in the operation of operating the cleaner, the control may be configured to increase the operating intensity of the cleaner as the size of the measured light quantity value decreases.

[0026] According to various embodiments proposed in the present disclosure, the vacuum cleaner can use a light sensor to determine a cleaning situation, such as whether the vacuum cleaner head of the vacuum cleaner is cleaning around a wall or under furniture, and control the vacuum cleaner output accordingly to perform more efficient floor cleaning.

[0027] According to various embodiments proposed in the present disclosure, a vacuum cleaner can perform more efficient floor cleaning by controlling the output of the vacuum cleaner using the intensity of visible light (or natural light) detected by the cleaner head.

[0028] The effects that can be obtained from the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned can be clearly derived and understood by those skilled in the art to which the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure pertain from the following description. In other words, unintended effects resulting from implementing the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure can also be derived by those skilled in the art from the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of a suction assembly and a dust collection assembly of a vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment.

[0031] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a dust collector in a vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment.

[0032] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner head according to one embodiment.

[0033] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view for explaining the internal configuration of Figure 3.

[0034] Figure 6 is a control block diagram of a vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment.

[0035] FIG. 7 is a drawing for explaining a method for a vacuum cleaner to detect a surrounding situation using a light sensor according to one embodiment.

[0036] Fig. 8 is a graph showing changes in light intensity values ​​according to the surrounding conditions of a vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment.

[0037] FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a method for controlling a vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment.

[0038] Fig. 10 is a graph showing changes in light intensity values ​​according to the surrounding conditions of a vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment.

[0039] FIG. 11 is a flowchart of a method for controlling a vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment.

[0040] Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment.

[0041] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner head according to one embodiment.

[0042] FIG. 14 is a flowchart of a method for controlling a vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment.

[0043] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a cleaning device including a vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment.

[0044] Figure 16 is an enlarged perspective view of the lower configuration of Figure 15.

[0045] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a cleaning device including a vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment.

[0046] Figure 18 is an enlarged perspective view of the lower configuration of Figure 17.

[0047] The following description refers to the attached drawings, and specific examples of implementations are illustrated within the drawings. Furthermore, other examples may be utilized and structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the various examples.

[0048] The various embodiments used to illustrate the principles of the present disclosure, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 18 below and in this patent document, are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure in any way. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the principles of the present disclosure can be implemented in any appropriately arranged system or device.

[0049] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present disclosure. However, the present disclosure may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. In connection with the description of the drawings, the same or similar reference numerals may be used for identical or similar components. Furthermore, in the drawings and related descriptions, descriptions of well-known functions and configurations may be omitted for clarity and conciseness.

[0050] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] As shown, the vacuum cleaner (1) may be a stick-type vacuum cleaner. In the present disclosure, the description will mainly focus on a stick-type vacuum cleaner, but the vacuum cleaner according to embodiments of the present disclosure may be a variety of types of cleaners, such as a handy type, a stick type, a handy-stick type, a canister type, or an upright type. The extension tube structure described in this specification can be applied not only to a vacuum cleaner but also to various types of stick-type cleaners, such as a mop cleaner that requires an extension tube structure. However, the following description will use the vacuum cleaner (1) as an example for the purpose of explanation.

[0052] Referring to FIG. 1, a vacuum cleaner (1) may include a cleaner body (10), a suction assembly (20), a dust collection assembly (30), an extension tube (40), or a cleaner head (50).

[0053] According to an example, the vacuum cleaner body (10) may include a battery holder (11), a handle (12), an operating unit (13), or a connecting tube (14). The vacuum cleaner body (10) may also include a control unit (60) or a battery (70). The battery holder (11) may be provided, for example, to hold and fix the battery (70). The battery holder (11) may be provided so that the battery (70) is held vertically, but is not limited thereto. The handle (12) may be provided so that a user can hold the vacuum cleaner (1). The handle (12) may be located, for example, adjacent to the battery holder (11). The handle (12) may be located, for example, on the upper portion of the vacuum cleaner (1).

[0054] The battery (70) can supply power to the suction assembly (20), for example. The battery (70) can be implemented as, for example, a rechargeable secondary battery. A charging terminal can be provided on one side of the battery (70). However, this is not limited thereto, and the charging terminal can be provided at a location physically separated from the battery (70) and electrically connected to each other.

[0055] According to one example, the operating unit (13) may be provided on the outside of the vacuum cleaner body (10). The operating unit (13) may, for example, form a part of the exterior of the vacuum cleaner body (10). The operating unit (13) may, for example, be located around the handle (12). Therefore, the user may easily touch the operating unit (13) while holding the handle (12). According to one example, the operating unit (13) may include a power button and a pair of control buttons. The power button may be, for example, a toggle button that switches between a turn-on state and a turn-off state. The pair of control buttons may be, for example, a set of buttons for adjusting the suction strength of the vacuum cleaner (1). According to one example, the operating unit (13) may be provided with separate buttons according to each cleaning mode. In addition, buttons having various functions may be added to the operating unit (13).

[0056] According to an example, the connecting pipe (14) may be provided to be connected to an extension pipe (40). The connecting pipe (14) and the extension pipe (40) may be detachably coupled. The connecting pipe (14) may be provided, for example, at the lower portion of the cleaner body (10), but is not limited thereto. The connecting pipe (14) may have a hollow portion through which air drawn in from the cleaner head (50) may pass. The connecting pipe (14) may have, for example, one end connected to the dust collection assembly (30) and the other end connected to the extension pipe (40). Accordingly, the connecting pipe (14) may provide a path through which air passing through the extension pipe (40) may flow to the dust collection assembly (30).

[0057] According to an example, the control unit (60) may be accommodated inside the vacuum cleaner body (10). The control unit (60) may, for example, control the operation of the suction assembly (20). That is, the control unit (60) may adjust the driving strength of the suction assembly (20) according to the user's input to the operating unit (13).

[0058] According to one example, the suction assembly (20) may be coupled to one side of the cleaner body (10). The suction assembly (20) may have, for example, an overall cylindrical appearance, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The suction assembly (20) may be arranged, for example, such that the height direction is parallel to the extension direction of the extension tube (40). The suction assembly (20) may generate power to generate a suction force inside the cleaner body (10), for example. Air containing foreign substances or dust may be sucked in through the extension tube (40) by the suction force of the suction assembly (20), and the foreign substances or dust may be collected by the dust collection assembly (30).

[0059] In one example, the dust collection assembly (30) can be connected to the suction assembly (20). In one example, as illustrated, the dust collection assembly (30) can be coupled to the lower end of the suction assembly (20). That is, the suction assembly (20) can be placed between the cleaner body (10) and the dust collection assembly (30). The dust collection assembly (30) can collect dust or foreign substances by filtering the air sucked in through the suction force generated by the suction assembly (20).

[0060] For example, the extension pipe (40) may be formed as a double-pipe structure in which two pipes of different diameters are overlapped. For example, the overall length of the extension pipe (40) may be variably adjusted by sliding one of the two pipes forming the double-pipe structure relative to the other pipe. The extension pipe (40) may have, for example, a hollow cylindrical shape, but is not limited thereto.

[0061] For example, a vacuum cleaner head (50) may be connected to an extension tube (40). The vacuum cleaner head (50) may, for example, move along a surface to be cleaned while sucking up foreign substances from the surface to be cleaned. The sucked foreign substances may pass through the extension tube (40) and be collected in the dust collection assembly (30).

[0062] According to an example, a vacuum cleaner (1) may include a light sensor (80). The light sensor (80) may be disposed on a cleaner head (50). The light sensor (80) may be disposed to face the front of the cleaner head (50). The light sensor (80) may be configured to detect the intensity of light including visible light. The light sensor (80) may be, for example, a photoresistor sensor or a CCD (Charge-Coupled Device) sensor. The light sensor (80) may be, for example, a PD (photodiode) sensor. However, the type of the light sensor (80) is not limited thereto.

[0063] Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of a suction assembly and a dust collection assembly of a vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a dust collection container of a vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0064] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the suction assembly (20) may include an impeller (21), a rotating shaft (22), a suction motor (23), a suction portion (24), a discharge portion (25), or a discharge filter member (26). The suction assembly (20) may generate a suction force capable of sucking up foreign substances on a surface to be cleaned, for example, by the rotation of the suction motor (23). For example, the suction force may be provided to a cleaner head by the rotation of the suction motor (23). When the suction motor (23) rotates, a flow of air is generated by the rotation of the impeller (21), so that the air may be introduced into the suction portion (24) and discharged through the discharge portion (25). The discharge portion (25) may be formed to have a plurality of through holes along a circumferential surface forming the exterior of the suction assembly (20).

[0065] According to one example, the impeller (21) may be located inside the suction portion (24). The impeller (21) may be coupled to, for example, a portion of a rotating shaft (22). The rotating shaft (22) may be coupled to a hollow portion in the center of the impeller (21) to form a rotational axis of the impeller (21). When the impeller (21) rotates, a suction airflow may be formed.

[0066] According to an example, a suction motor (23) may be provided inside a suction assembly (20). The suction motor (23) may transmit rotational power to, for example, a rotating shaft (22). Accordingly, rotational power may be transmitted to an impeller (21) connected to the rotating shaft (22).

