Robot cleaner station provided with filter device

Abstract

Disclosed is a robot cleaner station. The robot cleaner station according to the present invention comprises a main body, a mounting unit, a heater, and a filter device. The main body forms the body of the station, and the mounting unit is provided in the main body and configured such that the robot cleaner sits thereon. The heater is provided in the main body and configured to heat water. The filter device is configured to reduce mineral components in raw water. According to the present invention, water that passes through the filter device is supplied to the heater, and moisture heated by the heater is supplied to the mounting unit and can be used to wash a mop. The washing efficiency of the mop can be improved by heated moisture such as steam, and the formation of scale in the heater and a flow path connected to the heater can be prevented.

Description

Robot vacuum cleaner station equipped with a filter device

[0001] The present invention relates to a station for a robot vacuum cleaner, and more specifically, to a station for a robot vacuum cleaner in which charging of the robot vacuum cleaner, collection of dust, and washing of the mop can be performed through the station while the robot vacuum cleaner including the mop is coupled to the station.

[0002] A robot vacuum cleaner comprising a motor, various sensors, a battery, and artificial intelligence (AI) can be configured to drive autonomously and clean the area requiring cleaning.

[0003] A robot vacuum cleaner can be configured to suck up dust, etc. by vacuuming, sweep up dust, and / or wipe the cleaning surface using a mop.

[0004] The robot vacuum cleaner station is typically placed in a designated location, and after the robot vacuum cleaner finishes cleaning, it approaches the station and docks with it. When the robot vacuum cleaner docks with the station, the charging terminals of the robot vacuum cleaner and the station become connected, allowing the robot vacuum cleaner to be charged through the station, and the station can collect dust from the robot vacuum cleaner's dustbin.

[0005] Chinese Utility Model Registration CN 218922468 U (hereinafter referred to as 'Prior Art 1') discloses a cleaning station in which a robot vacuum cleaner is coupled to the lower side of a washing machine to charge the robot vacuum cleaner, collect dust, and clean the mop of the robot vacuum cleaner.

[0006] However, in the case of the station disclosed in the aforementioned prior art document 1, the structural height is relatively high, so there is a problem that it is difficult to install in low-height spaces.

[0007] In addition, the aforementioned prior art document 1 not only fails to consider cleaning the mop with steam, but also fails to consider additional problems that may occur when using steam, so improvement is required.

[0008] The problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a station for a robot vacuum cleaner that can supply heated moisture, such as steam, to the mop of the robot vacuum cleaner when washing the mop of the robot vacuum cleaner, and at the same time, prevent the formation of scale.

[0009] The problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a station for a robot vacuum cleaner that can be installed in a space low from the floor, such as the underside of a kitchen cabinet, and is equipped with means to prevent scale formation while allowing easy attachment and detachment of the robot vacuum cleaner.

[0010] The problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a robot vacuum cleaner station that can be installed in a low-height space, such as the underside of a kitchen cabinet, and allows for easy replacement of the means for preventing scale formation.

[0011] The problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a robot vacuum cleaner station that, when installed in a low-height space such as the underside of a kitchen cabinet, enables charging of the robot vacuum cleaner, collection of dust, and prevention of scale formation, while also forming an aesthetically pleasing appearance.

[0012] To achieve the above objective, a station for a robot vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention is a station to which a robot vacuum cleaner equipped with a mop is coupled and separated, and comprises a main body, a seating portion, a heater, and a filter device.

[0013] The above main body forms the body of the above station.

[0014] The above-mentioned mounting portion is provided on the main body and configured to allow the robot vacuum cleaner to be mounted thereon.

[0015] The above heater is provided in the above main body and is configured to heat water.

[0016] The above filter device is configured to reduce mineral components in water. The above filter device may be configured to filter calcium or magnesium components from raw water.

[0017] The above-described robot vacuum cleaner station (the term 'station' described below refers to a 'robot vacuum cleaner station' unless otherwise specifically limited) is configured such that water passing through the filter device is supplied to the heater, and moisture heated by the heater is supplied to the seating portion to be used for washing the mop.

[0018] The above-mentioned seating portion may be divided into a front portion forming a relatively front side; and a rear portion forming a relatively rear side.

[0019] The above rear portion includes a washing plate located below the mop, and moisture heated by the heater can be supplied to the washing plate.

[0020] The above station comprises an entrance provided at the front of the above seating portion and configured to allow the robot vacuum cleaner to enter and exit.

[0021] The filter device may be located to the left or right of the entrance.

[0022] The above station further includes a main door configured to open and close the entrance; and the filter device may be provided adjacent to the left or right side of the main door.

[0023] The above station further includes a dust bag drawer configured to allow dust from the robot vacuum cleaner seated on the above seating portion to flow in; and the dust bag drawer may be located on the opposite side of the filter device with respect to the entrance and the above seating portion.

[0024] The above station has a length (D1) in the front-to-back direction, a width (D2) in the left-to-right direction, and a height (D3) in the up-and-down direction, wherein D3 may be smaller than D1 and D2.

[0025] The above filter device has a length (D4) in the front-to-back direction, a width (D5) in the left-to-right direction, and a height (D6) in the up-and-down direction, wherein D4 may be larger than D5 and D6.

