Robot cleaner, station and cleaning device

Abstract

Provided are a station and a cleaning device capable of improving airtightness of a dust collecting container of a robot cleaner. The cleaning device comprises: a robot cleaner including a dust collecting container having a discharge port and a dust collecting container cover provided to open and close the discharge port; and a station provided to hold the robot cleaner, wherein the station comprises a lever device provided to move the dust collecting container cover, and the lever device comprises a lever configured to move to a first position at which the dust collecting container cover is coupled to the discharge port, to move the dust collecting container cover, and move to a second position inclined with respect to the first position to press the dust collecting container cover.

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 station and a cleaning device capable of improving the sealing of a dust collection box of a robot vacuum cleaner.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a station and a cleaning device with improved cleaning efficiency that can automatically empty dust collected in a dust collector of a robot vacuum cleaner.

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a station and a cleaning device that can open and close a dust collection box of a robot vacuum cleaner using a step motor and improve the vacuum level of the dust collection box of the robot vacuum cleaner.

[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 comprises: a robot cleaner including a dust collector having an outlet and a dust collector cover configured to open and close the outlet; and a station on which the robot cleaner is mounted; wherein the station includes a lever device configured to move the dust collector cover, and the lever device includes a lever that moves the dust collector cover to a first position where the dust collector cover is coupled to the outlet and moves the dust collector cover, and moves to a second position inclined with respect to the first position to press the dust collector cover.

[0010] A cleaning device according to the invention comprises: a robot cleaner including a dust collector having an outlet and a dust collector cover configured to open and close the outlet; and a station on which the robot cleaner is mounted; wherein the station comprises: a lever device configured to move the dust collector cover, the lever device including a lever that rotates and / or pivots from a first position in contact with the dust collector cover coupled to the outlet to a second position inclined with respect to the first position to pressurize the dust collector cover; and a lever driving device that supplies power to move the lever.

[0011] According to the invention of the present disclosure, the sealing property of a robot vacuum cleaner dust collector can be improved.

[0012] According to the invention, the cleaning efficiency can be improved by automatically emptying the dust collected in the dust bin of a robot vacuum cleaner.

[0013] According to the idea of ​​the present disclosure, when closing the dust collector cover of a robot vacuum cleaner dust collector at a station, the vacuum level of the dust collector can be improved by pressing it all the way through lever angle adjustment, thereby minimizing suction power loss.

[0014] According to the idea of ​​the present disclosure, by opening the dust collector cover according to the control specified at the station, it is possible to prevent dust from spilling that may occur when the dust collector cover is opened in an abnormal situation.

[0015] According to the idea of ​​the present disclosure, since a separate structure and / or structure for discharging dust is not arranged inside the dust collector, dust or foreign matter may not be caught when discharging dust.

[0016] According to the invention, abnormal emissions can be prevented by opening the dust collector cover under controlled circumstances.

[0017] 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.

[0018] 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.

[0019] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating a state in which a robot cleaner is positioned at a first position of a station in a cleaning device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating a state in which a robot cleaner is placed in a second position on a station in a cleaning device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 4 is a drawing showing the rear of a cleaning device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 5 is a drawing illustrating a robot vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing the rear of a robot vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating the lower part of a robot vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Fig. 8 is a drawing showing a dust collector cover coupled to the robot vacuum cleaner dust collector shown in Fig. 7.

[0026] FIG. 9 is a front view drawing of the internal configuration of a station according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 10 is a drawing illustrating a dust collection bin and a lever of a station of a robot vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 11 is a drawing illustrating a lever device mounted on a station according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Fig. 12 is a drawing showing the internal configuration of the lever device illustrated in Fig. 10.

[0030] FIG. 13 is an exploded view of a lever device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 14 is a drawing illustrating a dust collection box cover and a lever of a lever device of a robot vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Figures 15 and 16 are drawings illustrating the process of the lever device illustrated in Figure 14 opening the dust collector cover.

[0033] Figure 17 is a drawing showing a path for collecting waste from the station shown in Figure 1.

[0034] FIG. 18 is a drawing showing a dust collector cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 19 is a drawing illustrating a state in which a lever according to one embodiment of the present disclosure closes a dust collector cover.

[0036] FIG. 20 is a drawing illustrating a process in which a lever according to one embodiment of the present disclosure presses a dust collector cover to seal the dust collector.

[0037] 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.

[0038] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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).

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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).

[0049] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0050] 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 at a first position in a station in a cleaning device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating a state in which a robot cleaner is seated at a second position in a station in a cleaning device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 4 is a drawing illustrating the rear of a cleaning device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, 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).

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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).

[0054] The robot vacuum cleaner (10) can move to the station (20) during cleaning and / or after cleaning is completed.

[0055] For example, the robot vacuum cleaner (10) may move to the station (20) when charging is required, when the dust collector (141, see FIG. 6) needs to be emptied, when the water tank (114, see FIG. 6) is low in water, 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.

[0056] 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).

[0057] For example, while the robot cleaner (10) is seated on the station (20), the station (20) can charge the battery (150, see FIG. 6) 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) 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 (114) 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 mounted 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).

[0058] Referring to FIG. 2, the robot cleaner (10) can be seated at a mounting position with respect to the station (20). For example, when the robot cleaner (10) is seated at a mounting position on the station (20), the station (20) can charge the battery (150) of the robot cleaner (10). For example, when the robot cleaner (10) is seated at a mounting position on the station (20), the station (20) can supply water to the water tank (114) of the robot cleaner (10). For example, when the robot cleaner (10) is seated at a mounting position on the station (20), the station (20) can wet the mop (160) with water and / or steam. For example, when the robot cleaner (10) is seated at a mounting position on the station (20), the station (20) can wash the mop (160). For example, when the robot cleaner (10) is placed in the mounting position at the station (20), the station (20) can sterilize the mop (160). For example, when the robot cleaner (10) is placed in the mounting position at the station (20), the station (20) can dry the mop (160).

[0059] Referring to FIG. 3, the robot cleaner (10) can be placed at a waste collection location with respect to the station (20). For example, when the robot cleaner (10) is placed at a waste collection location at the station (20), the station (20) can collect waste collected in the dust collector (141) of the robot cleaner (10).

[0060] The mounting position of the robot cleaner (10) and the waste collection position of the robot cleaner (10) may be spaced apart from each other. For example, the waste collection position of the robot cleaner (10) may include a position 40 mm forward from the mounting position of the robot cleaner (10).

[0061] FIG. 5 is a drawing illustrating a robot cleaner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 6 is a drawing illustrating a rear view of a robot cleaner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating a lower view of a robot cleaner according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating a dust collector cover coupled to a dust collector of the robot cleaner illustrated in FIG. 7, and FIG. 9 is a drawing illustrating an internal configuration of a station according to one embodiment of the present disclosure from the front.

[0062] 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).

[0063] The robot cleaner (10) may include a suction port (111). 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. The suction port (111) may be formed in the main body (110). The suction port (111) may be formed in the lower part of the main body (110). The suction port (111) may be formed by penetrating the lower surface (110b) of the main body (110). Dirt on the surface to be cleaned may be sucked into 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).

[0064] 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.

[0065] For example, the robot cleaner (10) may include a first brush (131) disposed in the suction port (111). The first brush (131) may be rotatably mounted relative to the main body (110). 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).

[0066] 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 away to the suction port (111). The second brush (132) may be rotatably mounted relative to the main body (110). The rotation axis of the second brush (132) may be an axis extending along a substantially vertical direction (Z direction). The second brush (132) may be referred to as a side brush (132).

[0067] The robot vacuum cleaner (10) may include a dust collector (141). Dirt and / or air sucked in through the suction port (111) may move to the dust collector (141). Dirt sucked in through the suction port (111) may be collected in the dust collector (141). Air sucked in through the suction port (111) may be filtered as it passes through the dust collector (141). Dirt and air sucked in through the suction port (111) may be separated in the dust collector (141).