[0067] According to an example, the exhaust filter member (26) may be provided adjacent to the inner surface of the exhaust portion (25). The exhaust filter member (26) may be arranged along the inner surface of the exhaust portion (25). The exhaust filter member (26) may be arranged between the suction motor (23) and the exhaust portion (25). The cross-sectional shape of the exhaust filter member (26) may correspond to the cross-sectional shape of the exhaust portion (25). The diameter of the cross-section of the exhaust filter member (26) may be smaller than the diameter of the cross-section of the exhaust portion (25).

[0068] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the dust collection assembly (30) may include a dust collection filter unit (31) or a dust collection container (32). The dust collection container (32) may, for example, form the exterior of the dust collection assembly (30). The dust collection container (32) may, for example, be made of a transparent material so that a user can see the amount of foreign substances contained inside.

[0069] The dust collecting filter unit (31) may be provided, for example, inside a dust collecting container (32). According to an example, the dust collecting filter unit (31) may include a receiving case (311), a first cyclone (312), an intermediate wall (313), or a second cyclone (314).

[0070] According to one example, the receiving case (311) may be coupled to the lower portion of the suction assembly (20). The receiving case (311) may, for example, receive at least a portion of a second cyclone (314) therein.

[0071] According to an example, the receiving case (311) may include a guide (3111) or a shutter (3112). The guide (3111) may be provided, for example, adjacent to an opening (321) through which the dust collector (32) and the connecting pipe (14) communicate. The guide (3111) may be provided, for example, to guide air flowing in from the opening (321) of the dust collector (32) to rotate in a circumferential direction. The shutter (3112) may be provided, for example, adjacent to the guide (3111) or the opening (321) of the dust collector (32). The shutter (3112) may open or close a path to control the flow of air passing through the opening (321) of the dust collector (32). The control unit (60) of FIG. 1 may control the opening and closing of the shutter (3112) to control the suction power.

[0072] For example, the first cyclone (312) may be located at the deepest point within the dust collector (32). The first cyclone (312) may, for example, cause air that has passed through the guide (3111) and entered the dust collector (32) to rotate in a circumferential direction, thereby generating centrifugal force. The air may be primarily filtered of dust or foreign substances by the centrifugal force. The separated dust or foreign substances may be accommodated within the dust collector (32). After the primary filtering, the air may pass through the middle wall (313).

[0073] In one example, the intermediate wall (313) may have a cylindrical shape. The intermediate wall (313) may include, for example, microscopic penetration holes (not shown) through which air can pass. The intermediate wall (313) may, for example, have one side coupled to the first cyclone (312) and accommodate at least a portion of the second cyclone (314) therein. Air that has been primarily filtered by the first cyclone (312) may pass through the intermediate wall (313) and move to the second cyclone (314).

[0074] The intermediate wall (313) may be implemented, for example, as a cylindrical metal mesh that filters out foreign substances. When the primary filtered air passes through the intermediate wall (313), dust or foreign substances larger than the size of the micro-penetration holes cannot pass through the intermediate wall (313) and can be filtered in a second stage. After the secondary filtering, the air can move to the second cyclone (314).

[0075] In one example, the second cyclone (314) may include a plurality of small cyclone units (314a). In one example, the small cyclone unit (314a) may include a cylindrical portion (3141), a conical portion (3142), or an inlet (3143). The inlet (3143) may be formed on a side surface of the cylindrical portion (3141). The conical portion (3142) may be connected to the lower end of the cylindrical portion (3141). The secondarily filtered air entering the inlet (3143) may swirl inside the small cyclone unit (314a), and the fine dust may be separated from the air by centrifugal force, thereby performing a third filtering. The separated fine dust may fall downward while swirling in a circumferential direction along the conical portion (3142), and the air may move toward the suction portion (24).

[0076] Fig. 4 is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner head according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 5 is an exploded perspective view for explaining the internal configuration of Fig. 3.

[0077] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the cleaner head (50) may include a pipe connection portion (51), a case (52), a brush (53), and a driving portion (54).

[0078] According to an example, the case (52) may include a main case (521) or a side case (522). The main case (521) may be provided, for example, so that a portion thereof covers the upper portion of the brush (53). The upper portion of the brush (53) in the main case (521) may be formed as a curved surface. The side cases (522) may be provided, for example, in pairs on both sides of the main case (521). The side cases (522) may be formed to extend in a direction perpendicular to the main case (521) from both ends of the main case (521).

[0079] According to an example, the pipe connection part (51) can be connected to the extension pipe (40). The pipe connection part (51) can have, for example, a hollow structure inside to provide a path for air sucked from the brush (53) side to move to the extension pipe (40). The pipe connection part (51) can be detachably coupled to the extension pipe (40). The pipe connection part (51) can be arranged at the rear of the main case (521). The cross-sectional shape of the pipe connection part (51) can vary depending on the cross-sectional shape of the extension pipe (40).

[0080] According to one example, the brush (53) may be arranged to be rotatable within the case (52). The brush (53) may be rotated around a rotation axis (531). The rotation axis (531) may be arranged so that both ends are in contact with the side cases (522) on both sides. The brush (53) may have, for example, an overall cylindrical shape. The brush (53) may be made of a material having high adhesiveness to dust or foreign substances accumulated on the surface to be cleaned.

[0081] According to an example, the driving unit (54) may include a driving motor (541), a driving shaft (542), or a driving belt (543). The driving motor (541) may rotate the driving shaft (542). The driving shaft (542) may be connected to a rotation shaft (531) by a driving belt (543) to transmit the rotational power of the driving shaft (542) to the rotation shaft (531). The driving unit (54) may be powered by a battery (70) and may control the rotational speed and / or rotational direction of the brush (53) according to a command from the control unit (60). Accordingly, the vacuum cleaner (1) may clean the surface to be cleaned by sucking in air around the surface to be cleaned with the suction force generated by the suction unit (24) and inducing dust or foreign substances on the surface to be cleaned to be sucked in by using the rotation of the brush (53). The control unit (60) may control the suction force by controlling the rotational speed of the driving motor (541).

[0082] According to one example, the driving unit (54) may transmit the rotational power of the driving motor (541) to the brush (53) using a meshing structure (e.g., a gear assembly) unlike the illustrated pulley structure. That is, the driving motor (541) may be inserted into the interior of the brush (53) and transmit power to the brush (53) using the meshing structure.

[0083] As an example, a vacuum cleaner (e.g., vacuum cleaner (1) of FIG. 1) may include a light sensor (80). The light sensor (80) may be disposed on a cleaner head (50). The light sensor (80) may be disposed on a main case (521) of the cleaner head (50) as illustrated. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the light sensor (80) may also be disposed on a pipe connection portion (51).

[0084] According to an example, a vacuum cleaner (e.g., vacuum cleaner (1) of FIG. 1) may include a sensor cover (90) that covers the periphery of a light sensor (80). The sensor cover (90) may be arranged to surround the top and side of the light sensor (80). The sensor cover (90) may have an open front to allow the light sensor (80) to detect the intensity of light entering from the front. By the sensor cover (90), light entering from the top or side of the light sensor (80) may be blocked. The light sensor (80) may detect the intensity of light entering only from the front by the sensor cover (90). By providing the sensor cover (90), a control unit (e.g., control unit (60) of FIG. 1) may more accurately determine whether there is an object, such as a wall, in front of the vacuum cleaner (1). The sensor cover (90) may have, for example, the shape of a polygonal pillar with one side open and laid down, but is not limited thereto. The sensor cover (90) may be omitted.

[0085] Figure 6 is a control block diagram of a vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment.

[0086] The control block diagram illustrated in FIG. 6 is exemplary, and the present disclosure is not limited to the illustrated configuration. For example, the vacuum cleaner (1) may further include various types of sensors other than the illustrated light sensor (80). The vacuum cleaner (1) illustrated in FIG. 6 may be substantially identical or similar to the vacuum cleaner (1) illustrated in FIG. 1. The same reference numerals are applied to configurations that are substantially identical or similar among those described in FIGS. 1 to 5.

[0087] Referring to FIG. 6, the vacuum cleaner (1) may include at least one of an operating unit (13), a light sensor (80), a control unit (60), a communication unit (110), a suction motor (23), or a driving motor (541).

[0088] According to one example, the vacuum cleaner (1) may include a communication unit (110) that supports signal transmission and reception with the outside. In one example, the communication unit (110) may receive and / or transmit wired / wireless signals between an external wired / wireless communication system, an external server, and / or other devices according to a predetermined wired / wireless communication protocol. In one example, the communication unit (110) may include one or more modules that connect the vacuum cleaner (1) to one or more networks. In one example, the communication unit (110) may include at least one of a mobile communication module, a wired / wireless Internet module, a short-range communication module, and / or a location information module.

[0089] In one example, the mobile communication module may transmit and receive wireless signals with at least one of an external base station, an external terminal, and an external server through a mobile communication network according to any of various communication protocols for mobile communication. The wireless signals may include various types of data signals. In one example, the wireless signals may include voice call signals, video call call signals, and text / multimedia message signals, but this document is not limited thereto.

