Station and cleaning device

Abstract

Disclosed is a cleaning device comprising a robot cleaner and a station capable of supplying water to the robot cleaner. The cleaning device comprises a robot cleaner and a station provided to allow the robot cleaner to be mounted thereon. The station comprises: a water tank accommodation part forming a space in which a water tank is accommodated; a full water level detection sensor disposed in the water tank accommodation part to detect whether water accommodated in the water tank is full; and a first detection part to be detected, the first detection part being a water supply / discharge device for supplying water to the station from the outside of the station and discharging, to the outside of the station, waste water generated in a process in which a wet dust cloth is washed, the first detection part being mounted to the water tank accommodation part and being disposed to be detected by the full water level detection sensor.

Description

Stations and cleaning devices

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a robot vacuum cleaner including a mop, a station therefor, and a cleaning device including the same.

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

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

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

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

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a cleaning device including a robot cleaner and a station capable of supplying water to the robot cleaner.

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a cleaning device including a station capable of supplying and draining water for mopping without removing a water tank.

[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] In order to solve the above problem, a cleaning device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a robot cleaner including a detachably mountable mop and a station on which the robot cleaner is mounted, the station includes a water tank for storing water, a water tank receiving portion forming a receiving space for the water tank, a water tank detection sensor disposed in the water tank receiving portion for detecting whether the water tank is mounted, a water level detection sensor disposed in the water tank receiving portion for detecting whether water contained in the water tank is full, a water supply and drainage device for supplying water to the station from outside the station and discharging wastewater generated during the mop washing process to outside the station, and a control unit for controlling the operation of the station, wherein the control unit can determine that the water supply and drainage device is mounted in the water tank receiving portion when a detection signal is input from the water level detection sensor while no detection signal is input from the water tank detection sensor.

[0010] A cleaning device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a robot cleaner and a station on which the robot cleaner is mounted, the station includes a water tank receiving portion forming a space for receiving a water tank, a water level detection sensor disposed in the water tank receiving portion for detecting whether water contained in the water tank is full, and a water supply and drainage device for supplying water to the station from outside the station and discharging wastewater generated during the cleaning process of the mop to outside the station, the first detection portion being disposed to be detected by the water level detection sensor while mounted in the water tank receiving portion.

[0011] According to the cleaning device according to the present disclosure, usability can be improved.

[0012] According to the cleaning device according to the present disclosure, water can be supplied to a robot cleaner.

[0013] According to the cleaning device according to the present disclosure, water supply and drainage for mopping can be performed without removing the water tank.

[0014] 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 of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating a state in which a robot cleaner is installed on a station in a cleaning device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating the robot vacuum cleaner illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0017] Figure 4 is a drawing showing the lower part of the robot vacuum cleaner illustrated in Figure 3.

[0018] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing the rear of a cleaning device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 6 is a front view drawing of the internal configuration of a station according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 7 is a rear view drawing of the internal configuration of a station according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 8 is a rear view of the interior of a station according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing the internal structure of a sewage tank according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 10 is a drawing showing the internal structure of a water tank according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 11 is a drawing showing the internal structure of a water supply and drainage device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing a water tank receiving portion inside a station according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Figure 13 is a drawing showing the connection relationship between the station and the water supply and drainage device of Figure 12.

[0027] Fig. 14 is a drawing showing a state in which a water supply and drainage device is combined with the station of Fig. 12.

[0028] Figure 15 is an enlarged view of portion “A” in Figure 14.

[0029] FIG. 16 is a control block diagram showing a connection relationship with a control unit for controlling a cleaning device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] 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 encompass various modifications, equivalents, or alternatives of the embodiments.

[0031] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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).

[0037] 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.

[0038] 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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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).

[0042] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0043] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a state in which a robot cleaner is out of a station in a cleaning device according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating a state in which a robot cleaner is seated in a station in a cleaning device according to one embodiment. FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating the robot cleaner illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is a drawing illustrating a lower portion of the robot cleaner illustrated in FIG. 3. FIG. 5 is a drawing illustrating a rear view of a cleaning device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 is a drawing illustrating an internal configuration of a station according to one embodiment of the present disclosure from the front. FIG. 7 is a drawing illustrating an internal configuration of a station according to one embodiment of the present disclosure from the rear. FIG. 8 is a drawing illustrating an internal configuration of a station according to one embodiment of the present disclosure from the rear.

