Robot cleaner station

Abstract

Provided is a robot cleaner station capable of washing a mop of a robot cleaner. The robot cleaner station, according to one aspect of the present invention, comprises: a housing; a seating unit for accommodating a robot cleaner; and a mop washing unit for washing a mop of the robot cleaner. The seating unit comprises a wash plate. The mop washing unit comprises: a fresh water supply pipe to which fresh water is supplied; a first branch valve which is provided to the fresh water supply pipe and branches the supplied fresh water in two directions; a first pipe which is connected to the first branch valve and through which the fresh water flowing in one direction passes; a water treatment filter which is installed in the first pipe and filters hardness materials from the fresh water so as to turn same into soft water; a second pipe which is connected to the first pipe and through which the soft water passes; a heater which is provided to the second pipe and heats the soft water so as to turn same into hot water or steam; a heating wash pipe through which the hot water or steam which has passed through the heater is supplied to the wash plate; and a fresh water wash pipe which is connected to the first branch valve and through which the fresh water flowing in the other direction is supplied to the wash plate.

Description

Robot vacuum cleaner station

[0001] The present invention relates to a robot vacuum cleaner station, and more specifically, to a robot vacuum cleaner station capable of washing the mop of a robot vacuum cleaner while the robot vacuum cleaner is coupled.

[0002] With the recent advancement of industrial technology, robotic vacuum cleaners are being developed that can autonomously drive and clean areas requiring cleaning without user intervention.

[0003] Such a robot vacuum cleaner is equipped with a sensor capable of recognizing the space to be cleaned, an agitator capable of sweeping the floor surface, and a mop capable of wiping the floor surface, and can drive while sucking up dust from the floor surface of the space recognized by the sensor and wiping with the mop.

[0004] Among robot vacuum cleaners, there are dry robot vacuum cleaners that can suck up and remove foreign matter scattered on the floor surface, and wet robot vacuum cleaners that can wipe the floor surface with a mop containing moisture to effectively remove foreign matter attached to the floor surface.

[0005] Dry robot vacuums are equipped with a dustbin and suck up debris from the floor surface using the suction power of a suction motor. Wet robot vacuums are equipped with a water tank, and water contained in the tank is supplied to a mop so that the mop, while consuming moisture, wipes the floor surface to effectively remove debris attached to the floor. Additionally, there are robot vacuums equipped with both an agitator and a mop.

[0006] The charging dock of a robot vacuum is a device into which a robot vacuum is docked after cleaning, and which supplies power to the battery equipped in the robot vacuum to charge it. The charging dock is equipped with an internal power supply module. The charging dock is equipped with a charging terminal connected to the power supply module, and the robot vacuum is equipped with a corresponding terminal. When the charging terminal and the corresponding terminal come into contact, power is supplied to the battery to charge it.

[0007] Meanwhile, there is a growing trend of developing station structures that go beyond mere charging docks for robot vacuums and incorporate additional features such as dust collection or mop cleaning functions.

[0008] In relation to the robot vacuum cleaner station described above, Chinese published patent CN 114601400 A (hereinafter referred to as 'Prior Art 1') discloses a self-cleaning dust collection system.

[0009] Specifically, the present invention discloses a dust collection sheet installed in a robot vacuum cleaner, a cleaning module for cleaning the dust collection sheet, a water purification tank installed in the cleaning module to supply cleaning water to the dust collection sheet, a wastewater tank installed in the cleaning module to store wastewater used for cleaning the dust collection sheet, and a configuration for supplying a cleaning agent when cleaning the dust collection sheet.

[0010] However, the robot vacuum station of prior art 1 has a limitation in that it washes the dust collection sheet with only clean water, and therefore it is not structured to improve cleaning performance by washing the dust collection sheet at a high temperature using hot water or steam.

[0011] In addition, if hot water or steam is used to wash the mop in the robot vacuum station, there is a risk that scale will form and performance will deteriorate. However, the robot vacuum station of prior art 1 has a problem in that it does not consider a structure to solve the problem of such scale formation at all.

[0012] In addition, Chinese Utility Model Registration CN 217592769 U (hereinafter referred to as 'Prior Art 2') discloses a self-cleaning station.

[0013] Specifically, the present invention discloses a cleaning member installed in a robot vacuum cleaner, a washing tank installed in a station to wash the cleaning member, a water tank that supplies washing water to the washing tank, a wastewater tank that stores wastewater used in the washing tank, and a configuration in which a cleaning agent is supplied to the washing tank.

[0014] However, the robot vacuum station of prior art 2 also has a limitation in that it cleans the cleaning material using only clean water, and thus is not structured to improve cleaning performance by cleaning the cleaning material at a high temperature using hot water or steam.

[0015] In addition, the robot vacuum station of prior art 2 also has the problem of not considering a structure to minimize performance degradation due to scale formation.

[0016] As described above, the cleaning station for the mop of a robot vacuum cleaner faces challenges that must be addressed in order to improve cleaning performance through high-temperature cleaning and minimize performance degradation that may occur during such high-temperature cleaning.

[0017] However, conventional robot vacuum stations have limitations in that they cannot adequately solve these challenges.

[0018] The present invention aims to solve the above-mentioned problems of a robot vacuum cleaner station capable of washing the mop of a robot vacuum cleaner.

[0019] Specifically, the present invention aims to provide a robot vacuum cleaner station in which the cleaning performance of the mop can be further improved by making the structure for cleaning the mop of the robot vacuum cleaner such that high-temperature cleaning is possible.

[0020] In addition, the present invention aims to provide a robot vacuum cleaner station in which the structure for washing the mop of the robot vacuum cleaner is configured to minimize performance degradation that may occur during high-temperature washing, thereby ensuring that the washing performance of the mop can always be properly maintained.

[0021] The present invention aims to provide a robot vacuum cleaner station that can be configured in various structures as needed, by ensuring that the structure for washing the mop of the robot vacuum cleaner is effectively applicable to various flow path methods.

[0022]

[0023] The technical problems to be solved by the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

[0024] To achieve the above or other purposes, a robot vacuum cleaner station according to one aspect of the present invention is configured such that a mop washing unit for washing the mop of the robot vacuum cleaner is configured to perform washing using hot water and steam. Specifically, hot water and steam that have passed through a heater in the mop washing unit are supplied to a washing plate to wash the mop.

[0025] In addition, a robot vacuum cleaner station according to one aspect of the present invention is configured such that the occurrence of scale is minimized when the mop washing unit, which washes the mop of the robot vacuum cleaner, uses hot water and steam. Specifically, the mop washing unit is configured to convert softened water that has passed through a water treatment filter into hot water and steam for use in washing the mop.