[0090] In one example, the wired / wireless Internet module may support, but is not limited to, wireless LAN (WLAN), wireless-fidelity (Wi-Fi), Wi-Fi Direct, digital living network alliance (DLNA), wireless broadband (WiBro), world interoperability for microwave access (WiMAX), high speed downlink packet access (HSDPA), high speed uplink packet access (HSUPA), long term evolution (LTE), or long term evolution-advanced (LTE-A). In one example, the wired / wireless Internet module of the communication unit (110) may transmit and receive data according to at least one wired / wireless Internet technology among the Internet technologies not listed above.

[0091] The short-range communication module is for short-range communication, and can support short-range communication using at least one of Bluetooth, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), Infrared Data Association (IrDA), UWB (Ultra-Wide Band), ZigBee, NFC (Near Field Communication), Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi Direct, and Wireless USB (Universal Serial Bus) technologies, for example. The short-range communication module can support wireless communication between the vacuum cleaner (1) and a wireless communication system, between the vacuum cleaner (1) and another device, or between the vacuum cleaner (1) and a network in which another device is located, for example, through a short-range wireless communication network.

[0092] The location information module is, for example, a module for obtaining the location of the vacuum cleaner (1), and may be a GPS (Global Positioning System) module or a Wi-Fi module. When the vacuum cleaner (1) utilizes a GPS module, information regarding the location of the vacuum cleaner (1) can be received using signals transmitted from GPS satellites. When the vacuum cleaner (1) utilizes a Wi-Fi module, information regarding the location of the vacuum cleaner (1) can be received based on information from a wireless AP (Wireless Access Point) that transmits and receives wireless signals with the Wi-Fi module.

[0093] In one example, the communication unit (110) may receive a setting data signal input by a user from the user's mobile terminal in the form of a wireless signal according to a predetermined wireless communication protocol. In one example, the communication unit (110) may receive information and / or commands for controlling the operation of the vacuum cleaner (1) from an external server in the form of signals according to a predetermined wired / wireless communication protocol. The communication unit (110) may transmit various received signals to the control unit (60) described below. In one example, the communication unit (110) may transmit various data generated or acquired on the vacuum cleaner (1) in the form of wired / wireless signals according to a predetermined wired / wireless communication protocol, for example, to the user's mobile terminal or an external server.

[0094] As an example, the vacuum cleaner (1) may include a light sensor (80) for detecting the surrounding environment other than the bottom surface of the vacuum cleaner (1). The light sensor (80) may be arranged to detect the amount of light entering mainly from the front of the cleaner head (50).

[0095] According to one example, the vacuum cleaner (1) may include a control unit (60) that controls the overall operation of the vacuum cleaner (1). The control unit (60) may include a memory (62) that stores or memorizes a program and / or data for controlling each component of the vacuum cleaner (1), and a processor (61) that generates a control signal for controlling each component of the vacuum cleaner (1) according to the program and / or data stored in the memory (62) and information obtained from each of the other components.

[0096] For example, the memory (62) can store various data that can be used to control the operation of each component of the vacuum cleaner (1). The memory (62) can store, for example, a plurality of application programs used in the vacuum cleaner (1), data for controlling the operation of the vacuum cleaner (1), and commands. At least some of the application programs stored in the memory (62) can be downloaded from an external server via wireless communication. At least some of the application programs stored in the memory (62) can be stored in the memory (62) from the time of shipment for the basic functions of the vacuum cleaner (1). In one example, the memory (62) can store various data, such as a preset reference value for a light quantity value that serves as a criterion for distinguishing the surrounding environment of the vacuum cleaner (1), as will be described later, or a value for a preset normal range that serves as a criterion for determining whether the illuminance sensor (80) is abnormal.

[0097] In one example, the processor (61) of the control unit (60) may receive various input / setting information, such as power on / off of the vacuum cleaner (1), vacuum cleaner operation setting information (e.g., operation start / stop, operation mode selection, intensity selection, etc.), or other various control information, from the aforementioned operation unit (13) and / or communication unit (110). The processor (61) may obtain information on the light quantity value detected by the light sensor (80) from the light sensor (80).

[0098] In one example, the processor (61) of the control unit (60) may generate an operation control command for each component of the vacuum cleaner (1) based on various pieces of information received from the operation unit (13), the communication unit (110), and / or the light sensor (80). The processor (61) may adjust the rotation speed of at least one motor among the suction motor (23) or the drive motor (541) to adjust the operation intensity or suction intensity of the vacuum cleaner (1). Here, the operation intensity of the vacuum cleaner (1) may refer to the intensity or strength with which the vacuum cleaner (1) sucks dust or foreign substances from the floor. The control for increasing the operation intensity of the vacuum cleaner (1) may include, for example, a control for increasing the rotation speed of at least one motor among the suction motor (23) or the drive motor (541).

[0099] In one example, the processor (61) can continuously obtain information from the control unit (13), the communication unit (110), or the light sensor (80) while the vacuum cleaner (1) is operating, and can continuously update and control the operation of each component (e.g., the suction motor (23) or the drive motor (541)) based on the obtained information.

[0100] According to one example, the processor (61) of the control unit (60) can determine the environment surrounding the vacuum cleaner (1) using the light sensor (80). The processor (61) can determine the environment surrounding the vacuum cleaner (1) using the light quantity value including visible light detected by the light sensor (80) (hereinafter referred to as “measured light quantity value”). For example, when the light sensor (80) is configured to detect at least a portion of visible light, the “measured light quantity value” may refer to the light quantity value of at least a portion of visible light.

[0101] According to one example, the processor (61) of the control unit (60) can adjust or control the operating intensity or suction intensity of the vacuum cleaner (1) based on the measured light quantity value. For example, the processor (61) of the control unit (60) can be configured to increase the operating intensity or suction intensity of the vacuum cleaner (1) when the measured light quantity value is lower than a preset reference value. The preset reference value is a value determined by experiment and can be stored in the memory (62) in advance before the product is shipped. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the preset reference value can vary depending on the environment within the home where the vacuum cleaner (1) is placed.

[0102] According to an example, the processor (61) of the control unit (60) can perform calibration of the light sensor (80). The processor (61) can measure the light quantity value detected by the light sensor (80) for a preset time period during the initial operation of the vacuum cleaner (1) and perform calibration using the measured light quantity value. For example, the processor (61) can perform calibration using an average value of the light quantity values ​​measured for a preset time period. The processor (61) can continuously measure the light quantity value detected by the light sensor (80) for a preset time period from the time period when the operation of the vacuum cleaner (1) starts (or the time period when the rotation of the suction motor (23) starts), for example.

[0103] According to one example, the processor (61) of the control unit (60) can determine whether an abnormality has occurred in the light sensor (80). For example, the processor (61) can determine whether contamination has occurred on the surface of the light sensor (80). The processor (61) can measure the light quantity value detected by the light sensor (80) during a preset time period during the initial operation of the vacuum cleaner (1) and determine whether the measured light quantity value is outside a preset normal range. The preset normal range can be stored in advance in the memory (62). If the processor (61) determines that the light quantity value measured during the preset time period is outside the preset normal range, it can determine that an abnormality has occurred in the light sensor (80). According to one example, the processor (61) can transmit information that contamination has occurred in the light sensor (80) to a user device, such as a user's mobile terminal, using the communication unit (110).

[0104] For example, the processor (61) may perform control to increase the operating intensity of the vacuum cleaner (1) as the size of the measured light quantity value decreases. As the amount of light detected by the light sensor (80) decreases, the area may be less visible to the user or may be a part where a relatively large amount of dust or foreign substances have accumulated. The processor (61) may determine that the area where a large amount of dust or foreign substances have accumulated as the measured light quantity value decreases, and may increase the output of the vacuum cleaner. For example, the output of the vacuum cleaner (1) may be inversely proportional to the measured light quantity value. For example, the processor (61) may set a reference value as described below, and may compare the measured light quantity value with the reference value to adjust the output of the vacuum cleaner (1).

[0105] In this drawing, the control unit (60) is disclosed as a single comprehensive configuration that controls all components included in the vacuum cleaner (1), but this document is not limited thereto. In one example, the vacuum cleaner (1) may be configured to include multiple control unit configurations that individually control some of the components of the vacuum cleaner (1). The vacuum cleaner (1) may have a separate control unit having a processor and a memory for controlling the operation of a user interface according to user input. The processor (61) of the control unit (60) may include multiple processors, and the memory (62) may include multiple memory devices.

[0106] FIG. 7 is a drawing for explaining a method for a vacuum cleaner to detect a surrounding situation using a light sensor according to one embodiment.

[0107] The vacuum cleaner (1) of Fig. 7 may be substantially identical or similar to the vacuum cleaner (1) illustrated in Figs. 1 to 6.

[0108] Referring to Fig. 7, while a user is cleaning using a vacuum cleaner (1), the amount of light detected by the light sensor (80) may vary depending on the surrounding conditions.

[0109] Fig. 7 (a) is a drawing showing a case where a vacuum cleaner (1) (or cleaner head (50)) is positioned around a wall surface (W). The closer the cleaner head (50) is to the wall surface (W), the smaller the measured light intensity value detected and measured by the light sensor (80). In a situation where a floor surface is cleaned using a vacuum cleaner (1), dust or foreign substances may mainly accumulate at the corner of the floor surface formed by the wall surface (W). In the present disclosure, a control unit (e.g., a control unit (60) of Fig. 6) may determine whether the cleaner head (50) is positioned at a corner of the floor surface adjacent to the wall surface (W) using the measured light intensity value, and may perform control to increase the operating intensity or suction intensity of the vacuum cleaner (1). A detailed description will be given later.