[0044] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 8, 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).

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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).

[0047] The robot vacuum cleaner (10) can move to the station (20) during cleaning and / or after cleaning is completed.

[0048] For example, the robot vacuum cleaner (10) may move to the station (20) when charging is required, when the dust bin (115) needs to be emptied, when the water in the water tank (114) is insufficient, when the moisture content of the mop (160) is low, when the mop (160) needs to be washed, when the mop (160) needs to be sterilized, and / or when the mop (160) needs to be dried.

[0049] 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).

[0050] For example, while the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), the station (20) can charge the battery (not shown) of the robot cleaner (10). For example, while the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), the station (20) can collect the waste collected in the dust bin (115) of the robot cleaner (10). For example, while the robot cleaner (10) is mounted 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 mounted on the station (20), the station (20) can wet the mop (160) with water and / or steam.

[0051] 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).

[0052] 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).

[0053] 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.

[0054] 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).

[0055] 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 approximately along a vertical direction (Z direction). The second brush (132) may be referred to as a side brush (132).

[0056] The robot vacuum cleaner (10) may include a dust collector (115). Dirt and / or air sucked in through the suction port (111) may move to the dust collector (115). Dirt sucked in through the suction port (111) may be collected in the dust collector (115). The air sucked in through the suction port (111) may be filtered as it passes through the dust collector (115). Dirt and air sucked in through the suction port (111) may be separated in the dust collector (115).

[0057] 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 cleaner exhaust port (112).

[0058] The robot cleaner (10) may include a suction motor (not shown). The suction motor may generate suction force. By the suction force generated by the suction motor, the suction port (111) may suck in dirt and / or air. By the suction force generated by the suction motor, 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 may be disposed on an air path formed between the suction port (111) and the exhaust port (112). The suction motor may be referred to as a vacuum cleaner suction motor.

[0059] The robot cleaner (10) may include a driving device (120) for driving the robot cleaner (10). The driving device (120) may be mounted on the main body (110) and may move the main body (110). For example, the driving device (120) may include a pair of main wheels (121). For example, the driving device (120) may further include at least one auxiliary wheel (122) for stable driving of the robot cleaner (10).

[0060] The robot vacuum cleaner (10) may include a battery (not shown). The battery (150) may be configured to be rechargeable. The battery (150) may provide the power required to operate the robot vacuum cleaner (10).

[0061] The robot cleaner (10) may include a charging terminal (151). The charging terminal (151) may be electrically connected to a battery. 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 the charging terminal (218, see FIG. 7) 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 of the robot cleaner (10) may be charged. That is, the battery may be charged while the robot cleaner (10) is docked on the station (20). The charging terminal (151) may be referred to as a cleaner charging terminal (151).

[0062] 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).

[0063] 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).

[0064] The robot cleaner (10) may include a water charging unit (140). The water charging unit (140) may be formed in the main body (110). The water charging unit (140) 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 (140) may receive water provided from the station (20). The water supplied to the robot cleaner (10) through the water charging unit (140) may be stored in a water tank (114). While the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), the water charging unit (140) of the robot cleaner (10) may be docked with a water supply spray unit (312) of the station (20) to be described later.

[0065] The water charging unit (140) may include a water charging port (141) that is provided to be connected to the water supply spray unit (300) of the station (20). The water charging port (141) may be provided to deliver water from a water tank (221) delivered through the water supply spray unit (300) to the water tank (114) of the robot cleaner (10). The water charging port (141) may be connected to the water tank (114) through a water charging pipe (not shown). The water charging unit (140) may include an inclined surface (142) that is provided to guide the connection of the water supply spray unit (300). The inclined surface (142) may be formed to be recessed toward the water charging port (141). The inclined surface (142) may be formed so that the water charging unit (140) has a concave shape inward. The slope (142) can be formed to be sunken with the water filling port (141) as the center.

[0066] 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).

[0067] 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).

[0068] The main body (210) may include a base (211) and a housing (212) that can be detachably coupled to the base (211).

[0069] 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). For example, 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). For example, 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).

[0070] The station (20) may include a water tank (221). The water tank (221) may be configured 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) described below. 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 be detachably mounted on the main body (210). For example, a user may hold the handle (221a) of the water tank (221) to detach the water tank (221) from the main body (210) or to attach the water tank (221) to the main body (210).