[0026] In addition, in a robot vacuum cleaner station according to one aspect of the present invention, softened water that has passed through a water treatment filter can be supplied to the robot vacuum cleaner.

[0027] In addition, a robot vacuum cleaner station according to one aspect of the present invention can detect the temperature of hot water and steam used for washing a mop.

[0028] In addition, a robot vacuum cleaner station according to one aspect of the present invention can control the temperature of the steam of the hot water through the flow rate passing through the heater.

[0029] In addition, according to one aspect of the present invention, the replacement cycle of the water treatment filter can be estimated through the accumulated value of the flow rate supplied to the fresh water supply pipe in the robot vacuum cleaner station.

[0030] In addition, a robot vacuum cleaner station according to one aspect of the present invention can notify the user of the replacement cycle of the water treatment filter.

[0031] In addition, a robot vacuum cleaner station according to one aspect of the present invention can use detergent stored in a detergent container for washing a mop.

[0032] In addition, a robot vacuum cleaner station according to one aspect of the present invention can store wastewater used for washing a mop in a wastewater tank.

[0033] In addition, according to one aspect of the present invention, in a robot vacuum cleaner station, softened water that has passed through a water treatment filter is supplied to the water tank of the robot vacuum cleaner and can be used for cleaning with a mop.

[0034] In addition, a robot vacuum cleaner station according to one aspect of the present invention is equipped with a pair of mops, and cleaning of each mop can be performed on a corresponding pair of cleaning plates.

[0035] In addition, according to one aspect of the present invention, a robot vacuum cleaner station may supply hot water and steam to each cleaning plate.

[0036] In addition, in a robot vacuum cleaner station according to one aspect of the present invention, at least one of an ion exchange resin, a polyphosphate, and a hardness reduction catalyst may be used in the water treatment filter.

[0037] In addition, a robot vacuum cleaner station according to one aspect of the present invention is configured such that a mop washing unit for washing the mop of the robot vacuum cleaner converts a minimum amount of fresh water into soft water for use. Specifically, the mop washing unit converts fresh water into hot water, and the soft water that has passed through a water treatment filter is converted into steam for use in washing the mop.

[0038] In addition, a robot vacuum cleaner station according to one aspect of the present invention is configured such that a mop washing unit for washing the mop of the robot vacuum cleaner converts a maximum amount of fresh water into soft water for use. Specifically, in the mop washing unit, all fresh water passes through a water treatment filter to be converted into soft water, and this soft water is configured to be used for washing the mop either directly or by converting it into hot water and steam.

[0039]

[0040] The means for solving the technical problems to be achieved in the present invention are not limited to the means mentioned above, and other means not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention belongs from the description below.

[0041] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating the state in which a vacuum cleaner system according to an embodiment of the present invention is installed on the lower side of a kitchen cabinet.

[0042] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the relationship in which the piping of a vacuum cleaner system according to an embodiment of the present invention is connected to a drain pipe.

[0043] FIG. 3 is a perspective view for explaining a vacuum cleaner system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 4 is a plan view of Figure 3.

[0045] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of Figure 3 taken along the front-rear direction.

[0046] FIG. 6 is a perspective view for explaining a robot vacuum cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Fig. 7 is a side view of Fig. 6.

[0048] Fig. 8 is a bottom view of Fig. 6.

[0049] Fig. 9 is a rear view of Fig. 6.

[0050] FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating the internal structure of a robot vacuum cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 11 is a plan view of Figure 10.

[0052] FIG. 12 is a side view illustrating a dust collection unit of a robot vacuum cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] FIG. 13 is a diagram schematically illustrating a first embodiment of the flow paths for clean water, soft water, hot water, and steam in a robot vacuum cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0054] FIG. 14 is a diagram schematically showing the main configuration of the Euro shown in FIG. 13.

[0055] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration for estimating and notifying the replacement cycle of a water treatment filter in a robot vacuum cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0056] FIG. 16 is a diagram schematically illustrating a second embodiment of the flow paths for clean water, soft water, hot water, and steam in a robot vacuum cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] FIG. 17 is a diagram schematically illustrating a third embodiment of the flow paths for clean water, soft water, hot water, and steam in a robot vacuum cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0058] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. However, in describing the present invention, descriptions of already known functions or configurations will be omitted in order to clarify the gist of the present invention.

[0059] The X, Y, and Z directions described in the embodiments of the present invention may each be mutually orthogonal directions. The X and Y directions may each be directions parallel to the horizontal direction, and the Z direction may be a direction parallel to the vertical direction. When the X direction is a direction parallel to the left-right direction, the Y direction may be a direction parallel to the front-back direction. When the X direction is a direction parallel to the front-back direction, the Y direction may be a direction parallel to the left-right direction.

[0060]

[0061] FIG. 1 illustrates a state in which a vacuum cleaner system (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention is installed on the lower side of a kitchen cabinet (2), and FIG. 2 illustrates a relationship in which the piping of the vacuum cleaner system (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention is connected to a drain pipe (25).

[0062] A cleaning system (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention may be provided on the lower side of a kitchen cabinet (2). Specifically, the kitchen cabinet (2) may be placed in a kitchen to store bowls, plates, cups, etc., and may provide a space for cooking food or washing dishes.

[0063] In addition, the kitchen cabinet (2) may be equipped with a countertop (worktop) that can serve as a sink, a countertop, or a work table.

[0064] For example, the kitchen cabinet (2) may include a sink that provides a space for washing dishes on the countertop. Alternatively, the kitchen cabinet (2) may include a countertop for performing cooking tasks. Additionally, the kitchen cabinet (2) may include a gas range stand on which a gas range, induction cooktop, halogen cooktop, oven, etc., are installed on the countertop.

[0065] Generally, a standard cabinet (2) with a width of 600mm in the front-to-back direction and 600mm in the left-to-right direction can be used for the kitchen cabinet.

[0066] A cleaning system (1) according to another embodiment of the present invention may be provided on the lower side of a structure comprising at least one of a water supply pipe and a drain pipe. Specifically, the water supply pipe may refer to a flow path connected to an external water source that supplies fluid to the structure, and the drain pipe may refer to a flow path that discharges fluid discharged from the structure into a sewer.

[0067] A storage cabinet for storing dishes and kitchen tools may be provided in the lower part of such a kitchen cabinet (2) or the structure. That is, the kitchen cabinet (2) or the structure may include a top plate (22) that provides a space for performing tasks such as cooking or washing dishes, a lower plate (23) that is spaced apart from the ground by a predetermined height, and a storage space formed between the top plate (22) and the lower plate (23) for storing dishes and kitchen tools. In this case, if the kitchen cabinet (2) is a sink, a sink (22a) may be placed on the top plate (22).