[0068] 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). 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). For example, a plurality of exhaust ports (112) may be provided, and the plurality of exhaust ports may be configured with a plurality of holes. The exhaust port (112) may be referred to as a vacuum cleaner exhaust port (112).

[0069] The robot cleaner (10) may include a suction motor (142). 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).

[0070] The robot cleaner (10) may include an exhaust port (143) for exhausting waste collected in the dust collector (141). The exhaust port (143) may connect the dust collector (141) and the outside of the robot cleaner (10). For example, the exhaust port (143) may be formed on the bottom surface of the main body (110). The exhaust port (143) may be arranged parallel to the moving direction of the robot cleaner (10). The exhaust port (143) may be connected to the dust collector (141). For example, the exhaust port (143) may be a part of the dust collector (141) or a part of the main body (110). The exhaust port (143) may be provided so as to be connectable to a waste suction port (213) of the station (20). When the robot cleaner (10) is in the waste collection position, the discharge port (143) may be arranged to be connected to the waste suction port (213). When the robot cleaner (10) is in the settling position, the discharge port (143) may be arranged to be spaced apart from the waste suction port (213).

[0071] The discharge port (143) may be located between the mop (160) and the suction port (111). For example, the discharge port (143) may be formed by being located between two mops (160). For example, at least a portion of the discharge port (143) may include a curved portion (143b) formed to correspond to the shape of the mop (160). The curved portion (143b) may be formed on one side and the other side of the discharge port (143). For example, the discharge port (143) may be a part of the dust collector (141). For example, the dust collector (141) may be provided with a discharge port forming portion (143a) for forming the discharge port (143). For example, the discharge port forming portion (143a) formed on the dust collector (141) may include a curved portion (143b). For example, the outlet (143) may be a part of the main body (110). For example, the main body (110) may be provided with an outlet forming portion (143a) for forming the outlet (143). For example, the outlet forming portion (143a) formed in the main body (110) may include a curved portion (143b).

[0072] The robot cleaner (10) may include a dust collection container cover (144) for opening and closing the discharge port (143). The dust collection container cover (144) may include an elastic material. (See FIG. 9) The dust collection container cover (144) may be provided to correspond to the discharge port (143). The dust collection container cover (144) may be provided to cover the discharge port (143). The dust collection container cover (144) may be provided in an approximately plate shape. The dust collection container cover (144) may be provided in a shape corresponding to the discharge port forming portion (143a) of the discharge port (143). At least a portion of the dust collection container cover (144) may include a round portion (144a) formed to correspond to the shape of a mop (160). For example, the dust collector cover (144) may include a round portion (144a) corresponding to the curved portion (143b) of the discharge port (143). For example, the round portion (144a) may be formed on one side and the other side of the dust collector cover (144).

[0073] The dust collector cover (144) may be provided to be elastically biased in a direction that closes the discharge port (143). The dust collector cover (144) may include a cover magnet (145) that is provided to generate a magnetic force. The cover magnet (145) may be configured to include a magnet. The cover magnet (145) may be provided to correspond to the lever magnet (370) of the lever (310) described below. The cover magnet (145) may be provided on at least a portion of the dust collector cover (144). The cover magnet (145) may be arranged between the round portions (144a) of the dust collector cover (144). For example, the cover magnet (145) may be positioned at the center of the round portions (144a) of the dust collector cover (144). The dust collector cover (144) may be provided such that one part may be fixed to the main body (10) and the other part may be deformable and restorable. The dust collector cover (144) may be provided so as to be elastically supported in a direction that closes the discharge port (143). The dust collector cover (144) may include a support portion (147) that is provided so as to be elastically supported in a direction that closes the discharge port (143). The support portion (147) may include a first support portion (147a) provided on the dust collector cover (144). The support portion (147) may include a second support portion (147b) that is provided to be coupled to the first support portion (147a). For example, the first support portion (147a) may be provided on one end of the dust collector cover (144). For example, the first support portion (147a) may be provided on the opposite side to the round portion (144a) of the dust collector cover (144). For example, the first support portion (147a) may be provided to fix one end of the dust collector cover (144) to the main body (110). For example, the second support portion (147b) may be provided to fix the first support portion (147a) to the main body (110) of the robot cleaner (10). For example, the second support portion (147b) may be provided to fix the first support portion (147a) of the dust collector cover (144) to the main body (110).For example, the second support member (147b) may be combined with the first support member (147a) to secure the dust collector cover (144) to the main body (110) of the robot cleaner (10).

[0074] The support member (147) may be provided to fix the dust collection container cover (144) to the lower surface (110b) of the main body (110) of the robot cleaner (10). The support member (147) may be provided to be fixed to the main body (110) so that the dust collection container cover (144) can open and close the discharge port (143). The support member (147) may be provided to support one end of the dust collection container cover (144). One end of the dust collection container cover (144) may be fixed to the lower surface (110b) of the main body (110) by the support member (147). For example, one end of the dust collection container cover (144) may be a fixed end fixed to the main body (110) by the support member (147). The other end of the dust collection container cover (144) may be opened and closed by a lever device (300). For example, the other side of the dust collector cover (144) may be a free end that can be opened and closed by a lever device (300). For example, one side of the dust collector cover (144) may be a fixed end that is fixed to the main body (110) by a support member (147), and the other side of the dust collector cover (144) may be a free end that is provided so that the discharge port (143) can be opened and closed from the main body (110).

[0075] The dust collector cover (144) can maintain a state in which the discharge port (143) is closed when no external force is applied. For example, the dust collector cover (144) can maintain a state in which it is coupled to the discharge port (143) when no external force is applied. For example, the dust collector cover (144) can be provided to be deformable so as to open the discharge port (143) when the robot cleaner (10) is seated on the station (20) and receives suction force from the suction motor (224, see FIG. 8) of the station (20). For example, the dust collector cover (144) can be restored to a state in which the discharge port (143) is closed when the suction force is not applied when the operation of the suction motor (224) of the station (20) is stopped. For example, the dust collector cover (144) may be arranged to close the discharge port (143) by the lever (310) when the suction force is not applied due to the operation of the suction motor (224) of the station (20) being stopped. For example, the dust collector cover (144) may be arranged to close the discharge port (143) by the lever device (300) when the suction force of the station (20) is not applied. The structure in which the dust collector cover (144) closes the discharge port (143) by the lever device (300) and the lever (310) will be described later.

[0076] The robot cleaner (10) may include a driving unit (120) for driving the robot cleaner (10). The driving unit (120) may be mounted on the main body (110) and may move the main body (110). For example, the driving unit (120) may include a pair of main wheels (121). For example, the driving unit (120) may further include at least one auxiliary wheel (122) for stable driving of the robot cleaner (10).

[0077] The robot vacuum cleaner (10) may include a battery (150). The battery (150) may be configured to be rechargeable. The battery (150) may provide the power required to operate the robot vacuum cleaner (10).

[0078] The robot cleaner (10) may include a charging terminal (151). The charging terminal (151) may be electrically connected to a battery (150). While the robot cleaner (10) is docked on the station (20), the charging terminal (151) of the robot cleaner (10) may be electrically connected to a charging terminal (218, see FIG. 11) of the station (20). As the charging terminal (151) of the robot cleaner (10) is electrically connected to the charging terminal (218) of the station (20), the battery (150) of the robot cleaner (10) may be charged. That is, while the robot cleaner (10) is docked on the station (20), the battery (150) may be charged. The charging terminal (151) may be referred to as a cleaner charging terminal (151).

[0079] 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).