[0026] The filter device described above can be configured to be detachably coupled to the front of the main body while moving in the forward and backward directions.

[0027] The main body may comprise a filter receiving chamber that accommodates the filter device; and a filter insertion port that opens forward from the filter receiving chamber.

[0028] The above main body may be formed to include a filter guide formed on the inner surface of the filter receiving chamber and guiding the filter device to slide in the forward and backward directions.

[0029] The main body may further comprise a filter door that shields the filter device housed in the filter receiving chamber. The filter door may be connected to the filter insertion port so as to be openable and closable. The filter door may be configured to open and close integrally with the main door or to open and close individually.

[0030] The above station may further include a detergent tank in which detergent used for washing the mop is stored.

[0031] The detergent tank may be located to the left or right of the inlet or outlet, and may be positioned vertically above and below the filter device.

[0032] The above filter device may comprise one or more of an ion exchange resin, a polyphosphate, and a hardness reduction catalyst.

[0033] A station according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises a main body, a seating portion, a heater, and a filter device. The filter device is configured to reduce mineral components in water. The filter device may be configured to filter calcium or magnesium components from raw water. The filter device may comprise one or more of an ion exchange resin, a polyphosphate, and a hardness-reducing catalyst. Water that has passed through the filter device is supplied to a heater, and the water heated by the heater is supplied to the seating portion and can be used to wash the mop of a robot vacuum cleaner. Accordingly, by using heated water such as steam, the washing efficiency of the mop can be increased, and scale can be prevented from forming in the heater and the water path connected to the heater in the station.

[0034] A station according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an entrance for a robot vacuum cleaner to enter and exit, and a filter device may be located to the left or right of the entrance. In one embodiment, the station may include a main door configured to open and close the entrance, and a filter device may be provided to the left or right of the main door. The station has a length in the front-to-back direction (D1), a width in the left-to-right direction (D2), and a height in the up-to-down direction (D3), wherein D3 may be smaller than D1 and D2. The filter device has a length in the front-to-back direction (D4), a width in the left-to-right direction (D5), and a height in the up-to-down direction (D6), wherein D4 may be larger than D5 and D6. Accordingly, when forming a filter device in the station, an increase in the height of the station can be prevented, and by utilizing the space on the left and right sides of the station, the station can be easily installed in a low-height space, such as the underside of a kitchen cabinet. Furthermore, a filter device that prevents scale formation can be easily formed in the station while allowing easy attachment and detachment of the robot vacuum cleaner.

[0035] A station according to an embodiment of the present invention further includes a dust bag drawer, and the dust bag drawer may be located on the opposite side of the filter device with respect to the entrance and the seating portion. The filter device may be configured to be detachably coupled to the front of the main body while moving in the forward and backward directions. Accordingly, a station can be formed that facilitates the collection of dust from the robot vacuum cleaner and the replacement of the filter device.

[0036] A station according to an embodiment of the present invention may comprise a filter receiving chamber, a filter insertion port, a filter guide, and a filter door. Accordingly, a station can be formed that facilitates the assembly and replacement of a filter device that prevents scale formation and can form a beautiful appearance.

[0037] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a robot vacuum cleaner station according to one embodiment of the present invention installed on the lower side of a kitchen cabinet.

[0038] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a robot vacuum cleaner and a station according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the movement of liquid or steam in a station for a robot vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a station in which a robot vacuum cleaner is stored according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] FIG. 5a is a side cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a station in which a robot vacuum cleaner is stored according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] FIG. 5b is a side cross-sectional view schematically illustrating the arrangement of a filter device and a detergent tank inside a station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a filter device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view schematically illustrating a filter device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Hereinafter, in order to explain the present invention more specifically, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Throughout the detailed description, the same reference numerals indicate the same components.

[0046] The X, Y, and Z directions indicated on the drawing are mutually orthogonal directions. The X direction can be understood as the direction facing forward, the Y direction as the direction facing left, and the Z direction as the direction facing upward.

[0047] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a robot vacuum cleaner station (1) installed on the lower side of a kitchen cabinet (20) according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a robot vacuum cleaner (2) and a station (1) according to one embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 2, the station (1) is shown with the main door (104) excluded.

[0048] A robot vacuum cleaner (2) according to an embodiment of the present invention is configured to be placed on a floor surface (B) indoors and to clean the floor surface (B) while moving along the floor surface (B). Accordingly, the following description will define the vertical direction based on the state in which the robot vacuum cleaner (2) is placed on the floor surface (B) to enable cleaning according to its intended use.

[0049] A station (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention is configured such that when a robot vacuum cleaner (2) is coupled to the station (1), the robot vacuum cleaner (2) is charged, dust from the dust bin (265) of the robot vacuum cleaner (2) is collected, and the mop (225) of the robot vacuum cleaner (2) is washed.

[0050] The station (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention is configured so that a robot vacuum cleaner (2) can move to be connected to or separated from the station (1). Accordingly, the following description will be given by determining the vertical direction based on the state in which the station (1) is placed on the floor surface (B) so that the robot vacuum cleaner (2) can move to be connected to or separated from the station (1).

