Cleaning robot, cleaning base station, cleaning system and cleaning method

Abstract

Disclosed in the present application are a cleaning robot, a cleaning base station, a cleaning system and a cleaning method. The main technical solution of the present application provides a cleaning robot, comprising: a robot body; a water tank which is arranged on the robot body and comprises an accommodating space, wherein a water inlet and at least one water overflow port are provided in the water tank, and both the water inlet and the water overflow port are in communication with the accommodating space; and a cleaning assembly which is connected to the robot body and / or the water tank, wherein the water overflow port is in direct or indirect communication with the cleaning assembly, the water inlet is configured to inject a mopping and washing fluid into the accommodating space, and the water overflow port is configured to discharge, when the volume of the mopping and washing fluid in the accommodating space exceeds a preset volume, the mopping and washing fluid to the cleaning assembly.

Description

Cleaning robot, cleaning base station, cleaning system and method

[0001] This application claims priority to the Chinese patent application filed with the State Intellectual Property Office of China on March 20, 2024, with application number 202410323013.6, and invention name “A cleaning robot, a cleaning base station, a cleaning system and a method”, and the Chinese patent application filed with the State Intellectual Property Office of China on March 20, 2024, with application number 202420545597.7, and invention name “A cleaning robot, a cleaning base station and a cleaning system”, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference into this application. Technical Field

[0002] The present application relates to the field of smart home technology, and in particular to a cleaning robot, a cleaning base station, a cleaning system and a cleaning method. Background Art

[0003] With the increasing popularity of smart home technology, especially the gradual development of cleaning robots, they have provided a lot of help for home cleaning and are loved by more and more families. In order to make cleaning more thorough and suitable for cleaning environments with accumulated grease, such as kitchens, cleaning robots have a mopping function in addition to sweeping. Cleaning robots usually carry a water tank. During the cleaning process, the water in the tank humidifies the mop by active or osmotic means, and then achieves wet mopping, achieving the purpose of cleaning grease and other stains. Application content

[0004] The present application provides a cleaning robot, a cleaning base station, a cleaning system and a cleaning method.

[0005] In one aspect, the present application provides a cleaning robot, comprising:

[0006] Robot body;

[0007] A water tank is provided on the robot body, and includes a storage space. The water tank is provided with a water inlet and at least one overflow port, and both the water inlet and the overflow port are connected to the storage space;

[0008] A cleaning component is connected to the robot body and / or the water tank, and the overflow port is directly or indirectly connected to the cleaning component;

[0009] The water inlet is used to inject the mop-washing fluid into the accommodating space, and the overflow outlet is used to discharge the mop-washing fluid into the cleaning component when the volume of the mop-washing fluid in the accommodating space exceeds a preset volume.

[0010] The bottom surface of the water tank is used to be opposite to the cleaning component, and the overflow port is located on the top surface of the water tank relative to the bottom surface, or the vertical height of the overflow port relative to the bottom surface is greater than or equal to a preset height.

[0011] Among them, cleaning robots also include:

[0012] At least one overflow pipe includes an overflow channel, a first end of the overflow channel is connected to the overflow port, a second end of the overflow channel is directly or indirectly connected to the cleaning component, and the mopping fluid discharged from the overflow port is discharged to the cleaning component through the overflow channel.

[0013] Among them, an overflow channel is also provided on the water tank and / or the robot body, the first end of the overflow channel is connected to the overflow port, and the second end of the overflow channel is directly or indirectly connected to the cleaning component, and the mopping and washing fluid discharged from the overflow port is discharged to the cleaning component through the overflow channel.

[0014] Among them, the cleaning robot also includes a water distribution part, which is connected to the water tank and / or the robot body. The water distribution part includes a water distribution channel and at least one water distribution hole connected to the water distribution channel. The second end of the overflow channel is connected to the water distribution channel, and the water distribution hole is opposite to the cleaning component.

[0015] The robot body includes a shell, the shell includes a chassis, and at least one water distribution hole is provided on the chassis. The cleaning component is connected to or opposite to the water distribution hole, and the second end of the overflow channel is directly or indirectly connected to the water distribution hole.

[0016] Among them, cleaning robots also include:

[0017] The water outlet assembly, the water tank is further provided with a water outlet, the water outlet is communicated with the accommodating space, the water outlet assembly is communicated with the water outlet, and the water outlet assembly is communicated with the cleaning assembly for selectively discharging the mopping fluid to the cleaning assembly;

[0018] The second end of the overflow channel is communicated with the water outlet assembly, and the mopping and washing fluid flowing out of the overflow channel is discharged to the cleaning assembly through the water outlet assembly.

[0019] Wherein, the water outlet assembly includes a first power member, a water outlet pipe and a water outlet member;

[0020] The first end of the water outlet pipe is connected to the water outlet, the second end of the water outlet pipe is connected to the water outlet member, the water outlet member is provided with at least one water distribution hole, and the water distribution hole is connected to the cleaning component;

[0021] The first power member is connected to the water outlet pipe and is used to drive the mopping and washing fluid to flow out of the water outlet and be discharged to the mopping and washing fluid through the water outlet pipe and the water outlet member;

[0022] The second end of the overflow channel is connected to the outlet pipe between the first power member and the outlet member, and / or the second end of the overflow channel is connected to the outlet member, and the mopping fluid flowing out of the overflow channel is discharged to the cleaning component through the outlet member.

[0023] The robot body includes a shell, the shell includes a chassis, the water tank and the cleaning component are respectively located on both sides of the chassis, a water distribution hole is provided on the chassis, and the second end of the overflow channel is directly or indirectly connected to the water distribution hole;

[0024] The cleaning component is communicated with or opposite to the water distribution hole.

[0025] Among them, the cleaning component includes a mop and a bracket, a water-permeable part is provided on the bracket, the mop is connected to the bracket, the bracket is connected to the water tank and / or the robot body, the water-permeable part is directly or indirectly connected to the overflow port, and the mopping fluid discharged from the overflow port is discharged to the mop through the water-permeable part.