[0080] The mop (160) can be supplied with moisture from the water tank (114) of the robot cleaner (10). The mop (160) can be supplied with moisture from the station (20). For example, when the moisture content of the mop (160) decreases while the robot cleaner (10) is cleaning, water stored in the water tank (114) can be supplied to the mop (160). For example, when 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) and be settled on the station (20). At this time, the station (20) can supply water to the water tank (114) or spray water and / or steam toward the mop (160). The robot cleaner (10) being placed on the station (20) may include the robot cleaner (10) being docked on the station (20).

[0081] The robot cleaner (10) may include a water charging unit (113). The water charging unit (113) may be formed in the main body (110). The water charging unit (113) may be formed on the rear side of the main body (110). While the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), the water charging unit (113) may receive water provided from the station (20). The water supplied to the robot cleaner (10) through the water charging unit (113) may be stored in a water tank (114). While the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), the water charging unit (113) of the robot cleaner (10) may be docked with a water supply unit (not shown) of the station (20).

[0082] 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).

[0083] The robot cleaner (10) may include a cleaner guide (117) to be guided by the station (20) while being mounted on the station (20). The cleaner guide (117) may be formed on the lower surface (110b) of the main body (110) of the robot cleaner (10). The cleaner guide (117) may extend in the direction in which the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20).

[0084] The cleaner guide (117) may be guided by the station guide (2117) of the station (20). The cleaner guide (117) may be guided by the station (20) while the robot cleaner (10) moves to a position for washing the mop (160). The cleaner guide (117) may be guided by the station guide (2117) while the robot cleaner (10) moves to a settling position. The cleaner guide (117) may be provided to correspond to the station guide (2117). For example, the cleaner guide (117) may have a groove shape. The cleaner guide (117) may be provided so that the station guide (2117) can be inserted therein.

[0085] 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).

[0086] The main body (210) may include a base (211) and a housing (212) that can be detachably coupled to the base (211).

[0087] The base (211) may include a cleaner mounting portion (211a) on which the robot cleaner (10) is mounted. The cleaner mounting portion (211a) may have a shape inclined from the surface to be cleaned so that the robot cleaner (10) may enter. For example, the cleaner mounting portion (211a) may include a shape inclined upward along the direction in which the robot cleaner (10) enters the station (20). An anti-slip portion (216) may be formed on the cleaner mounting portion (211a) so that the robot cleaner (10) can easily climb the inclined surface of the cleaner mounting portion (211a). An anti-slip protrusion (215) may be formed on the cleaner mounting portion (211a) to prevent the robot cleaner (10) mounted on the station (20) from slipping along the inclined surface of the cleaner mounting portion (211a). The robot cleaner (10) installed on the station (20) can be prevented from leaving the station (20) by the anti-slip barrier (215).

[0088] The station (20) may include a station guide (2117) for guiding the robot cleaner (10). The station guide (2117) may guide the cleaner guide (117) of the robot cleaner (10). The station guide (2117) may extend in a direction in which the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20).

[0089] The station guide (2117) can guide the robot cleaner (10) while the robot cleaner (10) moves to a position for washing the mop (160).

[0090] The station (20) may include alignment parts (2161, 2162) for aligning the position of the robot cleaner (10). For example, the alignment parts (2161, 2162) may be provided on the cleaner mounting part (211a). The alignment parts (2161, 2162) may include a first alignment part (2161) and a second alignment part (2162).

[0091] The alignment portions (2161, 2162) may include a first alignment portion (2161) for guiding the robot cleaner (10) to a first position where the mop (160) of the robot cleaner (10) can be washed by the washing chamber (230). The first alignment portion (2161) may be provided with a driving wheel (121) when the robot cleaner (10) is in the first position. The first alignment portion (2161) may be positioned closer to the washing chamber (230) than the second alignment portion (2162). The first alignment portion (2161) may be positioned rearward than the second alignment portion (2162). For example, the first alignment portion (2161) may have a groove shape.

[0092] The first alignment part (2161) may be provided to correspond to the driving part (120) of the robot cleaner (10). The first alignment part (2161) may be provided to correspond to the main wheel (121) of the robot cleaner (10). The first alignment part (2161) may be provided so that, when the driving part (120) of the robot cleaner (10) is seated on the first alignment part (2161), the driving part (120) of the robot cleaner (10) can be moved away from the first alignment part (2161) by applying a force of a predetermined size or greater. When the driving part (120) of the robot cleaner (10) is seated on the first alignment part (2161), the first alignment part (2161) may support the robot cleaner (10) so that the robot cleaner (10) does not move away from the seated position unless a force of a predetermined size or greater is applied.

[0093] The alignment portions (2161, 2162) may include a second alignment portion (2162) for guiding the robot cleaner (10) to a waste collection position where the exhaust port (143) of the robot cleaner (10) is connected to the waste suction port (213). The second alignment portion (2162) may allow the driving wheel (121) to be seated when the robot cleaner (10) is in the waste collection position. The second alignment portion (2162) may be positioned further from the cleaning chamber (230) than the first alignment portion (2161). The second alignment portion (2162) may be positioned forward of the first alignment portion (2161). For example, the second alignment portion (2162) may have a groove shape.

[0094] The second alignment part (2162) may be provided to correspond to the driving part (120) of the robot cleaner (10). The second alignment part (2162) may be provided to correspond to the main wheel (121) of the robot cleaner (10). The second alignment part (2162) may be provided so that when the driving part (120) of the robot cleaner (10) is seated on the second alignment part (2162), the driving part (120) of the robot cleaner (10) can be moved away from the second alignment part (2162) by applying a force of a predetermined size or greater. When the driving part (120) of the robot cleaner (10) is seated on the second alignment part (2162), the second alignment part (2162) may support the robot cleaner (10) so that the robot cleaner (10) does not move away from the second position unless a force of a predetermined size or greater is applied.

[0095] The base (211) may include a side wall portion (211b) extending upward from the cleaner mounting portion (211a). The side wall portion (211b) may be provided to surround at least a portion of the cleaner mounting portion (211a).

[0096] The housing (212) may be provided to cover the side wall portion (211b) of the base (211). The housing (212) may accommodate components of the station (20). Electrical components may be arranged inside the housing (212). The housing (212) may form an opening (212a), and the robot cleaner (10) may enter the receiving space (210a) of the station (20) through the opening (212a).

[0097] The station (20) may include a water tank (221). The water tank (221) may be provided to store water. Relatively clean water may be accommodated in the water tank (221). The water stored in the water tank (221) may be provided to the water tank (114) of the robot cleaner (10) or to the washing chamber (230) of the station (20), which will be described later. That is, the water stored in the water tank (221) may be used to provide moisture to the mop (160) or to wash the mop (160). The water tank (221) may store water to be supplied to the washing chamber (230). The water tank (221) may be detachably mounted on the main body (210). For example, a user can hold the handle (221a) of the water tank (221) to separate the water tank (221) from the main body (210) or to couple the water tank (221) to the main body (210).

[0098] The station (20) may include a waste tank (222). The waste tank (222) may be configured to store water. The waste tank (222) may accommodate relatively dirty water. Dirty water (waste water) obtained by washing the mop (160) may be stored in the waste tank (222). The waste tank (222) may be detachably mounted on the main body (210). For example, a user may grasp the handle (222a) of the waste tank (222) to detach the waste tank (222) from the main body (210) or attach the waste tank (222) to the main body (210).

[0099] The station (20) may include a waste collection bin (223). The waste collection bin (223) may be provided to store waste collected from the dust collection bin (141) of the robot cleaner (10). The waste collection bin (223) may be detachably mounted on the main body (210). For example, a user may hold the handle (223a) of the waste collection bin (223) to detach the waste collection bin (223) from the main body (210) or attach the waste collection bin (223) to the main body (210).

[0100] The waste collection tank (223) may be provided to be separated from the water supply tank (221).

[0101] In the drawing, the sewage tank (222), the water supply tank (221), and the sewage collection tank (223) 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 (222), the water supply tank (221), and the sewage collection tank (223).