[0068] Additionally, the lower plate (23) can be supported by the pedestal (21). The pedestal (21) is positioned along a direction perpendicular to the kitchen floor and can support the load of the kitchen cabinet (2). At this time, a space may be formed between the kitchen floor and the lower plate (23) depending on the height of the pedestal (21).

[0069] Alternatively, it is also possible for the kitchen cabinet (2) to be fixed to the wall of the building without a pedestal (21). In this case as well, a space may be formed between the floor of the kitchen and the lower plate (23).

[0070] The vacuum cleaner system (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention is mounted in the space between the kitchen floor and the lower plate (23) as described above (hereinafter referred to as the mounting space).

[0071] For example, the mounting space may have a height of 200mm or less, and generally may have a height of 160mm or less.

[0072] Accordingly, according to the present invention, since the vacuum cleaner system (1) is placed in the lower space of the kitchen cabinet (2), the vacuum cleaner system (1) has the effect of minimizing exposure to the outside.

[0073] In addition, compared to placing a charging station for a robot vacuum cleaner in a certain space in a living room, room, or kitchen, the vacuum cleaner system (1) is placed in the unused space created by the kitchen cabinet (2) without occupying a separate space, thus maximizing space efficiency.

[0074] Meanwhile, the kitchen cabinet (2) or the structure is provided with a drain pipe (25) capable of draining liquid used for cooking or water used for washing dishes. At least a portion of the drain pipe (25) may be placed in the storage space formed between the top plate (22) and the bottom plate (23). Generally, the drain pipe (25) may be connected to a drain formed in the sink (22a) of the kitchen sink. The drain pipe (25) includes a U-trap (25a) to prevent backflow of contaminated gas or odors. The U-trap (25a) may be placed in the storage space. Liquid flowing in through the drain may flow downward by gravity upstream (25b) of the U-trap, accumulate in the U-trap (25a), and when the water level rises above a predetermined level set by the U-trap (25a), it may flow downward along the downstream (25c) of the U-trap and be discharged into the sewer.

[0075] The vacuum cleaner system (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention can wash and dry the mop (242) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) using the drain pipe (25) as described above.

[0076] Additionally, although not shown, a water supply pipe may be provided in the kitchen cabinet (2). Water (or purified water) may be supplied to the cleaning system (1) through the water supply pipe.

[0077] Below, the specific structure of the vacuum cleaner system (1) will be described.

[0078] FIGS. 3 to 5 illustrate drawings for explaining a vacuum cleaner system (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] A vacuum cleaner system (1) according to an embodiment of the present specification may include a robot vacuum cleaner station (100) and a robot vacuum cleaner (200).

[0080] The vacuum cleaner system (1) includes a robot vacuum cleaner station (100). A robot vacuum cleaner (200) may be coupled to the robot vacuum cleaner station (100). Specifically, the robot vacuum cleaner (200) may enter through the front of the robot vacuum cleaner station (100), and the robot vacuum cleaner (200) may be accommodated inside the robot vacuum cleaner station (100). The robot vacuum cleaner station (100) can remove dust from the dust bin (220) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200). The robot vacuum cleaner station (100) can wash the rotating cleaning part (240) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200). The robot vacuum cleaner station (100) can dry the rotating cleaning part (240) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200). The robot vacuum cleaner station (100) can supply power to the robot vacuum cleaner (200).

[0081] FIGS. 6 to 9 disclose drawings for explaining a robot vacuum cleaner (200) in a vacuum cleaner system (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0082] Referring to FIGS. 6 to 9, the structure of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) is described as follows.

[0083] The robot vacuum cleaner (200) can automatically clean the area to be cleaned by driving itself through the area to be cleaned and sucking up foreign substances such as dust from the floor.

[0084] A robot vacuum cleaner (200) according to an embodiment of the present invention is configured to be placed on a floor and move along the floor surface to clean the floor. Accordingly, the following description will define the up and down directions based on the state in which the robot vacuum cleaner (200) is placed on the floor.

[0085] And based on a pair of wheels (260), the side where the auxiliary wheel (270) to be described later is positioned is designated as the front, and the side where the rotating cleaner (240) to be described later is positioned is designated as the rear.

[0086] The 'lowest part' of each component described in the embodiment of the present invention may be the part located lowest in each component when the robot vacuum cleaner (200) according to the embodiment of the present invention is placed on the floor for use, or the part closest to the floor.

[0087] A robot vacuum cleaner (200) according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises a body (210), a dust bin (220), a water tank (230), a rotating cleaning unit (240), an agitator (250), a wheel (260), an auxiliary wheel (270), and a charging terminal (280).

[0088] The body (210) can form the overall shape of the robot vacuum cleaner (200). Each component forming the robot vacuum cleaner (200) can be combined with the body (210), and some components forming the robot vacuum cleaner (200) can be accommodated inside the body (210).

[0089] Specifically, the body (210) may be equipped with parts of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) in its internal space. For example, the body (210) may accommodate a battery and at least one motor in its internal space.

[0090] In an embodiment of the present invention, the body (210) may be formed in a shape in which the width (or diameter) in the horizontal direction (in the direction parallel to X and Y) is greater than the height in the vertical direction (in the direction parallel to Z). Such a body (210) helps the robot vacuum cleaner (200) form a stable structure and can provide a structure advantageous for avoiding obstacles while the robot vacuum cleaner (200) moves (drives).

[0091] When viewed from above or below, the body (210) can be made in various shapes, such as circular, elliptical, or square.

[0092] The body (210) can be configured by dividing it into a lower body and an upper body, and the lower body and the upper body can be combined to form a space inside.

[0093] The lower body can be combined with the upper body to form a space capable of accommodating a battery, at least one sensor, and at least one motor inside.

[0094] In the lower body, an intake part (211) into which air is introduced and a hole for accommodating a pair of wheels (260) may be formed.

[0095] The suction part (211) may be a passage through which dust from the bottom surface is introduced. Additionally, the suction part (211) may be in communication with a suction passage (not shown) formed inside the body (210), and the suction passage may be in communication with the internal space of the dust container (220).

[0096] Meanwhile, the lower body may be further provided with an exhaust passage. One side of the exhaust passage may be in communication with the internal space of the dust bin (220), and the other side may be in communication with the exhaust port. At this time, a filter may be placed in the exhaust port.

[0097] With this configuration, air introduced through the intake section (211) flows into the dust bin (220) through the intake path and can be discharged to the exhaust port through the exhaust path.