[0051] A station (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention has a length (D1) in the front-to-back direction, a width (D2) in the left-to-right direction, and a height (D3) in the up-and-down direction, wherein D3 may be smaller than D1 and D2. That is, the height (D3) in the up-and-down direction of the station (1) is smaller than the length (D1) in the front-to-back direction and the width (D2) in the left-to-right direction. D3 may be less than 1 / 2 of D1 and D2, and D3 may be less than 1 / 3 of D1 and D2. In this way, the station (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention may have a relatively flat structure.

[0052] Accordingly, the station (1) according to the embodiment of the present invention can be installed in a space with a relatively low vertical height.

[0053] The station (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention can be installed on the lower side of furniture. That is, the station (1) can be installed in the lower space of a certain piece of furniture supported by a plurality of legs, and by utilizing the lower space of the furniture as the installation space for the station (1), the space for installing the station (1) and the robot vacuum cleaner (2) indoors can be efficiently utilized.

[0054] The station (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention may be provided on the lower side of the kitchen cabinet (20).

[0055] Generally, a kitchen cabinet (20) is placed in a kitchen to store dishes, plates, cups, etc., and is configured to allow for cooking food or washing dishes. The kitchen cabinet (20) is equipped with a countertop (21) that can serve as a cooking surface or work surface, and a sink (22) (washbasin) is combined with the countertop (21) to provide a space for washing dishes.

[0056] Inside the kitchen cabinet (20), a water supply pipe (26) and a drain pipe (27) are provided, and water supplied through the water supply pipe (26) is used for cooking, washing dishes, etc., and the water used for washing dishes, etc. can be drained through the drain pipe (27).

[0057] A storage cabinet (23) for storing dishes and kitchen tools is provided at the bottom of the kitchen cabinet (20), and the lower plate (24) of the storage cabinet (23) is positioned so as to be spaced apart from the floor surface (B) by a predetermined height.

[0058] A pedestal (25) is attached to the lower plate (24) of the kitchen cabinet (20), and the kitchen cabinet (20) can be supported by the pedestal (25). The pedestal (25) is positioned along a direction perpendicular to the kitchen floor and can support the load of the kitchen cabinet (20). At this time, a space may be formed between the kitchen floor surface (B) and the lower plate (24) depending on the height of the pedestal (25).

[0059] Alternatively, it is also possible for the kitchen cabinet (20) to be fixed to the wall of the building without a pedestal (25). In this case as well, a space may be formed between the floor surface (B) of the kitchen and the lower plate (24).

[0060] As described above, a space (installation space (28)) may be provided between the kitchen floor surface (B) and the lower plate (24) on the lower side of the kitchen cabinet (20), and the station (1) according to the embodiment of the present invention may be installed in the lower space (installation space (28)) of the kitchen cabinet (20).

[0061] The height of the above installation space (28) may be 200mm or less and 160mm or less.

[0062] As described above, the station (1) according to the embodiment of the present invention can be placed in the lower space (installation space (28)) of the kitchen cabinet (20), thereby minimizing the exposure of the station (1) to the outside. By utilizing the lower space of the kitchen cabinet (20) as the installation space (28), no separate space is required for installation. Furthermore, by placing the robot vacuum cleaner (2) and the station (1) in the unused space created by the kitchen cabinet (20), the indoor space efficiency can be maximized.

[0063] As described above, the kitchen cabinet (20) may be equipped with a water supply pipe (26) and a drain pipe (27), and the robot vacuum cleaner (2) and the station (1) are connected to the water supply pipe (26) and / or the drain pipe (27) of the kitchen cabinet (20) so that water can be supplied through the water supply pipe (26) of the kitchen cabinet (20) and used water can be drained through the water supply pipe (26) of the kitchen cabinet (20).

[0064] That is, by placing the robot vacuum cleaner (2) and the station (1) on the lower side of the kitchen cabinet (20), the supply of necessary water and the discharge of water can be easily achieved.

[0065] A robot vacuum cleaner (2) according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises a vacuum cleaner body (200), a rotating plate (220), and a mop (225). The rotating plate (220) and the mop (225) may each be provided as a pair, and in this case, one mop (225) is coupled to one rotating plate (220).

[0066] The vacuum cleaner body (200) may form the overall shape of the robot vacuum cleaner (2) or be formed in the shape of a frame. Each component of the robot vacuum cleaner (2) may be combined with the vacuum cleaner body (200), and some components of the robot vacuum cleaner (2) may be accommodated inside the vacuum cleaner body (200).

[0067] In an embodiment of the present invention, the vacuum cleaner body (200) may be formed in a shape in which the size (width or diameter) in the horizontal direction (direction parallel to X and Y) is larger than the size (height) in the vertical direction (direction parallel to Z). Such a vacuum cleaner body (200) helps the robot vacuum cleaner (2) form a stable structure and can provide a structure advantageous for avoiding obstacles while the robot vacuum cleaner (2) moves (drives).

[0068] When viewed from above or below, the vacuum cleaner body (200) can be formed in various shapes, such as a circle, an oval, or a square.

[0069] The rotating plate (220) is coupled to the lower side of the vacuum cleaner body (200) and is configured to rotate relative to the vacuum cleaner body (200).