[0102] The station (20) may include a waste suction port (213). The waste suction port (213) may be formed in the cleaner mounting portion (211a). While the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), the waste suction port (213) may be communicated with the dust collector (141) of the robot cleaner (10). The waste suction port (213) may be provided to suction waste collected in the dust collector (141). The waste suction port (213) may be referred to as a cleaner waste suction port.

[0103] The waste suction port (213) may be arranged to be spaced apart from the washing chamber (230). The distance at which the waste suction port (213) is spaced apart from the washing chamber (230) may be provided longer than the distance at which the mop (160) is spaced apart from the discharge port (143) in the robot cleaner (10). According to this configuration, the cleaning device (1) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be arranged such that when the robot cleaner (10) is in a seated position at the station (20), the mop (160) is positioned in the washing chamber (230), but the discharge port (143) is spaced apart from the waste suction port (213), and when the robot cleaner (10) is in a second position at the station (20), the discharge port (143) is connected to the waste suction port (213), but the mop (160) is positioned away from the washing chamber (230).

[0104] The station (20) may include a washing frame (240). The washing frame (240) may be provided to correspond to the washing chamber (230). The washing frame (240) may be detachably mounted on the washing chamber (230). While the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), the washing frame (240) 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 (240) may be provided to rub against the mop (160). The mop (160) may be washed while being rubbed against the washing frame (240). The mop (160) may be provided to be rotatable.

[0105] The station (20) may include a waste collection duct (225, see FIG. 9). The waste collection duct (225) may be arranged to guide waste suctioned through the waste suction port (213) to a waste collection bin (223). The waste collection duct (225) may be arranged between the waste suction port (213) and the waste collection bin (223). One end of the waste collection duct (225) may be in communication with the waste suction port (213). The other end of the waste collection duct (225) may be in communication with the waste collection bin (223). Waste passing through the waste collection duct (225) may be collected in the waste collection bin (223).

[0106] The station (20) may include an exhaust port (214, see FIG. 4). The exhaust port (214) may be formed on the rear side of the main body (210). The exhaust port (214) may be formed on the rear side of the housing (212). The exhaust port (214) may be used to draw air into the station (20) and discharge filtered air to the outside. For example, the exhaust ports (214) may be provided in multiple numbers, and the multiple exhaust ports (214) may be configured with multiple holes. The exhaust port (214) may be referred to as a station exhaust port (214).

[0107] The station (20) may include a suction motor (224). When the robot cleaner (10) is installed on the station (20), the suction motor (224) may generate a suction force to suck up the waste in the dust bin (141). The suction motor (224) may be provided to provide a suction force to the waste suction port (213). By the suction force of the suction motor (224), the waste in the dust bin (141) may flow along the waste suction port (213) and the waste collection duct (225) and be collected in the waste collection port (223). By the suction force generated by the suction motor (224), the exhaust port (214) may suck air into the inside of the station (20) and discharge the air that has passed through the exhaust filter (226) to the outside. The suction motor (224) may be referred to as a station suction motor (224).

[0108] The station (20) may include a heating device (250). The heating device (250) may generate high-temperature water and / or steam. The heating device (250) may generate high-temperature water and / or steam using water stored in a water tank (221). The heating device (250) may receive water stored in the water tank (221) and generate high-temperature water and / or steam. For example, the heating device (250) may heat water to 40°C or higher, or to 100°C or higher to create steam.

[0109] High temperature water and / or steam generated from the heating device (250) can be provided to the washing chamber (230). High temperature water and / or steam generated from the heating device (250) can be provided to the robot cleaner (10).

[0110] Although not shown, the station (20) may include a drying device. The drying device may be configured to generate air for drying the mop (160). The drying device may be configured to supply dry air to the cleaning chamber (230). While the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), dry air discharged from the drying device may be directed toward the mop (160).

[0111] FIG. 10 is a drawing illustrating a dust collection container and a lever of a station of a robot vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 11 is a drawing illustrating a lever device mounted on a station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 12 is a drawing illustrating the internal configuration of the lever device illustrated in FIG. 11, and FIG. 13 is an exploded drawing illustrating the lever device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Hereinafter, descriptions of parts overlapping with the above descriptions will be omitted.

[0112] As illustrated in FIGS. 10 to 13, the robot cleaner (10) may be arranged to be mounted on a station (20). The robot cleaner (10) may be placed on a cleaner mounting portion (211a) of the station (20). The cleaner mounting portion (211a) may be arranged to allow the robot cleaner (10) to be mounted thereon. When the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the cleaner mounting portion (211a), the robot cleaner (10) may collect waste collected in the dust collection container (141). For example, when the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the cleaner mounting portion (211a) of the station (20), waste collected in the dust collection container (141) of the robot cleaner (10) may be collected by the station (20).

[0113] A lever device (300) may be provided at the station (20). A lever device (300) may be provided at the station (20) to move the dust collector cover (144) of the dust collector (141) of the robot cleaner (10). A lever device (300) may be provided at the station (20) to rotate and / or pivot the dust collector cover (144). For example, the lever device (300) may be placed at the cleaner mounting portion (211a) of the station (20).

[0114] The lever device (300) may be provided to selectively connect the dust collection container (141) of the robot cleaner (10) and the station (20). For example, the lever device (300) may be provided to selectively connect the dust collection container (141) of the robot cleaner (10) and the waste collection duct (225) of the station (20). For example, the lever device (300) may be provided to selectively connect the dust collection container (141) and the waste suction port (213) provided at one end of the waste collection duct (225).

[0115] The lever device (300) can open the dust collection container cover (144) to collect dust from the dust collection container (141) when the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the cleaner mounting portion (211a) of the station (20). For example, the lever device (300) can be provided to move the dust collection container cover (144) so ​​that dust collected in the dust collection container (141) can be collected at the station (20). For example, the lever device (300) can be provided to rotate and / or pivotally move the dust collection container cover (144) so ​​that dust collected in the dust collection container (141) can be collected at the station (20).

[0116] The lever device (300) may be configured to open the dust collection container (141) when the robot cleaner (10) is seated on the cleaner mounting portion (211a) of the station (20). For example, the lever device (300) may be configured to move the dust collection container cover (144) away from the discharge port (143) of the dust collection container (141) so as to open the dust collection container (141) when the robot cleaner (10) is seated on the cleaner mounting portion (211a) of the station (20). For example, the lever device (300) may be configured to open the dust collection container cover (144) from the discharge port (143) so as to open the dust collection container (141).

[0117] The lever device (300) can move the dust collection container cover (144) to close the dust collection container (141) when dust collection of the dust collection container (141) of the robot cleaner (10) is completed. For example, the lever device (300) can be provided so that the dust collection container cover (144) can close the discharge port (143). For example, the lever device (300) can be provided so that the dust collection container cover (144) can rotate and / or pivotally move to close the dust collection container (141) when waste collection of the dust collection container (141) is completed. For example, the lever device (300) can be provided so that the dust collection container cover (144) can rotate and / or pivotally move to close the discharge port (143) of the dust collection container (141) when waste collection of the dust collection container (141) is completed.

[0118] The lever device (300) may be configured to move the dust collection container cover (144) toward the discharge port (143) of the dust collection container (141) to close the dust collection container (141) when dust collection of the dust collection container (141) of the robot cleaner (10) is completed. For example, the lever device (300) may be configured to rotate and / or pivot the dust collection container cover (144) toward the discharge port (143) to close the discharge port (143) of the dust collection container (141) when dust collection of the dust collection container (141) is completed. For example, the lever device (300) may be configured to press the dust collection container cover (144) in the direction of closing the discharge port (143) so that the dust collection container (141) is sealed.

