Robot cleaner, station, and cleaning device

Abstract

A cleaning device according to the present invention may comprise: a station including a drying device for generating dry air; and a robot cleaner provided so as to be docked to the station. The robot cleaner may include a main body, a wet cloth that can be detachably mounted to the lower portion of the main body, a suction port formed in the lower portion of the main body, and a guide flow path formed inside the main body. The suction port may be provided to suction the dry air, generated from the drying device, by using the suctioning force of a suction motor while the robot cleaner is docked to the station. The guide flow path may be provided to guide, toward the wet cloth, the dry air suctioned via the suction port.

Description

Robot vacuum cleaners, stations, and cleaning devices

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a robot vacuum cleaner, a station, and a cleaning device.

[0002] Typically, a robot vacuum cleaner is a device that automatically cleans a space by moving around it and sucking up dust and other debris accumulated on the floor without user intervention. A robot vacuum cleaner moves around the cleaning area and cleans it.

[0003] The robot vacuum cleaner uses a distance sensor to determine the distance to obstacles such as furniture, office supplies, and walls installed in the cleaning area, and selectively drives the left and right wheel motors of the robot vacuum cleaner to change direction on its own and clean the cleaning area.

[0004] Recently, robot vacuums have emerged not only to suck up dust and other foreign substances from the floor, but also to wipe them away. Robot vacuums can also perform wet cleaning using a mop.

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a cleaning device with improved ease of use.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a cleaning device that is easy to manage with a mop.

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a cleaning device having improved drying efficiency of a mop.

[0008] The technical problems to be achieved in this document are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

[0009] A cleaning device according to the invention may include a station including a drying device that generates dry air; and a robot cleaner arranged to be mounted on the station. The robot cleaner may include a main body; a mop detachably mountable to a lower portion of the main body; a suction motor arranged inside the main body and generating suction force; a suction port formed on a lower portion of the main body; and a control unit that controls the suction motor. The suction port of the robot cleaner may be arranged to suck in the dry air by the suction force of the suction motor while the robot cleaner is mounted on the station. The control unit of the robot cleaner may control the suction motor so that the dry air is sucked into the main body through the suction port based on receiving a drying start signal from the station.

[0010] A cleaning device according to the invention may include a robot cleaner including a main body and a mop detachably mountable to a lower portion of the main body; and a station provided for mounting the robot cleaner. The station may include a base; a washing chamber formed to be sunken into the base and provided to correspond to the mop while the robot cleaner is mounted on the station; and a drying device provided to generate dry air for drying the mop and supply the dry air to the washing chamber. The robot cleaner may include a guide path formed inside the main body and provided to guide the dry air so that the dry air within the washing chamber is circulated.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a state in which a robot cleaner is away from a station in a cleaning device according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 2 is a drawing showing a state in which a robot cleaner is installed on a station in a cleaning device according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating the interior of a robot vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment.

[0014] Figure 4 is a drawing showing the rear of the robot vacuum cleaner illustrated in Figure 3.

[0015] Fig. 5 is a drawing showing the lower part of the robot vacuum cleaner illustrated in Fig. 3.

[0016] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a station according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating a portion of a station according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a station according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing an example of drying a mop of a cleaning device according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 10 schematically illustrates an example of a flow of dry air in a cleaning device according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 11 schematically illustrates an example of a flow of dry air in a cleaning device according to one embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 12 schematically illustrates an example of a flow of dry air in a cleaning device according to one embodiment.

[0023] Fig. 13 is a drawing showing the bottom of a robot vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 14 schematically illustrates an example of a flow of dry air in a cleaning device according to one embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 15 schematically illustrates an example of a flow of dry air in a robot vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment.

[0026] FIG. 16 schematically illustrates an example of a flow of dry air in a robot vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 17 schematically illustrates an example of a flow of dry air in a robot vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment.

[0028] Fig. 18 illustrates a control block diagram of a robot vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment.

[0029] Figure 19 illustrates a control block diagram of a station according to one embodiment.

[0030] Fig. 20 illustrates an example of the operation of a cleaning device according to one embodiment.

[0031] FIG. 21 illustrates an example of a method for drying a mop of a cleaning device according to one embodiment.

[0032] It should be understood that the various embodiments and terms used in this document are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but rather to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments.

[0033] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0034] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of said items, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0035] In this document, each of the phrases "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" may include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0036] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0037] The terms "part," "module," and "member" may be implemented in hardware or software. Depending on the embodiments, multiple "parts," "modules," or "members" may be implemented as a single component, or a single "part," "module," or "member" may include multiple components.

[0038] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another and do not qualify the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0039] When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as being "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0040] The terms "include" or "have" are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in this document, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0041] When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact with” another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0042] When we say that a component is "on" another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where there is another component between the two components.

[0043] Meanwhile, the terms "front", "back", "left", "right", "up", "down", etc. used in the following description are defined based on the drawing, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 1, the direction in which the robot cleaner (10) enters the station (20) can be defined as rearward (-X direction), and the opposite direction can be defined as forward (+X direction).

[0044] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0045] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a state in which a robot cleaner is out of a station in a cleaning device according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating a state in which a robot cleaner is seated in a station in a cleaning device according to one embodiment.

[0046] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the cleaning device (1) may include a robot cleaner (10) and a station (20). The cleaning device (1) may be referred to as a cleaning system (1).

[0047] A robot cleaner (10) can clean a floor by moving along the floor. The floor cleaned by the robot cleaner (10) can be referred to as a cleaning surface. The robot cleaner (10) can perform dry cleaning and / or wet cleaning. The robot cleaner (10) can suck up or wipe away dirt from the cleaning surface. Here, dirt can be a general term for foreign substances such as dust, hair, and food crumbs.

[0048] The robot vacuum cleaner can perform wireless cleaning using a built-in battery (not shown). The robot vacuum cleaner can move autonomously according to a cleaning plan established by the user and / or a preset path, cleaning the surface to be cleaned.

[0049] The robot cleaner (10) can be mounted on the station (20). The robot cleaner (10) can be mounted on the station (20). The robot cleaner (10) can be docked on the station (20). At least a portion of the robot cleaner (10) can be placed in the receiving space (210a) of the station (20).

[0050] The robot vacuum cleaner (10) can move to the station (20) during cleaning and / or after cleaning is completed.

[0051] For example, the robot vacuum cleaner (10) can move to the station (20) when charging is required, when the dust bin (141, see FIG. 3) needs to be emptied, when the water in the water tank (not shown) is insufficient, when the moisture content of the mop (160) is low, when the mop (160) needs to be washed, when the mop (160) needs to be sterilized, and / or when the mop (160) needs to be dried.

[0052] The station (20) may be provided to hold the robot cleaner (10). The station (20) may be provided to allow the robot cleaner (10) to be installed. The station (20) may be provided to store the robot cleaner (10).

[0053] For example, while the robot cleaner (10) is seated on the station (20), the station (20) can charge the battery (not shown) of the robot cleaner (10). For example, while the robot cleaner (10) is seated on the station (20), the station (20) can collect the waste collected in the dust bin (141, see FIG. 3) of the robot cleaner (10). For example, while the robot cleaner (10) is seated on the station (20), the station (20) can supply water to the water tank of the robot cleaner (10). For example, while the robot cleaner (10) is seated on the station (20), the station (20) can wet the mop (160) with water and / or steam. For example, while the robot cleaner (10) is seated on the station (20), the station (20) can wash the mop (160). For example, while the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), the station (20) can sterilize the mop (160). For example, while the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), the station (20) can dry the mop (160).

[0054] FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating the interior of a robot vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment. FIG. 4 is a drawing illustrating the rear of the robot vacuum cleaner illustrated in FIG. 3. FIG. 5 is a drawing illustrating the lower part of the robot vacuum cleaner illustrated in FIG. 3.

[0055] A robot cleaner (10) may include a main body (110). The main body (110) may form the overall appearance of the robot cleaner (10). Components of the robot cleaner (10) may be accommodated inside the main body (110). Electrical components may be arranged inside the main body (110). The main body (110) may be referred to as a cleaner body (110).

[0056] The robot cleaner (10) may include a suction port (111). The suction port (111) may be formed in the main body (110). The suction port (111) may be formed at the lower portion of the main body (110). The suction port (111) may be formed by penetrating the lower surface (110b) of the main body (110). The suction port (111) may be formed to face a surface to be cleaned. The suction port (111) may be open toward the surface to be cleaned. Dirt on the surface to be cleaned may be sucked into the interior of the main body (110) through the suction port (111) together with air. The suction port (111) may be referred to as a vacuum cleaner suction port (111).

[0057] A robot vacuum cleaner (10) may include a brush (130). The brush (130) may strike a surface to be cleaned to scatter dirt. Dirt scattered by the brush (130) may be drawn into the suction port (111) together with air.

[0058] For example, the robot cleaner (10) may include a first brush (131) disposed in a suction port (111). The first brush (131) may be rotatably mounted relative to the main body (110). The first brush (131) may be rotatably disposed in the suction port (111). The rotation axis of the first brush (131) may be an axis extending approximately along a horizontal direction (Y direction). The first brush (131) may be referred to as a main brush (131).

[0059] For example, the robot cleaner (10) may include a second brush (132) positioned adjacent to the lower edge of the main body (110). The second brush (132) may guide dirt around the main body (110) that the first brush (131) cannot sweep to the suction port (111). The second brush (132) may be rotatably mounted with respect to the main body (110). The rotation axis of the second brush (132) may be an axis extending approximately along a vertical direction (Z direction). The second brush (132) may be referred to as a side brush (132).

[0060] The robot vacuum cleaner (10) may include a dust collection container (141). The dust collection container (141) may be provided inside the main body (110). The dust collection container (141) may be detachably mounted on the main body (110). The dust collection container (141) may be provided to store dust contained in air sucked in through the suction port (111). The dust and / or air sucked in through the suction port (111) may move to the dust collection container (141). For example, the dust and / or air sucked in through the suction port (111) may pass through a frame (119) connecting the suction port (111) and the dust collection container (141) and flow into the dust collection container (141). The dust sucked in through the suction port (111) may be collected in the dust collection container (141). Air sucked in through the suction port (111) can be filtered as it passes through the dust collector (141). The dust and air sucked in through the suction port (111) can be separated in the dust collector (141).

[0061] The robot vacuum cleaner (10) may include a filter (143, see FIGS. 9 to 12, 13, and 14). The filter (143) may be placed on a path through which air flows inside the main body (110). For example, the filter (143) may be provided inside a dust collector (141), and air sucked through the suction port (111) may be filtered by the filter (143) while passing through the dust collector (141).

[0062] The robot cleaner (10) may include an exhaust port (112). The exhaust port (112) may be formed in the main body (110). The exhaust port (112) may be formed on the rear side of the main body (110). The exhaust port (112) may be formed on the side of the main body (110) entering the station (20). For example, the exhaust port (112) may be formed by penetrating the peripheral surface (110c) of the main body (110). Air sucked in through the suction port (111) may be filtered and discharged to the outside of the robot cleaner (10) through the exhaust port (112). The exhaust port (112) may be provided to discharge air that has passed through the dust collector (141) to the outside of the main body (110). For example, a plurality of exhaust ports (112) may be provided, and the plurality of exhaust ports (112) may be configured with a plurality of holes. The exhaust port (112) may be referred to as a vacuum cleaner exhaust port (112).

[0063] The robot cleaner (10) may include a suction motor (142). The suction motor (142) may be disposed inside the main body (110). The suction motor (142) may generate suction force. By the suction force generated by the suction motor (142), the suction port (111) may suck in dirt and / or air. By the suction force generated by the suction motor (142), the exhaust port (112) may suck in the inside of the robot cleaner (10) and discharge the filtered air to the outside. The suction motor (142) may be disposed on an air path formed between the suction port (111) and the exhaust port (112). The suction motor (142) may be referred to as a vacuum cleaner suction motor (142).