[0071] 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).

[0072] 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 (115) 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).

[0073] 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 vertical 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).

[0074] 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 collection container (141) of the robot cleaner (10). The waste suction port (213) may be provided to suction waste collected in the dust collection container (141). The waste suction port (213) may be referred to as a cleaner waste suction port (213).

[0075] 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 waste 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 at a first position in the station (20), the mop (160) is positioned in the washing chamber (230), but the waste discharge port (143) is spaced apart from the waste suction port (213), and when the robot cleaner (10) is at a second position in the station (20), the waste discharge port (143) is connected to the waste suction port (213), but the mop (160) is away from the washing chamber (230).

[0076] The station (20) may include a waste collection duct (225). The waste collection duct (225) may be provided to guide waste sucked 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).

[0077] The waste collection duct (225) and the waste collection container (223) may be provided to be separated from the washing chamber (230). Accordingly, the waste collection duct (225) and the waste collection container (223) can be prevented from being contaminated by moisture supplied to the washing chamber (230).

[0078] The station (20) may include an exhaust port (214). 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 exhaust air that is drawn into the interior of the station (20) and filtered. For example, the exhaust port (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).

[0079] 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).

[0080] The station (20) may include a washing chamber (230). While the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), the washing chamber (230) may be provided to correspond to the mop (160). The washing chamber (230) may be defined as a space where the mop (160) is washed. The washing chamber (230) may be provided to receive water delivered from a water tank (221). The washing chamber (230) may have a shape for containing water. While the robot cleaner (10) is mounted on the station (20), the mop (160) can be washed by the water received in the washing chamber (230).

[0081] A cleaning chamber (230) may be formed in the base (211) of the main body (210). The cleaning chamber (230) may be provided to be recessed from the cleaner mounting portion (211a). The cleaning chamber (230) may be defined by a chamber bottom (230a) and a chamber side wall (230b) extending upward from the chamber bottom (230a). The chamber side wall (230b) may be provided to have a predetermined height.

[0082] The chamber floor (230a) may be provided to slope downward along the direction in which the robot cleaner (10) enters the station (20). For example, the chamber floor (230a) may be provided to slope downward toward the rear. Accordingly, after the mop (160) is washed, water (wastewater) within the washing chamber (230) can easily flow along the slope of the chamber floor (230a) toward the wastewater collection unit (234) located at the rear of the washing chamber (230). However, the present disclosure is not limited to the above, and the slope direction of the chamber floor (230a) may, of course, vary depending on the position of the wastewater collection unit (234).

[0083] 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). At this time, the mop (160) may be provided to be rotatable.

[0084] 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.

[0085] 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).

[0086] The heating device (250) may be placed below the water tank (221). When supplying water from the water tank (221) to the heating device (250), the first pump (21) can pump the water from the water tank (221) with relatively low power with the help of gravity.

[0087] The station (20) may include a drying device (260). The drying device (260) may be configured to generate air (hereinafter, referred to as dry air) for drying the mop (160). The drying device (260) may be configured to provide the dry air to a cleaning chamber (230) to be described later. While the robot cleaner (10) is positioned at the station (20), the dry air discharged from the drying device (260) may be directed toward the mop (160). The air (dry air) generated and provided by the drying device (260) may have a relatively low humidity or a high temperature. The dry air may also be referred to as hot air or dry wind.

[0088] For example, after washing and / or sterilizing the mop (160), the station (20) can provide dry air to the mop (160). For example, if the moisture content of the mop (160) increases while the robot cleaner (10) is cleaning the surface to be cleaned, the robot cleaner (10) can return to the station (20), and the station (20) can discharge dry air toward the mop (160).

[0089] The drying device (260) may include a fan (262) that generates a blowing force. The drying device (260) may include a drying duct (261) that is provided to guide air blown by the fan (262). The drying duct (261) may be provided to connect the fan (262) and a washing chamber (230) to be described later. The drying device (260) may include a heater (263) that is provided to heat the air blown by the fan (262). The heater (263) may be provided to heat the air guided by the drying duct (261). At least a portion of the heater (263) may be disposed inside the drying duct (261).