[0110] FIG. 7 (b) is a diagram illustrating a case where a vacuum cleaner (1) (or cleaner head (50)) is positioned under a piece of furniture such as a chair, sofa, bed, or table. When the cleaner head (50) is positioned under the furniture, the measured light intensity value detected and measured by the light sensor (80) may decrease. A greater amount of dust or foreign substances may accumulate on the lower floor surface of the furniture (F) than in other spaces. In the present disclosure, a control unit (e.g., a control unit (60) of FIG. 6) may determine, using the measured light intensity value, whether the cleaner head (50) is positioned in a space where it is difficult for a user to see with the naked eye, such as under a piece of furniture, and may perform control to increase the operating intensity or suction intensity of the vacuum cleaner (1). A detailed description will be given later.

[0111] Fig. 8 is a graph showing changes in light intensity values ​​according to the surrounding conditions of a vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment.

[0112] The graph in Fig. 8 is an exemplary measurement value for convenience of explanation, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0113] Referring to FIG. 8, while a vacuum cleaner (e.g., vacuum cleaner (1) of FIG. 1) moves indoors, the amount of light detected by the light sensor (80) may vary depending on the surrounding conditions.

[0114] According to an example, the control unit (e.g., the control unit (60) of FIG. 6) can measure the light quantity value including visible light using the light sensor (80) periodically or aperiodically while the vacuum cleaner (1) is operating.

[0115] As illustrated, depending on the surrounding environment of the vacuum cleaner (1), a section in which the measured light quantity value measured using the light sensor (80) changes rapidly may occur. The control unit (60) can detect the section in which the measured light quantity value changes rapidly to determine the surrounding environment of the vacuum cleaner (1). Here, the surrounding environment of the vacuum cleaner (1) may refer to an environment other than the floor surface that must be considered when cleaning, such as a wall surface or furniture, rather than the condition or type of the floor surface.

[0116] The graph of Fig. 8 shows a first section (T1) in which the measured light intensity value is greater than a preset reference value and a second section (T2) in which the measured light intensity value is less than the preset reference value. As in (a) of Fig. 7, a measured light intensity value such as the second section (T2) can be measured in a situation in which the front of the cleaner head (50) is adjacent to a wall or in a situation in which the cleaner head (50) is located in the lower space of furniture as in (b) of Fig. 7. The control unit (60) can control the vacuum cleaner (1) to operate with a relatively greater operating intensity or suction intensity in the second section (T2) than in the first section (T1). When the measured light intensity value is less than the preset reference value, the control unit (60) can perform control to increase the operating intensity or suction intensity of the vacuum cleaner (1).

[0117] FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a method for controlling a vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment.

[0118] The control flow chart of the vacuum cleaner illustrated in Fig. 9 may be a control method of the vacuum cleaner (1) illustrated in Figs. 1 to 7.

[0119] The flow chart illustrated in Fig. 9 is a flow chart for the vacuum cleaner (1) described in Figs. 1 to 8.

[0120] Referring to FIG. 9, the processor (61) can perform an operation (910) for operating the vacuum cleaner (1). The processor (61) can perform the operation of the vacuum cleaner (1) based on an input value received from the operating unit (13) or the communication unit (110).

[0121] According to one example, the processor (61) may perform operation (920) of measuring the intensity of light including visible light using the light sensor (80). The processor (61) may measure the amount of light entering from the front of the cleaner head (50) using the light sensor (80) mounted on the cleaner head (50). As one example, the processor (61) may measure the intensity of light of at least a portion of visible light using the light sensor (80). Hereinafter, the light quantity value measured through operation 920 may be referred to as a 'measured light quantity value'. According to one example, the processor (61) may repeatedly perform operation 920 periodically or aperiodically during operation of the vacuum cleaner (1).

[0122] According to an example, the processor (61) can perform an operation (930) of comparing a measured light quantity value with a preset reference value. The processor (61) can determine whether the measured light quantity value exceeds the preset reference value.

[0123] According to one example, the processor (61) may include an operation (940, 950) of controlling the rotation speed of at least one motor among a suction motor (23) that generates a suction force of the vacuum cleaner (1) using the measured light quantity value or a drive motor (541) that rotates a brush (53) accommodated in the cleaner head (50).

[0124] For example, in operation 930, if the processor (61) determines that the measured light amount value is greater than a preset reference value, the processor (61) may perform operation (940) of maintaining the operating intensity or suction intensity of the vacuum cleaner (1). The processor (61) may perform the operation of the vacuum cleaner (1) based on the input value received from the operating unit (13) or the communication unit (110) in operation 910.

[0125] According to an example, in operation 930, if the processor (61) determines that the measured light intensity value is not greater than a preset reference value, the processor (61) may perform operation (950) of increasing the operating intensity or suction intensity of the vacuum cleaner (1). In order to increase the operating intensity or suction intensity of the vacuum cleaner (1), the processor (61) may perform control to increase the rotation speed of at least one motor among the suction motor (23) or the drive motor (541).

[0126] The processor (61) can determine that the cleaner head (50) is positioned adjacent to a wall or under a piece of furniture when the measured light quantity is lower than a preset reference value. The location where the cleaner head (50) is positioned when the measured light quantity is lower than the preset reference value can generally be a location where dust or foreign substances are relatively accumulated compared to other floor surfaces. Therefore, the vacuum cleaner (1) of the present disclosure can increase cleaning efficiency by using the illuminance sensor (80) to identify a floor surface where dust or foreign substances are relatively accumulated, and by increasing the output of the vacuum cleaner (1) when cleaning the corresponding floor surface.

[0127] For example, when a sensor cover (90) is arranged around a light sensor (80) as illustrated in FIG. 1, when the cleaner head (50) is adjacent to a wall, the light quantity value detected by the light sensor (80) can be substantially 0. When the cleaner head (50) is adjacent to a wall, the front opening of the sensor cover (90) is closed by the wall, so that the light quantity value detected by the light sensor (80) can be substantially 0. When the sensor cover (90) is additionally configured, the difference in the measured light quantity value between the cases where the cleaner head (50) is adjacent to a wall and the cases where it is not adjacent increases, so that the processor (61) can more accurately determine the surrounding situation.

[0128] Unlike the illustrated example, the processor (61) may perform control to increase the output of the vacuum cleaner (1) when the intensity of light detected by the light sensor (80) is substantially 0 without setting a separate preset reference value.

[0129] According to an example, the processor (61) may perform operation (960) of determining whether the operation of the vacuum cleaner (1) has ended. If the processor (61) determines that the operation of the vacuum cleaner (1) has not ended, the processor may return to operation 930.

[0130] According to an example, the processor (61) may further include an operation for detecting an abnormality in the light sensor (80). For example, the processor (61) may further include an operation for measuring a light quantity value received by the light sensor (80) during a preset time period during the initial operation of the vacuum cleaner (1), and determining that an abnormality has occurred in the light sensor (80) if the measured light quantity value is outside a preset normal range. The operation for determining an abnormality in the light sensor (80) may be performed, for example, between operations 910 and 930, but is not limited thereto.

[0131] According to one example, the processor (61) may further include an operation of calibrating the light sensor (80). The processor may further include an operation of measuring the light quantity value received by the light sensor (80) during a preset time period during the initial operation of the vacuum cleaner (1) and performing calibration using the measured light quantity value. The operation of calibrating the light sensor (80) may be performed, for example, between operations 910 and 920, but is not limited thereto. By performing calibration before performing operation 930, the accuracy with which the processor (61) determines the surrounding environment may be increased.

[0132] The flowchart illustrated in FIG. 9 is an example for explaining the characteristic parts of the present disclosure and is not limited thereto. Other operations may be added between each operation.

[0133] Fig. 10 is a graph showing changes in light intensity values ​​according to the surrounding conditions of a vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment.

[0134] The graph in Fig. 10 is an exemplary measurement value for convenience of explanation, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0135] Referring to FIG. 10, while a vacuum cleaner (e.g., vacuum cleaner (1) of FIG. 1) moves indoors, the amount of light detected by the light sensor (80) may vary depending on the surrounding conditions.

[0136] According to an example, the control unit (e.g., the control unit (60) of FIG. 6) can measure the light quantity value including visible light using the light sensor (80) periodically or aperiodically while the vacuum cleaner (1) is operating.

[0137] As illustrated, depending on the surrounding environment of the vacuum cleaner (1), a section in which the measured light quantity value measured using the light sensor (80) changes rapidly may occur. The control unit (60) can detect the section in which the measured light quantity value changes rapidly to determine the surrounding environment of the vacuum cleaner (1). Here, the surrounding environment of the vacuum cleaner (1) may refer to an environment other than the floor surface that must be considered when cleaning, such as a wall surface or furniture, rather than the condition or type of the floor surface.

[0138] Referring to FIG. 10, there may be a difference in the light intensity value detected by the light sensor (80) when a wall is adjacent to the front of the cleaner head (50) and when the cleaner head (50) is positioned under a piece of furniture such as a chair, sofa, bed, or table. For example, the light intensity value measured by the light sensor (80) when a wall is adjacent to the front of the cleaner head (50) may be greater than the light intensity value measured by the light sensor (80) when the cleaner head (50) is positioned under a piece of furniture.