[0070] The rotating plate (220) is formed to have a predetermined area and is formed in the shape of a flat plate or a flat frame. The rotating plate (220) is generally laid horizontally, and accordingly, is formed in a shape where the width (or diameter) in the horizontal direction is sufficiently larger than the height in the vertical direction. The rotating plate (220) attached to the vacuum cleaner body (200) may be parallel to the bottom surface (B) or may be inclined with respect to the bottom surface (B).

[0071] The rotating plate (220) can be formed in the shape of a circular plate, and the bottom surface of the rotating plate (220) can generally be circular.

[0072] The rotating plate (220) can be formed in a rotationally symmetrical shape overall.

[0073] The rotation axis (220a) of the rotating plate (220) is formed in the center of the rotating plate (220). The rotation axis (220a) of the rotating plate (220) may be formed along the vertical direction or generally along the vertical direction.

[0074] In the robot vacuum cleaner (2) according to an embodiment of the present invention, a pair of rotating plates (220) may be formed identically to each other, or may be formed symmetrically with respect to a center line that crosses the front and back of the robot vacuum cleaner (2). If one rotating plate (220) is located on the left side of the robot vacuum cleaner (2), the other rotating plate (220) may be located on the right side of the robot vacuum cleaner (2), and in this case, the pair of rotating plates (220) may be symmetrical to each other.

[0075] The mop (225) overlaps with the rotating plate (220) and is attached to the lower side of the rotating plate (220).

[0076] The mop (225) is formed such that the bottom surface facing the floor has a predetermined area, and the mop (225) is formed in a flat shape. The mop (225) is formed such that the horizontal width (or diameter) is sufficiently larger than the vertical height. The bottom surface of the mop (225) may be parallel to the bottom surface (B) or may be inclined with respect to the bottom surface (B).

[0077] The bottom surface of the mop (225) can generally be circular. The mop (225) can be formed in a rotationally symmetrical shape overall. The mop (225) can be made of various materials capable of wiping the bottom surface (B) while in contact with the bottom surface (B). The bottom surface of the mop (225) can be made of a fabric or knitted material, a non-woven fabric, and / or a brush having a predetermined area.

[0078] In the robot vacuum cleaner (2) according to an embodiment of the present invention, the mop (225) is attached to the bottom surface of the rotating plate (220) and is coupled to the rotating plate (220) to rotate together with the rotating plate (220).

[0079] The mop (225) can be attached to and detached from the rotating plate (220) using various devices and methods. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the mop (225) may be attached to the rotating plate (220) by means such as hooking or fitting. In another embodiment, a separate device, such as a clamp, may be provided to attach the mop (225) to the rotating plate (220). In yet another embodiment, one end of a pair of fastening devices that are attached and detached from each other (specific examples of the fastening devices may include a pair of magnets that exert an attractive force on each other, a pair of Velcro that are attached to each other, or a pair of buttons (female and male buttons) that are attached to each other) may be fixed to the mop (225) and the other end may be fixed to the rotating plate (220).

[0080] When the mop (225) is attached to the rotating plate (220), the mop (225) and the rotating plate (220) may be attached in an overlapping manner, and the mop (225) may be attached to the rotating plate (220) such that the center of the mop (225) coincides with the center of the rotating plate (220).

[0081] As the rotating plate (220) to which the mop (225) is attached rotates around the rotation axis (220a), the floor surface (B) is mopped by the mop (225).

[0082] A robot vacuum cleaner (2) according to an embodiment of the present invention may be formed to include a drive wheel (230). The drive wheel (230) is coupled to the main body (100) to rotate around a rotation axis in the left-right direction (a direction parallel to Y). In the robot vacuum cleaner (2), two drive wheels (230) may be provided, and the drive wheels (230) may be provided on the left and right sides, respectively. By operating the drive wheel (230), the robot vacuum cleaner (2) can move on the floor surface (B).

[0083] A robot vacuum cleaner (2) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include an auxiliary wheel (235). The auxiliary wheel (235) is coupled to the main body (100) to rotate around a horizontal axis of rotation.

[0084] A robot vacuum cleaner (2) according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises a plurality of actuators (241, 242), a water tank (250), a suction port (260), a dust bin (265), and a battery (270).

[0085] Each actuator (241, 242) may be configured to include a motor and gears, etc., and is configured to transmit power to each part of the robot vacuum cleaner (2) (rotating plate (220), drive wheel (230), etc.).

[0086] The water tank (250) is configured to store a predetermined amount of water, and water from the water tank (250) is supplied to the mop (225) by means of a pump (255) provided in the robot vacuum cleaner (2), thereby enabling wet mop cleaning.

[0087] The suction port (260) may be provided in a form that is open at the bottom surface of the robot vacuum cleaner (2), and dust from the bottom surface (B) moves into the robot vacuum cleaner (2) through the suction port (260), and this dust moves into a dust bin (265) provided inside the robot vacuum cleaner (2) and is stored.

[0088] The battery (270) of the robot vacuum cleaner (2) supplies power to each part of the robot vacuum cleaner (2), such as actuators (241, 242) and pumps (255).

[0089] FIG. 3 is a drawing for explaining the movement of liquid or steam in a station (1) for a robot vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0090] FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a station (1) in which a robot vacuum cleaner (2) according to an embodiment of the present invention is stored.