[0064] The robot cleaner (10) may include a driving device (120) for driving the robot cleaner (10). The driving device (120) is mounted on the main body (110) and may move the main body (110). At least a portion of the driving device (120) may protrude from the lower surface (110b) of the main body (110). For example, the driving device (120) may include a pair of main wheels (121). For example, the driving device (120) may further include at least one auxiliary wheel (122) for stable driving of the robot cleaner (10).

[0065] The robot cleaner (10) may include a battery (not shown). The battery may provide the power necessary to operate the robot cleaner (10). While the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), the battery of the robot cleaner (10) may be charged.

[0066] The robot cleaner (10) may include a mop (160). The mop (160) is detachably mountable to the lower part of the main body (110). The mop (160) may be rotatably mounted with respect to the main body (110). The mop (160) may be provided to come into contact with a surface to be cleaned and clean the surface to be cleaned. The mop (160) may wipe off dirt from the surface to be cleaned while it is wet. In the drawing, two mops (160) are illustrated, but there is no limitation on the number of mops (160). The mop (160) may be referred to as a cleaning pad (160). The mop (160) may be referred to as a wet pad (160).

[0067] The mop (160) can be supplied with moisture from a water tank (not shown) placed inside the main body (110). For example, when the moisture content of the mop (160) decreases while the robot cleaner (10) is cleaning, the water stored in the water tank can be supplied to the mop (160).

[0068] The mop (160) can be supplied with moisture from the station (20). For example, if the moisture content of the mop (160) decreases while the robot cleaner (10) is cleaning, the robot cleaner (10) can return to the station (20). While the robot cleaner (10) is stationed at the station (20), the station (20) can supply water to the water tank of the robot cleaner (10) or spray water and / or steam toward the mop (160).

[0069] The robot cleaner (10) may include a driving unit (161) configured to operate a mop (160). The driving unit (161) may rotate the mop (160) or move the mop (160) up and down. As will be described later, the control unit (190, see FIG. 18) of the robot cleaner (10) may control the driving unit (161).

[0070] For example, while the robot cleaner (10) is cleaning the surface to be cleaned, the driving unit (161) can rotate the mop (160). As a result, the mop (160) can efficiently clean the surface to be cleaned. For example, while the mop (160) is being washed, sterilized, and / or dried at the station (20), the driving unit (161) can rotate the mop (160). As a result, the time required for washing, sterilizing, and / or drying the mop (160) can be reduced.

[0071] For example, while the robot cleaner (10) is cleaning, the driving unit (161) can move the mop (160) downward. As a result, the mop (160) can come into contact with the surface to be cleaned. For example, while the robot cleaner (10) returns to the station (20), the driving unit (161) can move the mop (160) upward. As a result, while the robot cleaner (10) is moving to the station (20), the mop (160) can be prevented from colliding with an obstacle on the surface to be cleaned or from leaving unnecessary moisture on the surface to be cleaned.

[0072] The robot vacuum cleaner (10) may include a drive motor (162). The drive motor (162) may generate a driving force to rotate or move the mop (160) up and down. The drive motor (162) may be placed inside the main body (110). The drive motor (162) may be provided as a component of the drive unit (161).

[0073] The robot cleaner (10) may include a shaft (163). The shaft (163) may be provided to transmit the driving force of the driving motor (162) to the mop (160). For example, the shaft (163) may be provided to connect the driving motor (162) and the mop (160). For example, the shaft (163) may be provided to rotate by the driving force of the driving motor (162), and the mop (160) may be coupled to the shaft (163) and provided to rotate together with the shaft (163). For example, the shaft (163) may be provided to form a rotation axis of the mop (160). The shaft (163) may be provided as a component of the driving unit (161).

[0074] The robot vacuum cleaner (10) may include an obstacle detection sensor (170). The obstacle detection sensor (170) may be configured to detect the location of an obstacle or the distance to the obstacle. The obstacle detection sensor (170) may be mounted on the main body (110). For example, the obstacle detection sensor (170) may protrude from the upper surface (110a) of the main body (110).

[0075] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a station according to one embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a portion of a station according to one embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a cross-section of a portion of a station according to one embodiment.

[0076] The station (20) may include a main body (210). The main body (210) may form the overall appearance of the station (20). The main body (210) may form a receiving space (210a) for receiving at least a portion of the robot cleaner (10). The main body (210) may be referred to as a station main body (210).

[0077] For example, the main body (210) may include a base (211) and a housing (212) that is detachably connectable to the base (211).

[0078] The base (211) may include a mounting surface (211a) on which the robot cleaner (10) is mounted. The mounting surface (211a) may have a shape that is inclined from the surface to be cleaned so that the robot cleaner (10) may enter. For example, the mounting surface (211a) may include a shape that is inclined upward along the direction in which the robot cleaner (10) enters the station (20).

[0079] The housing (212) may be configured to cover at least a portion of the base (211). The housing (212) may accommodate components of the station (20). Electrical components may be arranged inside the housing (212).

[0080] The station (20) may include a water tank (201). The water tank (201) may be configured to store water. Relatively clean water may be accommodated in the water tank (201). The water stored in the water tank (201) may be provided to a water tank of a robot cleaner (10) or to a washing chamber (230) of the station (20), which will be described later. That is, the water stored in the water tank (201) may be used to provide moisture to a mop (160) or to wash the mop (160). The water tank (201) may be detachably mounted on the main body (210). For example, a user may hold the handle (201a) of the water tank (201) to detach the water tank (201) from the main body (210) or to attach the water tank (201) to the main body (210).

[0081] The station (20) may include a waste tank (202). The waste tank (202) may be configured to store water. The waste tank (202) may accommodate relatively dirty water. Dirty water (waste water) obtained by washing the mop (160) may be stored in the waste tank (202). The waste tank (202) may be detachably mounted on the main body (210). For example, a user may grasp the handle (202a) of the waste tank (202) to detach the waste tank (202) from the main body (210) or attach the waste tank (202) to the main body (210).

[0082] The station (20) may include a waste collection bin (203). The waste collection bin (203) may be provided to store waste collected from the dust collection bin (141) of the robot cleaner (10). The waste collection bin (203) may be detachably mounted on the main body (210). For example, a user may hold the handle (203a) of the waste collection bin (203) to detach the waste collection bin (203) from the main body (210) or attach the waste collection bin (203) to the main body (210).

[0083] In the drawing, the sewage tank (202), the water supply tank (201), and the sewage collection tank (203) are shown as being arranged side by side along a roughly horizontal direction (Y direction), but there is no limitation on the positions of each of the sewage tank (202), the water supply tank (201), and the sewage collection tank (203).

[0084] The station (20) may include a washing chamber (230). While the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), the washing chamber (230) may be arranged to correspond to a mop (160).

[0085] The washing chamber (230) may be provided to receive water delivered from the water tank (201). The washing chamber (230) may have a shape for containing water. While the robot cleaner (10) is installed on the station (20), the mop (160) can be washed by the water received in the washing chamber (230). The washing chamber (230) may be defined as a space where the mop (160) is washed.

[0086] The washing chamber (230) may be provided to receive dry air discharged from a drying device (260) to be described later. While the robot cleaner (10) is installed at the station (20), the mop (160) can be dried by the dry air discharged to the washing chamber (230).

[0087] The washing chamber (230) may be formed in the base (211) of the main body (210). The washing chamber (230) may be formed to be sunken into the base (211). The washing chamber (230) may be provided to be sunken from the mounting surface (211a). The washing chamber (230) may be defined by a chamber bottom (230a) and a chamber side wall (230b) extending upward from the chamber bottom (230a). The chamber side wall (230b) may be provided to have a predetermined height.

[0088] The chamber floor (230a) may be provided to slope downward along the direction in which the robot cleaner (10) enters the station (20). For example, the chamber floor (230a) may be provided to slope downward toward the rear. Accordingly, after the mop (160) is washed, water (wastewater) within the washing chamber (230) can easily flow toward the drain hole (234) formed at the rear side of the washing chamber (230) along the slope of the chamber floor (230a). However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above, and the slope direction of the chamber floor (230a) may, of course, vary depending on the position of the drain hole (234). The wastewater discharged through the drain hole (234) may be stored in the wastewater collection tank (203).

[0089] The station (20) may include a washing frame (235). The washing frame (235) may be provided to correspond to the washing chamber (230). The washing frame (235) may be detachably mounted on the washing chamber (230). While the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), the washing frame (235) may be provided to come into contact with the mop (160). While the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), the washing frame (235) may be provided to rub against the mop (160). The mop (160) may be washed while being rubbed against the washing frame (235). At this time, the mop (160) may be provided to be rotatable.

[0090] The station (20) may include a brush mounting portion (240). The brush mounting portion (240) may be formed on the base (211) of the main body (210). The brush mounting portion (240) may be spaced apart from the cleaning chamber (230). For example, the brush mounting portion (240) may be located in front of the cleaning chamber (230).

[0091] While the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), the brush mounting portion (240) may be provided to correspond to the first brush (131) of the robot cleaner (10). While the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), the first brush (131) may be mounted on the brush mounting portion (240). While the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), the suction port (111) of the robot cleaner (10) may be provided to face the brush mounting portion (240) of the station (20). For example, the brush mounting portion (240) may include a curved shape to correspond to the shape of the first brush (131).

[0092] The station (20) may include a step wall (220). The step wall (220) may be formed on the base (211) of the main body (210). The step wall (220) may be positioned between the washing chamber (230) and the brush mounting portion (240).

[0093] For example, the step wall (220) may include a first wall portion (220a) facing the cleaning chamber (230), a second wall portion (220b) facing the brush mounting portion (240), and a connecting portion (220c) connecting the first wall portion (220a) and the second wall portion (220b). For example, the first wall portion (220a) may be provided as a part of the chamber side wall (230b). For example, the second wall portion (220b) may be provided as a part of the brush mounting portion (240). For example, the second wall portion (220b) may be provided to be connected to the brush mounting portion (240) without a step. For example, the connecting portion (220c) may be provided as a part of the mounting surface (211a) of the base (211).

[0094] The station (20) may include a step wall passage (223). The step wall passage (223) may be formed in the step wall (220). The step wall passage (223) may be provided to guide dry air generated in the drying device (260). The step wall passage (223) may be provided to allow dry air generated in the drying device (260) to flow. The step wall passage (223) may be provided to guide dry air in the washing chamber (230) to the brush mounting portion (240). The step wall passage (223) may be in communication with the washing chamber (230). The step wall passage (223) may be in communication with the brush mounting portion (240). The step wall passage (223) may extend from the washing chamber (230) toward the brush mounting portion (240). For example, the step wall passage (223) may have a shape extending approximately along the front-back direction (X direction). Although the drawing illustrates two step wall passages (223), the present disclosure is not limited thereto. There is no limitation on the number of step wall passages (223).

[0095] The station (20) may include a step wall inlet (221). The step wall inlet (221) may be in communication with a washing chamber (230). The step wall inlet (221) may be open toward the washing chamber (230). The step wall inlet (221) may form one end of a step wall passage (223). The step wall inlet (221) may be formed in a first wall portion (220a) of the step wall (220).

[0096] The station (20) may include a step wall outlet (222). The step wall outlet (222) may be in communication with a brush mounting portion (240). The step wall outlet (222) may be open toward the brush mounting portion (240). The step wall outlet (222) may form the other end of a step wall passage (223). The step wall outlet (222) may be formed in a second wall portion (220b) of the step wall (220).

[0097] For example, the size of the step wall inlet (221) may be smaller than the size of the step wall outlet (222). For example, the width of the step wall inlet (221) may be smaller than the width of the step wall outlet (222). The dry air may be pressurized while passing through the step wall passage (223) due to the difference in size between the step wall inlet (221) and the step wall outlet (222) and may be widely sprayed to the brush mounting portion (240).