[0119] The lever device (300) may be arranged to pressurize the dust collector cover (144) in a direction that closes the discharge port (143) to seal the dust collector (141) when the dust collector cover (144) is closed. For example, the lever device (300) may be arranged to pressurize the dust collector cover (144) in a direction that closes the discharge port (143) of the dust collector (141) when the dust collector cover (144) is closed. For example, the lever device (300) may be arranged to rotate and / or pivotally move the dust collector cover (144) while the dust collector cover (144) closes the discharge port (143). The lever device (300) may include a lever (310) and a lever driving device (300a) that supplies power to move the lever (310). The lever driving device (300a) may include a driving source (320), a gear portion (330), a connecting member (340), a link member (350), and a shaft (360).

[0120] The lever driving device (300a) may be provided to generate power for driving the lever (310). The driving source (320) may be provided to generate power for driving the lever (310). The driving source (320) may be configured to include a motor capable of bidirectional rotation. For example, the driving source (320) may be configured to include a step motor. For example, the driving source (320) may be provided to automatically control the angle of the lever (310).

[0121] The lever driving device (300a) can be controlled by a controller (400) provided in the station (20). The controller (400) can be provided to control the lever driving device (300a). The controller (400) can be provided to drive the lever driving device (300a) when the robot cleaner (10) is seated on the cleaner mounting portion (211a) of the station (20). For example, the controller (400) can control the lever (310) to move so that the dust collector cover (144) opens the discharge port (143) of the dust collector (141) when the robot cleaner (10) is seated on the cleaner mounting portion (211a) of the station (20). For example, when the collection of waste collected in the dust bin (141) of the robot cleaner (10) is completed, the controller (400) can control the lever (310) to move so that the dust bin cover (144) closes the outlet (143) of the dust bin (141). For example, when the collection of waste collected in the dust bin (141) of the robot cleaner (10) is completed, the controller (400) can control the lever (310) to rotate and / or pivot so that the dust bin cover (144) closes and seals the outlet (143) of the dust bin (141).

[0122] The lever driving device (300a) can be provided on the cleaner mounting portion (211a) of the station (20).

[0123] The driving source (320) may be provided on the mounting base (211aa) of the vacuum cleaner mounting base (211a). The driving source (320) may be mounted on the driving source fixing part (211ab) provided on the mounting base (211aa). It may be fixed to the driving source fixing part (211ab). The driving source (320) fixed to the driving source fixing part (211ab) may be covered by a driving source cover (325).

[0124] The drive unit cover (325) can be coupled to the drive source fixing part (211ab). The drive unit cover (325) can be provided to cover the drive source (320) from the upper portion of the drive source fixing part (211ab).

[0125] The gear unit (330) may be provided to be rotatable by receiving power from the driving source (320). The gear unit (330) may be provided to be rotatable by receiving power from the driving source (320). The gear unit (330) may include a first gear (331) connected to the driving source (320). The first gear (331) may be provided to be connected to a driving shaft (321) of the driving source (320). The first gear (331) is connected to the driving shaft (321) of the driving source (320) and may rotate together with the rotation of the driving shaft (321). The gear unit (330) may include a second gear (333) connected to the driving source (320). The gear unit (330) may include a second gear (333) rotatably connected to the first gear (331). The second gear (333) may be arranged to mesh with the first gear (331). The second gear (333) may rotate together with the rotation of the first gear (331).

[0126] The second gear (333) may be rotatably provided in a second gear installation portion (325a) formed in a drive unit cover (325). The drive unit cover (325) may be configured to cover a drive source (320), a first gear (331) rotatably connected to the drive source (320), and a second gear (333) rotatably connected to the first gear (331). The second gear installation portion (325a) of the drive unit cover (325) may be provided to accommodate and rotatably support the second gear (333). The second gear installation portion (325a) may be provided to allow a second gear shaft (360) penetrating the second gear center portion (333a) to be installed. The second gear (333) can be provided to be rotatable on the drive unit cover (325) by the second gear shaft (360).

[0127] The gear unit (330) may be movably connected to a connecting member (340). The connecting member (340) may be provided to be movable by the rotation of the gear unit (330). The connecting member (340) may be connected to the second gear (333) of the gear unit (330). The connecting member (340) may be connected to the moving shaft (334) of the second gear (333). When the second gear (333) rotates, the connecting member (340) connected to the moving shaft (334) that is eccentrically arranged to the second gear (333) may be provided to be movable. The connecting member (340) may move forward and backward according to the rotation of the second gear (333).

[0128] The connecting member (340) may include a first connecting portion (341) provided at one end. The first connecting portion (341) of the connecting member (340) may be connected to a moving shaft (334) of a second gear (333). The connecting member (340) may include a second connecting portion (342) provided at the other end. The second connecting portion (342) of the connecting member (340) may be connected to a link member (350). The first connecting portion (341) of the connecting member (340) may be rotatably connected to the gear portion (330), and the second connecting portion (342) may be rotatably coupled to the link member (350).

[0129] The link member (350) may be rotatably coupled to the connecting member (340). The link member (350) may be provided to rotate as the connecting member (340) moves. The link member (350) may be provided to rotate as the connecting member (340) moves. The link member (350) may be provided to rotate as the connecting member (340) moves forward and backward. The link member (350) may be rotatably coupled as the connecting member (340) moves. The link member (350) may include a rotational shaft (351) provided at one end. The link member (350) may include a rotational shaft (351) provided at a lower end. The rotational shaft (351) of the link member (350) may be connected to a second connecting portion (342) of the connecting member (340). The rotation axis (351) of the link member (350) can be rotatably connected to the connecting member (340). The rotation axis (351) of the link member (350) can be rotatably connected to the second connecting portion (342) of the connecting member (340).

[0130] The link member (350) may include a shaft fixing portion (352) provided at the other end. The link member (350) may include a shaft fixing portion (352) provided at the upper side. A shaft (360) for connecting a lever (310) may be connected to the shaft fixing portion (352) of the link member (350). A shaft (360) for connecting the link member (350) and the lever (310) may be coupled to the shaft fixing portion (352) of the link member (350). The shaft (360) may be provided to connect the link member (350) and the lever (310). When the link member (350) rotates by the shaft (360), the lever (310) may also rotate together.

[0131] The lever (310) may be provided to be rotatable and / or pivotable on a waste suction port (213) provided on a cleaner mounting portion (211a) of the station (20). The station (20) may include a guide member (206) forming the waste suction port (213). The guide member (206) may be provided on the cleaner mounting portion (211a). The guide member (206) may be provided to form the waste suction port (213). The lever (310) may be provided to be rotatable and / or pivotable on a lever mounting portion (206a) of the guide member (206).

[0132] The lever (310) may be rotatably and / or pivotally coupled to the guide member (206). The lever (310) may be rotatably and / or pivotally provided on the lever installation portion (206a) of the guide member (206). The lever (310) may be rotatably and / or pivotally provided as the link member (350) rotates. The lever (310) may be provided to be connected to the dust collection box cover (144) of the robot cleaner (10) as the driving source (320) is driven.

[0133] When the dust collector (141) of the robot vacuum cleaner (10) is positioned to communicate with the waste suction port (213) of the station (20), the lever (310) may be arranged to be in contact with and fixed to the dust collector cover (144).

[0134] The lever (310) may include a lever magnet (370) that is provided to exert an attractive force with the cover magnet (145). The lever magnet (370) may be configured to include a magnet. The lever magnet (370) may be provided to correspond to the cover magnet (145) of the dust collector cover (144). The lever magnet (370) may be fixed to the lever (310). The lever magnet (370) may be moved integrally with the lever (310).

[0135] FIG. 14 is a drawing illustrating a dust collection container cover and a lever of a lever device of a robot vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIGS. 15 and 16 are drawings illustrating a process in which the lever device illustrated in FIG. 14 opens the dust collection container cover. FIG. 17 is a drawing illustrating a path for collecting waste from the station illustrated in FIG. 1. Hereinafter, descriptions of parts overlapping with the above descriptions will be omitted.

[0136] Referring to FIGS. 14 to 17, the lever (310) of the lever device (300) may be arranged to open the dust collection box cover (144) of the robot cleaner (10).