[0091] FIG. 5a is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a station (1) in which a robot vacuum cleaner (2) according to an embodiment of the present invention is stored.

[0092] FIG. 5b is a side cross-sectional view schematically illustrating the arrangement of a filter device (150) and a detergent tank (135) inside a station (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0093] FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a filter device (150) according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a filter device (150) according to an embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 7, the flow of water inside the filter device (150) is indicated by an arrow.

[0094] A station (1) for a robot vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention is configured so that a robot vacuum cleaner (2) can be connected and also separated.

[0095] Based on the station (1), the direction in which the robot vacuum cleaner (2) separates is defined as the forward direction (X direction), and the opposite direction is defined as the rear direction (opposite direction of the X direction).

[0096] The station (1) comprises a main body (100) and a seating portion (110).

[0097] The main body (100) forms the body of the station (1). The main body (100) may include an entrance (102). The main body (100) may include a main door (104).

[0098] The main body (100) may form the overall shape of the station (1) or be formed in the shape of a frame. Each component forming the station (1) may be combined with the station (1), and some components forming the station (1) may be accommodated inside the main body (100).

[0099] In an embodiment of the present invention, the main body (100) is formed in a shape in which the size (width and length) in the horizontal direction (direction parallel to X and Y) is larger than the size (height) in the vertical direction (direction parallel to Z).

[0100] When viewed from above or below, the main body (100) can be formed in various shapes, such as a circle, an oval, or a square.

[0101] The mounting portion (110) is provided on one side of the main body (100) and is configured to allow the robot vacuum cleaner (2) to be mounted thereon. The mounting portion (110) may be provided inside the main body (100).

[0102] The station (1) may be formed in a shape that accommodates a robot vacuum cleaner (2). At this time, a receiving space (101) may be provided inside the station (1), and a seating portion (110) may form the bottom surface of the receiving space (101).

[0103] A robot vacuum cleaner (2) located in front of the station (1) can be placed on the landing portion (110) of the station (1) while moving backward, and at this time, the robot vacuum cleaner (2) and the station (1) can be combined (docking).

[0104] Also, at this time, the robot vacuum cleaner (2) can be attached to the station (1) with the rotating plate (220) and the mop (225) positioned relatively at the rear.

[0105] The entrance (102) of the station (1) is provided at the front of the seating portion (110) and is formed in a shape that is open in the front and rear directions, allowing the robot vacuum cleaner (2) to enter and exit.

[0106] The main door (104) is connected to the front of the main body (100) to open and close the entrance (102). The main door (104) can be hinge-connected to the front of the main body (100). At this time, it can be formed parallel to the left-right direction (Y direction) of the rotation axis of the main door (104).

[0107] The seating portion (110) may be formed by including a front portion (111) and a rear portion (112). The front portion (111) forms the front of the seating portion (110) relatively, and the rear portion (112) forms the rear of the seating portion (110) relatively.

[0108] The upper surface of the front part (111) may be formed to slope downward toward the front. The upper surface of the front part (111) may be formed to be sloped so that it gets closer to the bottom surface (B) as it faces the front end and gets further away from the bottom surface (B) as it faces the rear end. Due to this front part (111), the robot vacuum cleaner (2) can easily move from the bottom surface (B) to the upper side of the front part (111) (seating part (110)) (also in the opposite direction).

[0109] The rear portion (112) is configured so that all or part thereof can wash the mop (225) of the robot vacuum cleaner (2). The rear portion (112) may have a portion that forms a concave space downward, and its edge may be formed in a shape that protrudes upward from the center. With the robot vacuum cleaner (2) seated on the seating portion (110), the mop (225) of the robot vacuum cleaner (2) is located on the upper side of the rear portion (112).

[0110] In an embodiment of the present invention, the rear portion (112) may comprise a cleaning plate (112a). With the robot vacuum cleaner (2) seated on the seating portion (110), the cleaning plate (112a) is positioned below the mop (225). At least a portion of the cleaning plate (112a) is positioned adjacent to the mop (225).

[0111] In an embodiment of the present invention, the rear portion (112) may be formed to include a cleaning projection (112b). The cleaning projection (112b) may be formed to protrude upward from the upper surface of the cleaning plate (112a) and to come into contact with the mop (225). The cleaning projection (112b) may be provided in multiple numbers and may be spaced apart from each other along the horizontal direction.

[0112] In an embodiment of the present invention, water heated by a heater (160) is supplied to a washing plate (112a) and can be used to wash a rag (225).

[0113] With the mop (225) positioned on the upper side of the cleaning plate (112a), steam or heated water from the station (1) is supplied to the cleaning plate (112a) and also to the mop (225), thereby allowing the mop (225) to be cleaned. When cleaning the mop (225), the cleaning effect can be enhanced over the entire area of ​​the mop (225) by causing the rotating plate (220) of the robot vacuum cleaner (2) and the mop (225) to rotate. Additionally, at this time, contact or friction can occur between the cleaning protrusion (112b) and the mop (225), thereby enhancing the cleaning effect of the mop (225).

[0114] When the robot vacuum cleaner (2) is seated on the seating portion (110) of the main body (100), the terminal (first terminal (103)) of the station (1) and the terminal (second terminal (275)) of the robot vacuum cleaner (2) can be electrically connected to each other, and accordingly, the battery (270) of the robot vacuum cleaner (2) can be charged through the station (1).