[0090] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing the internal structure of a sewage tank according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 is a drawing showing the internal structure of a water supply tank according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 11 is a drawing showing the internal structure of a water supply and drainage device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 12 is a drawing showing a water tank receiving portion of a station according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0091] Referring to FIG. 9, the sewage tank (222) may include a sewage tank body (300) for providing a receiving space for receiving sewage collected from the station (20), and a sewage tank cover (310) for covering the upper part of the sewage tank body (300).

[0092] The sewage tank body (300) can be formed in a shape with an open upper portion, and the sewage tank cover (310) can be detachably coupled to the upper portion of the sewage tank body (300) to cover the opened upper portion of the sewage tank body (300) and seal the sewage contained inside the sewage tank body (300) so that it does not leak out to the outside.

[0093] The sewage tank (222) may include a floating member (320). The floating member (320) may include a float (321) that is arranged to float on water due to the buoyancy of water.

[0094] The float (321) may include a hollow structure inside so that it can float on the surface of the water due to buoyancy by water, and may be provided at one end of the floating member (320).

[0095] The floating member (320) may include a valve portion (322), and the valve portion (322) may be provided at the other end of the floating member (320) opposite the end where the float (321) is arranged.

[0096] The floating member (320) can be rotatably connected to the sewage tank body (300) and can be provided to be rotatably centered on a rotation axis (323). The rotation axis (323) can be placed between the float (321) and the valve part (322).

[0097] Accordingly, as the water level inside the sewage tank (222) moves up and down, the float (321) can move up and down, and the floating member (320) can rotate by the movement of the float (321).

[0098] The valve unit (322) may be provided to open and close the air discharge port (301) provided in the sewage tank body (300). For example, when the water level inside the sewage tank (300) rises and reaches the full water level, the valve unit (322) may move downward in opposition to the upward movement of the float (321) to close the air discharge port (301). Conversely, when the water level falls, the valve unit (322) may rise and open the air discharge port (301).

[0099] The floating member (320) may include a sensing portion (323). The sensing portion (323) may be placed on the float (321). The sensing portion (323) may be provided to be detectable by a water level detection sensor (271, see FIG. 12) to be described later.

[0100] The sensing portion (323) may include an object capable of generating magnetic force, for example, a permanent magnet.

[0101] The sewage tank body (300) may include a detection unit (302). The detection unit (302) may be arranged on one side of the lower portion of the sewage tank body (300). The detection unit (302) may be provided to be detectable by a sewage tank detection sensor (273, see FIG. 12) to be described later. The detection unit (302) may include an object capable of generating magnetic force, and may be, for example, a permanent magnet.

[0102] Referring to FIG. 10, the water tank (221) may include a water tank body (330) for providing a receiving space for receiving water to be supplied to the station (20), and a water tank cover (340) for covering the upper part of the water tank body (330).

[0103] The water tank body (330) can be formed in a shape with an open upper portion, and the water tank cover (340) can be detachably coupled to the upper portion of the water tank body (330) to cover the opened upper portion of the water tank body (330) and seal the water contained in the water tank body (330) so that it does not leak out to the outside.

[0104] The water tank (221) may include a float (331) to detect the water level inside.

[0105] The float (331) may include a hollow structure inside so that it can float on the surface of the water due to buoyancy by water.

[0106] The float (331) installed in the water tank (221) can be installed so as to be able to move up and down at the bottom of the water tank body (330) so as to detect a low water level state where all the water stored in the water tank (221) has been used up and water supply is required.

[0107] The water tank body (330) may include a guide part (332) to guide the up and down movement of the float (331).

[0108] A guide part (332) may be arranged at the lower portion of the water tank body (330) to guide the vertical movement of the float (331). The guide part (332) may include a guide slot (332a) extending vertically to guide the sliding movement of the float (331). The guide slot (332a) may be formed to have a predetermined length corresponding to the lower portion of the body (330) so that the movement range of the float (331) is limited to the lower portion of the water tank body (330).

[0109] Accordingly, even if the water in the water tank (221) reaches the full water level, the float (331) can be limited in its rise only to the range where the guide slot (332a) is formed, and when the water in the water tank (221) reaches the low water level range and the water level reaches the range where the guide slot (332a) is formed, the float (331) can move up and down according to the water level.

[0110] The float (331) may include a sensing portion (333). The sensing portion (333) may include an object capable of generating magnetic force, for example, a permanent magnet. The sensing portion (333) may be configured to be detectable by a low-level detection sensor (272, see FIG. 12) to be described later.