[0026] On the other hand, the present application also provides a cleaning base station for docking a cleaning robot, the cleaning robot comprising a robot body, a water tank and a cleaning component, the water tank being arranged on the robot body, the water tank comprising a storage space, a water inlet and at least one overflow port being provided on the water tank, the water inlet and the overflow port both being in communication with the storage space, the cleaning component being connected to the robot body and / or the water tank, the overflow port being in direct or indirect communication with the cleaning component, the cleaning base station comprising:

[0027] Base station body, water supply system, the water supply system is connected to the base station body;

[0028] The water supply system is used to communicate with the water inlet so as to inject the mop and wash fluid into the accommodating space through the water inlet.

[0029] The water supply system includes a water tank, a second power member, and a water supply pipeline. The water tank includes a water supply inner cavity for containing a mopping and washing fluid. A first end of the water supply pipeline is connected to the water supply inner cavity. A second end of the water supply pipeline is directly or indirectly connected to a water inlet. The second power member is disposed on the water supply pipeline or is connected to the water supply inner cavity.

[0030] The second power member is used to drive the mopping and washing fluid in the water supply cavity to be injected into the accommodating space through the water supply pipeline;

[0031] Among them, the cleaning base station also includes:

[0032] The cleaning disc is embedded in the water stagnation tank and is used to contact the cleaning component to clean the cleaning component. The cleaning disc is communicated with the water stagnation tank.

[0033] Among them, the cleaning base station also includes:

[0034] A water supply connector is connected to the base station body and is located on the inner wall of the docking space. The second end of the water supply pipeline is connected to the water supply connector, and the water supply connector is used to connect to the water inlet.

[0035] On the other hand, the present application further provides a cleaning system, characterized in that it includes a cleaning robot and a cleaning base station, the cleaning robot is used to selectively dock at the cleaning base station;

[0036] The cleaning robot includes a robot main body;

[0037] A water tank is provided on the robot body, and includes a storage space. The water tank is provided with a water inlet and at least one overflow port, and both the water inlet and the overflow port are connected to the storage space;

[0038] A cleaning component is connected to the robot body and / or the water tank, and the overflow port is directly or indirectly connected to the cleaning component;

[0039] The cleaning base station includes a base station body and a water supply system, and the water supply system is connected to the base station body;

[0040] When the cleaning robot is docked at the cleaning base station, the water supply system is connected to the water inlet. The water supply system is used to inject mop and wash fluid into the accommodating space through the water inlet. The overflow outlet is used to discharge the mop and wash fluid into the cleaning component when the volume of the mop and wash fluid in the accommodating space exceeds a preset volume.

[0041] In another aspect, the present application also provides a cleaning method, comprising:

[0042] In response to a water supply demand of a cleaning process or a first user instruction, controlling the cleaning robot to dock at a cleaning base station;

[0043] After receiving the docking signal sent by the cleaning base station, the water supply system of the cleaning base station is controlled to fill water into the water tank of the cleaning robot;

[0044] Controlling the movement of the cleaning components of the cleaning robot to perform cleaning;

[0045] In response to an end signal of the washing process or a second user instruction, the water supply system of the cleaning base station is controlled to be turned off.

[0046] After the step of controlling the water supply system of the cleaning base station to shut down in response to an end signal of the cleaning process or a second user instruction, the method further includes:

[0047] In response to a water supply system shut-off signal or a third user instruction, controlling the cleaning robot to leave the cleaning base station to perform mobile cleaning;

[0048] In response to a wet mopping requirement of the cleaning process or a fourth user instruction, the water outlet assembly of the cleaning robot is controlled to discharge the mopping fluid in the accommodating space to the cleaning assembly.

[0049] The step of controlling the cleaning components of the cleaning robot to move for cleaning includes:

[0050] After the water supply system of the cleaning base station fills the water tank of the cleaning robot with water for a preset period of time or responds to the sewage sensing signal of the cleaning base station, the cleaning components of the cleaning robot are controlled to move for cleaning. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0051] FIG1 is a schematic structural diagram of a cleaning robot provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0052] FIG2 is a schematic structural diagram of another cleaning robot provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0053] FIG3 is a schematic structural diagram of another cleaning robot provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0054] FIG4 is a schematic structural diagram of a cleaning base station provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0055] FIG5 is a schematic structural diagram of a cleaning system provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0056] FIG6 is a flow chart of a cleaning method provided in an embodiment of the present application;

[0057] Among them, the robot body 100, the water tank 200, the water inlet 210, the overflow port 220, the cleaning component 300, the mop 310, the bracket 320, the overflow pipe 400, the water outlet component 500, the first power component 510, the water outlet pipe 520, the water outlet component 530, the water distribution component 600, the base station body 10, the water storage tank 20, the second power component 30, the water supply pipeline 40, the sewage tank 50, the third power component 60, the sewage pipeline 70, the cleaning tray 80, and the water supply connector 90. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0058] In order to further explain the technical means and effects adopted by this application to achieve the predetermined application purpose, the following is a detailed description of the specific implementation method, structure, characteristics and effects of a cleaning robot proposed in this application in combination with the accompanying drawings and preferred embodiments.

[0059] On the one hand, as shown in Figures 1-2, the present application provides a cleaning robot that can be selectively docked at a cleaning base station. The cleaning machine cooperates with the cleaning base station, and the cleaning base station can charge, rehydrate, clean, collect dust, and perform other operations on the docked cleaning robot. The cleaning robot can also be called a self-cleaning device, a mopping machine, etc., which can move and clean on its own without user control. The cleaning robot includes a robot body 100, and the robot body 100 includes a main controller, as well as functional mechanisms such as a moving mechanism, a cleaning mechanism, and a sensing mechanism. The main controller controls the moving mechanism of the robot body 100 to control the robot body 100 to move to the cleaning base station and dock at the cleaning base station, or move out of the cleaning base station for mobile cleaning. The cleaning mechanism may include a roller brush and a dust box, etc. The main controller controls the cleaning mechanism to collect dust, debris, etc. during the movement of the robot body 100 to achieve dry cleaning of the ground. The sensing mechanism can be a sensing device such as an infrared sensor, collision sensor, gyroscope, accelerometer, etc., which is used to provide various position information, motion state information and obstacle information to the main controller of the robot body 100, so that the main controller can adjust the movement of the robot body 100 and avoid obstacles.