[0115] With the robot vacuum cleaner (2) seated on the seating portion (110) of the main body (100), the dust bin (265) of the robot vacuum cleaner (2) can be connected to the dust bag drawer (120) and dust bag (121) of the station (1) through a passage (106) through which dust can move. Inside the station (1), the dust bag (121) is connected to the dust collection motor (125) through the passage (106) through which dust can move. As suction force is generated by the operation of the dust collection motor (125), the dust inside the dust bin (265) of the robot vacuum cleaner (2) can be collected into the dust bag (121) of the station (1).

[0116] In the station (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention, water from outside the station (1) is supplied into the station (1), and the supplied water can be used to wash the mop (225) of the robot vacuum cleaner (2).

[0117] The station (1) is equipped with a plurality of valves and a flow path (105) to control the movement of water. Additionally, the station (1) may be formed to include a washing chamber (140).

[0118] In the station (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention, the supplied water can be used to wash the mop (225) as is (without heating), and the supplied water can also be heated and transformed into hot water or steam before being used to wash the mop (225).

[0119] To this end, the station (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises a heater (160) and a filter device (150).

[0120] The water supply pipe (26) of the kitchen cabinet (20) described above can be connected to the first valve (131) of the station (1). The first valve (131) can be a 2-way valve or a 3-way valve. The first valve (131) can be connected to a filter device (150) and can also be connected to a washing chamber (140).

[0121] All or part of the water passing through the first valve (131) can be moved to the filter device (150), or all or part of the water passing through the first valve (131) can be moved to the washing chamber (140) without passing through the filter device (150).

[0122] A filter device (150) is provided in the main body (100) and is configured to reduce mineral components in water. The filter device (150) is configured to filter hardness substances (such as calcium or magnesium components) from raw water. The filter device (150) according to an embodiment of the present invention may be referred to as a water softening device or a water purification filter. The filter device (150) can remove calcium or magnesium components from water supplied to the filter device (150) from the first valve (131).

[0123] The filter device (150) may be made of various materials and structures to the extent that it reduces mineral components in the water. The filter device (150) may be made of various materials and structures to the extent that it removes hardness substances or scale-causing substances contained in the raw water.

[0124] Hardness substances can react at temperatures higher or lower than room temperature to form scale. Scale, such as calcium carbonate (CaCO3), refers to a substance formed when mineral components remaining in water clump together after the water evaporates.

[0125] Scale that forms on the water flow path can cause malfunction or performance degradation of the station (1), so it is necessary to prevent the formation of scale.

[0126] When raw water from which hardness substances have not been removed is heated, the occurrence of scale increases further, so it is necessary to prevent this.

[0127] A station (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises a filter device (150) to prevent such problems. The filter device (150) can be configured in various ways to prevent scale formation.

[0128] A filter device (150) according to an embodiment of the present invention may comprise one or more of a cation exchange resin (151), a polyphosphate, and a hardness-reducing catalyst. In addition to this, the filter device (150) may be configured in various ways to prevent scale formation.

[0129] The filter device (150) may include a carbon filter.

[0130] Ion exchange resins can remove limescale, magnesium, iron, heavy metals, etc. contained in water. Ion exchange resins reduce or suppress hardness components (calcium and magnesium, etc.) in water, thereby preventing scale formation.

[0131] Polyphosphates can prevent scale formation by releasing polyphosphate into water, which combines with calcium and magnesium ions in the water.

[0132] The hardness-reducing catalyst may comprise calcium carbonate (CaCO3) or magnesium carbonate (MgCO3). The hardness-reducing catalyst may comprise a silicate-based support, and calcium carbonate (CaCO3) or magnesium carbonate (MgCO3) may be formed on the surface of the support.

[0133] Carbon filters can remove impurities from water by utilizing the adsorption power of activated carbon.

[0134] The station (1) may include a second valve (132). The second valve (132) may be a two-way valve or a three-way valve. The second valve (131) may be connected to a filter device (150) and may also be connected to a heater (160).

[0135] All or part of the water passing through the second valve (131) can be supplied to the robot vacuum cleaner (2), or the water passing through the second valve (132) can be moved to the heater (160). The water supplied to the robot vacuum cleaner (2) can be stored in the water tank (250).

[0136] A heater (160) is provided on one side of the main body (100) and is configured to heat water. The heater (160) can be coupled inside the main body (100).

[0137] Water heated by the heater (160) can be converted into a steam state. At this time, the heater (160) can function as a steam generator.

[0138] As described above, hardness components (calcium and magnesium, etc.) in the water are removed by passing through the filter device (150) before the water moves to the heater (160), so that even if the water is heated by the heater (160) to generate steam, the formation of scale can be prevented.

[0139] The heater (160) is connected to the washing chamber (140) through the Euro, and water (or steam) heated by the heater (160) moves to the washing chamber (140).

[0140] And the washing chamber (140) is connected to the seating portion (110), and heated water passing through the washing chamber (140) is supplied to the seating portion (110).

[0141] As described above, in the station (1) according to the embodiment of the present invention, water that has passed through the filter device (150) is supplied to the heater (160), and the water heated by the heater (160) is supplied to the seating portion (110) (rear portion (112)) to be used for washing the rag (225).