[0098] An agitator (250), to be described later, can be rotatably accommodated in the suction part (211). With this configuration, dust around the suction part (211) can be guided into the suction part (211) by the rotation of the agitator (250), and the efficiency of dust suction can be increased.

[0099] The upper body can form the upper exterior of the robot vacuum cleaner (200). Although not illustrated, the upper body may be equipped with a display.

[0100] The robot vacuum cleaner (200) of the present invention may include a bumper. The bumper is formed to be attached along the edge of the body (210) and to move relative to the body (210).

[0101] The bumper may be attached along a portion of the edge of the body (210) or along the entire edge of the body (210). At least one elastic member (not shown) may be provided between the bumper and the body (210). With this configuration, when the bumper comes into contact with an obstacle or the like and moves relative to the center of the body (210), the bumper can return to its original position by the restoring force of the elastic member (not shown), and can absorb or disperse the impact applied to the bumper, thereby preventing and reducing the transmission of impact to the body (210).

[0102] The dustbin (220) may be equipped to suck in external dust and air and store dust.

[0103] The dust container (220) can store dust that enters through the suction path. The dust container (220) may have a dust inlet that communicates with the suction path, an internal space for storing dust, and an air outlet for discharging air.

[0104] The dustbin (220) may be provided inside the body (210). At this time, the dustbin (220) may be fixedly connected to the body (210) or, depending on the embodiment, may be provided so as to be detachable.

[0105] Meanwhile, in the present invention, a dust discharge channel may be formed in the dust bin (220). The dust discharge channel may connect the internal space of the dust bin (220) with the external space of the robot vacuum cleaner (200). With such a configuration, when dust is collected through the robot vacuum cleaner station (100), the dust inside the dust bin (220) can be removed.

[0106] Meanwhile, a dust outlet (221) communicating with the dust discharge path may be formed in the dust container (220) according to an embodiment of the present invention. For example, the dust outlet (221) may be formed on one side of the rear of the outer surface (or outer circumference) of the body (210). For another example, the dust outlet (221) may be formed on the outer surface of the dust container (220).

[0107] In addition, the robot vacuum cleaner (200) according to an embodiment of the present invention may be provided with a dust bin door (222) capable of selectively opening and closing the dust discharge port (221). Specifically, the dust bin door (222) may be coupled to the body (210) and positioned to block the dust discharge port (221). For example, the dust bin door (222) may be formed of a rubber or resin material and configured to be flip-floppy, so that one side may be fixedly coupled to the body (210).

[0108] With this configuration, when the dust collection motor (145) of the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) described later is operated, the dust bin door (222) is elastically deformed by the driving force of the dust collection motor (145), and the dust discharge port (221) is opened so that dust inside the dust bin (220) can be collected into the dust collection unit (140) of the robot vacuum cleaner station (100).

[0109] The water container (230) is formed in the shape of a container having an internal space for storing a liquid such as water. The water container (230) is placed inside the body (210), and may be fixedly connected to the body (210) or detachably connected to the body (210).

[0110] The water tank (230) includes a supply unit (231) and a nozzle (not shown). The supply unit (231) may be provided to supply a liquid, such as water, from the outside. For example, the supply unit (231) may have an inlet formed on the rear side of the outer surface (or outer circumference) of the body (210) and may be connected to a storage space inside the water tank (230) through a water supply hose.

[0111] At this time, the supply unit (231) may be positioned on the opposite side of the left and right direction of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) in relation to the dust outlet (221). For example, if the dust outlet (221) is positioned on the rear left side of the body (210), the supply unit (231) may be positioned on the rear right side of the body (210).

[0112] Through this configuration, the robot vacuum cleaner (200) is connected to the robot vacuum cleaner station (100), and the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) can simultaneously perform dust collection and water injection.

[0113] Meanwhile, the nozzle (not shown) is formed in the shape of a tube or pipe and is connected to the water tank (230) so that the liquid inside the water tank (230) can flow through it. One end of the nozzle (not shown) is connected to the water tank (230), and the other end is positioned so as to be located on the upper side or on the rotating plate of a pair of rotating plates (241), respectively, thereby allowing the liquid inside the water tank (230) to be supplied to a pair of rags (242) respectively.

[0114] That is, the nozzle (not shown) may be formed in a shape where one tube is branched into two, and in this case, one of the branched ends may be located on the upper side of the left mop, and the other branched end may be located on the upper side of the right mop.

[0115] Meanwhile, although not shown, the water tank (230) is equipped with a pump to allow water inside the water tank (230) to flow through a nozzle (not shown). Therefore, when the pump of the water tank (230) is operated, the liquid stored inside the water tank (230) can be discharged to a rotating cleaner (240) through a nozzle (not shown).

[0116] The rotating cleaning unit (240) includes a rotating plate (241) and a mop (242).

[0117] The rotating plate (241) may be provided as a pair including a left rotating plate and a right rotating plate, and the mop (242) may be provided as a pair including a left mop and a right mop.

[0118] The rotating plate (241) can be rotatably positioned on the bottom surface of the body (210), and the mop (242) can be attached to the lower side.

[0119] The rotating plate (241) is formed to have a predetermined area and is formed in the shape of a flat plate or a flat frame. This rotating plate (241) 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 (241) attached to the body (210) may be parallel to the bottom surface (B) or may be inclined with respect to the bottom surface (B). The rotating plate (241) may be formed in the shape of a circular plate, the bottom surface of the rotating plate (241) may generally be circular, and the rotating plate (241) may be formed in a rotationally symmetrical shape overall.

[0120] A pair of rotating plates (241) can be symmetrical to each other.

[0121] The mop (242) can be attached to the lower side of the rotating plate (241) so as to face the bottom surface (B).

[0122] The mop (242) is formed such that the bottom surface facing the floor has a predetermined area, and the mop (242) is formed in a flat shape. The mop (242) is formed such that the width (or diameter) in the horizontal direction is sufficiently larger than the height in the vertical direction. When the mop (242) is attached to the body (210), the bottom surface of the mop (242) may be parallel to the bottom surface (B) or may be inclined with respect to the bottom surface (B).

[0123] The bottom surface of the mop (242) can generally be circular, and the mop (242) can be formed in a rotationally symmetrical shape overall. Additionally, the mop (242) can be attached to the bottom surface of the rotating plate (241) and can be coupled to the rotating plate (241) to rotate together with the rotating plate (241).

[0124] Meanwhile, although not shown, the rotating cleaning unit (240) may be equipped with a driving unit that applies rotational force to the rotating plate (241). For example, the driving unit may be equipped with a motor and at least one gear. Thus, when the driving unit is operated, the rotating plate (241) and the mop (242) rotate to wipe and clean the floor surface.