[0060] The robot body 100 can have a variety of shapes. To ensure stability and suitability for various scenarios, such as cleaning under beds, the robot body 100 typically has a flat cylindrical outer contour. The outer shell of the robot body 100 primarily comprises a chassis 110 and a housing connected to the chassis 110 to enclose a housing cavity. The shape of the chassis 110 can be customized, such as a roughly circular disk, or it can be formed into an irregular shape to accommodate components such as a water tank.

[0061] The cleaning robot also includes a wet cleaning system for wet cleaning of the floor, complementing dry cleaning to achieve a more thorough cleaning effect. To complement the cleaning robot's wet cleaning system, the cleaning base station includes a base station body 10 and a water supply system. The base station body 10 includes a docking space for the robot body 100. The water supply system is connected to the base station body 10 to provide mopping fluid to the wet cleaning system when the cleaning robot is docked in the docking space.

[0062] More specifically, the wet cleaning system includes a water tank 200, which is disposed on the robot body 100. The water tank 200 includes a storage space, a water inlet 210 and at least one overflow port 220 are provided on the water tank 200, and both the water inlet 210 and the overflow port 220 are in communication with the storage space.

[0063] The cleaning assembly 300 is connected to the robot body 100 and / or the water tank 200, and the overflow port 220 is directly or indirectly connected to the cleaning assembly 300;

[0064] The water inlet 210 is used to inject the mop-washing fluid into the accommodating space, and the overflow port 220 is used to discharge the mop-washing fluid into the cleaning assembly 300 when the volume of the mop-washing fluid in the accommodating space exceeds a preset volume.

[0065] The water tank 200 is a water storage device within the cleaning robot. It can be connected to the outer shell of the robot body 100 in various ways and can be located in various locations within the robot body 100. For example, the outer shell encloses an inner cavity, and the water tank 200 is located within the inner cavity. The water tank 200 can have various shapes, such as an irregular shape to accommodate the layout of other components within the inner cavity. The outer shell has a water hole, and the water inlet 210 is connected to the water hole directly or via a hose. When the robot body 100 is docked in the docking space, the water supply system connects to the water hole in the outer shell and then indirectly connects to the water inlet 210, providing mopping fluid to the storage space through the water inlet 210. Alternatively, the outer shell has an open cavity area for accommodating the water tank 200, with the water tank 200 embedded in the cavity area and the water inlet 210 exposed outside the outer shell. The sidewall of the water tank 200 where the water inlet 210 is located is curved, which, together with the outer shell, forms the generally flat cylindrical outer contour of the cleaning robot. When the robot body 100 is docked in the docking space, the water supply system directly connects to the water inlet 210, and then the water supply system directly supplies the mopping and washing fluid to the storage space through the water inlet 210. To ensure that the mopping and washing fluid flows only in one direction from the water supply system into the storage space and does not flow back, a one-way valve is also installed at the water inlet 210 to prevent the mopping and washing fluid from overflowing in the storage space.

[0066] The mop-wash fluid can be just water, just a detergent, or a mixture of detergent and water. There can be one, two, or more water inlets 210. For example, if there is only one water inlet 210, the mop-wash fluid can be either water or a detergent, and the water inlet 210 is used to inject the water or detergent into the storage space. Alternatively, if there are two water inlets 210, the two water inlets 210 can be connected to different pipes in the water supply system of the cleaning base station, respectively used to inject water and detergent into the storage space.

[0067] The overflow port 220 is used to allow excess mop fluid to overflow when the volume of mop fluid in the storage space exceeds a preset volume, or when the volume of mop fluid injected into the storage space reaches a preset amount, allowing the mop fluid to be discharged into the cleaning assembly 300, thereby cleaning the cleaning assembly 300. The overflow port 220 can be located in multiple locations to ensure that the mop fluid overflows after sufficient mop fluid has been injected into the storage space, ensuring that sufficient mop fluid is available when the cleaning robot mops the floor. The water tank 200 includes a bottom surface, a top surface, and a surrounding surface located between the top and bottom surfaces. The top, bottom, and surrounding surfaces enclose the storage space. The bottom surface is intended to face the cleaning assembly 300, or to face the ground during the cleaning process, or to face the bottom surface of the docking space when the robot body 100 is docked in the docking space. The overflow port 220 is located on the top surface of the water tank 200 relative to the bottom surface, or the vertical height of the overflow port 220 relative to the bottom surface is greater than or equal to a preset height, such as being located on the side and connected to the top surface, so that the overflow port 220 is positioned high enough to ensure that there is enough mopping fluid in the accommodating space and it will not overflow.

[0068] The cleaning component 300 can be in various forms, such as a mop, a roller brush, etc. The cleaning component 300 can be connected to the robot body 100 and located below the chassis 110 of the robot body 100. The cleaning component 300 can be a combination of a fixed tray and a mop, or a rotating mop driven by a driving structure inside the robot body 100. Alternatively, the cleaning component 300 can also be directly connected to the water tank 200. The overflow port 220 is directly or indirectly connected to the cleaning component 300, which means that the mopping fluid overflowing from the overflow port 220 can be discharged to the cleaning component 300. The mopping fluid overflowing from the overflow port 220 can be discharged to the cleaning component 300 through the outer shell of the robot body 100, the external flow channel of the water tank 200, or the internal flow channel of the water tank 200, etc., which will be described in detail below in conjunction with more specific embodiments. The overflow port 220 may also be directly connected to the cleaning assembly 300 . For example, the cleaning assembly 300 may extend to the periphery of the overflow port 220 , and the mopping fluid overflowing from the overflow port 220 is directly discharged onto the cleaning assembly 300 .

[0069] The water supply system continuously supplies mop and wash fluid to the storage space. The overflow port 220 continuously discharges the mop and wash fluid into the cleaning assembly 300, which then cooperates with the cleaning mechanism of the cleaning base station to clean the cleaning assembly 300 by means of scraping, etc., achieving a thorough cleaning of the cleaning assembly 300. After cleaning is complete, the water supply system can be stopped, and the cleaning robot can directly carry the full water tank 200 away from the cleaning base station for mobile cleaning. It should be noted that the arrows in the figures indicate the direction of mop and wash fluid flow and will not be explained in detail below.