[0142] Accordingly, by using heated water such as steam, the cleaning efficiency of the mop (225) can be increased, and scale can be prevented from forming in the heater (160) and the path (105) connected to the heater (160) at the station (1).

[0143] A station (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention may comprise a detergent tank (135) and a detergent pump (136).

[0144] The detergent tank (135) is configured to contain laundry detergent, etc., and such detergent can be used to wash a rag (225). The detergent tank (135) is connected to a washing chamber (140) through a detergent pump (136), and accordingly, the detergent can be supplied to the seating portion (110) (rear portion (112)) and used for washing.

[0145] The detergent tank (135) can be located to the left or right of the entrance (102).

[0146] In an embodiment of the present invention, the detergent tank (135) may be located on the same side as the filter device (150) with respect to the entrance (102). That is, the detergent tank (135) and the filter device (150) may be located together on the left side of the entrance (102), or the detergent tank (135) and the filter device (150) may be located together on the right side of the entrance (102).

[0147] At this time, the detergent tank (135) and the filter device (150) can be arranged vertically. That is, the detergent tank (135) can be placed above the filter device (150) or below it.

[0148] Meanwhile, the moisture (wastewater) used for washing the mop (225) in the seating section (110) (rear section (112)) can be moved to the wastewater tank (139) and then discharged outside the station (1). At this time, the wastewater tank (139) can be connected to the drain pipe (27) of the kitchen cabinet (20), and accordingly, the wastewater of the station (1) can be discharged outside through the drain pipe (27) of the kitchen cabinet (20).

[0149] In an embodiment of the present invention, the filter device (150) may be located to the left or right of the entrance (102) of the station (1).

[0150] The filter device (150) may be provided adjacent to the left or right side of the main door (104). The filter device (150) may be located on the left side or the right side of the main door (104). The filter device (150) may be located behind the left end of the main door (104) or behind the right end of the main door (104).

[0151] As described above, the station (1) includes a dust bag drawer (120) configured to allow dust from a robot vacuum cleaner (2) placed on a seating portion (110) to be introduced, and the dust bag drawer (120) may be located on the opposite side of the filter device (150) with respect to the entrance (102) and the seating portion (110).

[0152] By providing a filter device (150) on the left or right side of the main door (104), the increase in the vertical height of the station (1) due to the provision of the filter device (150) can be prevented.

[0153] In an embodiment of the present invention, the filter device (150) has a length (D4) in the front-to-back direction, a width (D5) in the left-to-right direction, and a height (D6) in the up-and-down direction, wherein D4 may be larger than D5 and D6. The filter device (150) is formed such that the size (length) in the front-to-back direction is larger than the size (thickness) in the left-to-right direction and the size (thickness) in the up-and-down direction. D5 and D6 may each be formed to be 1 / 3 or less of D4 and 1 / 4 or less of D4.

[0154] As described above, the filter device (150) is formed in a long shape in the front-rear direction (parallel to the X direction).

[0155] In an embodiment of the present invention, the filter device (150) may be configured to be detachably coupled to the front of the main body (100) while moving in the forward and backward directions.

[0156] To this end, the main body (100) is formed to include a filter receiving chamber (170) and a filter insertion port (172).

[0157] The filter receiving chamber (170) forms a predetermined space (filter receiving space (174)) that accommodates the filter device (150). The filter receiving chamber (170) can be formed in a shape corresponding to the external shape of the filter device (150). That is, the length of the filter receiving chamber (170) in the front-rear direction can be larger than the diameter of the cross-section.

[0158] The filter insertion port (172) forms the front end of the filter receiving chamber (170) and opens forward from the filter receiving chamber (170).

[0159] As described above, the filter device (150) is formed in a long shape along the front-rear direction and is formed to be able to be pulled out from the front of the station (1), so that the filter device (150) does not interfere with the connection and separation of the robot vacuum cleaner (2) to the station (1), and the increase in the size of the station (1) due to the provision of the filter device (150) can be minimized, and the filter device (150) can be easily replaced in the station (1) installed on the lower side of the kitchen cabinet (20).

[0160] The main body (100) may further include a filter guide (173) and a filter door (174).

[0161] The filter guide (173) is formed on the inner surface of the filter receiving chamber (170) and guides the filter device (150) so that the filter device (150) slides in the forward and backward directions. The filter guide (173) may be formed in a rib shape by protruding inward from the inner surface of the filter receiving chamber (170).

[0162] The filter door (174) is coupled to the filter insertion port (172) to shield the filter device (150) contained in the filter receiving chamber (170). The filter door (174) may be hinge-coupled to the filter insertion port (172).

[0163] When the detergent tank (135) described above is provided in the station (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention, the filter door (174) may be positioned in front of the detergent tank (135) and configured to shield or expose the filter device (150) and the detergent tank (135) together.

[0164] In an embodiment of the present invention, the filter door (174) may be positioned along the left-right direction (a direction parallel to the Y direction) with respect to the main door (104). The filter door (174) may be positioned to the left or right of the main door (104). Here, the filter door (174) may be formed integrally with the main door (104) or separately. Accordingly, the filter door (174) may be opened and closed integrally with the main door (104) or separately.