[0098] The station (20) may include a door (224). The door (224) may be disposed at the step wall inlet (221). The door (224) may be provided to open or cover the step wall inlet (221). The door (224) may prevent foreign substances, water, etc. other than dry air from flowing into the step wall passage (223). For example, the door (224) may be provided to open the step wall inlet (221) by the pressure of dry air sprayed into the cleaning chamber (230). For example, the door (224) may be provided to be driven by a door driving unit (not shown) to open or cover the step wall inlet (221). For example, the door (224) may be provided to be made of a flexible material and be bent (see FIG. 12). For example, the door (224) may include a rubber material.

[0099] The station (20) may include a steam generating device (250, see FIG. 20). The steam generating device (250) may generate steam. The steam generating device (250) may generate steam using water stored in a water tank (201). The steam generating device (250) may receive water stored in the water tank (201) to generate steam. While the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), the steam generated by the steam generating device (250) may be sprayed toward the mop (160).

[0100] The station (20) may include a drying device (260). The drying device (260) may be configured to generate air (hereinafter, referred to as dry air) for drying the mop (160). The drying device (260) may be configured to supply the dry air to a cleaning chamber (230) to be described later. While the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), the dry air discharged from the drying device (260) may be directed toward the mop (160). While the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), the station (20) may spray dry air to the mop (160). The dry air may have a relatively low humidity or a high temperature. The dry air may also be referred to as hot air or drying air.

[0101] For example, after washing and / or sterilizing the mop (160), the station (20) can provide dry air to the mop (160). For example, if the moisture content of the mop (160) increases while the robot cleaner (10) is cleaning the surface to be cleaned, the robot cleaner (10) can return to the station (20), and the station (20) can discharge dry air toward the mop (160).

[0102] The drying device (260) may include a fan (262) that generates a blowing force. The drying device (260) may include a drying duct (261) that is provided to guide air blown by the fan (262). The drying duct (261) may guide the air blown by the fan (262) to a washing chamber (230). The drying duct (261) may be provided to connect the fan (262) and the washing chamber (230) to be described later. The drying device (260) may include a heater (263) that is provided to heat the air blown by the fan (262). The heater (263) may be provided to heat the air guided by the drying duct (261). At least a portion of the heater (263) may be disposed inside the drying duct (261). For example, if the drying device (260) includes a heater (263), the drying device (260) can generate high temperature drying air (hot air). However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above, and the drying device (260) may not include a heater (263).

[0103] The station (20) may include a nozzle (231). The nozzle (231) may be formed in the washing chamber (230). For example, the nozzle (231) may be formed in the chamber side wall (230b) of the washing chamber (230). The nozzle (231) may supply dry air generated in the drying device (260) to the washing chamber (230). The nozzle (231) may spray dry air guided by the drying duct (261) into the washing chamber (230). When the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), the nozzle (231) may be arranged to be open toward the mop (160). In the drawing, two nozzles (231) are illustrated, but there is no limitation on the number of nozzles (231). For example, the number of nozzles (231) may correspond to the number of mops (160).

[0104] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing an example of drying a mop of a cleaning device according to one embodiment.

[0105] Referring to FIG. 9, the cleaning device (1) may include a station (20) and a robot cleaner (10) that can be mounted on the station (20). While the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), the mop (160) of the robot cleaner (10) can be dried by dry air provided from the station (20).

[0106] The drying device (260) of the station (20) can generate dry air. The station (20) can provide the dry air to the washing chamber (230). For example, air blown by the fan (262) can be guided by the drying duct (261) and discharged into the washing chamber (230) through the nozzle (231). The dry air in the washing chamber (230) can dry the mop (160) of the robot cleaner (10).

[0107] Dry air may be arranged to circulate through the robot cleaner (10). The dry air within the cleaning chamber (230) may be circulated. The dry air within the cleaning chamber (230) may be sucked into the robot cleaner (10), flow through the robot cleaner (10), and then discharged to the outside of the robot cleaner (10). Due to this flow of dry air, the area of ​​the mop (160) that comes into contact with the dry air may increase. Consequently, the drying efficiency of the mop (160) may be improved.

[0108] The robot cleaner (10) may be arranged to suck in dry air. While the robot cleaner (10) is installed on the station (20), the dry air may flow into the interior of the robot cleaner (10). For example, the suction port (111) of the robot cleaner (10) may be arranged to suck in dry air generated in the drying device (260) by the suction force of the suction motor (142). The suction port (111) of the robot cleaner (10) may be arranged to suck in dry air inside the washing chamber (230) by the suction force of the suction motor (142). The dry air generated in the drying device (260) may be supplied into the washing chamber (230), and the air inside the washing chamber (230) may be introduced into the interior of the robot cleaner (10) through the suction port (111).

[0109] The robot cleaner (10) may be provided to guide dry air sucked into the robot cleaner (10). The robot cleaner (10) may include an internal flow path (150) formed inside the main body (110) to allow dry air to flow. The dry air sucked into the robot cleaner (10) may be provided to flow along the internal flow path (150). For example, the internal flow path (150) may have a shape extending along the circumference (110c) of the main body (110), thereby preventing interference with other components and allowing the internal flow path (150) to be formed compactly inside the main body (110). Meanwhile, the internal flow path (150) may be defined as a flow path including a first guide flow path (151) and a second guide flow path (152) to be described later.

[0110] The robot cleaner (10) may include a first guide passage (151). The first guide passage (151) may be formed inside the main body (110) and may be provided to guide dry air toward the mop (160). Dry air within the washing chamber (230) may be provided to circulate along the first guide passage (151). The first guide passage (151) may collectively refer to a passage for guiding dry air sucked into the robot cleaner (10) to the mop (160). One end of the first guide passage (151) may be in communication with a dry air sucking portion (111 and / or 113) of the robot cleaner (10). The other end of the first guide passage (151) may be open toward the upper portion of the mop (160) or the washing chamber (230). A detailed description thereof will be provided later.

[0111] The robot cleaner (10) may include a second guide passage (152). The second guide passage (152) may be branched from the first guide passage (151). The second guide passage (152) may be provided to communicate with the exhaust port (112). The second guide passage (152) may be provided to be connected to the exhaust port (112). The second guide passage (152) may collectively refer to a passage for guiding air inside the robot cleaner (10) to the outside of the robot cleaner (10). Here, the air inside the robot cleaner (10) may include air that is sucked into the inside of the main body (110) and filtered during cleaning by the robot cleaner (10), and dry air sucked into the inside of the main body (110) from the station (20).

[0112] As will be described later, the first guide passage (151) and the second guide passage (152) can be selectively opened by a valve (158, see FIGS. 16 and 17). As a result, the flow direction of dry air inside the robot cleaner (10) can be controlled.

[0113] Next, referring to FIG. 9, an example of the flow of dry air will be described. Dry air generated in the drying device (260) can be supplied to the washing chamber (230) to dry the mop (160). The dry air in the washing chamber (230) can be sucked into the robot cleaner (10) by the suction force of the suction motor (142). The dry air sucked into the robot cleaner (10) can be guided by the internal flow path (150). For example, the dry air sucked into the robot cleaner (10) can pass through the dust collector (141). For example, the dry air passing through the dust collector (141) can pass through the suction motor (142). The dry air can be guided by the first guide path (151) to flow toward the mop (160) or guided by the second guide path (152) to flow toward the outlet (112).

[0114] FIG. 10 schematically illustrates an example of a flow of dry air in a cleaning device according to one embodiment.

[0115] Referring to Fig. 10, a cleaning device (1a) according to one embodiment will be described. In describing the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 10, any content that overlaps with the description of the above-described embodiment(s) may be omitted. In describing the cleaning device (1a) illustrated in Fig. 10, components that are substantially the same as the configuration of the cleaning device (1) illustrated in Figs. 1 to 9 are assigned the same reference numerals, and a detailed description thereof may be omitted.

[0116] Referring to FIG. 10, the robot cleaner (10) may include a shaft (163). The shaft (163) may transmit the driving force of the driving motor (162, see FIG. 3) to the mop (160). The shaft (163) may be coupled to the mop (160). For example, a portion of the shaft (163) may be disposed inside the main body (110), and the remainder of the shaft (163) may protrude from the main body (110) and be coupled to the mop (160). For example, the shaft (163) may be coupled to an approximate center portion of the mop (160).

[0117] The shaft (163) may include a shaft hole (164). The shaft hole (164) may be formed inside the shaft (163). The shaft hole (164) may be formed by penetrating the shaft (163). The shaft hole (164) may be opened downwardly of the mop (160). While the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), the shaft hole (164) may be arranged to face the washing chamber (230). A first end of the shaft hole (164) may be arranged to receive dry air guided by a first guide passage (151a). The first end of the shaft hole (164) may be in communication with the first guide passage (151a). A second end of the shaft hole (164) may be opened downwardly of the mop (160). The second end of the shaft hole (164) may be opened toward the washing chamber (230). For example, the shaft hole (164) may extend along the longitudinal direction of the shaft (163). For example, the shaft hole (164) may extend along the height direction of the main body (110). The shaft hole (164) may be referred to as a shaft passage (164). The shaft hole (164) may be referred to as a hollow portion (164). The shaft hole (164) may be referred to as a hollow passage (164). The shaft hole (164) may be referred to as an opening (164).

[0118] The shaft hole (164) may be provided to allow dry air to flow. The shaft hole (164) may be provided to allow dry air to pass through. The shaft hole (164) may be provided to guide the dry air. The shaft hole (164) may be provided to receive the dry air guided by the first guide passage (151a). The shaft hole (164) may be provided to spray the dry air guided by the first guide passage (151a) downward of the mop (160). The shaft hole (164) may be provided to discharge the dry air guided by the first guide passage (151a) toward the washing chamber (230).

[0119] The first guide urea (151a) may be provided to guide dry air sucked into the robot cleaner (10) to the shaft hole (164). Thus, the dry air sucked into the robot cleaner (10) can flow toward the mop (160) through the shaft hole (164).

[0120] For example, if the robot cleaner (10) is arranged to suck dry air through the suction port (111), the first guide passage (151a) may extend from the suction port (111) to the shaft hole (164). Thus, the dry air sucked through the suction port (111) may flow toward the mop (160) through the shaft hole (164). However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described example, and for example, if the robot cleaner (10) is arranged to suck dry air through the suction port (113, see FIGS. 13 and 14) to be described later, the first guide passage (151a) may extend from the suction port (113) to the shaft hole (164). Thus, the dry air sucked through the suction port (113) may flow toward the mop (160) through the shaft hole (164).

[0121] Dry air guided by the first guide path (151a) can flow into the shaft hole (164). The dry air passing through the shaft hole (164) can flow toward the washing chamber (230). The dry air passing through the shaft hole (164) can flow downward of the mop (160). For example, the dry air moving downward along the shaft hole (164) can radially spread from the center of the mop (160) as it collides with the bottom of the washing chamber (230a). Thus, the dry air passing through the shaft hole (164) can dry the entire lower surface (160b) of the mop (160). Consequently, the dry air can be evenly distributed toward the mop (160) through the shaft hole (164), and the drying efficiency of the mop (160) can be improved. The mop (160) can be dried effectively in a short period of time.

[0122] FIG. 11 schematically illustrates an example of a flow of dry air in a cleaning device according to one embodiment.

[0123] Referring to Fig. 11, a cleaning device (1b) according to one embodiment will be described. In describing the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 11, any content that overlaps with the description of the above-described embodiment(s) may be omitted. In describing the cleaning device (1b) illustrated in Fig. 11, components that are substantially the same as the configuration of the cleaning device (1) illustrated in Figs. 1 to 9 are assigned the same reference numerals, and a detailed description thereof may be omitted.