[0111] The water tank (221) may include a detection unit (334). The detection unit (334) may be arranged on one side of the lower portion of the water tank body (330). The detection unit (334) may be provided to be detectable by a water tank detection sensor (272, see FIG. 12) to be described later. The detection unit (334) may include an object capable of generating magnetic force, and may be, for example, a permanent magnet.

[0112] The water tank body (330) may include a water outlet (335) for supplying water contained therein to the station (20). One end of a water supply pipe (336) is connected to the water outlet (335), and the other end of the water supply pipe (336) may be arranged on the lower surface of the water tank body (330).

[0113] Referring to FIG. 11, a water supply and drainage device (400) can be provided to supply water to the station (20) and collect wastewater generated at the station (20) and discharge it to the outside.

[0114] The water supply and drainage device (400) can be mounted on a water tank receiving portion (290) formed in the station (20). The water supply and drainage device (400) can supply water to the station (20) in place of the water tank (221) and the wastewater tank (222) while mounted on the water tank receiving portion (290) formed in the station (20), and can be provided to collect wastewater generated in the station (20) and discharge it to the outside.

[0115] The water supply and drainage device (400) can be connected to an external water source (not shown) to receive water, and can be connected to an external drainage source (not shown) to collect wastewater generated at the station (20) and discharge it to the outside. Accordingly, the user can continuously use the water supply and drainage device (400) mounted on the water tank receiving portion (290) of the station (20) without having to perform any management actions for the water tanks, such as supplying and draining water to and from the water tank (221) and the wastewater tank (222).

[0116] The water supply and drainage device (400) may include a water supply unit (410) that supplies water from an external water source (not shown) and temporarily stores it, and a wastewater unit (420) that temporarily stores wastewater collected from a station (20). The water supply unit (410) and the wastewater unit (420) may be provided in the main body (401) of the water supply and drainage device.

[0117] The water supply unit (410) can provide a storage space for temporarily storing water and can include a water level detection unit (not shown) for detecting the water level inside the water supply unit (410).

[0118] The water supply and drainage device (400) may include a water supply valve (411) for controlling the flow of water to be supplied to the water supply unit (410), and a water supply pipe (412) connecting an external water supply source and the water supply valve (411).

[0119] Accordingly, when the water level in the water supply unit (410) is detected as low by the water level detection unit (not shown), the water supply valve (411) is opened so that water can be supplied into the water supply unit (410) through the water supply pipe (412). Conversely, when the water level in the water supply unit (410) is detected as full by the water level detection unit (not shown), the water supply valve (411) is closed so that the water supply to the water supply unit (410) is stopped. In this way, the water contained in the water supply unit (410) can be supplied to the station (20) in the same manner as when water is supplied to the station (20) from the water tank (221).

[0120] The sewage unit (420) can provide a storage space for temporarily storing sewage collected from the station (20) before being discharged to the outside, and can include a water level detection unit (not shown) for detecting the water level inside the sewage unit (420).

[0121] The water supply and drainage device (400) may include a drainage pump (421) for draining water stored in a sewage unit (420) to the outside, and a drainage pipe (422) connecting an external drainage source (not shown) and the drainage pump (421).

[0122] Accordingly, when the water level in the sewage unit (420) is detected as having reached the full water level by the water level detection unit (not shown), the drainage pump (421) is operated to drain the sewage in the sewage unit (420) to the outside through the drain pipe (422) so that the water level in the sewage unit (420) is lowered. Conversely, when the sewage in the sewage unit (421) is sufficiently discharged by the operation of the drainage pump (421) and the water level in the sewage unit (420) is detected as being a low water level below a predetermined water level by the water level detection unit (not shown), the operation of the drainage pump (421) may be stopped so that drainage is stopped.

[0123] The drainage pump (421) and the water supply valve (411) may be placed in a machine room (401) formed on one side of the water supply and drainage device (400), and the machine room (401) may be covered by a side cover (402).

[0124] The drainage device (400) may include an upper cover (403) that is detachably coupled to the upper portion.

[0125] The water supply and drainage device (400) may include a sensing unit (430). The sensing unit (430) may include an object capable of generating magnetic force, for example, a permanent magnet. The sensing unit (430) may be configured to be detectable by a water level detection sensor (271, see FIG. 12) to be described later.