[0125] The agitator (250) is rotatably equipped with a plurality of brushes to guide external dust and air into the dust bin (220). At this time, the agitator (250) may be equipped with at least one gear.

[0126] Meanwhile, the agitator (250) according to the present embodiment may receive rotational power by having a separate agitator motor (not shown) installed, and may also receive rotational power from a driving motor according to the embodiment, and may also receive rotational power from the driving unit of the rotating cleaning unit (240).

[0127] The wheel (260) may be provided on the bottom surface of the body (210) and may be connected to a driving unit (not shown). At this time, the driving unit (not shown) may be coupled to the body (210).

[0128] The wheel (260) is provided on the body (210) and can roll on the bottom surface.

[0129] The wheel (260) may be composed of a first driving wheel and a second driving wheel. In this case, the first driving wheel may be formed identically to the second driving wheel, or may be formed symmetrically. For example, if the first driving wheel is located on the left side of the robot vacuum cleaner (200), the second driving wheel may be located on the right side of the robot vacuum cleaner (200), and in this case, the first driving wheel and the second driving wheel may be symmetrical to each other.

[0130] The drive unit (not shown) may be comprised of a driving motor and a gear. In this case, the driving motor is housed inside the body (210) and can provide power to the wheel (260). The driving motor may include a first driving motor and a second driving motor.

[0131] The driving motor may be an electric motor. Multiple gears are configured to mesh and rotate with each other, connecting the driving motor and the wheel (260) and transmitting the rotational power of the driving motor to the wheel (260). Therefore, the wheel (260) can rotate when the rotation axis of the driving motor rotates.

[0132] With this configuration, when the driving motor is operated, the wheel (260) rotates and the body (210) can travel on the floor at a predetermined driving speed.

[0133] The auxiliary wheel (270) is provided on the lower side of the body (210) and can roll on the floor surface (surface to be cleaned). The auxiliary wheel (270) can support the body (210) on the floor surface together with a pair of wheels (260). With this configuration, the auxiliary wheel (270) can guide the movement of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) while minimizing friction between the robot vacuum cleaner (200) and the floor surface.

[0134] A suction motor (not shown) can generate a suction force capable of sucking in external dust and air through the suction section (211). For example, the suction motor (not shown) may be an electric motor. External dust and air can be drawn into the suction section (211) by the suction force generated by the suction motor (not shown), and after passing through the suction path, can reach the dust bin (220).

[0135] Although not illustrated, the battery is configured to be coupled to the body (210) and to supply power to other components forming the robot vacuum cleaner (200). The battery can supply power to at least one motor equipped in the robot vacuum cleaner (200). For example, the battery can supply power to the motors equipped in the rotary cleaner (240), the agitator (250), the wheel (260), and the suction motor (not illustrated).

[0136] In addition, the battery can supply power to the sensor unit (not shown) and the control unit (not shown).

[0137] The battery can be charged by an external power source, and for this purpose, a charging terminal (280) for charging may be provided on one side of the body (210). For example, the charging terminal (280) may be positioned on the rear side of the outer surface of the body (210). When the robot vacuum cleaner (200) is connected to the robot vacuum cleaner station (100), the charging terminal (280) can come into contact with the power supply terminal (123b) of the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) to receive power.

[0138] FIG. 10 shows a perspective view for explaining a robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 11 shows a plan view of FIG. 10.

[0139] Referring to FIGS. 10 and FIGS. 11, the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) of the present invention is described as follows.

[0140] A robot vacuum cleaner (200) can be accommodated in the robot vacuum cleaner station (100). A robot vacuum cleaner (200) can be attached to the mounting portion (120) of the robot vacuum cleaner station (100).

[0141] The robot vacuum cleaner station (100) may include a housing (110).

[0142] The housing (110) can form the exterior of the robot vacuum cleaner station (100). For example, the housing (110) can be formed in a shape similar to a cuboid including at least one outer wall surface.

[0143] The housing (110) may have a space formed therein to accommodate a seating portion (120), a dust collection channel, a dust collection portion (140), a dust collection motor (145), a mop washing portion (160), a mop drying portion (170), and a circulation channel.

[0144] The housing (110) can be mounted on the lower side of the kitchen cabinet (2). Specifically, the housing (110) can be installed in a mounting space formed between the lower plate (23) of the kitchen cabinet (2) and the floor of the kitchen.

[0145] The housing (110) includes a pair of outer walls (111) facing each other. The outer walls (111) may refer to surfaces formed along the direction of gravity.

[0146] For example, a pair of outer walls (111) may be installed on the lower side of the kitchen cabinet (2) at a predetermined interval. For another example, the housing (110) may further include a bottom surface facing the kitchen floor, and the pair of outer wall surfaces may be connected through the bottom surface. For yet another example, the housing (110) may further include a bottom surface facing the kitchen floor and an upper surface facing the lower plate (23) of the kitchen cabinet (2), and the upper and lower ends of the pair of outer walls (111) may be connected to each other through the bottom surface and the upper surface. Thus, even if foreign matter falls downward from the kitchen cabinet (2), it is possible to prevent the components of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) and the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) from being contaminated. For yet another example, the housing (110) may further include the bottom surface, the upper surface, and a rear surface facing the wall of the building.

[0147] With this configuration, components of a robot vacuum station (100) can be accommodated inside the housing (110) (between a pair of outer walls).

[0148] Additionally, a robot vacuum cleaner (200) can be accommodated inside the housing (110). The housing (110) may be arranged such that a pair of outer walls (111) are spaced apart from the maximum horizontal width of the robot vacuum cleaner (200). With this configuration, the robot vacuum cleaner (200) can enter and exit the housing (110).

[0149] At this time, in this embodiment, the robot vacuum cleaner (200) can enter and exit the front of the robot vacuum cleaner station (100). Here, "front" may refer to the direction in which the door (126) is provided relative to the interior of the robot vacuum cleaner station (100).

[0150] Additionally, the rear may refer to the opposite direction from the front relative to the interior of the robot vacuum station (100). For example, a wall of a building (not shown) may be placed at the rear of the robot vacuum station (100).

[0151] In addition, when looking forward from inside the robot vacuum cleaner station (100), the left side can be called the left side and the right side the right side.

[0152] That is, the outer wall (111) of the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) can be positioned on the left side and the right side, respectively.

[0153] Accordingly, the upper side of the housing (110) is covered by the kitchen cabinet (2), and the lower side of the housing (110) can be covered by the kitchen floor. Additionally, the left and right sides of the housing (110) are covered by the outer wall but are positioned at the bottom of the kitchen cabinet (2). At this time, the lower part of the kitchen cabinet (2), excluding the robot vacuum cleaner station (100), is finished by a baseboard (26), so that consequently only the front of the housing (110) is exposed to the outside.