[0124] Referring to FIG. 11, the robot cleaner (10) may include a discharge hole (114). The discharge hole (114) may be formed in the main body (110). The discharge hole (114) may be formed in the lower part of the main body (110). For example, the discharge hole (114) may be formed by penetrating the lower surface (110b) of the main body (110). The discharge hole (114) may be provided to open toward the mop (160). The discharge hole (114) may be provided to open toward the upper part of the mop (160). The discharge hole (114) may be provided to face the upper surface (160a) of the mop (160). For example, the robot cleaner (10) may include a plurality of discharge holes (114). However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described example and may include one discharge hole (114). There is no limitation on the number of discharge holes (114). The discharge holes (114) may be referred to as openings (114).

[0125] The exhaust hole (114) may be provided to allow dry air to flow. The exhaust hole (114) may be provided to allow dry air to pass through. The exhaust hole (114) may be provided to discharge dry air toward the mop (160). The exhaust hole (114) may be provided to spray dry air guided by the first guide passage (151b) toward the mop (160). The exhaust hole (114) may be provided to discharge dry air guided by the first guide passage (151b) toward the upper portion of the mop (160). The exhaust hole (114) may be provided to spray dry air guided by the first guide passage (151b) toward the upper surface (160a) of the mop (160).

[0126] The first guide path (151b) may be provided to guide dry air sucked into the robot cleaner (10) to the exhaust hole (114). Thus, the dry air sucked into the robot cleaner (10) can flow toward the mop (160) through the exhaust hole (114).

[0127] For example, if the robot cleaner (10) is arranged to suck dry air through the suction port (111), the first guide passage (151b) may extend from the suction port (111) to the discharge hole (114). Thus, the dry air sucked through the suction port (111) may flow toward the mop (160) through the discharge hole (114). However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described example, and for example, if the robot cleaner (10) is arranged to suck dry air through the suction port (113, see FIGS. 13 and 14) to be described later, the first guide passage (151b) may extend from the suction port (113) to the discharge hole (114). Thus, the dry air sucked through the suction port (113) may flow toward the mop (160) through the discharge hole (114).

[0128] Dry air guided by the first guide path (151b) can flow to the discharge hole (114). The dry air passing through the discharge hole (114) can flow toward the mop (160). The dry air passing through the discharge hole (114) can be sprayed to the upper portion of the mop (160). The dry air moving downward through the discharge hole (114) can be sprayed to the upper surface (160a) of the mop (160). Thus, the dry air passing through the discharge hole (114) can dry the entire upper surface (160a) of the mop (160). Consequently, the dry air can be evenly distributed toward the mop (160) through the discharge hole (114), and the drying efficiency of the mop (160) can be improved. The mop (160) can be effectively dried in a short period of time.

[0129] Fig. 12 schematically illustrates an example of a flow of dry air in a cleaning device according to one embodiment.

[0130] Referring to Fig. 12, a cleaning device (1c) according to one embodiment will be described. In describing the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 12, any content that overlaps with the description of the above-described embodiment(s) may be omitted. In describing the cleaning device (1c) illustrated in Fig. 12, components that are substantially the same as the configuration of the cleaning device (1) illustrated in Figs. 1 to 9 are assigned the same reference numerals, and a detailed description thereof may be omitted.

[0131] Referring to FIG. 12, the station (20) may include a step wall (220). A step wall passage (223) may be formed in the step wall (220). A step wall inlet (221) may be provided at one end of the step wall passage (223) and may be in communication with a cleaning chamber (230). A step wall outlet (222) may be provided at the other end of the step wall passage (223) and may be in communication with a brush mounting portion (240). The step wall passage (223) may be provided to transfer dry air from the cleaning chamber (230) to the brush mounting portion (240).

[0132] For example, the lower length (L1) of the step wall passage (223) may be smaller than the upper length (L2) of the step wall passage (223). The lower length (L1) of the step wall passage (223) may be the length between the lower end of the step inlet (221) and the lower end of the step outlet (222). The upper end length (L2) of the step wall passage (223) may be the length between the upper end of the step inlet (221) and the upper end of the step outlet (222). For example, the lower end of the step outlet (222) may be provided closer to the brush mounting portion (240) than the upper end of the step outlet (222). For example, at least a portion of the step outlet (222) may be opened upward. Accordingly, the dry air discharged through the step outlet (222) may be provided to move upward. Dry air discharged through the step outlet (222) can flow smoothly to the intake port (111).

[0133] While the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), the suction port (111) may be arranged to suck in dry air that has passed through the step wall passage (223). While the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), the suction port (111) may be arranged to suck in dry air guided by the step wall passage (223).

[0134] Referring to Fig. 12, an example of the flow of dry air will be described. Dry air inside the cleaning chamber (230) can flow into the step wall inlet (221). The door (224) can open the step wall inlet (221) by the pressure of the dry air. Alternatively, the door (224) can open the step wall inlet (221) by a separate driving unit (not shown). Dry air inside the cleaning chamber (223) can flow along the step wall passage (223) through the step wall inlet (221) opened by the door (224). The dry air flowing along the step wall passage (223) can flow out to the brush mounting portion (240) through the step wall outlet (222). The suction port (111) of the robot cleaner (10) can be positioned to correspond to the brush mounting portion (240). The dry air discharged to the brush mounting portion (240) through the step wall outlet (222) can flow into the inside of the robot cleaner (10) through the intake port (111). The dry air sucked into the inside of the robot cleaner (10) can be sprayed downwards of the mop (160) through the shaft hole (164) (see FIG. 10). The dry air sucked into the inside of the robot cleaner (10) can be sprayed toward the upper part of the mop (160) through the discharge hole (114) (see FIG. 11). The dry air sucked into the inside of the robot cleaner (10) can be sprayed toward the mop (160) through each of the shaft hole (164) and the discharge hole (114).

[0135] Meanwhile, even when the robot cleaner (10) is not placed on the station (20), the robot cleaner (10) can dry the mop (160) with air sucked in through the suction port (111). For example, air from the surface to be cleaned can be sucked into the interior of the main body (110) through the suction port (111), filtered, and then guided by the first guide path (151) to flow into the shaft hole (164) and / or the discharge hole (114). For example, air that has passed through the shaft hole (164) and / or the discharge hole (114) can be sprayed toward the mop (160). For example, the robot cleaner (10) can dry the mop (160) with air sucked in through the suction port (111) without returning to the station (20) while performing cleaning.

[0136] Fig. 13 is a diagram illustrating the bottom surface of a robot vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment. Fig. 14 schematically illustrates an example of the flow of dry air in a cleaning device according to one embodiment.

[0137] Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14 , a cleaning device (1d) according to one embodiment will be described. In describing the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14 , any overlapping content with the description of the above-described embodiment(s) may be omitted. In describing the cleaning device (1d) illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14 , components that are substantially the same as those of the cleaning device (1) illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 9 are assigned the same reference numerals, and a detailed description thereof may be omitted.

[0138] Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, the robot cleaner (10) may include a suction port (113). For convenience of explanation, the suction port (111) may be referred to as a first suction port (111), and the suction port (113) may be referred to as a second suction port (113). However, the ordinal numbers "first" and "second" do not limit the configuration, and for example, the first suction port (111) may be referred to as a second suction port (111), and the second suction port (113) may be referred to as a first suction port (113).

[0139] The second suction port (113) can be distinguished from the first suction port (111). The second suction port (113) can be spaced apart from the first suction port (111). The second suction port (113) can be formed in the main body (110). The second suction port (113) can be formed in the lower part of the main body (110). The second suction port (113) can be formed by penetrating the lower surface (110b) of the main body (110). The second suction port (113) can be provided between the first suction port (111) and the mop (160). The second suction port (113) can be arranged between the first brush (131) and the mop (160). In FIG. 13, three second suction ports (113) are illustrated, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The second suction port (113) may be provided in one or four or more configurations. There is no limitation on the number of second suction ports (113).

[0140] While the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), the second suction port (113) may be arranged to suck in dry air within the washing chamber (230). The second suction port (113) may be arranged to suck in air generated in the drying device (260) by the suction force of the suction motor (142) and supplied to the washing chamber (230). While the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), the second suction port (113) may be arranged to open toward the washing chamber (230). While the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), the second suction port (113) may be arranged to communicate with the washing chamber (230). While the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), at least a portion of the second suction port (113) may be arranged to face the washing chamber (230).

[0141] Referring to FIG. 14, an example of the flow of dry air will be described. Dry air within the washing chamber (230) can flow into the second suction port (113). Dry air within the washing chamber (230) can flow into the robot cleaner (10) through the second suction port (113). Dry air within the washing chamber (230) can pass through the second suction port (113) and be sucked into the robot cleaner (10). Dry air sucked into the robot cleaner (10) can be sprayed downwards of the mop (160) through the shaft hole (164) (see FIG. 10). Dry air sucked into the robot cleaner (10) can be sprayed upwards of the mop (160) through the discharge hole (114) (see FIG. 11). Dry air sucked into the robot cleaner (10) can be sprayed toward the mop (160) through each of the shaft hole (164) and the discharge hole (114).

[0142] As will be described later, the first suction port (111) and the second suction port (113) can be selectively opened by a valve (159, see Fig. 17). As a result, the suction direction of the dry air sucked into the robot cleaner (10) can be controlled.

[0143] Meanwhile, even when the robot cleaner (10) is not placed on the station (20), the robot cleaner (10) can dry the mop (160) with air sucked in through the second suction port (113). For example, air from the surface to be cleaned can be sucked into the interior of the main body (110) through the second suction port (113), filtered, and then guided by the first guide path (151) to flow into the shaft hole (164) and / or the discharge hole (114). For example, air passing through the shaft hole (164) and / or the discharge hole (114) can be sprayed toward the mop (160). For example, the robot cleaner (10) can dry the mop (160) with air sucked in through the second suction port (113) without returning to the station (20) while performing cleaning. At this time, the second suction port (113) may be opened by the valve (159).

[0144] FIG. 15 schematically illustrates an example of a flow of dry air in a robot vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment.

[0145] Referring to FIG. 15, a cleaning device (1e) according to one embodiment will be described. In describing the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 15, any content that overlaps with the description of the above-described embodiment(s) may be omitted. In describing the cleaning device (1e) illustrated in FIG. 15, components that are substantially the same as the configuration of the cleaning device (1) illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 9 are assigned the same reference numerals, and a detailed description thereof may be omitted.

[0146] Referring to FIG. 15, the drying device (260) may include a drying duct (264). For convenience of explanation, the drying duct (261) may be referred to as a first drying duct (261), and the drying duct (264) may be referred to as a second drying duct (264). However, the ordinal numbers “first” and “second” do not limit the configuration, and for example, the first drying duct (261) may be referred to as a second drying duct (261), and the second drying duct (264) may be referred to as a first drying duct (264).

[0147] The second drying duct (264) may be branched from the first drying duct (261). The second drying duct (264) may be provided to guide air blown by the fan (262) toward the exhaust port (112). The second drying duct (264) may be provided to discharge the dry air toward the exhaust port (112). The air guided by the second drying duct (264) may pass through the exhaust port (112) and flow into the interior of the robot cleaner (10).

[0148] A portion of the dry air may be guided by the first drying duct (261) and supplied to the washing chamber (230), and another portion of the dry air may be guided by the second drying duct (262) and flow toward the exhaust port (112). The dry air generated in the drying device (260) may be supplied to the washing chamber (230) and sucked into the interior of the main body (110) through the intake port (111 and / or 113) of the robot cleaner (10). The dry air generated in the drying device (260) may be sucked into the interior of the main body (110) through the exhaust port (112) of the robot cleaner (10). In summary, at least a portion of the dry air may flow into the interior of the robot cleaner (10) through the intake port (111 and / or 113) via the washing chamber (230). Alternatively, at least a portion of the dry air may be discharged toward the robot cleaner (10) and flow into the interior of the robot cleaner (10) through the exhaust port (112).