[0137] The lever (310) of the lever device (300) may be arranged to open the dust collection box cover (144) of the discharge port (143) as the driving source (320) is driven. Specifically, when the robot cleaner (10) is placed on the station (20), it can receive suction power from the suction motor (224, see FIG. 16) of the station (20).

[0138] The dust collection box cover (144) of the robot vacuum cleaner (10) can be moved downward by the suction force of the suction motor (224). The lever (310) can be provided to be movable so that the dust collection box cover (144) and the lever (310) moved downward by the suction force of the suction motor (224) are fixed to the dust collection box (141).

[0139] The lever (310) includes a lever magnet (370) that is provided so that an attractive force can be applied between it and the cover magnet (145), and the lever magnet (370) can be provided to correspond to the cover magnet (145) of the dust collector cover (144).

[0140] The lever (310) can be rotated and / or pivoted to a contact position (CP) by the driving source (320). When the lever (310) is moved to the contact position (CP) for fixing to the dust collector cover (144), the lever magnet (370) becomes close enough to generate an attractive force between it and the cover magnet (145) of the dust collector cover (144). For example, the lever (310) can be rotated and / or pivoted to a position where an attractive force is generated between the lever magnet (370) and the cover magnet (145) of the dust collector cover (144) and they come into contact with each other. For example, the lever (310) can be rotated and / or pivoted to a position where an attractive force is generated between the lever magnet (370) and the cover magnet (145). In order to generate an attractive force between the lever magnet (370) and the cover magnet (145), the lever (310) may be positioned at a contact position (CP) where it contacts the dust collector cover (144) by rotating and / or pivoting toward the dust collector cover (144). (See FIG. 14) For example, the lever (310) may be moved to the contact position (CP) so that an attractive force is generated between the lever magnet (370) and the cover magnet (145) of the dust collector cover (144), thereby connecting the lever magnet (370) to the dust collector cover (144). For example, the lever (310) may be in contact with and / or connected to the dust collector cover (144) at the contact position (CP). For example, the lever (310) may be in contact with and / or fixed to the dust collector cover (144) at the contact position (CP).

[0141] The lever (310) and the dust collector cover (144) can be fixed to each other by the lever magnet (370) and the cover magnet (145). For example, the lever (310) can rotate and / or pivot to the extent that an attractive force is generated between the lever magnet (370) and the cover magnet (145) of the dust collector cover (144), and the lever (310) and the dust collector cover (144) can be fixed by the combination of the lever magnet (370) and the cover magnet (370).

[0142] When the lever (310) and the dust collector cover (144) are fixed to each other by the lever magnet (370) and the cover magnet (145), the lever (310) may be arranged to rotate and / or pivot to move to an open position (Opening Position, OP). For example, the lever (310) may rotate and / or pivot to move the dust collector cover (144) away from the discharge port (143). For example, the lever (310) may rotate and / or pivot together with the dust collector cover (144) to completely open the discharge port (143). The lever (310) may rotate and / or pivot to the open position (OP). For example, when the lever (310) is in the open position (OP), the dust collector cover (144) may be in a state where the discharge port (143) of the dust collector (141) is completely opened. For example, the lever (310) is fixed to each other by the attractive force generated between the lever magnet (370) and the cover magnet (145), and the lever (310) can be rotated and / or pivotally moved to position the dust collector cover (144) fixed to the lever (310) in an open position (OP) that fully opens the discharge port (143). (See FIG. 15)

[0143] The robot cleaner (10) may include a sensor (not shown) to measure the amount of waste collected inside the dust collector (141). When the sensor detects that the amount of waste collected in the dust collector (141) has reached a set amount, the robot cleaner (10) moves to the cleaner mounting portion (211a) of the station (20).

[0144] The station (20) detects that the robot cleaner (10) is positioned at the cleaner mounting portion (211a) and transmits this to the controller (400). The controller (400) controls the driving source (320) of the lever device (300) to be driven. For example, when the controller (400) drives the driving source (320) of the lever device (300), the lever (310) can move to a position to be fixed to the dust collection box cover (144). For example, when the driving source (320) rotates so that the lever (310) is fixed to the dust collection box cover (144), the first gear (331) of the gear unit (330) rotates by receiving power from the driving source (320), the second gear (333) engaged with the first gear (331) rotates, and the connecting member (340) connected to the second gear (333) moves left and right. The link member (350) connected to the connecting member (340) rotates, and the lever (310) connected to the link member (350) by the shaft (360) moves upward and becomes fixed to the dust collector cover (144). For example, the driving source (320) may use a step motor to enable the lever (310) to move automatically.

[0145] The controller (400) drives the driving source (320) to completely open the dust collector cover (144), and the lever (310) is rotated downward by the movement of the gear unit (330), the connecting member (340), and the link member (350) connected to the driving source (320). The lever (310) is rotated and / or pivoted to the open position (OP). The lever (310) can rotate together with the dust collector cover (144) fixed to the lever (310). The dust collector cover (144) can be rotated from the dust collector (141) by the lever (310) to open the discharge port (143). The lever (310) is provided so that it can be positioned at various positions by the lever driving device (300a). The lever (310) can be positioned at various positions by the driving source (320).

[0146] The waste collected in the dust collector (141) is discharged from the open discharge port (143). The lever (310) rotates at the bottom of the dust collector cover (144) to open the discharge port (143), so that no separate structure is positioned on the path through which the waste is collected, i.e., the waste collection duct (225), thereby preventing the waste from becoming tangled or stagnant on the waste collection duct (225).

[0147] When the robot cleaner (10) is installed at the station (20), it can receive suction power from the suction motor (224) of the station (20). The waste collected in the dust collection bin (141) of the robot cleaner (10) can be moved to the waste collection bin (223) along the waste collection duct (225) by the suction power of the suction motor (224). The waste is collected in the waste collection bin (223), and the waste and air are filtered while passing through the exhaust filter (226) of the station (20). The air filtered in the exhaust filter (226) is discharged to the outside through the exhaust port (214) of the station (20).

[0148] FIG. 18 is a drawing showing a dust collector cover according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 19 is a drawing showing a state in which a lever according to one embodiment of the present disclosure closes the dust collector cover, and FIG. 20 is a drawing showing a process in which a lever according to one embodiment of the present disclosure presses the dust collector cover to seal the dust collector. Hereinafter, descriptions of parts overlapping with the above descriptions will be omitted.

[0149] Referring to FIGS. 18 to 20, the process of the lever (310) of the lever device (300) closing the discharge port (143) using the dust collector cover (144) is described.

[0150] The dust collector cover (144) can be provided to open and close the discharge port (143) provided in the main body (110) of the robot cleaner (10).

[0151] The dust collector cover (144) may be fixed to the main body (110) by being provided with a support member (147) at one end thereof. The other end of the dust collector cover (144) may be provided as a free end so that the dust collector cover (144) may open and close the discharge port (143). The free end of the dust collector cover (144) for opening and closing the discharge port (143) may be opened and closed by a lever device (300). For example, one end of the dust collector cover (144) may be fixed to the main body (110) by the support member (147), and the other end of the dust collector cover (144) may be provided so as to open and close the discharge port (143).

[0152] The dust collector cover (144) is provided to open and close the discharge port (143), and may be provided in a shape and size corresponding to the discharge port (143). For example, the dust collector cover (144) may be provided in a shape corresponding to the shape of the discharge port (143). For example, the dust collector cover (144) may include a round portion (144a) formed by positioning a mop (160) on the opposite side of the support portion (147). For example, the dust collector cover (144) may have a first length (L1) of a portion where the support portion (144) is provided by the round portion (144a) and a second length (L2) of a portion where the round portion (144a) is provided may be different. For example, the first length (L1) of the dust collector cover (144) may be formed to be longer than the second length (L2). For example, the second length (L2) of the dust collector cover (144) can be formed shorter than the first length (L1) by the round portion (144a).