[0165] When the filter door (174) and the main door (104) are formed as a single unit, when the main door (104) is opened, the entrance (102), the detergent tank (135), and the filter device (150) are exposed together, and when the main door (104) is closed, the entrance (102), the detergent tank (135), and the filter device (150) are shielded together.

[0166] As described above, when forming a filter device (150) on the station (1), the vertical height of the station (1) can be prevented, and by utilizing the left and right spaces of the station (1), the station (1) can be easily installed in a low-height space, such as the lower side of a kitchen cabinet (20). In addition, a filter device (150) that prevents scale formation can be easily formed on the station (1) while allowing easy attachment and detachment of the robot vacuum cleaner (2) to the station (1).

[0167] Additionally, the filter device (150) can be configured to be detachably coupled to the front of the main body (100) while moving in the forward and backward directions, and the filter device (150) can be detached from the front of the station (1) installed on the lower side of the kitchen cabinet (20) while minimizing the space occupied by the filter device (150) in the station (1). Accordingly, a station (1) can be formed that facilitates the collection of dust from the robot vacuum cleaner (2) and the replacement of the filter device (150).

[0168] In addition, the station (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention may be formed by including a filter receiving chamber (170), a filter insertion port (172), a filter guide (173), and a filter door (174), and accordingly, the station (1) can be formed such that the assembly and replacement of the filter device (150) that prevents scale formation is easy and a beautiful appearance can be formed.

[0169] Although specific embodiments of the present invention have been described and illustrated above, the present invention is not limited to the described embodiments, and those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and variations can be made to other specific embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention should not be determined by the described embodiments but by the technical concept described in the claims.

[0170] The robot vacuum cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present invention is industrially applicable in that it is configured to prevent scale from forming in the heater and the fluid path connected to the heater.

Claims

1. A station to which a robot vacuum cleaner equipped with a mop is combined, The main body forming the body of the above-mentioned station; A mounting portion provided on the main body and configured to allow the robot vacuum cleaner to be mounted thereon; A heater provided in the main body above and configured to heat water; and A filter device configured to reduce mineral components in water; comprising Water that has passed through the filter device is supplied to the heater, and moisture heated by the heater is supplied to the seating portion to be used for washing the rag. Robot vacuum cleaner station.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned seating portion is, A front portion forming a relatively front part; and It is divided into a rear section forming the relatively rear, and The above rear part is, It includes a cleaning plate located on the lower side of the above-mentioned mop, and Water heated by the above heater is supplied to the above washing plate, Robot vacuum cleaner station.

3. In Paragraph 1, The above station is, It includes an entrance provided at the front of the above-mentioned seating portion and configured to allow the robot vacuum cleaner to enter and exit; The filter device is located to the left or right of the entrance. Robot vacuum cleaner station.

4. In Paragraph 3, The above station is, It further includes a main door configured to open and close the above-mentioned entrance, and The filter device is provided adjacent to the left or right side of the main door. Robot vacuum cleaner station.

5. In Paragraph 3, The above station is, It further includes a dust bag drawer configured to allow dust from the robot vacuum cleaner seated on the above-mentioned seating portion to flow in, The dust bag drawer is located on the opposite side of the filter device, centered on the inlet / outlet and the seating portion. Robot vacuum cleaner station.

6. In Paragraph 1, The above station has a length (D1) in the front-to-back direction, a width (D2) in the left-to-right direction, and a height (D3) in the up-and-down direction, wherein D3 is smaller than D1 and D2. The filter device has a length (D4) in the front-to-back direction, a width (D5) in the left-to-right direction, and a height (D6) in the up-and-down direction, wherein D4 is larger than D5 and D6. Robot vacuum cleaner station.

7. In Paragraph 3, The filter device is detachably formed to the front of the main body while moving in the forward and backward directions. Robot vacuum cleaner station.

8. In Paragraph 7, The above main body is, A filter receiving chamber for accommodating the above filter device; and A filter insertion opening that opens forward in the filter receiving chamber; comprising Robot vacuum cleaner station.

9. In Paragraph 8, The above main body is, A filter guide formed on the inner surface of the filter receiving chamber and guiding the filter device to slide in the forward and backward directions; comprising Robot vacuum cleaner station.

10. In Paragraph 7, The above main body is, A filter receiving chamber for accommodating the above filter device; and A filter door that shields the filter device housed in the filter receiving chamber; further comprising Robot vacuum cleaner station.

11. In Paragraph 10, The above station is, It further includes a main door configured to open and close the above-mentioned entrance, and The filter door is configured to open and close integrally with the main door or individually. Robot vacuum cleaner station.

12. In Paragraph 7, The above station is, It further includes a detergent tank in which the detergent used for washing the above-mentioned rag is stored, and The above detergent tank is located to the left or right of the above inlet / outlet, and is positioned vertically above and below the above filter device. Robot vacuum cleaner station.

13. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 12, The above filter device comprises one or more of an ion exchange resin, a polyphosphate, and a hardness reduction catalyst. Robot vacuum cleaner station.

14. In any one of paragraphs 1 through 12, The above filter device is configured to filter calcium or magnesium components from raw water, Robot vacuum cleaner station.

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