[0149] The exhaust port (112) may be provided to exhaust air that has passed through the dust collector (141) to the outside of the main body (110) or to allow air from the outside of the main body (110) to flow in. The exhaust port (112) may be provided to discharge air from the inside of the main body (110) by connecting the inside and the outside of the main body (110). The exhaust port (112) may be provided to introduce outside air by connecting the inside and the outside of the main body (110). The exhaust port (112) may be referred to as an opening (112).

[0150] The outlet (112) may be provided to introduce dry air generated in the drying device (260). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 15, the outlet (112) may be provided to introduce dry air discharged through the second drying duct (262). The dry air discharged through the second drying duct (262) may pass through the outlet (112) and flow into the interior of the robot cleaner (10). The dry air introduced through the outlet (112) may flow to the shaft hole (164) and / or the exhaust hole (114). For example, the dry air introduced through the outlet (112) may be guided by the second guide passage (152) to flow to the branch point of the first guide passage (151) and the second guide passage (152), and then may be guided by the first guide passage (151) to flow toward the shaft hole (164) and / or the exhaust hole (114). However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described examples, and the dry air introduced through the discharge port (112) may flow to the shaft hole (164) and / or the discharge hole (114) through various paths. The dry air passing through the shaft hole (164) and / or the discharge hole (114) may dry the mop (160).

[0151] Meanwhile, even when the robot cleaner (10) is not placed on the station (20), the exhaust port (112) may be provided to allow air to be drawn in from the outside of the main body (110). The external air drawn in through the exhaust port (112) may pass through the shaft hole (164) and / or the exhaust hole (114) to dry the mop (160). For example, the robot cleaner (10) may dry the mop (160) with the air drawn in through the exhaust port (112) without returning to the station (20) while performing cleaning.

[0152] Typically, while a robot cleaner is stationed on a station, the station can spray dry air onto the robot cleaner's mop through a fixed nozzle. However, in this case, since the dry air only reaches a portion of the mop, it may be difficult to completely dry the mop. If the mop is not properly dried, it may develop an unpleasant odor or mold. If the mop is not properly dried, debris remaining on the station may stick to the mop. Drying the mop may take a long time, delaying cleaning times. Maintenance of the mop and / or the station may be difficult. Furthermore, if the robot cleaner cleans while the mop has a high moisture content, unnecessary moisture may remain on the surface being cleaned. This may reduce the cleaning performance of the surface being cleaned, and the user may slip. The surface being cleaned may also be damaged by moisture left behind by the mop. The usability of the cleaning device may also be reduced.

[0153] In contrast, according to the present disclosure, while the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), dry air can evenly reach the mop (160). Dry air generated from the drying device (260) can be supplied into the cleaning chamber (230) to dry the mop (160). In addition, the dry air generated from the drying device (260) can circulate inside the robot cleaner (10) and be sprayed toward the mop (160). As a result, dry air can be evenly sprayed to the mop (160), and the drying efficiency of the mop (160) can be improved. The mop (160) can be effectively dried in a short period of time. Accordingly, cleaning can be performed according to a preset cleaning plan, and delays in cleaning time can be prevented. Moreover, while the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), the robot cleaner (10) can suck up foreign substances, etc., of the station (20). For example, the robot cleaner (10) can suck up the dirt remaining in the cleaning chamber (230) through the suction port (111 and / or 113). Foreign substances, etc., of the station (20) can be sucked into the inside of the robot cleaner (10) and collected in the dust bin (141). Thus, the robot cleaner (10) can clean the station (20) while mounted on the station (20). Maintenance of the mop (160) and / or the station (20) is easy. As a result, the usability of the cleaning device (1) can be improved.

[0154] Fig. 16 schematically illustrates an example of a flow of dry air in a robot vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment. In describing the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 16, any description that overlaps with the description of the aforementioned embodiment(s) may be omitted.

[0155] Referring to FIG. 16, dry air may be sucked into the robot cleaner (10), pass through some components arranged inside the robot cleaner (10), and then be discharged outside the robot cleaner (10). The following description of the flow of dry air may also be applied to the description of the flow of air sucked in during cleaning by the robot cleaner (10).

[0156] Dry air can be sucked into the interior of the main body (110) through the suction port (the first suction port (111) and / or the second suction port (113)). The dry air sucked into the interior of the main body (110) can pass through the dust collector (141). The dry air can be filtered by the filter (143) while passing through the dust collector (141). The dry air passing through the dust collector (141) can pass through the suction motor (142). The dry air sucked through the suction port can be guided by the first guide passage (151) or the second guide passage (152).

[0157] The valve (158) may be configured to open either the first guide passage (151) or the second guide passage (152). The valve (158) may be configured to close either the first guide passage (151) or the second guide passage (152). The valve (158) may open the first guide passage (151) and close the second guide passage (152). The valve (158) may close the first guide passage (151) and open the second guide passage (152).

[0158] When the valve (158) opens the first guide passage (151), dry air can be guided by the first guide passage (151). The dry air guided by the first guide passage (151) can flow toward the mop (160). For example, the dry air guided by the first guide passage (151a) can pass through the shaft hole (164) and be sprayed toward the washing chamber (230). For example, the dry air guided by the first guide passage (151a) can pass through the shaft hole (164) and be sprayed downward of the mop (160). For example, the dry air guided by the first guide passage (151b) can pass through the discharge hole (114) and be sprayed toward the washing chamber (230). For example, dry air guided by the first guide euro (151b) can pass through the discharge hole (114) and be sprayed toward the upper part of the mop (160).

[0159] When the valve (158) opens the second guide passage (152), dry air can be guided by the second guide passage (152). The dry air guided by the second guide passage (152) can flow toward the exhaust port (112). The dry air guided by the second guide passage (152) can be discharged to the outside of the robot cleaner (10) through the exhaust port (112).

[0160] Fig. 17 schematically illustrates an example of a flow of dry air in a robot vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment. In describing the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 17, any details that overlap with the description of the aforementioned embodiment(s) may be omitted.

[0161] Referring to FIG. 17, dry air may be sucked into the robot cleaner (10), pass through some components arranged inside the robot cleaner (10), and then be discharged outside the robot cleaner (10). The following description of the flow of dry air may also be applied to the description of the flow of air sucked in during cleaning by the robot cleaner (10).

[0162] Referring to FIG. 17, the robot cleaner (10) may include a valve (158) and a valve (159). For convenience of explanation, the valve (158) may be referred to as a first valve (158), and the valve (159) may be referred to as a second valve (159). However, the ordinal numbers "first" and "second" do not limit the configuration, and for example, the first valve (158) may be referred to as a second valve (158), and the second valve (159) may be referred to as a first valve (159).

[0163] Dry air can be sucked into the interior of the robot cleaner (10) through the first suction port (111) or the second suction port (113). The dry air can be sucked into the interior of the main body (110) through the first suction port (111) or through the second suction port (113). The robot cleaner (10) can suck in dry air through the first suction port (111) or the second suction port (113).

[0164] The second valve (159) may be configured to open either the first suction port (111) or the second suction port (113). The second valve (159) may be configured to close either the first suction port (111) or the second suction port (113). The second valve (159) may open the first suction port (111) and close the second suction port (113). The second valve (159) may close the first suction port (111) and open the second suction port (113). For example, the second valve (159) may transmit the suction force of the suction motor (142) to the first suction port (111) or to the second suction port (113).

[0165] When the second valve (159) opens the first suction port (111), dry air can be sucked into the interior of the main body (110) through the first suction port (111). The dry air sucked into the interior of the main body (110) through the first suction port (111) can pass through the dust collector (141). The dry air passing through the dust collector (141) can pass through the suction motor (142). The dry air sucked through the suction port (111) can be guided by the first guide passage (151) or the second guide passage (152).

[0166] When the second valve (159) opens the second suction port (113), dry air can be sucked into the interior of the main body (110) through the second suction port (113). The dry air sucked into the interior of the main body (110) through the second suction port (113) can pass through the dust collector (141). The dry air passing through the dust collector (141) can pass through the suction motor (142). The dry air sucked through the suction port (113) can be guided by the first guide passage (151) or the second guide passage (152).

[0167] The description of FIGS. 16 and 17 may be understood as an example of the flow of air sucked in during cleaning, rather than the dry air generated in the drying device (260), as described above. The robot cleaner (10) can be separated into stations (20) to clean the surface to be cleaned. If drying of the mop (160) is required while the robot cleaner (10) is performing cleaning, the robot cleaner (10) can dry the mop (160) using the air sucked in through the suction port (111 and / or 113) without returning to the station (20). For example, the air sucked in through the suction port (111 and / or 113) can flow toward the mop (160) through the shaft hole (164) and / or the discharge hole (114). Dry air passing through the shaft hole (164) and / or the discharge hole (114) can dry the mop (160).

[0168] Meanwhile, if drying of the mop (160) is required while the robot cleaner (10) is performing cleaning, the robot cleaner (10) can dry the mop (160) using air drawn in through the exhaust port (112) without returning to the station (20). For example, air drawn in through the exhaust port (112) can flow toward the mop (160) through the shaft hole (164) and / or the exhaust hole (114). The dry air passing through the shaft hole (164) and / or the exhaust hole (114) can dry the mop (160).

[0169] Fig. 18 illustrates a control block diagram of a robot vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment.

[0170] Referring to FIG. 18, the robot cleaner (10) may include various components. The robot cleaner (10) may include an obstacle detection sensor (170). The robot cleaner (10) may include a humidity sensor (171). The robot cleaner (10) may include a user interface (181). The robot cleaner (10) may include a communication unit (182). The robot cleaner (10) may include a first valve (158). The robot cleaner (10) may include a second valve (159). The robot cleaner (10) may include a suction motor (142). The robot cleaner (10) may include a drive motor (162). The robot cleaner (10) may include a mop (160). The robot cleaner (10) may include a control unit (190). The robot cleaner (10) may further include configurations not shown in FIG. 18, depending on the embodiment. The robot cleaner (10) may not include some of the configurations shown in FIG. 18, depending on the embodiment.

[0171] The robot cleaner (10) may include an obstacle detection sensor (170) configured to detect external objects. For example, the obstacle detection sensor (170) may emit light (pulse laser) to the outside and receive light reflected from external objects in a preset direction. For example, the obstacle detection sensor (170) may rotate 360 ​​degrees clockwise or counterclockwise. Signals and / or data generated by the obstacle detection sensor (170) may be transmitted to the control unit (190) of the robot cleaner (10).

[0172] The robot cleaner (10) may include a humidity sensor (171) disposed adjacent to the mop (160) to detect humidity. The humidity sensor (171) may be positioned around the mop (160) to obtain humidity data around the mop (160). The humidity sensor (171) may transmit an electrical signal corresponding to the obtained humidity data to the control unit (190) of the robot cleaner (10). The humidity detected by the humidity sensor (171) may be proportional to the moisture content of the mop (160). The control unit (190) may control the cleaning intensity based on the signal and / or data received from the humidity sensor (171). The control unit (190) may determine whether to stop cleaning and return to the station (20) based on the electrical signal received from the humidity sensor (171).

[0173] In addition to the above, the robot cleaner (10) may be equipped with various sensors. For example, the robot cleaner (10) may include various sensors that detect at least one of the temperature of the indoor space in which the robot cleaner (10) moves, the humidity of the indoor space in which the robot cleaner (10) moves, and the dust concentration in the air.