[0139] For example, the preset reference value may include a first reference value and a second reference value. The second reference value may be smaller than the first reference value. The processor (61) may sequentially adjust the operating strength or suction strength of the vacuum cleaner (1) using the first reference value and the second reference value.

[0140] The graph of Fig. 10 shows a first section (T1') in which the measured light quantity value is greater than the first reference value, a second section (T2') in which the measured light quantity value is less than or equal to the first reference value and greater than the second reference value, and a third section (T3') in which the measured light quantity value is less than or equal to the second reference value. For example, in a situation where the front of the cleaner head (50) is adjacent to a wall, as in (a) of Fig. 7, a measured light quantity value such as the third section (T3') can be measured. For example, in a situation where the cleaner head (50) is located in the lower space of furniture, as in (b) of Fig. 7, a measured light quantity value such as the second section (T2') can be measured.

[0141] For example, the control unit (60) can control the vacuum cleaner (1) to operate with a relatively greater operating intensity or suction intensity in the second section (T2') than in the first section (T1'). For example, the control unit (60) can control the vacuum cleaner (1) to operate with a relatively greater operating intensity or suction intensity in the third section (T3') than in the second section (T2'). The control unit (60) can perform control to increase the operating intensity or suction intensity of the vacuum cleaner (1) as the measured light quantity value decreases.

[0142] FIG. 11 is a flowchart of a method for controlling a vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment.

[0143] The control flow chart of the vacuum cleaner illustrated in Fig. 11 may be a control method of the vacuum cleaner (1) illustrated in Figs. 1 to 7.

[0144] The flow chart illustrated in Fig. 11 is a flow chart for the vacuum cleaner (1) described in Figs. 1 to 7 and Fig. 10.

[0145] Referring to FIG. 11, the processor (61) can perform an operation (1110) for operating the vacuum cleaner (1). The processor (61) can perform the operation of the vacuum cleaner (1) based on an input value received from the operating unit (13) or the communication unit (110).

[0146] According to one example, the processor (61) may perform operation (1120) of measuring the intensity of light including visible light using the light sensor (80). The processor (61) may measure the amount of light entering from the front of the cleaner head (50) using the light sensor (80) mounted on the cleaner head (50). As one example, the processor (61) may measure the intensity of light of at least a portion of visible light using the light sensor (80). Hereinafter, the light quantity value measured through operation 1120 may be referred to as a 'measured light quantity value'. According to one example, the processor (61) may repeatedly perform operation 920 periodically or aperiodically during operation of the vacuum cleaner (1).

[0147] According to an example, the processor (61) may perform operations (1130, 1140) of comparing a measured light quantity value with a preset reference value. The processor (61) may determine whether the measured light quantity value exceeds the preset reference value. The preset reference value may include a first reference value and a second reference value. The first reference value may be greater than the second reference value.

[0148] In one example, the processor (61) can determine an operating mode by comparing the measured light intensity value with a first reference value and a second reference value. In one example, the processor (61) can control the operation of the vacuum cleaner (1) in one of a first operating mode for operating the vacuum cleaner (1), a second operating mode having a relatively greater operating intensity than the first operating mode, or a third operating mode having a relatively greater operating intensity than the second operating mode.

[0149] In operation 1130, the processor (61) can determine whether the measured light quantity value is greater than the first reference value.

[0150] According to an example, the processor (61) may control the vacuum cleaner (1) in a first operation mode when it is determined that the measured light quantity value does not exceed the first reference value. Here, the first operation mode may refer to an initial operation mode based on an input value input by the operation unit (13) or the communication unit (110).

[0151] If the measured light quantity value exceeds the first reference value, in operation 1140, the processor (61) can determine whether the measured light quantity value is greater than the second reference value. For example, the processor (61) can determine whether the measured light quantity value is less than or equal to the first reference value and greater than or equal to the second reference value.

[0152] According to one example, if the processor (61) determines that the measured light quantity value is less than or equal to the first reference value and greater than or equal to the second reference value, the processor (61) may perform an operation (1160) of controlling the vacuum cleaner (1) in a second operation mode.

[0153] According to an example, if the processor (61) determines that the measured light quantity value is less than or equal to the second reference value, it can perform an operation (1170) of controlling the vacuum cleaner (1) in a third operation mode.

[0154] As the measured light quantity value becomes smaller, the area may be difficult for the user's field of vision to reach, so the processor (61) may increase the output of the vacuum cleaner (1) to efficiently clean dust accumulated in an area difficult for the user's field of vision to reach.

[0155] According to an example, the processor (61) may perform operation (1180) of determining whether the operation of the vacuum cleaner (1) has ended. If the processor (61) determines that the operation of the vacuum cleaner (1) has not ended, the processor may return to operation 1130.

[0156] According to an example, the processor (61) may further include an operation for detecting an abnormality in the light sensor (80). For example, the processor (61) may further include an operation for measuring a light quantity value received by the light sensor (80) during a preset time period during the initial operation of the vacuum cleaner (1), and determining that an abnormality has occurred in the light sensor (80) if the measured light quantity value is outside a preset normal range. The operation for determining an abnormality in the light sensor (80) may be performed, for example, between operations 1110 and 1130, but is not limited thereto.

[0157] According to one example, the processor (61) may further include an operation of calibrating the light sensor (80). The processor may further include an operation of measuring the light quantity value received by the light sensor (80) during an initial preset time of operation of the vacuum cleaner (1) and performing calibration using the measured light quantity value. The operation of calibrating the light sensor (80) may be performed, for example, between operations 1110 and 1120, but is not limited thereto. By performing calibration before performing operation 1130, the accuracy with which the processor (61) determines the surrounding environment may be increased.

[0158] The flowchart illustrated in Fig. 11 is an example for explaining the characteristic parts of the present disclosure and is not limited thereto. Other operations may be added between each operation.

[0159] Fig. 12 is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment. Fig. 13 is a perspective view of a cleaner head according to one embodiment.

[0160] Among the configurations illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13, the same reference numbers are assigned to configurations that are substantially the same or similar to those illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 6. Among the configurations of the vacuum cleaner (1') of FIG. 12, the remaining configurations, excluding the cleaner head (50), may be substantially the same or similar to the remaining configurations, excluding the cleaner head (50), of the vacuum cleaner (1) of FIGS. 1 to 6.

[0161] The embodiments of FIGS. 12 and 13 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 11. The embodiments of FIGS. 12 and 13 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 15 to 18.

[0162] Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, the vacuum cleaner (1') may further include a light source unit (120). The light source unit (120) may be placed on the cleaner head (50). The light source unit (120) may be placed on the cleaner head so as to irradiate light toward the front of the cleaner head (50). The light source unit (120) may be, for example, an LED element, but is not limited thereto.

[0163] In one example, the vacuum cleaner (1') may include a light sensor (80). The light sensor (80) may be positioned on the cleaner head (50) to detect the intensity of light including visible light. As an example, the light sensor (80) may be configured to detect at least a portion of visible light. The light sensor (80) may be positioned to face forward. The light sensor (80) illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13 may be substantially the same as or similar to the light sensor (80) illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0164] For example, the light sensor (80) can detect the intensity of light including natural light and reflected light from the light source (120). The light sensor (80) can detect, for example, reflected light emitted from the light source (120) and reflected light from surrounding objects.

[0165] According to an example, the control unit (60) can continuously turn on the light source unit (120) or repeat turning it on and off periodically or aperiodically.

[0166] For example, the control unit (60) can identify the surrounding cleaning environment by using the intensity of light detected by the light sensor (80) and adjust the output of the vacuum cleaner (1') accordingly. The control unit (60) can adjust the output of the vacuum cleaner (1') based on the intensity of the reflected light of the light source unit (120) detected by the light sensor (80). For example, when the light source unit (120) is repeatedly turned ON and OFF periodically or aperiodically, the control unit (60) can measure the amount of light when the light source unit (120) is turned ON and adjust the output of the vacuum cleaner (1') based on the measured amount of light.

[0167] The control unit (60) can determine that there is a wall or other object in the vicinity as the intensity of the reflected light of the light source unit (120) measured by the illuminance sensor (80) increases. For example, if the intensity of the reflected light of the light source unit (120) measured by the control unit (60) is greater than a predetermined value, the control unit (60) can determine that the cleaner head (50) is adjacent to a wall or is located under a piece of furniture such as a chair, sofa, bed, or table. For example, if the intensity of the reflected light of the light source unit (120) measured by the control unit (60) is greater than a predetermined value, the control unit (60) can increase the output of the vacuum cleaner (1') to increase the operating intensity or suction intensity of the vacuum cleaner (1').

[0168] FIG. 14 is a flowchart of a method for controlling a vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment.

[0169] Referring to Fig. 14, while the vacuum cleaner (1') of Fig. 12 moves indoors, the amount of light detected by the light sensor (80) may differ depending on the surrounding conditions.

[0170] The control flow chart of the vacuum cleaner illustrated in Fig. 14 may be a control method of the vacuum cleaner (1') illustrated in Figs. 12 and 13.

[0171] Referring to FIG. 14, the control unit (60) can perform an operation (1410) for operating the vacuum cleaner (1'). The control unit (60) can perform the operation of the vacuum cleaner (1') based on an input value received from the operation unit (13) or the communication unit (e.g., the communication unit (110) of FIG. 6).