[0154] Through this, the robot vacuum station (100) and the robot vacuum (200) can be minimized from being exposed to the outside.

[0155] With such a configuration, the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) of the present invention has the effect of providing an aesthetic sense to the user in terms of interior design.

[0156] Meanwhile, although not shown, the housing (110) may have a space through which a water supply hose connected to a water supply pipe passes, a space through which a drainage hose through which wastewater generated after washing the mop (242) is discharged, and a space through which a hose through which moisture generated during the drying process of the mop (242) is discharged. For example, a space through which the above hoses can pass may be formed in at least one of the outer wall (111) and the upper side of the housing (110).

[0157] As illustrated in FIG. 11, the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) may include a seating portion (120).

[0158] The robot vacuum cleaner (200) and the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) can be physically, electrically, and / or electrically connected through the mounting portion (120).

[0159] The seating portion (120) can be placed inside the housing (110).

[0160] At this time, according to the embodiment, the seating portion (120) may be provided so that it can be withdrawn from the housing (110) through a drawer.

[0161] With this configuration, if the mounting part (120) needs to be cleaned or repaired, or if some parts need to be replaced, the user can easily pull out the mounting part (120) for maintenance.

[0162] An entrance (127) into which a robot vacuum cleaner (200) is inserted may be formed in the seating portion (120). The entrance (127) may refer to a space formed on the front surface of the robot vacuum cleaner station (100).

[0163] The entrance (127) can be formed to a size that allows the robot vacuum cleaner (200) to pass through. That is, the height of the entrance (127) is formed to be greater than the height of the robot vacuum cleaner (200). At this time, the entrance (127) may refer to a space formed upward along a vertical direction from the front end of the base (121) to be described later, and the top of the entrance may be the same as the lower surface of the lower plate (23) of the kitchen cabinet (2) or the top of the housing (110).

[0164] Additionally, the entrance (127) is formed such that its width in the left-right direction is greater than the maximum width of the robot vacuum cleaner (200). At this time, at least one of the dust collection unit (140) and the mop washing unit (160) may be arranged on the left and right sides of the entrance (127). Accordingly, the left and right ends of the entrance (127) may form a boundary with the dust collection unit (140) and the mop washing unit (160). If either the dust collection unit (140) or the mop washing unit (160) is absent, it is also possible for the outer wall surface of the housing (110) to form the boundary.

[0165] At this time, the entrance (127) can be opened and closed by a door (126). The door (126) is positioned at the top or bottom of the entrance (127) and may be provided with a rotation axis along a direction parallel to the base (121). The door (126) may be hinged to the housing (110). Alternatively, the door (126) may be hinged to the inner wall (124) of the seating portion (120).

[0166] The door (126) can be rotated by a door drive unit (126a). For example, the door drive unit (126a) may be a motor.

[0167] For example, the door (126) may be formed in the shape of a rectangular flat plate, and a hinge portion (126b) may be provided at the top, and a door driving portion (126a) may be connected to one end of the hinge portion (126b) in the axial direction. At this time, the hinge portion (126b) of the door (126) may be directly connected to the shaft of the door driving portion (126a), or may be connected so as to transmit power through at least one gear.

[0168] The door (126) can maintain the doorway (127) closed when the robot vacuum cleaner (200) is accommodated in the seating area (120). Then, when the robot vacuum cleaner (200) starts moving from the seating area (120), the doorway (127) can be rotated to open. Then, the door (126) can be rotated to close the doorway (127) after the robot vacuum cleaner (200) passes through the doorway (127). Additionally, the door (126) can be rotated to open the doorway (127) when the robot vacuum cleaner (200) approaches from outside the robot vacuum cleaner station (100).

[0169] The seating portion (120) may include a receiving space, a base (121), a connecting wall (123), and an inner wall (124).

[0170] A robot vacuum cleaner (200) can be accommodated in the receiving space of the seating portion (120). For example, the receiving space may refer to a space enclosed by a base (121), a connecting wall (123), and an inner wall (124). For another example, the receiving space may refer to a space enclosed by a base (121), a cleaning plate (122), a connecting wall (123), and an inner wall (124). For yet another example, the receiving space may refer to a space where the robot vacuum cleaner (200) is located while connected to a power supply terminal (123b), or a space where the robot vacuum cleaner (200) is located while the dust bin (220) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) is connected to a dust passage hole.

[0171] The base (121) can be positioned so that the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) contacts the floor surface, and is configured to support the robot vacuum cleaner (200) when the robot vacuum cleaner (200) is coupled to the robot vacuum cleaner station (100). The base (121) may include a base body (121a), an inclined portion (121b), a wheel coupling portion (121c), an agitator receiving portion (121d), and a washing tank (128).

[0172] The base body (121a) can form the overall shape of the base (121). An inclined section (121b), a wheel coupling section (121c), an agitator receiving section (121d), and a washing tank (128) may be arranged on the base body (121a).

[0173] The base body (121a) may be formed such that the width (or diameter) in the horizontal direction (parallel to X and Y) is greater than the height in the vertical direction (parallel to Z). Due to this structure, the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) can be stably supported on the floor surface.

[0174] A circulation path may be provided inside the base body (121a). Accordingly, air discharged from the dust collection motor (145) can flow through the circulation path formed inside the base body (121a) and be exhausted to the air return port.

[0175] The inclined section (121b) can be placed at the entrance where the robot vacuum cleaner (200) climbs from the base body (121a).

[0176] The inclined section (121b) may have an upward slope toward the front of the direction in which the robot vacuum cleaner (200) enters. More specifically, the inclined section (121b) may be connected such that the front end of the entrance side is not at a height difference from the ground, but may have an upward slope toward the front of the direction in which the robot vacuum cleaner (200) enters. At this time, the front of the direction in which the robot vacuum cleaner (200) enters refers to the rear when viewed from the robot vacuum cleaner station (100). Thus, the robot vacuum cleaner (200) can easily climb from the ground to the robot vacuum cleaner station (100).

[0177] A wheel guide section (121ba) may be provided in the inclined section (121b).

[0178] The wheel guide section (121ba) may be formed in the shape of a groove to guide the movement of the wheel (260) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200). The surface of the wheel guide section (121ba) may be formed to correspond to the surface of the wheel (260) so that the robot vacuum cleaner (200) can drive stably. Additionally, the wheel guide section (121ba) may be formed such that the width of the groove is greater than the width of the wheel (260) at the entrance where the robot vacuum cleaner (200) climbs, and the width of the groove becomes narrower relative to the entrance as it moves forward along the climbing path of the robot vacuum cleaner (200). Thus, the wheel (260) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) can easily enter the robot vacuum cleaner station (100), but left and right movement is restricted by the groove that gradually narrows, allowing the wheel (260) to be guided to the correct position.