[0174] The robot cleaner (10) may include a suction motor (142) that generates suction force. Air including dust on the surface to be cleaned, dry air in the cleaning chamber (230), etc. may be sucked in through the suction port (111 and / or 113) by the suction force of the suction motor (142). The air sucked in through the suction port (111 and / or 113) may flow into the dust collector (141). The control unit (190) may control the operation of the suction motor (142). The control unit (190) may control the suction motor (142) based on the cleaning performed by the robot cleaner (10). The control unit (190) may control the suction motor (142) so that dry air generated in the drying device (260) is sucked into the interior of the robot cleaner (10). The control unit (190) can control the suction motor (142) so that the robot cleaner (10) sucks dry air through the suction port (111 and / or 113) based on the fact that the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20) and the drying device (260) generates dry air. The control unit (190) can control the suction motor (142) based on receiving a control signal and / or a control command from the station (20) through the communication unit (182). The control unit (190) can control the suction motor (142) based on receiving a control signal and / or a control command from an external device (e.g., a user device, a server, a home appliance, the station (20), etc.) through the communication unit (182).

[0175] The robot cleaner (10) may include a user interface (181). The user interface (181) may obtain user input. The user interface (181) may provide various information regarding the operation of the robot cleaner (10). The user interface (181) may include at least one input interface and at least one output interface. The user interface (181) may be referred to as a cleaner user interface (181).

[0176] According to various embodiments, the input interface may convert sensory information received from the user into electrical signals. For example, at least one input interface may include a touchpad, a touch screen, and / or buttons for converting tactile information into electrical signals, and / or a microphone for converting auditory information into electrical signals.

[0177] At least one output interface can transmit various information related to the operation of the robot cleaner (10) to the user by outputting sensory information. For example, at least one output interface can transmit information collected by the robot cleaner (10) to the user. The information collected by the robot cleaner (10) can be output as sensory information such as a screen, indicator, or voice. The at least one output interface can include, for example, a display (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) module) and / or a speaker.

[0178] The communication unit (182) can communicate with a user device, a server, a home appliance, and / or a station (20) via a network. The control unit (190) can obtain various information, various commands, various signals, and / or various data from the user device, the server, the home appliance, and / or the station (20) via the communication unit (182). The control unit (190) can transmit various information, various signals, and / or various data to the user device, the server, the home appliance, and / or the station (20) via the communication unit (182). The communication unit (182) may be referred to as a vacuum cleaner communication unit (182).

[0179] According to various embodiments, the communication unit (182) may include a short-range communication module and / or a long-range communication module. The communication unit (182) may directly communicate with the user device, the home appliance, and / or the station (20) through the short-range communication module, or may communicate with the user device, the home appliance, and / or the station (20) via the server through the long-range communication module.

[0180] The robot cleaner (10) may include a first valve (158) that opens either the first guide passage (151) or the second guide passage (152). Air sucked into the inside of the robot cleaner (10) may flow to the first guide passage (151) or the second guide passage (152) by the first valve (158). The control unit (190) may control the first valve (158). The control unit (190) may control the first valve (158) based on receiving a control signal and / or a control command from the station (20) through the communication unit (182). The control unit (190) may control the first valve (158) based on receiving a control signal and / or a control command from an external device (e.g., a user device, a server, a home appliance, the station (20), etc.) through the communication unit (182).

[0181] For example, while the robot cleaner (10) is seated at the station (20) and the drying operation of the mop (160) is being performed, the first valve (158) can open the first guide passage (151). For example, based on the robot cleaner (10) being seated at the station (20) and the drying device (260) generating dry air, the first valve (158) can open the first guide passage (151). While the first valve (158) opens the first guide passage (151), the dry air can be guided by the first guide passage (151) and flow toward the mop (160). The dry air guided by the first guide passage (151) can be sprayed toward the mop (160) through the shaft hole (164) and / or the discharge hole (114).

[0182] For example, while the robot cleaner (10) is performing cleaning, the first valve (158) can open the second guide passage (152). For example, while the robot cleaner (10) is separated from the station (20) and is cleaning the surface to be cleaned, the first valve (158) can open the second guide passage (152). While the first valve (158) opens the second guide passage (152), air sucked into the interior of the robot cleaner (10) can be guided by the second guide passage (152) and discharged to the outside of the robot cleaner (10) through the exhaust port (112). The air sucked into the interior of the robot cleaner (10) can be filtered by a filter (143) or the like and then discharged through the exhaust port (112).

[0183] The robot cleaner (10) may include a second valve (159) that opens either the first suction port (111) or the second suction port (113). The robot cleaner (10) may suck air through the first suction port (111) or the second suction port (113) by the second valve (159). The control unit (190) may control the second valve (159). The control unit (190) may control the second valve (159) based on receiving a control signal and / or a control command from the station (20) through the communication unit (182). The control unit (190) may control the second valve (159) based on receiving a control signal and / or a control command from an external device (e.g., a user device, a server, a home appliance, the station (20), etc.) through the communication unit (182).

[0184] The robot cleaner (10) may include a mop (160) that is provided to come into contact with a surface to be cleaned and clean the surface to be cleaned. The robot cleaner (10) may include a driving unit (161) that can rotate the mop (160) or move the mop (160) up and down. The robot cleaner (10) may include a driving motor (162) that generates a driving force to rotate the mop (160) or move it up and down. The control unit (190) may control the operation of the driving motor (162). The control unit (190) may control the driving motor (162) based on receiving a control signal and / or a control command from the station (20) through the communication unit (182). The control unit (190) can control the drive motor (162) based on receiving a control signal and / or control command from an external device (e.g., a user device, a server, a home appliance, a station (20), etc.) through the communication unit (182).

[0185] For example, the control unit (190) can control the drive motor (162) to rotate the mop (160) when drying the mop (160). For example, the control unit (190) can control the drive motor (162) to rotate the mop (160) based on the robot cleaner (10) being mounted on the station (20) and the drying device (260) generating dry air.

[0186] The robot cleaner (10) may include a control unit (190). The control unit (190) may control components of the robot cleaner (10). The control unit (190) may be referred to as a cleaner control unit (190).

[0187] The control unit (190) may include a processor (191) and memory (192).

[0188] The processor (191) may be hardware and include logic circuits and arithmetic circuits. The processor (191) may control electrically connected components of the robot cleaner (10) using programs, instructions, and / or data stored in the memory (192) for the operation of the robot cleaner (10). The control unit (190) may be implemented as a control circuit including circuit elements such as capacitors, inductors, and resistors. The processor (191) and the memory (192) may be implemented as separate chips or as a single chip. In addition, the control unit (190) may include multiple processors and multiple memories.

[0189] The memory (192) can store programs, applications, and / or data for the operation of the robot cleaner (10), and can store data generated by the processor (191). The memory (192) can include non-volatile memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory) and flash memory for storing data for a long period of time. The memory (192) can include volatile memory such as S-RAM (Static Random Access Memory) and D-RAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) for temporarily storing data.

[0190] Figure 19 illustrates a control block diagram of a station according to one embodiment.

[0191] Referring to FIG. 19, the station (20) may include various components. The station (20) may include a position detection sensor (270). The station (20) may include a user interface (281). The station (20) may include a communication unit (282). The station (20) may include a steam generating device (250). The station (20) may include a drying device (260). The station (20) may include a control unit (290). The station (20) may further include components not shown in FIG. 19 according to embodiments. The station (20) may not include some of the components shown in FIG. 19 according to embodiments.

[0192] The position detection sensor (270) may be provided to detect the robot cleaner (10). The position detection sensor (270) may detect docking of the robot cleaner (10) and the station (20). The position detection sensor (270) may output different electrical signals when the robot cleaner (10) is seated on the station (20) and when the robot cleaner (10) is not seated on the station (20). The signal and / or data generated by the position detection sensor (270) may be transmitted to the control unit (190). The control unit (190) may determine whether the robot cleaner (10) is seated on the station (20) based on the signal and / or data received from the position detection sensor (270).

[0193] The station (20) may include a user interface (281). The user interface (281) may obtain user input. The user interface (281) may provide various information regarding the operation of the station (20). The user interface (281) may include at least one input interface and at least one output interface. The user interface (281) may be referred to as a station user interface (281).

[0194] According to various embodiments, the input interface may convert sensory information received from the user into electrical signals. For example, at least one input interface may include a touchpad, a touch screen, and / or buttons for converting tactile information into electrical signals, and / or a microphone for converting auditory information into electrical signals.

[0195] At least one output interface can transmit various information related to the operation of the station (20) to the user by outputting sensory information. For example, at least one output interface can transmit information collected by the station (20) to the user. The information collected by the station (20) can be output as sensory information such as a screen, indicator, or voice. The at least one output interface can include, for example, a display (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) module) and / or a speaker.

[0196] The communication unit (282) can communicate with a user device, a server, a home appliance, and / or a robot cleaner (10) via a network. The control unit (290) can obtain various information, various commands, various signals, and / or various data from the user device, the server, the home appliance, and / or the robot cleaner (10) via the communication unit (282). The control unit (290) can transmit various information, various signals, and / or various data to the user device, the server, the home appliance, and / or the robot cleaner (10) via the communication unit (282). The communication unit (282) may be referred to as a station communication unit (282).

[0197] According to various embodiments, the communication unit (282) may include a short-range communication module and / or a long-range communication module. The communication unit (282) may directly communicate with the user device, the home appliance, and / or the robot cleaner (10) through the short-range communication module, or may communicate with the user device, the home appliance, and / or the robot cleaner (10) via the server through the long-range communication module.

[0198] The station (20) may include a steam generating device (250) that generates steam. The steam generating device (250) may receive water stored in a water tank (201, see FIG. 6) to generate steam. The control unit (290) may control the steam generating device (250). The control unit (290) may operate the steam generating device (250) when sterilizing the mop (160). The control unit (290) may control the steam generating device (250) based on receiving a control signal and / or a control command from the robot cleaner (10) through the communication unit (282). The control unit (290) may control the steam generating device (250) based on receiving a control signal and / or a control command from an external device (e.g., a user device, a server, a home appliance, the robot cleaner (10), etc.) through the communication unit (282).

[0199] The station (20) may include a drying device (260) that generates dry air. The drying device (260) may include a fan (262). The drying device (260) may include a heater (263) that is arranged to heat air blown by the fan (262). The control unit (290) may control the drying device (260) to generate dry air or stop generating dry air. The control unit (290) may control the operation of the fan (262). The control unit (290) may control the operation of the heater (263). The control unit (290) may control the drying device (260) based on receiving a control signal and / or a control command from the robot cleaner (10) via the communication unit (282). The control unit (290) can control the drying device (260) based on receiving a control signal and / or control command from an external device (e.g., a user device, a server, a home appliance, a robot cleaner (10), etc.) through the communication unit (282).

[0200] The station (20) may include a control unit (290). The control unit (290) may control components of the station (20). The control unit (290) may be referred to as a station control unit (290).

[0201] The control unit (290) may include a processor (291) and a memory (292).

[0202] The processor (291) may be hardware and include logic circuits and arithmetic circuits. The processor (291) may control electrically connected components of the station (20) using programs, instructions, and / or data stored in the memory (292) for the operation of the station (20). The control unit (290) may be implemented as a control circuit including circuit elements such as capacitors, inductors, and resistors. The processor (291) and the memory (292) may be implemented as separate chips or as a single chip. In addition, the control unit (290) may include multiple processors and multiple memories.

[0203] The memory (292) can store programs, applications, and / or data for the operation of the station (20), and can store data generated by the processor (291). The memory (292) can include non-volatile memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory) and flash memory for storing data for a long period of time. The memory (292) can include volatile memory such as S-RAM (Static Random Access Memory) and D-RAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) for temporarily storing data.

[0204] Fig. 20 illustrates an example of the operation of a cleaning device according to one embodiment.