[0153] Due to the shape of the round portion (144a) of the dust collector cover (144) and the difference between the first length (L1) and the second length (L2) of the dust collector cover (144), a corner portion (C) may be provided on the dust collector cover (144). The corner portion (C) of the dust collector cover (144) may cause a decrease in the opening and closing force of the dust collector cover (144). For example, the corner portion (C) of the dust collector cover (144) may cause a catch when the dust collector cover (144) opens and closes the discharge port (143). The corner portion (C) of the dust collector cover (144) may cause a decrease in the restoring force of the dust collector cover (C). For example, the corner portion (C) of the dust collector cover (144) may be caught when the dust collector cover (144) opens and closes the outlet (143), which may cause a decrease in the restoring force. For example, the dust collector cover (144) may have more corner portions (C) than when it has a square shape. For example, the dust collector cover (144) may have six corner portions (C), which is more than the four corners when it has a square shape, due to the round portion (144a). For example, as the corner portions (C) of the dust collector cover (144) increase, the opening and closing force of the dust collector cover (144) may be reduced. For example, the dust collector cover (144) that is opened and closed by the suction force of the station (20) may be caught by the corner portions (C), which may reduce the restoring force of the dust collector cover (144). The lever device (300) of the present embodiment can be arranged to pressurize the dust collector cover (144) to seal the dust collector (141) by rotating and / or pivoting the lever (310) to move the dust collector cover (144) to a first position (P1) coupled to the discharge port (143) and a second position (P2) inclined with respect to the first position (P1).

[0154] When the collection of waste collected in the dust bin (141) of the robot cleaner (10) is completed, the controller (400) can close the dust bin cover (144) by rotating and / or pivoting the lever (310). When the collection of waste collected in the dust bin (141) of the robot cleaner (10) is completed, the lever (310) can be rotated and / or pivoted by the driving source (320) to close the discharge port (143) with the dust bin cover (144).

[0155] For example, the lever (310) can be moved to a first position (P1) by the driving source (320) so that the dust collector cover (144) is engaged to close the discharge port (143). For example, the lever (310) can be rotated and / or pivoted from the first position (P1) to an inclined second position (P2) by the driving source (320) so that the dust collector cover (144) can close the discharge port (143). The dust collector (141) of the robot cleaner (10) may be provided with an discharge port (143) for discharging collected waste. The dust collector (141) may be provided with an discharge port forming portion (143a) for forming the discharge port (143). The discharge port forming portion (143a) may be formed on the bottom surface of the dust collector (141). The dust collector cover (144) may be provided to enable the discharge port (143) of the dust collector (141) to be opened and closed. The dust collector cover (144) may be provided on the outside of the discharge port (143). The dust collector cover (144) may be provided to cover the discharge port (143) from the lower portion of the discharge port (143).

[0156] The controller (400) may be configured to drive the driving source (320) to move the lever (310), and to close the dust collector cover (144) fixed to the lever (310) the discharge port (143). For example, when the driving source (320) is driven by the controller (400), the gear unit (330), the connecting member (340), and the link member (350) connected to the driving source (320) may move and rotate to rotate the lever (310) and position it at the first position (P1). For example, the driving source (320) may use a step motor to automatically rotate and / or pivot the lever (310).

[0157] The lever (310) can move to a first position (P1) where the dust collector cover (144) is coupled to the outlet (143). For example, the lever (310) can move the dust collector cover (144) to the first position (P1) where the dust collector cover (144) is coupled to the outlet (143). For example, when the lever (310) is at the first position (P1), the dust collector cover (144) can be coupled to the outlet (143). For example, when the lever (310) is at the first position (P1), the lever (310) and the dust collector cover (144) can come into contact with each other while the dust collector cover (144) is coupled to the outlet (143) of the dust collector (141). For example, when the lever (310) is in the first position (P1), the dust collector cover (144) may be coupled to the outlet (143). For example, when the lever (310) is in the first position (P1), the dust collector cover (144) may be in contact with the lever (310). For example, when the dust collector cover (144) is coupled to the outlet (143), the position at which the lever (310) rotates and / or pivots to come into contact with the dust collector cover (144) is the first position (P1). For example, the position at which the lever (310) rotates and / or pivots to couple the dust collector cover (144) to the outlet (143) is the first position (P1). For example, the position at which the lever (310) is rotated and / or pivoted to couple the dust collector cover (144) to the discharge port (143) is the first position (P1). For example, when the lever (310) is rotated and / or pivoted to the first position (P1), the dust collector cover (144) can be coupled to the discharge port (143). For example, the lever (310) can be rotated and / or pivoted to the first position (P1) to couple the dust collector cover (144) to the discharge port (143).

[0158] When the lever (310) is in the first position (P1), the discharge port (143) of the dust collector (141) may be closed by the dust collector cover (144). For example, when the lever (310) is in the first position (P1), the dust collector cover (144) may be in a state where the discharge port (143) is closed. For example, when the lever (310) moves to the first position (P1), the dust collector cover (144) that is fixed to the lever (310) and moves integrally may be in a state where the discharge port (143) is closed. For example, when the lever (310) is in the first position (P1), the dust collector cover (144) may be in a state where it comes into contact with the discharge port forming portion (143a) of the dust collector (141) and covers the discharge port (143).

[0159] The lever (310) can be moved from a first position (P1) by rotation and / or pivoting to a second position (P2). The lever (310) can be moved from the first position (P1) by rotation and / or pivoting to a second position (P2) that is inclined at a predetermined angle (θ) with respect to the first position (P1). The lever (310) can be moved from the first position (P1) by rotation and / or pivoting to a second position (P2) that is inclined with respect to the first position (P1). The lever (310) can be moved from the first position (P1) by rotation and / or pivoting to a second position (P2).

[0160] When the lever (310) is in the second position (P2), the dust collector cover (144) can be pressed by the lever (310) toward the discharge port (143), i.e., in the rotational and / or pivotal movement direction of the lever (310). When the lever (310) is in the second position (P2), the dust collector cover (144) pressed by the lever (310) can be deformed to move toward the inside of the discharge port (143) while being coupled to the discharge port (143). For example, when the lever (310) is in the second position (P2), the dust collector cover (144) made of an elastic material can be moved toward the inside of the discharge port (143) of the dust collector (141) by the lever (310). For example, when the lever (310) is in the second position (P2), at least a portion of the dust collector cover (144) may be moved toward the inside of the discharge port (143) of the dust collector (141). For example, at least a portion of the dust collector cover (144) made of an elastic material may be deformed to move toward the inside of the discharge port (143) when the lever (310) is in the second position (P2). For example, when the lever (310) is in the second position (P2), the dust collector cover (144) may be in a state of sealing the dust collector (141). For example, when the lever (310) moves to the second position (P2), the dust collector cover (144) of the discharge port (143) that is already closed by the dust collector cover (144) is pressed by the lever (310), and the dust collector cover (144) made of an elastic material moves inward of the discharge port (143) by the pressing of the lever (310), thereby improving the sealing property of the dust collector (141). For example, when the lever (310) is at the second position (P2), at least a part of the dust collector cover (144) may move inward of the discharge port forming portion (143a) of the dust collector (141), thereby completely sealing the discharge port (143). For example, the lever (310) forcibly presses the dust collector cover (144) made of elastic material to move to the second position (P2), and the dust collector cover (144) is moved into the dust collector (141) through the discharge port (143) by the pressurization of the lever (310), and accordingly, the sealing of the dust collector (141) can be improved.For example, the lever (310) can rotate and / or pivot the dust collector cover (144) from a first position (P1) coupled to the discharge port (143) to a second position (P2) inclined with respect to the first position (P1), thereby moving at least a portion of the elastic dust collector cover (144) toward the inside of the discharge port (143) to improve the sealing force of the dust collector (141) by the dust collector cover (144).