[0070] The cleaning robot, cleaning base station, cleaning system and method proposed in the embodiments of the present application provide a water overflow port on the water tank. After the water tank is filled with water, the overflow port is used to provide cleaning water to the cleaning components, so that the base station only needs to be equipped with a water supply pipeline, and no separate cleaning pipeline is required, thereby simplifying the layout of the base station pipelines. In the related art, a single water storage barrel is provided in the base station, and the outlet of the water storage barrel is connected to one line of an electrically controlled three-way valve, and the other two lines of the electrically controlled three-way valve are connected to the water supply pipeline and the cleaning pipeline respectively. When the cleaning robot is docked at the base station, the water supply pipeline is used to connect to the water tank of the cleaning robot to add water to the water tank of the cleaning robot, and the cleaning pipeline is used to provide cleaning water to the mop to clean the mop. As a result, the water storage barrel is connected to two water pipes, the pipeline structure is complex, the pipeline installation is unchanged, and it is easy to leak. In the technical solution of the present application, an overflow port is opened on the water tank. When the cleaning robot docks at the cleaning base station, the cleaning base station adds a mopping fluid to the water tank. When the mopping fluid reaches a certain amount, it will overflow through the overflow port and be discharged to the cleaning component to clean the cleaning component. On the one hand, the cleaning base station only needs to be equipped with a water supply pipeline, which reduces the layout of the cleaning base station pipeline, reduces the installation difficulty and the risk of leakage; on the other hand, it is only necessary to control whether the water supply pipeline is supplied with water, and there is no need to control the electric three-way valve as in the prior art, which makes the control process simple, and does not require the use of an electric three-way valve, which reduces costs and avoids the risk of damage to the electric three-way valve.

[0071] There can be many ways to connect the overflow port 220 to the cleaning assembly 300. For example, in one embodiment, the cleaning robot further includes at least one overflow pipe 400, which includes an overflow channel. The first end of the overflow channel is connected to the overflow port 220, and the second end of the overflow channel is directly or indirectly connected to the cleaning assembly 300. The mopping fluid discharged from the overflow port 220 is discharged to the cleaning assembly 300 through the overflow channel.

[0072] There can be one or more overflow ports 220, such as two overflow ports 220, located on opposite sides of the water tank 200. The overflow pipe 400 is in one-to-one communication with each overflow port 220. The overflow pipe 400 can be a flexible hose or a rigid pipe adapted to the internal structure of the robot body 100. The overflow channel refers to the fluid passage within the overflow pipe 400. The overflow pipe 400 guides the mop and wash fluid from the overflow port 220 to the cleaning assembly 300.

[0073] In some other embodiments, an overflow channel is provided on the water tank 200 and / or the robot body 100, the first end of the overflow channel is connected to the overflow port 220, and the second end of the overflow channel is directly or indirectly connected to the cleaning component 300, and the mopping fluid discharged from the overflow port 220 is discharged to the cleaning component 300 through the overflow channel.

[0074] The overflow pipe 400 may not be provided separately, and the overflow channel may be processed when the shell of the water tank 200 or the robot body 100 is processed. Alternatively, the water tank 200 and the robot body 100 may be combined to form an overflow channel, so as to drain the mopping and washing fluid.

[0075] Since the cleaning assembly 300 typically has a certain extended length, or the cleaning assembly 300 may include two or more dispersed cleaning components, such as two rotatable mops, to ensure uniform cleaning by the cleaning assembly 300, the mopping fluid flowing out of the overflow channel should be discharged to the cleaning assembly 300 over a wide area. This application provides the following three specific embodiments, aiming to achieve dispersed discharge of the mopping fluid flowing out of the overflow channel adapted to the position of the cleaning assembly 300:

[0076] First, as shown in Figure 2, the cleaning robot also includes a water distribution component 600, which is connected to the water tank 200 or the robot body 100. The water distribution component 600 includes a water distribution channel and at least one water distribution hole connected to the water distribution channel. The second end of the overflow channel is connected to the water distribution channel, and the water distribution hole is opposite to the cleaning component 300.

[0077] The water distribution part 600 is connected to the overflow pipe 400, and the water distribution holes are opposite to multiple positions of the cleaning component 300, or respectively correspond to multiple cleaning parts of the cleaning component 300. The water distribution holes can discharge water simultaneously to achieve a large-scale cleaning of the cleaning component 300.

[0078] Second, as shown in FIG1 , the robot body 100 includes a housing, which includes a chassis 110 . A water tank 200 and a cleaning assembly 300 are located on either side of the chassis 110 . The chassis 110 is provided with at least one water distribution hole, and the second end of the overflow channel is directly or indirectly connected to the water distribution hole. The cleaning assembly 300 is connected to or opposite the water distribution hole.

[0079] Furthermore, a diversion groove is provided on the chassis 110, and a water distribution hole can be provided at the bottom of the diversion groove. The end of the overflow pipe 400 is located in the diversion groove. The water distribution holes correspond to multiple positions of the cleaning assembly 300, or respectively correspond to multiple cleaning parts of the cleaning assembly 300. The mop washing fluid flowing out of the overflow pipe 400 is guided through the diversion groove and discharged into the cleaning assembly 300 through the water distribution hole, thereby achieving a wide range of cleaning of the cleaning assembly 300.

[0080] Third, as shown in Figure 3, the cleaning robot also includes a water outlet assembly 500. The water tank 200 also defines a water outlet, which is connected to the storage space. The water outlet assembly 500 is connected to the water outlet, and the water outlet assembly 500 is connected to the cleaning assembly 300 for selectively discharging mop and wash fluid to the cleaning assembly 300. The second end of the overflow channel is connected to the water outlet assembly 500, and the mop and wash fluid flowing out of the overflow channel is discharged to the cleaning assembly 300 through the water outlet assembly 500.