[0205] Referring to FIG. 20, the robot cleaner (10) can perform cleaning (1100). The robot cleaner (10) can perform dry cleaning and / or wet cleaning. The robot cleaner (10) can clean a predetermined cleaning area according to a predetermined cleaning plan.

[0206] The robot cleaner (10) can return to the station (20) (1200). The robot cleaner (10) can return to the station (20) after completing cleaning. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the robot cleaner (10) can return to the station (20) even while cleaning. For example, the robot cleaner (10) can return to the station (20) based on receiving a return command from an external device (e.g., a user device, a server, a home appliance, the station (20), etc.). For example, if the control unit (190) determines that washing and / or drying of the mop (160) is necessary, the robot cleaner (10) can return to the station (20).

[0207] While the robot cleaner (10) is installed at the station (20), the mop (160) can be washed with water supplied from the station (20) (1300). Water stored in the water tank (201) of the station (20) can be supplied to the washing chamber (230). The washing frame (235) provided in the washing chamber (230) can wash the mop (160) by rubbing against it. The mop (160) can rotate while being washed. For example, based on the washing time of the mop (160), the number of rotations of the mop (160), and / or information obtained by various sensors provided in the cleaning device (1), the robot cleaner (10) and / or the station (20) can determine whether the washing of the mop (160) is complete.

[0208] After the mop (160) is washed, the mop (160) can be dried (1400) by dry air supplied from the station (20). The drying device (260) can generate dry air and supply it to the washing chamber (230). The dry air supplied to the washing chamber (230) can dry the mop (160). The dry air inside the washing chamber (230) can circulate and dry the mop (160) again. The dry air inside the washing chamber (230) can be sucked into the main body (110) through the suction port (111 and / or 113). The dry air sucked into the main body (110) can flow along the internal passage (150). The dry air flowing along the internal passage (150) can be discharged to the outside of the main body (110). Dry air discharged to the outside of the main body (110) can flow toward the mop (160). The dry air can be sprayed to the mop (160) through the shaft hole (164) and / or the discharge hole (114). The mop (160) can rotate while drying. For example, based on the drying time of the mop (160), the number of rotations of the mop (160), and / or information acquired by various sensors provided in the cleaning device (1), the robot cleaner (10) and / or the station (20) can determine whether the drying of the mop (160) is complete.

[0209] Meanwhile, although not shown in FIG. 20, after the washing of the mop (160) is completed, the mop (160) can be sterilized by steam supplied from the station (20). After the sterilization of the mop (160) is completed, the mop (160) can be dried by dry air supplied from the station (20). That is, the sterilization step (sterilization process) of the mop (160) can be provided between the washing step (washing process) (1300) of the mop (160) and the drying step (drying process) (1400) of the mop (160). The steam can be generated from a steam generating device (250, see FIG. 19).

[0210] After the mop (160) has dried, the robot cleaner (10) may be arranged to wait at the station (20) (1500). The robot cleaner (10) may wait at the station (20) to establish the next cleaning plan.

[0211] FIG. 21 illustrates an example of a method for drying a mop of a cleaning device according to one embodiment.

[0212] The robot cleaner (10) can be mounted on the station (20) (2100). While the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), the mop (160) can be positioned to correspond to the washing chamber (230).

[0213] The station (20) can transmit a drying start signal (command) to the robot cleaner (10) (2300) based on detecting that the robot cleaner (10) has settled on the station (20) (2200). For example, the control unit (290) can determine whether the robot cleaner (10) has settled on the station (20) based on a signal and / or data received from a position detection sensor (270, see FIG. 19).

[0214] For example, the station (20) can transmit a drying start signal (command) to the robot cleaner (10) based on the completion of the washing process (see 1300 of FIG. 20) and / or sterilization process of the mop (160).

[0215] For example, the station (20) may transmit a drying start signal (command) to the robot cleaner (10) in response to receiving a mop drying request signal from an external device (e.g., a server, a user device, a home appliance, a robot cleaner (10), etc.).

[0216] The station (20) can generate dry air (2400) based on detecting that the robot cleaner (10) has been placed on the station (20) (2200). The station (20) can generate dry air (2400) based on transmitting a drying start signal (command) to the robot cleaner (10) (2300). For example, the control unit (290) can operate the drying device (260).

[0217] For example, the station (20) can generate dry air based on the completion of the washing process (see 1300 of FIG. 20) and / or sterilization process of the mop (160).

[0218] For example, the station (20) can generate dry air in response to receiving a mop drying request signal from an external device (e.g., a server, a user device, a home appliance, a robot vacuum cleaner (10), etc.).

[0219] Unlike the one shown in Fig. 21, the station (20) can simultaneously generate dry air (2400) and transmit a drying start signal (command) to the robot cleaner (10) (2300).

[0220] Unlike the one shown in Fig. 21, the station (20) can transmit a drying start signal (command) to the robot cleaner (10) (2300) after generating dry air (2400).

[0221] The robot cleaner (10) can operate the drive motor (162) to rotate the mop (160) based on receiving a drying start signal (command) from the station (20) (2500). The control unit (190) can control the drive motor (162) to rotate the mop (160) based on receiving the drying start signal (command) from the station (20). For example, the control unit (190) can control the drive motor (162) to rotate the mop (160) based on the robot cleaner (10) being placed on the station (20) and the drying device (260) generating dry air. The mop (160) can be dried by the dry air while rotating. As the mop (160) rotates, the mop (160) can be dehydrated. Moisture contained in the mop (160) can be separated from the mop (160) by rotational force. The area of ​​the mop (160) in contact with dry air can be increased.

[0222] The robot cleaner (10) can operate the suction motor (142) so that dry air is sucked into the interior of the main body (110) based on receiving a drying start signal (command) from the station (20) (2500). The control unit (190) can control the suction motor (142) so that dry air is sucked into the interior of the main body (110) through the suction port (111 and / or 113) based on receiving the drying start signal (command) from the station (20). For example, the control unit (190) can control the suction motor (142) based on the robot cleaner (10) being placed on the station (20) and the drying device (260) generating dry air. As the suction motor (142) operates, the suction motor (142) can generate a suction force. By the suction force of the suction motor (142), at least one suction port (111 and / or 113) of the robot cleaner (10) can suck in dry air inside the cleaning chamber (230).

[0223] The robot cleaner (10) can control the first valve (158) to open the first guide passage (151) based on receiving a drying start signal (command) from the station (20) (2500). The control unit (190) can control the first valve (158) to allow dry air sucked through the suction port (111 and / or 113) to flow along the first guide passage (151) based on receiving the drying start signal (command) from the station (20). The control unit (190) can control the first valve (158) to open the first guide passage (151; 151a; 151b) and close the second guide passage (152) based on receiving the drying start signal from the station (20). For example, the control unit (190) can control the valve (158) to open the first guide passage (151) based on the robot cleaner (10) being placed on the station (20) and the drying device (260) generating dry air. Accordingly, the dry air sucked into the inside of the robot cleaner (10) can be arranged to flow along the first guide passage (151). The dry air guided by the first guide passage (151) can be sprayed toward the mop (160) through the shaft hole (164) and / or the discharge hole (114).

[0224] The station (20) may stop generating drying air (2700) based on the completion of drying of the mop (160) (2600). For example, the control unit (290) may stop the operation of the drying device (260) based on the completion of drying of the mop (160) (2600). For example, the control unit (290) may determine that the drying of the mop (160) is complete based on the operation of the drying device (260) for a preset period of time. For example, the control unit (290) may determine that the drying of the mop (160) is complete based on information about the mop (160) received from the robot cleaner (10) (e.g., moisture content of the mop (160).

[0225] The station (20) can transmit a drying completion signal (command) to the robot cleaner (10) (2800) based on the cessation of production of dry air (2700). The control unit (290) can transmit a drying completion signal (command) to the robot cleaner (10) based on the cessation of operation of the drying device (260).

[0226] Unlike as illustrated in Fig. 21, the station (20) can transmit a drying completion signal (command) to the robot cleaner (10) (2800) at the same time as the generation of dry air is stopped (2700). Unlike as illustrated in Fig. 21, the station (20) can stop generating dry air (2700) after transmitting a drying completion signal (command) to the robot cleaner (10) (2800).

[0227] The robot cleaner (10) can stop the operation of the drive motor (162) to stop the rotation of the mop (160) based on receiving a drying completion signal (command) from the station (20) (2900). The control unit (190) can control the drive motor (162) to stop the rotation of the mop (160) based on receiving a drying completion signal (command) from the station (20). The control unit (190) can stop the operation of the drive motor (162) based on the operation of the drying device (260) being stopped.

[0228] The robot cleaner (10) can stop the operation of the suction motor (142) based on receiving a drying completion signal (command) from the station (20) (2900). The control unit (190) can control the drive motor (162) to stop sucking dry air through the suction port (111 and / or 113) based on receiving the drying completion signal (command) from the station (20). The control unit (190) can stop the operation of the suction motor (142) based on the operation of the drying device (260) being stopped.

[0229] The robot cleaner (10) may be configured to enter a cleaning standby mode (3000). The robot cleaner (10) may wait at the station (20) until it receives a cleaning command from an external device (e.g., a user device, a server, a home appliance, a station (20), etc.) or until it receives a cleaning command directly from the user. The robot cleaner (10) may wait at the station (20) until it begins the next cleaning.

[0230] Meanwhile, the control unit (290) of the station (20) can control the communication unit (282) of the station (20) to transmit a drying start signal (command) and / or a drying completion signal (command) to the communication unit (182) of the robot cleaner (10). The control unit (190) of the robot cleaner (10) can control the drive motor (162) based on the drying start signal (command) and / or the drying completion signal (command) received from the station (20) through the communication unit (182) of the robot cleaner (10). The control unit (190) of the robot cleaner (10) can control the suction motor (142) based on the drying start signal (command) and / or the drying completion signal (command) received from the station (20) through the communication unit (182) of the robot cleaner (10). The control unit (190) of the robot cleaner (10) can control the valve (158) based on a drying start signal (command) and / or a drying completion signal (command) received from the station (20) through the communication unit (182) of the robot cleaner (10).

[0231] A cleaning device according to one embodiment may include a station (20) including a drying device (260) that generates dry air; and a robot cleaner (10) that is arranged to be mounted on the station (20). The robot cleaner (10) may include a main body (110); a mop (160) that is detachably mountable to a lower portion of the main body; a suction motor (142) that is arranged inside the main body and generates suction force; a suction port (111; 113) formed on a lower portion of the main body; and a control unit (190). The suction port (111; 113) of the robot cleaner (10) may be arranged to suck in the dry air by the suction force of the suction motor (142) while the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20). The control unit (190) of the robot cleaner (10) can control the suction motor (142) so that the dry air is sucked into the main body (110) through the suction port (111; 113) based on receiving a drying start signal from the station (20). The control unit (190) of the robot cleaner (10) can control the suction motor (142) so that the dry air flows into the inside of the robot cleaner (10) based on the robot cleaner (10) being installed in the station (20) and the drying device (260) generating dry air.

[0232] The robot cleaner (10) may include a guide path (151; 151a; 151b) formed inside the main body (110). The guide path (151; 151a; 151b) may be provided to guide dry air sucked through the suction port (111; 113) toward the mop (160).

[0233] The robot cleaner (10) may include a driving motor (162) disposed inside the main body and generating a driving force to rotate or move the mop (160) up and down. The robot cleaner (10) may include a shaft (163) that transmits the driving force of the driving motor (162) to the mop (160). The shaft (163) may include a shaft hole (164) formed inside the shaft (163) so as to be opened downward of the mop (160). The guide path (151a) may extend from the suction port to the shaft hole (164) of the shaft so that dry air sucked through the suction port (111; 113) flows toward the mop (160) through the shaft hole (164) of the shaft.