[0126] The sensing unit (430) may include an object capable of generating magnetic force, and may be, for example, a permanent magnet. The sensing unit (430) may be positioned so that the water supply and drainage device (400) can be detected by the water level detection sensor (271) while the water supply and drainage device (400) is mounted on the water tank receiving portion (290) of the station (20) so that the water level detection sensor (271) can detect the water level detection sensor (271).

[0127] Referring to FIG. 12, the station (20) may include a water tank receiving portion (290) for receiving a water tank.

[0128] The water tank receiving portion (290) can provide a space for receiving a water supply tank (221) and a waste water tank (222), and can be formed in a shape corresponding to the water supply tank (221) and the waste water tank (222).

[0129] The water tank receiving portion (290) may include a water tank receiving portion (291) for receiving a water tank (221) and a waste tank receiving portion (292) for receiving a waste tank (222).

[0130] A water level detection sensor (271) may be placed in the sewage tank receiving portion (292). The water level detection sensor (271) may include a Hall sensor capable of detecting a magnetic substance. The water level detection sensor (271) may be placed on the upper portion of the sewage tank receiving portion (292) so as to face the detection portion (323) when the inside of the sewage tank (222) is in a full water state so as to detect the magnetism of the permanent magnet, which is the detection portion (323) disposed on the float (321) of the sewage tank (222) when the sewage tank (222) is mounted in the sewage tank receiving portion (292).

[0131] A sewage tank detection sensor (273) may be placed in the sewage tank receiving portion (292). The sewage tank detection sensor (273) may include a Hall sensor capable of detecting a magnetic substance. The sewage tank detection sensor (273) may be placed facing the detection portion (302) at the bottom of the sewage tank receiving portion (292) so as to detect the magnetism of a permanent magnet, which is a detection portion (302) disposed at the bottom side of the sewage tank main body (300), when the sewage tank (222) is mounted in the sewage tank receiving portion (292).

[0132] A low water level detection sensor (272) may be placed in the water tank receiving portion (291). The low water level detection sensor (272) may include a Hall sensor capable of detecting a magnetic substance. The low water level detection sensor (272) may be placed at the bottom of the water tank receiving portion (291) so as to face the detection portion (333) when the inside of the water tank (221) is in a low water level state so as to detect the magnetism of the permanent magnet, which is the detection portion (333) disposed on the float (331) of the water tank (221) when the water tank (221) is mounted in the water tank receiving portion (291).

[0133] A water tank detection sensor (274) may be arranged in the water tank receiving portion (291). The waste tank detection sensor (273) may include a Hall sensor capable of detecting a magnetic substance. The water tank detection sensor (274) may be arranged at the bottom of the water tank receiving portion (291) to face the detection portion (334) so ​​as to detect the magnetism of a permanent magnet, which is a detection portion (334) disposed at the bottom side of the water tank main body (330) when the water tank (221) is mounted in the waste tank receiving portion (291). For example, the water tank detection sensor (274) and the waste tank detection sensor (273) may be arranged at the bottom of the water tank receiving portion (290) to face the water tank (221) and the waste tank (222), respectively.

[0134] FIG. 13 is a drawing showing a connection relationship between a water supply and drainage device and a station according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 14 is a side cross-sectional view of a station with a water supply and drainage device mounted on the station, and FIG. 15 is an enlarged view of part “A” of FIG. 14.

[0135] The water supply and drainage device (400) can be detachably mounted on the water tank receiving portion (290). The water supply and drainage device (400) can provide a space that can temporarily accommodate water during the water supply and drainage process. The water supply and drainage device (400) can be formed to have a smaller volume than the water tank (221) and the wastewater tank (22), and accordingly, can be formed to have a lower height than the water tank (221) and the wastewater tank (22).

[0136] Accordingly, when the water supply and drainage device (400) is mounted on the water tank receiving portion (290), the lower surface (404) of the water supply and drainage device (400) may be spaced apart from the lower portion of the water tank receiving portion (290).

[0137] From another perspective, when the water supply and drainage device (400) is mounted on the water tank receiving portion (290), the lower surface (404) of the water supply and drainage device (400) may be positioned higher than the waste tank detection sensor (273, see FIG. 12) and the water tank detection sensor (274, see FIG. 12), which are water tank detection sensors positioned on the lower portion of the water tank receiving portion (290). Accordingly, when the water supply and drainage device (400) is mounted on the water tank receiving portion (290), no signal may be detected by the waste tank detection sensor (273, see FIG. 12) and the water tank detection sensor (274, see FIG. 12).