[0081] The water outlet assembly 500 is used to provide mopping fluid to the cleaning assembly 300 during the operation of the cleaning robot, keeping the cleaning assembly 300 moist for wet mopping. The second end of the overflow channel is connected to the water outlet assembly 500, enabling water distribution through the water outlet assembly 500. This eliminates the need for a separate water distribution member 600 for the overflow channel, simplifying the structure. It is worth noting that the water outlet is different from the overflow port 220. The water outlet is passive, meaning that the water is controllably discharged through the water outlet assembly 500, allowing the cleaning assembly 300 to be regulated, both in terms of moisture penetration and the degree of wetness. The overflow port 220, on the other hand, actively discharges water when the total amount of mopping fluid reaches a certain level.

[0082] In a more specific embodiment, the water outlet assembly 500 includes a first power member 510, a water outlet pipe 520, and a water outlet member 530. The first end of the water outlet pipe 520 is connected to the water outlet, and the second end of the water outlet pipe 520 is connected to the water outlet member 530. The water outlet member 530 is provided with at least one water distribution hole, which is connected to the cleaning assembly 300. The first power member 510 is connected to the water outlet pipe 520 to drive the mop and wash fluid to flow out of the water outlet and be discharged into the mop and wash fluid through the water outlet pipe 520 and the water outlet member 530. The second end of the overflow channel is connected to the water outlet pipe 520 and / or the water outlet member 530, and the mop and wash fluid flowing out of the overflow channel is discharged into the cleaning assembly 300 through the water outlet member 530.

[0083] The first power member 510 can be a peristaltic pump, and the outlet pipe 520 is a hose. The peristaltic pump includes a cam. The cam rotates, periodically squeezing the outlet pipe 520 to varying degrees, causing the mopping and washing fluid in the outlet pipe 520 to flow toward the outlet member 530. The peristaltic pump has the advantages of not coming into direct contact with the mopping and washing fluid, thus avoiding contamination of the mopping and washing fluid, and being easy to disassemble and assemble, thereby preventing connection leaks. The second end of the overflow channel can be connected to the outlet pipe 520. For example, in an embodiment in which an overflow pipe 400 is provided, the overflow pipe 400 can be connected to the area of ​​the outlet pipe 520 between the first power member 510 and the outlet member 530, or it can be directly connected to the outlet member 530, and then the cleaning component 300 can be cleaned over a large area through the water distribution holes of the outlet member 530. The structure of the outlet member 530 can be consistent with the structure of the water distribution member 600 in the aforementioned embodiment.

[0084] The cleaning assembly 300 can take various forms. The cleaning assembly 300 can be positioned opposite and spaced apart from the aforementioned water distribution hole, or can be directly connected thereto. The cleaning assembly 300 can be connected to the water tank 200 or to the robot body 100. In one embodiment, the cleaning assembly 300 includes a mop 310 and a bracket 320. The bracket 320 is provided with a water-permeable member. The mop 310 is connected to the bracket 320, which is connected to the robot body 100. The water-permeable member is directly or indirectly connected to the overflow port 220. The mopping fluid discharged from the overflow port 220 is discharged to the mop 310 through the water-permeable member.

[0085] In the aforementioned embodiment including a water distribution hole, the water-permeable member is directly or indirectly connected to the water distribution hole. The water-permeable member can be simply a through hole formed in the bracket 320, the through hole being connected to or opposite the water distribution hole, and used for water flow. Alternatively, the water-permeable member can also be a water-permeable member with a filtering function.

[0086] On the other hand, as shown in FIG4 , the present application also provides a cleaning base station for docking a cleaning robot. The cleaning robot includes a robot body 100, a water tank 200, and a cleaning assembly 300. The water tank 200 is provided on the robot body 100. The water tank 200 includes a storage space. The water tank 200 is provided with a water inlet 210 and at least one overflow port 220. The water inlet 210 and the overflow port 220 are both connected to the storage space. The cleaning assembly 300 is connected to the robot body 100 and / or the water tank 200. The overflow port 220 is directly or indirectly connected to the cleaning assembly 300. The cleaning base station includes a base station body 10, a water supply system, and a drainage system. The water supply system and the drainage system are both connected to the base station body 10. The water supply system is used to communicate with the water inlet 210 to inject a mopping fluid into the storage space through the water inlet 210. The drainage system is used to collect sewage dripping from the cleaning assembly 300.

[0087] When there is no water in the water tank 200 or the cleaning assembly 300 needs to be cleaned, the cleaning robot returns to the base station body 10 through the moving mechanism, and adjusts its position under the control of the main controller so that the water inlet 210 is connected to the water supply system.

[0088] The main controller controls the water supply system, injecting cleaning fluid into the storage space. When the volume of the cleaning fluid exceeds a preset volume, it automatically drains from overflow port 220 into cleaning assembly 300, where it cleans the cleaning assembly 300 and then drips as dirty water. If dirty water is detected, the main controller activates the drainage system to collect the wastewater, completing the filling and cleaning of the cleaning robot by the cleaning base station.

[0089] In a more specific embodiment, the water supply system includes a water tank 20, a second power member 30, and a water supply pipeline 40. The water tank 20 includes a water supply cavity for accommodating the mop-washing fluid. A first end of the water supply pipeline 40 is connected to the water supply cavity, and a second end of the water supply pipeline 40 is directly or indirectly connected to the water inlet 210. The second power member 30 is disposed on the water supply pipeline 40 or is connected to the water supply cavity. The second power member 30 is used to drive the mop-washing fluid in the water supply cavity through the water supply pipeline 40 and into the storage space.

[0090] The second power element 30 can be a peristaltic pump, the water supply line 40 is a flexible hose, and the water tank 20 is connected to the outside world to balance air pressure. Alternatively, the second power element 30 can be an air pump, and the water tank 20 is sealed, with air pressure driving the mop and wash fluid in the water tank 20 to flow into the storage space. The water tank 20 only needs to be connected to a single pipeline leading to the water inlet 210. During the water supply and cleaning process, no pipeline switching is required, and only the second power element 30 is controlled. This avoids the complex piping required by the prior art, which requires the water tank 20 to be connected to an electronically controlled tee and multiple pipelines, as well as the high control costs and susceptibility to damage and leakage caused by the need for electronic control of the tee.