[0172] According to one example, the control unit (60) can perform an operation (1420) of measuring the intensity of reflected light of the light source unit (120) using the light sensor (80). The control unit (60) can perform a control to turn the light source unit (120) ON or OFF. When the light source unit (120) is turned ON by the control unit (60), the light sensor (80) can detect the reflected light generated when the light irradiated from the light source unit (120) reflects off a surrounding object. The control unit (60) can determine the presence or absence of a wall or object around the cleaner head (50) using the intensity of the reflected light of the light source unit (120) detected by the light sensor (80). According to one example, the control unit (60) can repeatedly perform the operation 1420 periodically or aperiodically during the operation of the vacuum cleaner (1').

[0173] According to an example, the control unit (60) can perform an operation (1430) of comparing the reflected light of the measured light source unit (120) with a preset light quantity. The preset light quantity may be a data value previously stored in the memory of the control unit (60). The control unit (60) can determine whether the reflected light of the measured light source unit (120) is less than the preset light quantity.

[0174] According to one example, the control unit (60) may include an operation (1440, 1450) for controlling the rotation speed of at least one motor among a suction motor (e.g., a suction motor (23) of FIG. 6) that generates a suction force of the vacuum cleaner (1') using the measured light quantity value or a drive motor (e.g., a drive motor (541) of FIG. 6) that rotates a brush (53) accommodated in the cleaner head (50).

[0175] For example, in operation 1430, if the control unit (60) determines that the reflected light of the measured light source unit (120) is less than a preset light amount, the control unit (60) may perform operation (1440) of maintaining the operating intensity or suction intensity of the vacuum cleaner (1'). If the intensity of the reflected light of the light source unit (120) is weak, it means that there is no object nearby that reflects light, such as a wall, and therefore, the vacuum cleaner (1') may perform the operation of the vacuum cleaner (1') based on the input value received from the operation unit (13) or the communication unit (110).

[0176] According to an example, in operation 1430, if the control unit (60) determines that the reflected light of the measured light source unit (120) is not less than a preset light amount, the control unit (60) may perform operation (1450) of increasing the operating intensity or suction intensity of the vacuum cleaner (1'). In order to increase the operating intensity or suction intensity of the vacuum cleaner (1'), the control unit (60) may perform control to increase the rotation speed of at least one motor among the suction motor (23) or the drive motor (541).

[0177] The control unit (60) can determine that the vacuum cleaner head (50) is located adjacent to a wall or under furniture if the measured light quantity is greater than the preset light quantity. If an object that reflects light, such as a wall or furniture, is near the vacuum cleaner head (50), the intensity of the reflected light from the light source unit (120) detected by the light sensor (80) may increase.

[0178] When the reflected light of the measured light source (120) is greater than the preset light amount, the location where the cleaner head (50) is positioned may generally be a location where dust or foreign substances are relatively accumulated compared to other floor surfaces. Therefore, the vacuum cleaner (1') of the present disclosure can increase cleaning efficiency by using the illuminance sensor (80) to identify a floor surface where dust or foreign substances are relatively accumulated, and by increasing the output of the vacuum cleaner (1') when cleaning the corresponding floor surface.

[0179] According to an example, the control unit (60) may perform operation (1460) of determining whether the operation of the vacuum cleaner (1') has ended. If the control unit (60) determines that the operation of the vacuum cleaner (1') has not ended, the control unit (60) may return to operation 1430.

[0180] According to one example, the control unit (60) may further include an operation for detecting an abnormality in the light sensor (80). For example, the control unit (60) may further include an operation for measuring the light quantity value received by the light sensor (80) during a preset time period during the initial operation of the vacuum cleaner (1'), and determining that an abnormality has occurred in the light sensor (80) if the measured light quantity value is out of a preset normal range. In this operation, the control unit (60) may turn off the light source unit (120). The operation for determining an abnormality in the light sensor (80) may be performed, for example, between operations 1410 and 1430, but is not limited thereto.

[0181] According to one example, the control unit (60) may further include an operation of calibrating the light sensor (80). The control unit (60) may further include an operation of measuring the light quantity value received by the light sensor (80) during a preset time period during the initial operation of the vacuum cleaner (1') and performing calibration using the measured light quantity value. In this operation, the control unit (60) may turn off the light source unit (120). The operation of calibrating the light sensor (80) may be performed, for example, between operations 1410 and 1420, but is not limited thereto. By performing calibration before performing operation 1430, the accuracy with which the control unit (60) determines the surrounding environment may be increased.

[0182] The flowchart illustrated in Fig. 14 is an example for explaining the characteristic parts of the present disclosure and is not limited thereto. Other operations may be added between each operation.

[0183] Fig. 15 is a perspective view of a cleaning device including a vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment. Fig. 16 is an enlarged perspective view of the lower part of Fig. 15.

[0184] The vacuum cleaner (1) illustrated in FIGS. 15 and 16 may be substantially identical or similar to the vacuum cleaner (1) illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 7. Among the configurations illustrated in FIGS. 15 and 16, the same reference numerals are applied to configurations that are substantially identical or similar to the configurations illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 7.

[0185] The embodiments of FIGS. 15 and 16 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 14.

[0186] Referring to FIGS. 15 and 16, the cleaning device (1500) may include a vacuum cleaner (1) and a charging device (1600) on which the vacuum cleaner (1) is mounted.

[0187] According to one example, the charging device (1600) may include a station body (1610) and a support (1620) that supports the station body (1610). A connection port (1601) may be formed on the upper portion of the station body (1610). The connection port (1601) may be a portion where a part of the vacuum cleaner (1) is mounted. The connection port (1601) may be provided to be connected to a dust collector (32) of the vacuum cleaner (1). For example, the dust collector (32) of the vacuum cleaner (1) is connected to the connection port (1601), and dust or foreign substances contained in the dust collector (32) may be discharged through the connection port (1601).

[0188] The station body (1610) may include housings (1611, 1612, 1613, 1614). The housings (1611, 1612, 1613, 1614) may form the exterior of the charging device (1600). The first housing (1611) and the second housing (1612) may form the upper exterior of the charging device (1600). The third housing (1613) and the fourth housing (1614) may form the lower exterior of the charging device (1600). Components for sucking dust or foreign substances, etc., inside the dust collector (32) may be installed within the housings (1611, 1612, 1613, 1614).

[0189] The first housing (1611) and the second housing (1612) may be provided to have a longitudinal axis extending in one direction. The longitudinal axes of the first housing (1611) and the second housing (1612) may be provided to extend in the vertical direction. The first housing (1611) and the second housing (1612) may be formed to have a curved surface. The first housing (1611) and the second housing (1612) may be coupled to each other to have a substantially cylindrical shape. However, the shapes of the first housing (1611) and the second housing (1612) are not limited to those illustrated.

[0190] The third housing (1613) and the fourth housing (1614) may be provided to have a longitudinal axis extending in one direction. The longitudinal axes of the third housing (1613) and the fourth housing (1614) may be provided to extend in the vertical direction. The third housing (1613) may be provided to correspond to the shape of the first housing (1611). The fourth housing (1614) may be provided to correspond to the shape of the second housing (1612). The third housing (1613) and the fourth housing (1614) may be coupled to each other to form a substantially cylindrical shape. However, the shapes of the third housing (1613) and the fourth housing (1614) are not limited to those illustrated.

[0191] According to an example, the charging device (1600) may include a mounting portion (1612b, 1614b). The mounting portion (1612b, 1614b) may be formed on one surface of the housing (1611, 1612, 1 1613, 1614) and configured to allow the extension tube (40) of the vacuum cleaner (1) to be mounted thereon. The mounting portion (1612b, 1614b) may include a first mounting portion (1612b) and a second mounting portion (1614b).

[0192] The first mounting portion (1612b) may be formed, for example, in the second housing (1612). The first mounting portion (1612b) may be formed such that a portion of the second housing (1612) is recessed inward. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the first mounting portion (1612b) may be formed between two ribs protruding from the second housing (1612). The first mounting portion (1612b) may extend along the longitudinal axis of the second housing (1612). The upper portion of the extension tube (40) of the vacuum cleaner (1) may be mounted on the first mounting portion (1612b).

[0193] The second mounting portion (1614b) may be formed, for example, in the fourth housing (1614). The second mounting portion (1614b) may be formed such that a portion of the fourth housing (1614) is recessed inward, but is not limited thereto. The second mounting portion (1614b) may extend along the longitudinal axis of the fourth housing (1614). The lower portion of the extension tube of the vacuum cleaner (1) may be mounted on the second mounting portion (1614b). The first mounting portion (1612b) and the second mounting portion (1614b) may be connected in a vertical direction.

[0194] The third housing (1613) may include a first exhaust hole (1613a). The fourth housing (1614) may include a second exhaust hole (1614a). The first exhaust hole (1613a) and the second exhaust hole (1614a) may be formed to discharge air sucked by a suction unit (not shown) provided within the housing to suck up dust within a dust collector (32) to the outside.

[0195] The support (1620) can be coupled with the housings (1611, 1612, 1 1613, 1614) of the station body (1610). The support (1620) can be coupled with the third housing (1613) and the fourth housing (1614). The support (1620) can be coupled to the lower part of the station body (1610). An accommodation space (1618) for accommodating the cleaner head (50) of the vacuum cleaner (1) can be formed between the support (1620) and the station body (1610).