[0138] In a state where the water supply and drainage device (400) is mounted on the water tank receiving portion (290), the sensing portion (430) can be positioned opposite the water level detection sensor (271). That is, the sensing portion (430) can be positioned adjacent to the water level detection sensor (271) at a height of the water level detection sensor (271) so as to be positioned within the detection range of the water level detection sensor (271) in a state where the water supply and drainage device (400) is mounted on the water tank receiving portion (290).

[0139] Accordingly, when the water supply and drainage device (400) is mounted on the water tank receiving portion (290), the full water level detection sensor (271) can detect the magnetism of the detection portion (430).

[0140] FIG. 16 illustrates a control block diagram of a station according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0141] The station (20) may include a control unit (280) for controlling the operation of the station (20).

[0142] The station (20) may include a full water level detection sensor (271), a low water level detection sensor (272), a sewage tank detection sensor (273), a water tank detection sensor (274), a notification unit (275), and a control unit (280).

[0143] The control unit (280) can be connected to a full water level detection sensor (271), a low water level detection sensor (272), a sewage tank detection sensor (273), a water supply tank detection sensor (274), and a notification unit (275).

[0144] When a signal is input through the sewage tank detection sensor (273), the control unit (280) determines that the sewage tank (222) is mounted on the station (20), and can display the mounting status of the sewage tank (222) on the notification unit (275). The notification unit (275) may include a light such as an LED, and may include a display that outputs an image.

[0145] When a signal is input through the water level detection sensor (271) while a signal is input through the wastewater tank detection sensor (273), the control unit (280) determines that the water level inside the wastewater tank (222) is full, and can warn the user by displaying the full water level of the wastewater tank (222) through the notification unit (275). In this case, after the wastewater inside the wastewater tank (222) is emptied by the user and is re-installed, the control unit (280) can stop the operation of generating wastewater at the station (20) and control the operation of the station (20) so that the wastewater is not discharged into the wastewater tank (222) until the detection signal is input from the wastewater tank detection sensor (273) and the detection signal is not input from the water level detection sensor (271).

[0146] When a signal is input through the water tank detection sensor (274), the control unit (280) determines that the water tank (221) is mounted on the station (20), and can provide a notification so that the mounting status of the water tank (221) is displayed on the notification unit (275).

[0147] When a signal is input through the water tank detection sensor (274) and a detection signal is input through the low water level detection sensor (272), the control unit (280) determines that the water level inside the water tank (221) is low, and can warn the user by displaying the low water level of the water tank (221) through the notification unit (275). In this case, after the user supplies water to the water tank (221) and re-attaches it, the control unit (280) can stop the water supply to the station (20) and stop the operation necessary for the water supply until the detection signal is input from the water tank detection sensor (274) and the detection signal is not input from the low water level detection sensor (272).

[0148] When a detection signal is input to the water level detection sensor (271) while no detection signal is input to the sewage tank detection sensor (273) and the water supply tank detection sensor (274), the control unit (280) determines that the water supply and drainage device (400, see FIG. 13) is installed in the station (20) and can provide a notification regarding the installation status of the water supply and drainage device (400) through the notification unit (275). In this case, the control unit (280) can provide a notification to the user regarding maintenance and repair of the water supply and drainage device (400).

[0149] In this way, the control unit (280) can determine whether a water supply and drainage device (400, see FIG. 13) is installed in the station (20) through a water level detection sensor (271), a wastewater tank detection sensor (273), and a water supply tank detection sensor (274) related to the water supply tank (221) and the wastewater tank (222).

[0150] Accordingly, the installation status of the direct drainage device (400) can be recognized only with the detection sensors related to the water tank (221) and the wastewater tank (222) without the need for additional detection sensors, so that the user can install and use the direct drainage device (400) instead of the water tank (221) and the wastewater tank (222). In addition, the station (20) can provide the user with notifications regarding the installation status of the direct drainage device (400) and notifications regarding maintenance and repair of the water supply and drainage device.