[0179] An auxiliary wheel guide (121bb) may be provided in the inclined section (121b).

[0180] The auxiliary wheel guide portion (121bb) may be formed in a groove shape to guide the movement of the auxiliary wheel (270) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200). Additionally, the auxiliary wheel guide portion (121bb) may be formed in a protruding shape so as to come into contact with the auxiliary wheel (270) when the wheel (260) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) is seated on the wheel guide portion (121ba). Thus, when the robot vacuum cleaner (200) travels along the inclined portion (121b), it can travel while being stably supported by the auxiliary wheel (270) as well as the wheel (260).

[0181] The wheel (260) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200), which has moved upward along the wheel guide (121ba), can be placed on the wheel coupling portion (121c). When the wheel (260) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) is placed on the wheel coupling portion (121c), a physical connection between the robot vacuum cleaner (200) and the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) can be achieved. To ensure that the robot vacuum cleaner (200) can stop stably, the surface of the wheel coupling portion (121c) can be formed to correspond to the surface of the wheel (260). The wheel coupling portion (121c) can be extended from the upper end of the wheel guide (121ba). The wheel coupling portion (121c) can be connected to the wheel guide (121ba) without a step. As a result, the robot vacuum cleaner (200) can easily move past the inclined portion (121b) to the wheel coupling portion (121c).

[0182] The wheel coupling portion (121c) may be positioned at the stopping position of the left and right wheels (260) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) so that the robot vacuum cleaner (200) stops at the correct position. Here, the stopping position of the wheel (260) means a position determined for the robot vacuum cleaner (200) to stop in order to be connected to the power supply terminal (123b) and / or a position determined for the dust bin (220) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) to stop in order to be connected to the dust passage hole.

[0183] The shape of the wheel coupling part (121c) can be formed in an arch shape, that is, a shape corresponding to the shape of the wheel (260) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200). Through this configuration, the robot vacuum cleaner (200) can move along the wheel guide part (121ba) and stop as soon as the wheel (260) is inserted into the wheel coupling part (121c), and the wheel (260) can be stably seated on the arch-shaped wheel coupling part (121c).

[0184] At least a portion of the agitator (250) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) can be accommodated in the agitator receiving portion (121d). Specifically, the agitator receiving portion (121d) can provide a space in which the lower portion of the agitator (250) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) is accommodated while the wheel (260) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) is seated in the wheel coupling portion (121c).

[0185] The agitator receiving portion (121d) may be formed between the wheel coupling portions (121c). The agitator receiving portion (121d) may be formed in a shape corresponding to the agitator (250) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200). The agitator receiving portion (121d) may be formed in a rectangular shape with an open top. The lower surface of the agitator receiving portion (121d) may be sealed by the bottom surface of the base body (121a) or the bottom surface of the housing (110). Accordingly, the agitator (250) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200), which has moved upward along the inclined portion (121b), may be seated in the recessed portion (121da) through the open upper surface of the agitator receiving portion (121d). At this time, the depth of the recessed portion (121da) may be formed shallower than the depth of the wheel coupling portion (121c).

[0186] The agitator receiving portion (121d) may include a recess (121da) and a protrusion (121db).

[0187] The recess (121da) can be formed to be recessed from the base (121). The recess (121da) can form a receiving space in which at least a portion of the agitator (250) is received. In this way, at least a portion of the agitator (250) can be received in the receiving space of the recess (121da) while the wheel (260) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) is seated on the wheel coupling portion (121c).

[0188] The receiving space of the recess (121da) can be connected to the receiving space of the seating portion (120).

[0189] The protrusion (121db) may be formed to protrude from the base (121). The protrusion (121db) may be positioned along the edge of the recess (121da). Additionally, when the agitator (250) is received in the receiving space of the recess (121da), the protrusion (121db) may be positioned at a predetermined distance from the body (210) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200).

[0190] The protrusion (121db) can guide air discharged through the air circulation port to the suction part (211) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200). Through this, air discharged into the receiving space of the recess (121da) can be guided to the suction part (211) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) by the protrusion (121db).

[0191] An air return port may be formed in the agitator receiving portion (121d). The air return port may be formed on the side of the agitator receiving portion (121d). The air return port may connect the recess (121da) and the dust collection motor (145) through a circulation path. The recess (121da) and the circulation path may be in communication through the air return port. Thus, air discharged from the dust collection motor (145) may pass through the air return port and be discharged to the recess (121da) of the agitator receiving portion (121d).

[0192] The connecting wall (123) is configured to accommodate the dust passage hole, power supply terminal (123b), and water supply nozzle (123c) of the robot vacuum cleaner station (100). The connecting wall (123) can spatially separate the receiving space from the parts of the robot vacuum cleaner station (100). The connecting wall (123) can extend along the vertical direction from the rear side of the base (121). The connecting wall (123) can be formed in correspondence with the shape of the robot vacuum cleaner (200). For example, if the body (210) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) is cylindrical, the connecting wall (123) can be formed in an arc shape having a predetermined radius. With such a configuration, the outer perimeter of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) can be surrounded, and the surface area facing the outer surface of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) can be increased. Additionally, the robot vacuum cleaner (200) can be stably supported.

[0193] A dust passage hole may be formed in the seating portion (120) to allow air from outside the housing (110) to flow into the interior. Specifically, a dust passage hole may be formed in the connecting wall (123) to allow air from outside the housing (110) to flow into the interior. The dust passage hole may be in communication with the dust bin (220) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200). The dust passage hole may be in communication with the dust outlet (221) of the dust bin (220) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200). The dust passage hole may be formed in a hole shape corresponding to the shape of the dust bin (220) so that dust from the dust bin (220) flows into the dust collection portion (140). The dust passage hole may be formed corresponding to the shape of the dust outlet (221) of the dust bin (220). The dust passage hole may be formed to be in communication with the dust collection path. Air sucked in through the dust passage hole may be exhausted through the air recirculation portion after flowing through the dust collection path.

[0194] The robot vacuum cleaner station (100) may include a power supply module that supplies power to the robot vacuum cleaner (200). The power supply module includes a power supply module housing and a power supply terminal (123b), and a circuit board and components for power supply may be mounted within the power supply module housing. Additionally, the power supply terminal (123b) may be positioned forward from the power supply module housing and exposed on the coupling wall (123).