[0091] The drainage system includes a sewage tank 50, a third power element 60, and a sewage pipe 70. The base station body 10 includes a docking space with a water retention trough on its bottom wall. The docking space is used to dock the robot body 100, and the water retention trough is opposite the cleaning assembly 300. The sewage tank 50 includes a sewage cavity. The first end of the sewage pipe 70 is connected to the sewage cavity, and the second end of the sewage pipe 70 is connected to the water retention trough. The third power element 60 is mounted on the sewage pipe 70 or connected to the sewage tank 50. The third power element 60 is used to drive the sewage in the water retention trough through the sewage pipe 70 and into the sewage cavity.

[0092] The water retention trough is a trough formed on the bottom wall of the docking space, collecting wastewater dripping from the cleaning assembly 300. The bottom of the water retention trough can gradually decrease in depth near the connection point with the sewage pipe 70, allowing wastewater to flow more smoothly into the sewage pipe 70. The third power element 60 can be an air pump, and the sewage tank 50 is a sealed box. Wastewater is extracted by drawing air from the sewage tank 50.

[0093] Furthermore, the cleaning base station further includes a cleaning tray 80 , which is embedded in the water stagnation tank and is used to contact the cleaning assembly 300 to clean the cleaning assembly 300 . The cleaning tray 80 is in communication with the water stagnation tank.

[0094] The cleaning tray 80 includes a base plate and a cleaning unit disposed thereon. The cleaning unit can be fixed, and the cleaning assembly 300 is driven relative to the cleaning unit to scrub the cleaning assembly 300. Alternatively, the cleaning unit can be a movable roller brush that can be moved to scrub the cleaning assembly 300. The base plate can be provided with multiple drainage holes to allow wastewater dripping from the cleaning assembly 300 to drain into a sump for collection by the drainage system.

[0095] In one embodiment, the cleaning base station further includes a water supply connector 90, which is connected to the base station body 10 and is located on the inner wall of the docking space of the base station body 10. The second end of the water supply pipe 40 is connected to the water supply connector 90, and the water supply connector 90 is used to connect to the water inlet 210. The water supply connector 90 faces the water inlet 210. After the cleaning robot docks in the docking space, the water supply connector 90 will dock with the water inlet 210, so that the water supply pipe 40 is connected to the water inlet 210, and water can be injected.

[0096] On the other hand, as shown in Figure 5, the present application also provides a cleaning system, which includes a cleaning robot and a cleaning base station, and the cleaning robot is used to selectively dock at the cleaning base station. The cleaning robot includes a robot body 100. A water tank 200, the water tank 200 is arranged on the robot body 100, the water tank 200 includes a storage space, and a water inlet 210 and at least one overflow port 220 are provided on the water tank 200, and the water inlet 210 and the overflow port 220 are both connected to the storage space. A cleaning component 300, the cleaning component 300 is connected to the robot body 100 and / or the water tank 200, and the overflow port 220 is directly or indirectly connected to the cleaning component 300. The cleaning base station includes a base station body 10, a water supply system and a drainage system, and the water supply system and the drainage system are both connected to the base station body 10. When the cleaning robot is docked at the cleaning base station, the water supply system is connected to the water inlet 210. The water supply system is used to inject the mopping and washing fluid into the accommodating space through the water inlet 210. The overflow port 220 is used to discharge the mopping and washing fluid into the cleaning component 300 when the volume of the mopping and washing fluid in the accommodating space exceeds a preset volume. The drainage system is used to collect sewage dripping through the cleaning component 300.

[0097] The cleaning system provided in the present application may include any of the aforementioned cleaning robots and any of the aforementioned cleaning base stations, including the advantages of any of the aforementioned cleaning robots and any of the aforementioned cleaning base stations, which will not be repeated here.

[0098] On the other hand, as shown in FIG6 , the present application also provides a cleaning method, comprising:

[0099] S1. In response to a water supply demand of a cleaning process or a first user instruction, the cleaning robot is controlled to dock at a cleaning base station.

[0100] The water supply demand during the cleaning process can be a water shortage signal in the water tank 200. For example, if a liquid level sensor is provided in the water tank 200, a water supply demand signal is generated when the liquid level in the water tank 200 is detected to be lower than a preset level. Alternatively, the water supply demand signal can be generated when the cleaning process reaches a certain time, such as when wet mopping reaches a certain time. The controller of the cleaning robot controls the cleaning robot to perform mobile cleaning, and when it receives the water supply demand during the cleaning process, it automatically moves to the cleaning base station for docking. Alternatively, the main controller of the cleaning robot can be connected to the user end, such as wirelessly connected to the user's mobile phone. The user can actively issue a first user instruction through the mobile phone APP. The first user instruction indicates that the mop needs to be cleaned, and then the cleaning robot stops the current cleaning process and moves to the cleaning base station for docking.

[0101] S2. After receiving the docking signal sent by the cleaning base station, control the water supply system of the cleaning base station to inject water into the water tank 200 of the cleaning robot.

[0102] A sensor is installed in the docking space of the cleaning base station. When the cleaning robot docks, the sensor sends a detection signal to the cleaning robot's controller, which can directly activate the water supply system's second power unit 30 to directly supply water. Alternatively, the controller can interact with the user through an interactive component and activate the second power unit 30 after receiving a water supply control signal from the user.

[0103] S3. Control the cleaning component 300 of the cleaning robot to move for cleaning.

[0104] After the second power part 30 is started, water will begin to be added to the water tank 200, and then the cleaning component 300 will be controlled to move relative to the cleaning plate 80. After the water reaches the height of the overflow port 220, the overflow port 220 will continue to have mopping fluid overflowing, thereby achieving cleaning of the cleaning component 300.