[0151] Since the station (20) can detect the installation status of the direct drainage device (400) only with the water level detection sensor (271) placed on the upper part of the water tank receiving part (290), the direct drainage device (400) can be configured in a compact size regardless of the detection range of the waste water tank detection sensor (273) and the water tank detection sensor (274) placed on the lower part of the water tank receiving part (290).

[0152] 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 can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0153] 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 detachable mop; and A station provided to mount the robot vacuum cleaner; The above station is, A water tank for storing water; A water tank receiving portion forming a receiving space for the water tank; A water tank detection sensor positioned in the water tank receiving portion to detect whether the water tank is mounted; A water level detection sensor positioned in the water tank receiving portion to detect whether the water contained in the water tank is full; A water supply and drainage device for supplying water to the station from outside the station and discharging wastewater generated during the cleaning process of the mop outside the station; and A control unit for controlling the operation of the above station; The above control unit is a cleaning device that determines that the water supply and drainage device is installed in the water tank receiving unit when a detection signal is input from the water level detection sensor while no detection signal is input from the water tank detection sensor.

2. In paragraph 1, A cleaning device including a first detection unit that is positioned to be detected by the water level detection sensor while the water supply and drainage device is mounted on the water tank receiving portion.

3. In paragraph 2, The water tank detection sensor and the water level detection sensor include a Hall sensor for detecting a magnetic substance, A cleaning device in which the first sensing portion is a permanent magnet.

4. In paragraph 3, The above water bottle, A water tank for supplying water to the above station; and Includes a sewage tank for collecting the sewage generated during the washing process of the above mop, The above water level detection sensor is a cleaning device arranged to detect whether the sewage tank is full.

5. In paragraph 4, The above sewage tank, A float installed so as to be able to move up and down to the full water level according to the water level inside; It includes a second sensing unit which is coupled to the above float and is a permanent magnet, The above water level detection sensor is a cleaning device positioned at a position capable of detecting the second detection unit in the state of the water level of the sewage tank.

6. In paragraph 5, A cleaning device in which the first detection unit is positioned at a position of the water supply and drainage device corresponding to the position at which the second detection unit is positioned when the water level of the sewage tank is full.

7. In paragraph 4, The above water tank detection sensor, A water tank detection sensor for detecting the installation of the above water tank; and A cleaning device including a sewage tank detection sensor for detecting the installation of the sewage tank.

8. In paragraph 7, The above water tank detection sensor and the above waste tank detection sensor are a cleaning device that are respectively positioned at the bottom of the water tank receiving portion to face the water tank and the waste tank.

9. In paragraph 8, A cleaning device further comprising a third detection unit, which is a permanent magnet disposed opposite the water tank detection sensor and the waste tank detection sensor, while the water tank and the waste tank are mounted in the water tank receiving portion.

10. In paragraph 8, A cleaning device in which the lower surface of the above water supply and drainage device is positioned higher than the water tank detection sensor while mounted in the water tank receiving portion.

11. In paragraph 1, A cleaning device that provides a user with a notification of the installation status of the water supply and drainage device when the control unit determines that the water supply and drainage device is installed in the water tank receiving unit.

12. In paragraph 1, A cleaning device that provides a user with a notification regarding maintenance and repair of the water supply and drainage device when the control unit determines that the water supply and drainage device is installed in the water tank receiving unit.

13. Robot vacuum cleaner; and A station provided to mount the robot vacuum cleaner; The above station is, A water tank receiving portion that forms a water tank receiving space; A water level detection sensor positioned in the water tank receiving portion to detect whether the water contained in the water tank is full; and A cleaning device including a first detection unit that is positioned to be detected by the water level detection sensor while mounted on the water tank receiving portion, as a water supply and drainage device for supplying water to the station from outside the station and discharging wastewater generated during the cleaning process of the mop outside the station.

14. In paragraph 13, The above station is, A water tank detection sensor positioned in the water tank receiving portion to detect whether the water tank is mounted; A control unit for controlling the operation of the above station; The above control unit is a cleaning device that determines that the water supply and drainage device is installed in the water tank receiving unit when a detection signal is input from the water level detection sensor while no detection signal is input from the water tank detection sensor.

15. In paragraph 14, The above water bottle, A water tank for supplying water to the above station; and Includes a sewage tank for collecting the sewage generated during the washing process of the above mop, The above water level detection sensor is a cleaning device including a hall sensor arranged to detect whether the sewage tank is full.

Images