[0196] The charging device (1600) may include a charging terminal (1670). When the vacuum cleaner (1) is mounted on the charging device (1600), the charging terminal (1670) of the charging device (1600) and the battery (70) of the vacuum cleaner (1) may be electrically connected. The battery (70) of the vacuum cleaner (1) may be charged by receiving power from the charging terminal (1670) provided by the charging device (1600).

[0197] According to one example, the charging device (1600) may be configured to remove dust from the dust collector (32). For example, when a vacuum cleaner (1) is mounted or docked to the charging device (1600), the dust collector (32) of the vacuum cleaner (1) may be docked to the connection port (1601) of the charging device (1600) in an open state. By operating a suction device (not shown) configured within the charging device (1600), dust within the dust collector (32) of the vacuum cleaner (1) can be sucked in and removed.

[0198] The charging device (1600) may be referred to by various terms, such as a charging station or a docking station.

[0199] According to one example, the charging device (1600) may further include a light emitting portion (1630). The light emitting portion (1630) may be disposed on the support (1620). The light emitting portion (1630) may be disposed on the support (1620) to emit light toward the receiving space (1618). The light emitting portion (1630) may be disposed to emit light toward the light sensor (80) when the vacuum cleaner (1) is mounted on the charging device (1600). The light emitting portion (1630) of the charging device (1600) may be provided to calibrate the light sensor (80) of the vacuum cleaner (1) or to determine whether there is surface contamination. The light emitting portion (1630) may be disposed approximately in front of the cleaner head (50). The light emitting portion (1630) may be, for example, an LED element, but is not limited thereto.

[0200] While the vacuum cleaner (1) is mounted on the cleaning device (1500) and being charged, the control unit (60) can check whether the light sensor (80) is contaminated or defective. When the vacuum cleaner (1) is mounted on the charging device (1600), the light emitting unit (1630) of the charging device (1600) can emit light. The control unit (60) can measure the amount of light emitted by the light emitting unit (1630) using the light sensor (80) when the charging terminal (1670) of the charging device (1600) and the battery (70) of the vacuum cleaner (1) are electrically connected (or the battery (70) is being charged). When the vacuum cleaner (1) is mounted on the charging device (1600), the distance between the light emitting unit (1630) and the light sensor (80) is close, so that when the light sensor (80) operates normally, the amount of light emitted by the light emitting unit (1630) can be normally detected. If the control unit (60) determines that the light quantity value measured using the light sensor (80) while the vacuum cleaner (1) is being charged is close to 0 or excessively low compared to the normal range, it can determine that there is a defect in the light sensor (80). For example, if the surface of the light sensor (80) is contaminated, the light quantity detected by the light sensor (80) may decrease. If the control unit (60) determines that the light sensor (80) is defective or contaminated, it can transmit the corresponding information to another device, such as a user mobile terminal, using a communication unit (e.g., the communication unit (110) of FIG. 6).

[0201] Fig. 17 is a perspective view of a cleaning device including a vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment. Fig. 18 is an enlarged perspective view of the lower part of Fig. 17.

[0202] The vacuum cleaner (1') illustrated in FIGS. 17 and 18 may be substantially identical or similar to the vacuum cleaner (1') illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13. Among the configurations illustrated in FIGS. 17 and 18, the same reference numerals apply to configurations that are substantially identical or similar to the configurations illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 7 or the configurations illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13.

[0203] The embodiments of FIGS. 17 and 18 can be optionally combined with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 to 16.

[0204] Referring to FIGS. 17 and 18, the cleaning device (1700) may include a vacuum cleaner (1') and a charging device (1600') on which the vacuum cleaner (1') is mounted.

[0205] According to one example, the charging device (1600') may include a station body (1610) and a support (1620) that supports the station body (1610). A connection port (1601) may be formed on the upper portion of the station body (1610). The connection port (1601) may be a portion where a part of the vacuum cleaner (1') is mounted. The connection port (1601) may be provided to be connected to a dust collector (32) of the vacuum cleaner (1'). For example, the dust collector (32) of the vacuum cleaner (1') is connected to the connection port (1601), and dust or foreign substances contained in the dust collector (32) may be discharged through the connection port (1601).

[0206] The station body (1610) may include housings (1611, 1612, 1613, 1614). The housings (1611, 1612, 1613, 1614) may form the exterior of the charging device (1600'). The first housing (1611) and the second housing (1612) may form the upper exterior of the charging device (1600'). The third housing (1613) and the fourth housing (1614) may form the lower exterior of the charging device (1600'). Components for sucking dust or foreign substances, etc., inside the dust collector (32) may be installed in the housings (1611, 1612, 1613, 1614).

[0207] The first housing (1611) and the second housing (1612) may be provided to have a longitudinal axis extending in one direction. The longitudinal axes of the first housing (1611) and the second housing (1612) may be provided to extend in the vertical direction. The first housing (1611) and the second housing (1612) may be formed to have a curved surface. The first housing (1611) and the second housing (1612) may be coupled to each other to have a substantially cylindrical shape. However, the shapes of the first housing (1611) and the second housing (1612) are not limited to those illustrated.

[0208] The third housing (1613) and the fourth housing (1614) may be provided to have a longitudinal axis extending in one direction. The longitudinal axes of the third housing (1613) and the fourth housing (1614) may be provided to extend in the vertical direction. The third housing (1613) may be provided to correspond to the shape of the first housing (1611). The fourth housing (1614) may be provided to correspond to the shape of the second housing (1612). The third housing (1613) and the fourth housing (1614) may be coupled to each other to form a substantially cylindrical shape. However, the shapes of the third housing (1613) and the fourth housing (1614) are not limited to those illustrated.

[0209] According to an example, the charging device (1600') may include a mounting portion (1612b, 1614b). The mounting portion (1612b, 1614b) may be formed on one surface of the housing (1611, 1612, 1 1613, 1614) and configured to allow the extension tube (40) of the vacuum cleaner (1') to be mounted thereon. The mounting portion (1612b, 1614b) may include a first mounting portion (1612b) and a second mounting portion (1614b).

[0210] The first mounting portion (1612b) may be formed, for example, in the second housing (1612). The first mounting portion (1612b) may be formed such that a portion of the second housing (1612) is recessed inward. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the first mounting portion (1612b) may be formed between two ribs protruding from the second housing (1612). The first mounting portion (1612b) may extend along the longitudinal axis of the second housing (1612). The upper portion of the extension tube (40) of the vacuum cleaner (1') may be mounted on the first mounting portion (1612b).

[0211] The second mounting portion (1614b) may be formed, for example, in the fourth housing (1614). The second mounting portion (1614b) may be formed such that a portion of the fourth housing (1614) is recessed inward, but is not limited thereto. The second mounting portion (1614b) may extend along the longitudinal axis of the fourth housing (1614). The lower portion of the extension tube of the vacuum cleaner (1') may be mounted on the second mounting portion (1614b). The first mounting portion (1612b) and the second mounting portion (1614b) may be connected in a vertical direction.

[0212] The third housing (1613) may include a first exhaust hole (1613a). The fourth housing (1614) may include a second exhaust hole (1614a). The first exhaust hole (1613a) and the second exhaust hole (1614a) may be formed to discharge air sucked by a suction unit (not shown) provided within the housing to suck up dust within a dust collector (32) to the outside.

[0213] The support (1620) can be coupled with the housings (1611, 1612, 1 1613, 1614) of the station body (1610). The support (1620) can be coupled with the third housing (1613) and the fourth housing (1614). The support (1620) can be coupled to the lower part of the station body (1610). An accommodation space (1618) can be formed between the support (1620) and the station body (1610) to accommodate the cleaner head (50) of the vacuum cleaner (1').

[0214] The support (1620) may include a support connection portion (1621) and a support plate (1622). The support plate (1622) may be a portion disposed on the bottom surface to support the charging device (1600'). The support connection portion (1621) may be a portion connecting the support plate (1622) and the station body (1610). The support connection portion (1621) may be formed to extend upward from a portion of the support plate (1622). The support connection portion (1621) may form a receiving space (1618) by spacing the station body (1610) and the support plate (1622) apart from each other.

[0215] The charging device (1600') may include a charging terminal (1670). When the vacuum cleaner (1') is mounted on the charging device (1600'), the charging terminal (1670) of the charging device (1600') and the battery (70) of the vacuum cleaner (1') may be electrically connected. The battery (70) of the vacuum cleaner (1') may be charged by receiving power from the charging terminal (1670) provided by the charging device (1600').

[0216] According to an example, the charging device (1600') may be configured to remove dust from the dust collector (32). For example, when the vacuum cleaner (1') is mounted or docked to the charging device (1600'), the dust collector (32) of the vacuum cleaner (1') may be docked to the connection port (1601) of the charging device (1600') in an open state. By operating a suction device (not shown) configured within the charging device (1600'), dust within the dust collector (32) of the vacuum cleaner (1') can be sucked in and removed.

[0217] The charging device (1600') may be referred to by various terms such as charging station or docking station.