[0105] In some embodiments, controlling the movement of the cleaning assembly 300 of the cleaning robot for cleaning includes: controlling the movement of the cleaning assembly 300 of the cleaning robot for cleaning after the water supply system of the cleaning base station fills the water tank 200 of the cleaning robot with water for a preset period of time, or in response to a sewage sensing signal from the cleaning base station. The preset period of time refers to the time it takes for the water tank 200 to be filled with water, or the time it takes for the water tank 200 to be nearly filled with water. This period of time can be calculated based on the capacity of the water tank 200 and the flow rate of water addition. In some embodiments, a sensor is provided within the docking space or on the water retention tank or the cleaning tray 80 in the aforementioned embodiment to detect the presence of sewage in the water retention tank. When the sensor detects the presence of sewage, it sends a sewage sensing signal to the controller of the cleaning robot, thereby ensuring that mop and wash fluid has overflowed from the overflow port 220. This then controls the movement of the cleaning assembly 300 to avoid ineffective movement of the cleaning assembly 300 when no mop and wash fluid has flowed out.

[0106] S4. In response to the end signal of the washing process or the second user instruction, the water supply system is controlled to be closed.

[0107] The end signal for the cleaning process can be generated after the cleaning assembly 300 has been controlled to move for a certain period of time. After the cleaning process is completed, the water supply system is shut off, and no more mopping and cleaning fluid will overflow from the overflow port 220. The cleaning robot can then wait for the next operation instruction or move out of the docking space to continue cleaning. Alternatively, the cleaning robot can receive a second user instruction in real time, which instructs the user to stop mopping and cleaning, thereby ending the cleaning process prematurely, terminating the water supply system, and waiting for the next operation instruction.

[0108] In one embodiment, after the step of controlling the water supply system of the cleaning base station to shut down in response to the end signal of the cleaning process or the second user instruction, the method further includes:

[0109] In response to a water supply system shut-off signal or a third user instruction, the cleaning robot is controlled to leave the cleaning base station to perform mobile cleaning.

[0110] In response to a wet mopping requirement of the cleaning process or a fourth user instruction, the water outlet assembly of the cleaning robot is controlled to discharge the mopping fluid in the accommodating space to the cleaning assembly.

[0111] After the water supply system is shut down, the cleaning robot can be directly controlled to move out of the cleaning base station, or it can wait for a third user instruction, which instructs the cleaning robot to start cleaning. After leaving the cleaning base station, the cleaning robot can perform sweeping or dry mopping, etc. When the cleaning process reaches the point where wet mopping is required, such as when the cleaning robot moves to an area such as the kitchen and needs to be wet mopped, the controller of the cleaning robot sends a control signal to the water outlet component 500. For example, in an embodiment where the water outlet component 500 includes a first power member 510, a water outlet pipe 520, and a water outlet member 530, the first power member 510 is activated to discharge the mopping fluid in the storage space through the water outlet pipe 520 and the water outlet member 530 to the cleaning component 300, thereby achieving wet mopping. Alternatively, the user can actively issue a fourth user instruction through the APP, which instructs the start of wet mopping. Then, the controller of the cleaning robot sends a control signal to the water outlet component 500, causing the cleaning robot to start wet mopping.

[0112] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of the present application, but the scope of protection of the present application is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions that can be easily conceived by a person skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in this application should be included in the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be based on the scope of protection of the claims.

Claims

1. A cleaning robot, wherein: include: Robot body (100); a water tank (200), the water tank (200) being arranged on the robot body (100), the water tank (200) comprising a storage space, the water tank (200) being provided with a water inlet (210) and at least one overflow port (220), the water inlet (210) and the overflow port (220) both being in communication with the storage space; a cleaning assembly (300), the cleaning assembly (300) being connected to the robot body (100) and / or the water tank (200), and the overflow port (220) being directly or indirectly connected to the cleaning assembly (300); The water inlet (210) is used to inject the mop-washing fluid into the accommodating space, and the overflow port (220) is used to discharge the mop-washing fluid into the cleaning component (300) when the volume of the mop-washing fluid in the accommodating space exceeds a preset volume.

2. The cleaning robot according to claim 1, wherein: The bottom surface of the water tank (200) is used to be opposite to the cleaning assembly (300), and the overflow port (220) is located on the top surface of the water tank (200) relative to the bottom surface, or the vertical height of the overflow port (220) relative to the bottom surface is greater than or equal to a preset height.

3. The cleaning robot according to claim 1, wherein: The cleaning robot also includes: At least one overflow pipe (400), the overflow pipe (400) comprising an overflow channel, a first end of the overflow channel being in communication with the overflow port (220), a second end of the overflow channel being in direct or indirect communication with the cleaning assembly (300), and the mopping fluid discharged from the overflow port (220) being discharged to the cleaning assembly (300) through the overflow channel.

4. The cleaning robot according to claim 1, wherein: An overflow channel is also provided on the water tank (200) and / or the robot body (100), a first end of the overflow channel being in communication with the overflow port (220), a second end of the overflow channel being in direct or indirect communication with the cleaning assembly (300), and the mopping and washing fluid discharged from the overflow port (220) being discharged to the cleaning assembly (300) through the overflow channel.

5. The cleaning robot according to claim 3 or 4, wherein: The cleaning robot further comprises a water distribution member (600), wherein the water distribution member (600) is connected to the water tank (200) and / or the robot body (100), and the water distribution member (600) comprises a water distribution channel and at least one water distribution hole connected to the water distribution channel, the second end of the overflow channel is connected to the water distribution channel, and the water distribution hole is opposite to the cleaning component (300).

6. The cleaning robot according to claim 3 or 4, wherein: The robot body (100) includes a shell, the shell includes a chassis (110), the chassis (110) is provided with at least one water distribution hole, the cleaning component (300) is connected to or opposite to the water distribution hole, and the second end of the overflow channel is directly or indirectly connected to the water distribution hole.

7. The cleaning robot according to claim 3 or 4, wherein: The cleaning robot also includes: A water outlet assembly (500), the water tank (200) is further provided with a water outlet, the water outlet is communicated with the accommodating space, the water outlet assembly (500) is communicated with the water outlet, and the water outlet assembly (500) is communicated with the cleaning assembly (300) for selectively discharging the mopping fluid to the cleaning assembly (300); The second end of the overflow channel is in communication with the water outlet assembly (500), and the mopping fluid flowing out of the overflow channel is discharged to the cleaning assembly (300) through the water outlet assembly (500).