[0234] The robot cleaner (10) may further include a plurality of exhaust holes (114) formed in the main body so as to be open toward the mop (160). The guide path (151b) may extend from the suction port to the plurality of exhaust holes (114) so ​​that dry air sucked through the suction port (111; 113) flows toward the mop (160) through the plurality of exhaust holes (114).

[0235] The robot cleaner (10) may further include a brush (131) rotatably arranged in the suction port (111). The station (20) may include a washing chamber (230) that is provided to correspond to the mop (160) while the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20) and that can receive dry air discharged from the drying device (260). The station (20) may include a brush mounting portion (240) that is spaced apart from the washing chamber (230) and is provided to correspond to the brush (131) while the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20). The station (20) may include a step wall (220) that is arranged between the washing chamber (230) and the brush mounting portion (240). The above station (20) may include a step wall passage (223) formed on the step wall (220) and provided to guide dry air within the washing chamber (230) to the brush mounting portion (240).

[0236] The above suction port (111) may be provided to suck in dry air that has passed through the step wall passage (223) while the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20).

[0237] The station (20) may include a step wall inlet (221) that is in communication with the washing chamber (230) and forms one end of the step wall passage (223). The station (20) may include a step wall outlet (222) that is in communication with the brush mounting portion (240) and forms the other end of the step wall passage (223). The station (20) may include a door (224) that is provided to open or cover the step wall inlet (221).

[0238] The above suction port may be a first suction port (111) provided to suck up dirt from a surface to be cleaned. The station (20) may further include a washing chamber (230) provided to correspond to the mop (160) while the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20) and capable of receiving dry air discharged from the drying device (260). The robot cleaner (10) may include a brush (131) rotatably disposed in the first suction port (111); and a second suction port (113). The second suction port (113) may be spaced apart from the first suction port (111). The second suction port (113) may be disposed between the mop (160) and the brush (131). The second suction port (113) may be opened toward the washing chamber (230) while the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20) and may be provided to suck in dry air within the washing chamber (230).

[0239] The robot cleaner (10) may further include a valve (159) configured to open either the first suction port (111) or the second suction port (113).

[0240] The above guide path may be a first guide path (151; 151a; 151b). The robot cleaner (10) may include a dust collector (141) arranged inside the main body and provided to store dust contained in air sucked in through the suction port (111; 113). The robot cleaner (10) may include an exhaust port (112) formed in the main body and provided to discharge air passing through the dust collector to the outside of the main body. The robot cleaner (10) may include a second guide path (152) branched from the first guide path (151; 151a; 151b) and provided to communicate with the exhaust port (112).

[0241] The robot cleaner (10) may further include a valve (158) configured to open either the first guide passage (151; 151a; 151b) or the second guide passage (152).

[0242] The control unit (190) can control the valve (158) to open the first guide passage (151; 151a; 151b) and close the second guide passage (152) based on receiving the drying start signal from the station (20). The control unit (190) can control the valve (158) to open the first guide passage (151; 151a; 151b) based on the robot cleaner (10) being installed at the station (20) and the drying device (260) generating dry air. The control unit (190) can control the valve (158) to open the second guide passage (152) based on the robot cleaner (10) being separated from the station (20) and cleaning the surface to be cleaned.

[0243] The above station (20) may further include a washing chamber (230) that is arranged to correspond to the mop (160) while the robot cleaner (10) is placed on the station (20) and that can receive dry air discharged from the drying device (260). The drying device (260) may include a fan (262); and a drying duct (261) that is arranged to guide air blown by the fan (262) to the washing chamber (230).

[0244] The above drying duct may be a first drying duct (261). The robot cleaner (10) may further include a dust collector (141) disposed inside the main body and configured to store dust contained in air sucked in through the suction port (111; 113); and an opening (112) formed in the main body and configured to discharge air passing through the dust collector to the outside of the main body or to allow air from the outside of the main body to be introduced. The drying device (260) may further include a second drying duct (264) branching from the first drying duct (261). The second drying duct (264) may be configured to guide air blown by the fan (262) toward the opening (112) of the robot cleaner while the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20).

[0245] The robot cleaner (10) may include a driving motor (162) disposed inside the main body and generating a driving force to rotate or move the mop (160) up and down. The control unit (190) may control the driving motor (162) to rotate the mop (160) based on receiving the drying start signal from the station (20). The control unit (190) may control the driving motor (162) to rotate the mop (160) based on the robot cleaner (10) being placed on the station (20) and the drying device (260) generating dry air.

[0246] A cleaning device (1) according to one embodiment may include a robot cleaner (10) including a main body (110) and a mop (160) detachably mountable to a lower portion of the main body; and a station (20) provided for the robot cleaner (10) to be mounted thereon. The station (20) may include a base (211); a washing chamber (230) formed to be sunken into the base (211) and provided to correspond to the mop (160) while the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20); and a drying device (260) provided to generate dry air for drying the mop (160) and supply the dry air to the washing chamber (230). The robot cleaner (10) may further include a guide path (151; 151a; 151b) formed inside the main body to guide the dry air so that the dry air within the cleaning chamber (230) is circulated.

[0247] The robot cleaner (10) may include a driving motor (162) disposed inside the main body and generating a driving force to rotate or move the mop (160) up and down; a shaft (163) provided to transmit the driving force to the mop; and a shaft hole (164) formed inside the shaft. The shaft hole (164) may include a first end provided to receive dry air guided by the guide path (151a), and a second end opened downwardly of the mop (160).

[0248] The robot cleaner (10) may further include a discharge hole (114) formed at the lower part of the main body to discharge dry air guided by the guide path (151b) toward the upper part of the mop (160).

[0249] The above guide path may be a first guide path (151; 151a; 151b). The robot cleaner (10) may include a suction port (111; 113) formed at the lower portion of the main body. The robot cleaner (10) may include a first opening (112) formed at a side of the main body entering the station. The robot cleaner (10) may include a second opening (164; 114) that is distinct from the first opening and opens toward at least one of the upper portion of the mop or the washing chamber. The robot cleaner (10) may include a second guide path (152) that branches off from the first guide path (151; 151a; 151b) and is connected to the first opening (112). The above robot cleaner (10) may include a valve (158) that opens one of the first guide passage (151; 151a; 151b) and the second guide passage (152).

[0250] The robot cleaner (10) may include a first suction port (111) formed at the lower portion of the main body; a second suction port (113) formed at the lower portion of the main body so as to be positioned between the first suction port (111) and the mop (160); a suction motor (142) disposed inside the main body and generating suction force; and a valve (159). The valve (159) of the robot cleaner (10) may be arranged to transmit the suction force of the suction motor (142) to either the first suction port (111) or the second suction port (113) so that dry air within the washing chamber (230) is sucked in through the first suction port (111) or the second suction port (113).

[0251] According to the invention, the usability of a cleaning device can be improved.

[0252] According to the invention, the mop is easy to maintain.

[0253] According to the invention, a mop can be effectively dried.

[0254] The effects that can be obtained from the present disclosure are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects that are not mentioned will be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains.

[0255] The above illustrates and describes specific embodiments. However, the invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various modifications and implementations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the claims below.

Claims

1. A station including a drying device that generates dry air; and A robot vacuum cleaner configured to be mounted on the above station; The above robot vacuum cleaner, entity; A mop detachably mountable to the lower part of the main body; A suction motor which is placed inside the main body and generates suction force; A suction port formed at the lower part of the main body and provided to suck in the dry air by the suction force of the suction motor while the robot cleaner is placed on the station; and A cleaning device including a control unit that controls the suction motor so that the dry air is sucked into the main body through the suction port based on receiving a drying start signal from the station.

2. In paragraph 1, The above robot vacuum cleaner, A cleaning device further comprising a guide path formed inside the main body and configured to guide dry air sucked through the suction port toward the mop.

3. In paragraph 2, The above robot vacuum cleaner, A driving motor disposed inside the main body and generating a driving force to rotate or move the mop up and down; and A shaft for transmitting the driving force of the driving motor to the mop, further comprising a shaft including a shaft hole formed inside the shaft so as to be opened downwards of the mop; The above guide euro is, A cleaning device extending from the suction port to the shaft hole of the shaft so that dry air sucked through the suction port flows toward the mop through the shaft hole of the shaft.

4. In paragraph 2, The above robot vacuum cleaner, Further comprising a plurality of discharge holes formed in the main body to be opened toward the mop; The above guide euro is, A cleaning device extending from the suction port to the plurality of discharge holes so that dry air sucked through the suction port flows toward the mop through the plurality of discharge holes.

5. In paragraph 1, The above robot vacuum cleaner, further comprising a brush rotatably arranged in the suction port; The above station is, A washing chamber which is arranged to correspond to the mop while the robot cleaner is placed on the station and which can receive dry air discharged from the drying device; A brush mounting portion spaced apart from the washing chamber and arranged to correspond to the brush while the robot cleaner is mounted on the station; A step wall disposed between the washing chamber and the brush mounting portion; and A cleaning device comprising a step wall passage formed on the step wall and arranged to guide dry air within the cleaning chamber to the brush mounting portion.

6. In paragraph 5, The above suction port is, A cleaning device configured to suck in dry air passing through the step wall path while the robot cleaner is mounted on the station.

7. In paragraph 5, The above station is, A step wall inlet communicating with the above washing chamber and forming one end of the step wall passage; A step wall outlet communicating with the brush mounting portion and forming the other end of the step wall flow path; and A cleaning device further comprising a door configured to open or cover the step wall inlet.

8. In paragraph 1, The above suction port is a first suction port provided to suck up waste from the surface to be cleaned, The above station is, The robot cleaner is provided to correspond to the mop while it is placed on the station, and further includes a washing chamber capable of receiving dry air discharged from the drying device; The above robot vacuum cleaner, a brush rotatably arranged in the first suction port; and Further comprising a second suction port disposed between the mop and the brush; A cleaning device in which the second suction port is opened toward the cleaning chamber while the robot cleaner is mounted on the station and is provided to suck in dry air within the cleaning chamber.

9. In paragraph 8, The above robot vacuum cleaner, A cleaning device further comprising a valve configured to open either the first suction port or the second suction port.

10. In paragraph 2, The above guide euro is the first guide euro, The above robot vacuum cleaner, A dust collector disposed inside the main body and configured to store dust contained in air sucked in through the suction port; An exhaust port formed in the main body and provided to discharge air passing through the dust collector to the outside of the main body; and A cleaning device further comprising a second guide path branched from the first guide path and provided to communicate with the discharge port.

11. In paragraph 10, The above robot vacuum cleaner, A cleaning device further comprising a valve configured to open either the first guide flow path or the second guide flow path.

12. In paragraph 11, The above control unit, A cleaning device that controls the valve to open the first guide passage and close the second guide passage based on receiving the drying start signal from the station.

13. In paragraph 1, The above station is, The robot cleaner is provided to correspond to the mop while it is placed on the station, and further includes a washing chamber capable of receiving dry air discharged from the drying device; The above drying device, Fan; and A cleaning device comprising a drying duct provided to guide air blown by the fan to the cleaning chamber.

14. In paragraph 13, The above drying duct is a first drying duct, The above robot vacuum cleaner, A dust collector disposed inside the main body and configured to store waste contained in the air sucked in through the suction port; and It further includes an opening formed in the main body and configured to discharge air passing through the dust collector to the outside of the main body or to allow air from the outside of the main body to flow in; The above drying device, A cleaning device further comprising a second drying duct branched from the first drying duct, the second drying duct being arranged to guide air blown by the fan toward the opening of the robot cleaner while the robot cleaner is mounted on the station.

15. In paragraph 1, The above robot vacuum cleaner, It further includes a driving motor which is placed inside the main body and generates a driving force to rotate or move the mop up and down; The above control unit, A cleaning device that controls the drive motor to rotate the mop based on receiving the drying start signal from the station.

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