[0218] According to an example, the charging device (1600') may include a reflector (1640) (or reflector plate) unlike the embodiments of FIGS. 15 and 16. The reflector (1640) may be disposed on the support (1620). The reflector (1640) may be disposed to form one surface of the support (1620), but is not limited thereto. The reflector (1640) may be, for example, in the shape of a disk, but is not limited thereto. For example, the reflector (1640) may be a part of the support (1620). For example, the reflector (1640) may be a part of the support connection (1621) or the support plate (1620). For example, the reflector (1640) may be disposed on the support connection (1621), unlike as illustrated. The reflector (1640) may be formed of an object that reflects at least a portion of light regardless of reflectivity. The reflector (1640) may be arranged to reflect light irradiated from the light source (120) of the vacuum cleaner (1') when the vacuum cleaner (1') is mounted on the charging device (1600'). Some of the light reflected by the reflector (1640) is reflected toward the light sensor (80), so that the light sensor (80) can detect the amount of light reflected from the light source (120). The reflector (1640) of the charging device (1600') may be provided to calibrate the light sensor (80) of the vacuum cleaner (1') or to determine whether there is surface contamination.

[0219] While the vacuum cleaner (1') is mounted on the cleaning device (1700) and being charged, the control unit (60) can check whether the light sensor (80) is contaminated or defective. When the vacuum cleaner (1') is mounted on the charging device (1600'), the control unit (60) can turn on the light source unit (120) to irradiate light toward the reflector unit (1640). The control unit (60) can measure the reflected light of the light source unit (120) reflected by the reflector unit (1640) using the light sensor (80) while the charging terminal (1670) of the charging device (1600') and the battery (70) of the vacuum cleaner (1') are electrically connected (or the battery (70) is being charged). When the vacuum cleaner (1') is placed on the charging device (1600'), the distance between the reflector (1640) and the light sensor (80) is close, so that the light sensor (80) can normally detect the amount of reflected light from the light source (120) reflected by the reflector (1640) if it is operating normally. When the control unit (60) determines that the amount of reflected light from the light source (120) measured using the light sensor (80) while the vacuum cleaner (1') is being charged is close to 0 or excessively low compared to the normal range, it can determine that a defect has occurred in the light sensor (80). For example, when the surface of the light sensor (80) is contaminated, the amount of reflected light from the light source (120) detected by the light sensor (80) may decrease. When the control unit (60) detects a defect or contamination of the light sensor (80), it can transmit the information to another device, such as a user mobile terminal, using a communication unit (e.g., communication unit (110) of FIG. 6).

[0220] According to an example, unlike the one illustrated, the charging device (1600') may omit the reflector (1640). The light source (120) of the vacuum cleaner (1') may irradiate light toward the support (1620), and the light sensor (80) may detect the reflected light reflected from the support (1620). The control unit (60) may determine whether the light sensor (80) is contaminated or defective based on the intensity of the reflected light reflected from the support (1620).

[0221] The terminology used herein is merely used to describe specific embodiments and is not intended to limit the present disclosure. For example, a singular element should be understood to include plural elements unless the context clearly indicates only a singular element. As used herein, phrases such as "A or B," "at least one of A and B," "at least one of A or B," "A, B, or C," "at least one of A, B, and C," and "at least one of A, B, or C" can each include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof. It should be understood that the term "and / or" as used herein encompasses any and all possible combinations of one or more of the listed items. The terms "include," "have," "comprise," and the like used in this disclosure are intended to specify only the presence of a feature, component, part, or combination thereof described in this disclosure, and the use of these terms does not exclude the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, components, parts, or combinations thereof. The expressions "first," "second," and the like used in this disclosure can modify various components regardless of order and / or importance, and are only used to distinguish one component from another, without limiting the components.

[0222] The expression "configured to" used in the present disclosure can be appropriately used interchangeably with, for example, "suitable for," "capable of," "designed to," "modified to," "made to," or "capable of." The term "configured to" may not necessarily mean only something "specially designed" in terms of hardware. Instead, in some situations, the expression "a device configured to" may mean that the device is "capable of" doing something together with other devices or components. For example, the phrase "a device configured (or set) to perform A, B, and C" may mean a dedicated device for performing the corresponding operations, or a general-purpose device that can perform various operations including the corresponding operations.

[0223] Meanwhile, the terms “upper side,” “lower side,” and “front-rear direction” used in the present disclosure are defined based on the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms.

[0224] Although the foregoing description in this disclosure has focused on specific embodiments, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to such specific embodiments, but rather encompasses various modifications, equivalents, and / or alternatives of the various embodiments.

Claims

1. In the vacuum cleaner (1, 1'), Vacuum cleaner head (50); A light sensor (80) positioned so as to face the front of the above cleaner head (50); and A vacuum cleaner including a processor (61) configured to control the operating intensity of the vacuum cleaner (1, 1') based on the measured light quantity value detected and measured by the light sensor (80).

2. In paragraph 1, The above processor (61) A vacuum cleaner configured to increase the operating intensity of the vacuum cleaner (1, 1') when the measured light amount value is lower than a preset reference value.

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, The above processor (61) A vacuum cleaner, which determines that the vacuum cleaner head (50) is located adjacent to a wall or under furniture when the above measured light amount value is lower than a preset reference value.

4. In one of paragraphs 1 to 3, The above preset standard values ​​are: Including a first reference value and a second reference value smaller than the first reference value, The above processor (61) A first operating mode for operating the vacuum cleaner (1, 1'), If the measured light quantity value is less than or equal to the first reference value and greater than or equal to the second reference value, a second operation mode having a relatively greater operation intensity than the first operation mode, or A cleaner that controls the operation of the cleaner (1, 1') in one of the third operation modes having a relatively greater operation intensity than the second operation mode when the above-mentioned measured light amount value is lower than or equal to the second reference value.

5. In one of paragraphs 1 to 4, It further includes a sensor cover (90) that surrounds the upper and side portions of the above light sensor (80) and extends in the forward direction of the above cleaner head (50). The above light sensor (80) A vacuum cleaner that detects the intensity of light entering only from the front through the sensor cover (90).

6. In paragraph 1, The above processor (61) A cleaner that performs control to increase the output of the cleaner (1, 1') when the light intensity detected by the above light sensor (80) is substantially 0.

7. In one of paragraphs 1 to 6, The above processor (61) A cleaner that measures the light quantity value detected by the light sensor (80) during the initial preset operation time of the cleaner (1, 1') and performs calibration using the measured light quantity value.

8. In one of paragraphs 1 to 7, The above processor (61) A vacuum cleaner that measures the light quantity value detected by the light sensor (80) during the initial preset time of the operation of the vacuum cleaner, and determines that a problem has occurred in the light sensor (80) if the measured light quantity value is outside the preset normal range.

9. In one of paragraphs 1 to 8, Battery (70); and It further includes a charging terminal electrically connected to the above battery (70), The above processor (61) When the above cleaner is mounted on a charging device for charging the battery (70), control is performed to check the status of the light sensor (80), or A cleaner, which determines whether contamination has occurred on the surface of the light sensor (80) based on the amount of light detected by the light sensor (80) while the cleaner (1, 1') is mounted on the charging device.

10. In one of the clauses 1 to 9, A suction motor (23) configured to generate a suction force to suck up foreign substances on the surface to be cleaned in contact with the above-mentioned cleaner head (50); A brush (53) rotatably mounted within the above cleaner head (50); and It further includes a driving motor (541) accommodated within the cleaner head (50) to rotate the brush (53), The above processor (61) A cleaner that performs control to increase the operating strength of the cleaner (1, 1') by increasing the rotation speed of at least one of the suction motor (23) or the drive motor (541).

11. In a method for controlling a vacuum cleaner (1, 1'), An operation of measuring a measured light quantity value using a light sensor (80) mounted on the cleaner head (50) so as to face the front of the cleaner head (50); and An operation for controlling the rotation speed of at least one motor among the suction motor (23) that generates the suction force of the cleaner by using the measured light quantity value or the drive motor (541) that rotates the brush (53) accommodated in the cleaner head (50), wherein, if the measured light quantity value is lower than a preset reference value, the operation for increasing the rotation speed of at least one motor among the suction motor (23) or the drive motor (541) is included. How to control the vacuum cleaner.

12. In paragraph 11, A method for controlling a vacuum cleaner, further comprising an operation of measuring a light quantity value received by the light sensor (80) during an initial preset time period of operation of the vacuum cleaner (1, 1'), and determining that a problem has occurred in the light sensor (80) if the measured light quantity value is outside the preset normal range.

13. In paragraph 11 or 12, A method for controlling a vacuum cleaner, further comprising: measuring a light quantity value received by the light sensor (80) during an initial preset time period for the operation of the vacuum cleaner (1, 1') and performing calibration using the measured light quantity value.

14. In one of the clauses 11 to 13, The above preset standard values ​​are: Including a first reference value and a second reference value smaller than the first reference value, In the operation of operating the above cleaner (1, 1'), First mode of operation, If the measured light quantity value is less than or equal to the first reference value and greater than or equal to the second reference value, a second operation mode having a relatively greater operation intensity than the first operation mode, or A method for controlling a cleaner, wherein the operation of the cleaner (1, 1') is controlled in one of the third operation modes having a relatively greater operation intensity than the second operation mode when the measured light amount value is lower than or equal to the second reference value.

15. In one of the clauses 11 to 14, In the operation of operating the above cleaner (1, 1'), A control method for a vacuum cleaner, configured to perform control to increase the operating intensity of the vacuum cleaner (1, 1') as the size of the above-mentioned measured light quantity value decreases.

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