8. The cleaning robot according to claim 7, wherein: The water outlet assembly (500) comprises a first power member (510), a water outlet pipe (520) and a water outlet member (530); The first end of the water outlet pipe (520) is in communication with the water outlet, and the second end of the water outlet pipe (520) is in communication with the water outlet member (530). The water outlet member (530) is provided with at least one water distribution hole, and the water distribution hole is in communication with the cleaning assembly (300). The first power member (510) is connected to the water outlet pipe (520) and is used to drive the mopping and washing fluid to flow out of the water outlet and be discharged to the mopping and washing fluid through the water outlet pipe (520) and the water outlet member (530); The second end of the overflow channel is connected to the outlet pipe (520) between the first power member (510) and the outlet member (530), and / or the second end of the overflow channel is connected to the outlet member (530), and the mopping fluid flowing out of the overflow channel is discharged to the cleaning assembly (300) through the outlet member (530).

9. The cleaning robot according to claim 1, wherein: The cleaning assembly (300) comprises a mop (310) and a bracket (320); a water-permeable member is provided on the bracket (320); the mop (310) is connected to the bracket (320); the bracket (320) is connected to the water tank (200) and / or the robot body (100); the water-permeable member is directly or indirectly connected to the overflow port (220); the mopping fluid discharged from the overflow port (220) is discharged to the mop (310) through the water-permeable member.

10. A cleaning base station for docking a cleaning robot, the cleaning robot comprising a robot body (100), a water tank (200) and a cleaning assembly (300), the water tank (200) being arranged on the robot body (100), the water tank (200) comprising a storage space, a water inlet (210) and at least one overflow port (220) being provided on the water tank (200), the water inlet (210) and the overflow port (220) both being in communication with the storage space, the cleaning assembly (300) being connected to the robot body (100) and / or the water tank (200), the overflow port (220) being in direct or indirect communication with the cleaning assembly (300), wherein: The cleaning base station comprises: A base station body (10) and a water supply system, wherein the water supply system is connected to the base station body (10); The water supply system is used to communicate with the water inlet (210) so as to inject the mopping fluid into the accommodating space through the water inlet (210).

11. The cleaning base station according to claim 10, wherein: The water supply system comprises a water storage tank (20), a second power member (30) and a water supply pipeline (40); the water storage tank (20) comprises a water supply inner cavity, the water supply inner cavity is used to accommodate the mopping fluid, a first end of the water supply pipeline (40) is communicated with the water supply inner cavity, a second end of the water supply pipeline (40) is used to directly or indirectly connect to the water inlet (210), and the second power member (30) is arranged on the water supply pipeline (40) or is communicated with the water supply inner cavity; The second power member (30) is used to drive the mopping fluid in the water supply cavity to be injected into the accommodating space through the water supply pipeline (40).

12. The cleaning base station according to claim 11, wherein: Also includes: A cleaning disc (80) is embedded in the water retention tank and is used to contact the cleaning component (300) to clean the cleaning component (300). The cleaning disc (80) is communicated with the water retention tank.

13. The cleaning base station according to claim 11, wherein: Also includes: A water supply connector (90), the water supply connector (90) is connected to the base station body (10) and is located on the inner wall of the docking space, the second end of the water supply pipeline (40) is in communication with the water supply connector (90), and the water supply connector (90) is used to communicate with the water inlet (210).

14. A cleaning system, wherein: It includes a cleaning robot and a cleaning base station, wherein the cleaning robot is used to selectively dock at the cleaning base station; The cleaning robot comprises a robot body (100); a water tank (200), the water tank (200) being arranged on the robot body (100), the water tank (200) comprising a storage space, the water tank (200) being provided with a water inlet (210) and at least one overflow port (220), the water inlet (210) and the overflow port (220) both being in communication with the storage space; a cleaning assembly (300), the cleaning assembly (300) being connected to the robot body (100) and / or the water tank (200), and the overflow port (220) being directly or indirectly connected to the cleaning assembly (300); The cleaning base station comprises a base station body (10) and a water supply system, wherein the water supply system is connected to the base station body (10); When the cleaning robot is docked at the cleaning base station, the water supply system is connected to the water inlet (210), and the water supply system is used to inject the mopping and washing fluid into the accommodating space through the water inlet (210). The overflow port (220) is used to discharge the mopping and washing fluid into the cleaning component (300) when the volume of the mopping and washing fluid in the accommodating space exceeds a preset volume.

15. A cleaning method, wherein: include: Control the cleaning robot to dock at the cleaning base station; Controlling the water supply system of the cleaning base station to inject cleaning liquid into the water tank of the cleaning robot, and discharging the cleaning liquid into the cleaning component of the cleaning robot through the overflow port of the water tank; The relative movement between the cleaning component of the cleaning robot and the cleaning base station is controlled to clean the cleaning component.

16. The cleaning method according to claim 15, wherein: The method further comprises: Controlling the cleaning robot to leave the cleaning base station to clean the surface to be cleaned; and / or The water outlet component of the cleaning robot is controlled to discharge the cleaning liquid in the accommodating space to the cleaning component to clean the surface to be cleaned.

17. The cleaning method according to claim 15, wherein: Controlling the relative movement between the cleaning component of the cleaning robot and the cleaning base station to achieve cleaning of the cleaning component includes: controlling the cleaning component of the cleaning robot to rotate relative to the scraping component of the cleaning base station to achieve cleaning of the cleaning component by the scraping component, and / or controlling the scraping component of the cleaning base station to move or rotate to achieve cleaning of the cleaning component of the cleaning robot.

18. The cleaning method according to claim 15, wherein: After the water supply system of the cleaning base station injects cleaning liquid into the water tank of the cleaning robot for a preset time or a preset volume, the relative movement between the cleaning component of the cleaning robot and the cleaning base station is controlled to clean the cleaning component.

19. The cleaning method according to claim 15, wherein: Discharging the cleaning liquid to the cleaning component of the cleaning robot through the overflow port of the water tank includes: discharging the cleaning liquid to the cleaning component of the cleaning robot through the overflow port after the cleaning liquid in the water tank reaches a preset liquid level.

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