[0161] A cleaning device (1) according to one embodiment comprises a robot cleaner (10) including a dust collector (141) having an outlet (143) and a dust collector cover (144) provided to open and close the outlet (143); and a station (20) provided to place the robot cleaner (10), wherein the station (20) comprises a lever device (300) provided to move the dust collector cover (144), and the lever device (300) includes a lever (310) that moves the dust collector cover (144) to a first position (P1) where the dust collector cover (144) is coupled to the outlet (143) and moves the dust collector cover (144) to a second position (P2) inclined with respect to the first position (P1) and presses the dust collector cover (144). According to the idea of ​​the present disclosure, the sealing property of the dust collector of the robot cleaner can be improved.

[0162] The above lever device (300) may include a lever driving device (300a) that supplies power to rotate and / or pivot the lever (310). The dust collector cover (144) may include a cover magnet (145) that is provided to generate a magnetic force, and the lever (310) may include a lever magnet (370) that is provided to cause an attractive force to act between the cover magnet (145).

[0163] The above lever (310) is provided to be movable from the first position (P1) to an open position (OP) that rotates and / or pivots, and when the lever (310) rotates and / or pivots to the open position (OP), the dust collector cover (144) can open the discharge port (143).

[0164] By this structure, the cleaning efficiency can be improved by automatically emptying the dust collected in the robot vacuum cleaner dust collector.

[0165] When the lever (310) rotates and / or pivots to the second position (P2), the dust collector cover (144) may be provided to seal the dust collector (141). The lever driving device (300a) may include a driving source (320) that generates power, a gear part (330) that rotates by receiving power from the driving source (320), a connecting member (340) that moves by the rotation of the gear part (330), a link member (350) that rotates as the connecting member (340) moves, and a shaft (360) that transmits the rotational force of the link member (350) to the lever (310). The driving source (320) may include a step motor.

[0166] Therefore, the cleaning efficiency can be improved by automatically emptying the dust collected in the robot vacuum cleaner dust bin.

[0167] The dust collector cover (144) may be configured to include an elastic material. The dust collector cover (144) may be provided to be elastically biased in a direction that closes the discharge port (143). The robot cleaner (10) may include a support member (147) provided to elastically support the dust collector cover (144) in a direction that closes the discharge port (143).

[0168] By this structure, when closing the dust collector cover of the robot vacuum cleaner dust collector at the station, the vacuum level of the dust collector can be improved by pressing it all the way through adjusting the lever angle, thereby minimizing the loss of suction power.

[0169] The above station (20) includes a cleaner mounting portion (211a) provided for the robot cleaner to be mounted, and the lever driving device (300a) may be provided on the cleaner mounting portion (211a). The above station (20) includes a controller (400) provided for controlling the lever driving device (300a), and the controller (400) may be provided for driving the lever driving device (300a) when the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20).

[0170] The controller (400) can control the lever (310) to rotate and / or pivot from the first position (P1) to the open position (OP) when the robot cleaner (10) is installed on the station (20), so that the dust collector cover (144) opens the outlet (143). When the collection of waste collected in the dust collector (141) of the robot cleaner (10) is completed, the controller (400) can control the lever (310) to move to the first position (P1) and a second position (P2) that is further rotated and / or pivoted from the first position (P1), so that the dust collector cover (144) seals the outlet (143) of the dust collector (141). The outlet (143) can be arranged parallel to the moving direction of the robot cleaner.

[0171] By this structure, the dust collector cover is opened according to the control specified at the station, so that dust spilling that may occur when the dust collector cover is opened in an abnormal situation can be prevented.

[0172] A robot cleaner (10) including a dust collector (141) having an outlet (143) according to one embodiment, and a dust collector cover (144) provided to open and close the outlet (143); and a station (20) provided to place the robot cleaner (10); wherein the station (20) includes a lever device (300) provided to move the dust collector cover (144), wherein the lever device (300) includes a lever (310) that presses the dust collector cover (144) by rotating and / or pivoting from a first position (P1) in contact with the dust collector cover (144) coupled to the outlet to a second position (P2) that is arranged to be inclined with respect to the first position (P1), and a lever driving device (300a) that supplies power to move the lever (310).

[0173] The above dust collector cover (144) may include a cover magnet (145) that is provided to generate magnetic force, and the lever (310) may include a lever magnet (370) that is provided to cause an attractive force to act between the cover magnet (145).

[0174] When the above lever (310) rotates and / or pivots to the second position (P2), the dust collector cover (144) may be arranged to seal the dust collector (141).

[0175] The above lever (310) is provided to be rotatable and / or pivotally movable from the first position (P1) to an open position (OP), and when the lever (310) is rotatable and / or pivotally movable to the open position (OP), the dust collector cover (144) can open the discharge port (143).

[0176] The above lever driving device (300a) may include a driving source (320) that generates power, a gear part (330) that rotates by receiving power from the driving source (320), a connecting member (340) that moves by the rotation of the gear part (330), a link member (350) that rotates as the connecting member (340) moves, and a shaft (360) that transmits the rotational force of the link member (350) to the lever (310).

[0177] 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 robot vacuum cleaner including a dust collector having an outlet and a dust collector cover provided to open and close the outlet; and A station provided to mount the robot vacuum cleaner; The above station is, Including a lever device provided to move the dust collector cover, A cleaning device including a lever device that moves the dust collector cover to a first position where the dust collector cover is coupled to the discharge port and moves the dust collector cover to a second position inclined with respect to the first position to pressurize the dust collector cover.

2. In paragraph 1, The above lever device, A cleaning device comprising a lever drive device that supplies power to rotate and / or pivot the lever.

3. In paragraph 1, The above dust collector cover includes a cover magnetic body that is designed to generate magnetic force, A cleaning device including a lever magnet provided so that an attractive force acts between the lever and the cover magnet.

4. In paragraph 3, The lever is arranged to be movable to an open position by rotation and / or pivoting from the first position, A cleaning device in which the dust collector cover opens the discharge port when the lever is rotated and / or pivoted to the open position.

5. In paragraph 1, A cleaning device wherein the dust collector cover is arranged to seal the dust collector when the lever is rotated and / or pivoted to the second position.

6. In paragraph 2, The above lever driving device, A driving source that generates power, A gear part that rotates by receiving power from the above driving source, A connecting member that moves by the rotation of the above gear part, A link member that rotates as the above connecting member moves, and A cleaning device including a shaft that transmits the rotational force of the link member to the lever.

7. In paragraph 6, The above driving force is, A cleaning device comprising a stepper motor.

8. In paragraph 1, A cleaning device in which the above dust collector cover is composed of an elastic material.

9. In paragraph 1, The above dust collector cover is, A cleaning device provided to be elastically biased in the direction of closing the above discharge port.

10. In paragraph 1, The robot cleaner is a cleaning device including a support member that is provided so that the dust collector cover is elastically supported in a direction that closes the discharge port.

11. In paragraph 6, The above station includes a cleaner mounting portion provided for mounting the robot cleaner, The above lever driving device is a cleaning device provided on the above cleaner mounting portion.

12. In paragraph 11, The above station includes a controller arranged to control the lever driving device, A cleaning device wherein the controller is arranged to drive the lever driving device when the robot cleaner is placed on the station.

13. In paragraph 11, A cleaning device in which the controller controls the lever to rotate and / or pivot from the first position to the open position when the robot cleaner is placed on the station, thereby causing the dust collection box cover to open the discharge port.

14. In paragraph 11, A cleaning device in which the controller controls the lever to move to the first position and a second position that is further rotated and / or pivoted from the first position when the collection of waste collected in the dust bin of the robot cleaner is completed, so that the dust bin cover seals the outlet of the dust bin.

15. In paragraph 1, A cleaning device in which the above discharge port is arranged parallel to the moving direction of the robot cleaner.

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