[0195] The power supply terminal (123b) can supply power to a robot vacuum cleaner (200) coupled to the mounting portion (120). The power supply terminal (123b) can be electrically connected by contacting the charging terminal of the robot vacuum cleaner (200). The power supply terminal (123b) can be placed on the mounting portion (120). Specifically, the power supply terminal (123b) can be placed on the coupling wall (123). The power supply terminal (123b) can be electrically connected to the robot vacuum cleaner (200) coupled to the coupling wall (123). The power supply terminal (123b) can supply power to the battery of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) coupled to the coupling wall (123).

[0196] The robot vacuum station (100) may further include a water supply nozzle (123c).

[0197] The water supply nozzle (123c) can be connected to the supply section (231) of the water tank (230) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200). Specifically, the water supply nozzle (123c) can be connected to the inlet of the water tank (230). The inlet is configured to be connected to the water tank (230) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200). The water supply nozzle (123c) can supply water supplied from the water supply pipe of the kitchen cabinet (2) to the storage space inside the water tank (230) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200).

[0198] The inner wall (124) is configured to spatially separate the receiving space of the seating portion (120) from the parts of the robot vacuum cleaner station (100). A pair of inner walls (124) may be arranged on the left and right sides of the base (121). The inner walls (124) may be connected to both ends of the connecting wall (123). The inner walls (124) may extend from the left and right sides of the base (121) in a direction intersecting the base (121). Specifically, the inner walls (124) may extend vertically from the left and right sides of the base (121). The height of the inner walls (124) may be formed to correspond to the height of the pedestal (21). Specifically, the height of the inner walls (124) may be formed to be the same as the height of the pedestal (21).

[0199] Meanwhile, various components such as a dust collection channel, a dust collection unit (140), a dust collection motor (145), a detergent container (163), and a wastewater container (164) may be arranged on the outer side of the inner wall (124). Specifically, the dust collection unit (140), the detergent container (163), and the wastewater container (164) may be accommodated in the space between the inner wall (124) and the outer wall (111) of the housing (110).

[0200] The dust collector (140) and the detergent container (163) can be separated by sliding from the space between the inner wall (124) and the outer wall (111) of the housing (110). The left-right width of the dust collector (140) and the detergent container (163) can be formed to correspond to the distance between the inner wall (124) and the outer wall (111) of the housing (110).

[0201] The cleaning plate (122) is configured to clean the mop of the robot vacuum cleaner (200), and the cleaning plate (122) can be placed in the cleaning tank (128) of the base (121). Additionally, the cleaning plate (122) can come into contact with the mop (242) while the robot vacuum cleaner (200) is placed thereon.

[0202] The cleaning plate (122) may be a plate formed to slope downward as it faces the center overall.

[0203] Specifically, the cleaning plate (122) includes a flow guide surface formed in a curved shape. In addition, at least one passage hole (122b) through which fluid can pass may be formed on the flow guide surface. Furthermore, a cleaning projection (122a) may be formed protruding from the flow guide surface.

[0204] At this time, a pair of cleaning protrusions (122a) may be symmetrically formed on the fluid guide surface. Specifically, a pair of cleaning protrusions (122a) may be positioned vertically below a pair of mops (242) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200), positioned to face the pair of mops (242), and positioned to be able to contact at least a part of the pair of mops (242).

[0205] Additionally, multiple through holes (122b) may be formed on the flow guide surface, and may be formed between a pair of washing protrusions (122a). For example, multiple through holes (122b) may be formed on the flow guide surface, including the lowest position from the ground (kitchen floor), and may be formed between a pair of washing protrusions (122a). Through this, fluid discharged between a pair of washing protrusions (122a) can be guided to flow through the through holes (122b).

[0206] Meanwhile, the height of the flow guide surface from the kitchen floor can increase as it moves further back from the location where the through hole (122b) is formed. That is, the height of the flow guide surface from the kitchen floor can increase as it approaches the outside air discharge part.

[0207] With this configuration, the washing water and / or air is guided by the flow guide surface and can escape through the through hole (122b) into the space formed between the washing plate (122) and the washing tank (128).

[0208] Accordingly, when the drive unit of the rotating cleaning unit (240) is driven while the mop (242) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) is seated on the cleaning plate (122), the mop (242) rotates. At this time, when the mop (242) rotates while cleaning water is supplied to the cleaning plate (122), the mop (242) can be cleaned by friction with the stationary cleaning protrusion (122a).

[0209] The washing tank (128) is configured to accommodate the washing plate (122). The washing tank (128) may be positioned at the rear side of the base body (121a). The washing tank (128) is positioned at the lower side of the washing plate (122) and is detachably coupled to the washing plate (122). The washing tank (128) may be formed to correspond to the washing plate (122) so that the washing plate (122) can be fitted into it. Liquid that has passed through the washing plate (122) may flow into the washing tank (128).

[0210] The washing tank (128) may include a washing tank base surface through which fluid passing through the washing plate (122) flows, and a washing tank wall formed to protrude vertically from the outer edge of the washing tank base surface. At this time, the height of the washing tank base surface from the ground (kitchen floor) may decrease as it moves toward the rear of the robot vacuum cleaner station (100). Through this, fluid passing through the washing plate (122) can be collected at the rear of the washing tank (128) and discharged to the outside through the wastewater inlet.

[0211] FIG. 12 shows a side view for explaining the dust collection unit (140) of a robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0212] Referring to Fig. 12, the dust collection unit (140) is described as follows.

[0213] The dust collection unit (140) can collect dust from the dust bin (220) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200). The dust collection unit (140) can be placed inside the housing (110). The dust collection unit (140) can be placed outside the seating unit (120). At this time, the receiving space can be placed inside the seating unit (120).

[0214] The dust collection unit (140) may include a dust collection unit housing (141), a dust bag (not shown), a filter (142), and a dust bag drawer (144).

[0215] The dust collection housing (141) can form a space inside which a dust bag (not shown), a filter (142), and a dust bag drawer (144) can be accommodated.

[0216] The dust collection housing (141) is coupled to the inside so that a dust bag drawer (144) can be pulled out, and a dust bag (not shown) can be stored inside the dust bag drawer (144). For example, the dust collection housing (141) is formed in the shape of a rectangular tube with an open front, and the rear internal space can be connected to the first dust collection path (147) and the second dust collection path (148).

[0217] One side of the interior of the dust collection housing (141) may be in communication with the first dust collection path (147), and the other side may be in communication with the second dust collection path (148). Additionally, when a dust bag (not shown) is attached to the dust collection housing (141), the dust bag (not shown) may be in communication with the first dust collection path (147) inside the dust collection housing (141).

[0218] A dust bag (not shown) may refer to a dust bag that collects dust sucked in from inside the dust bin (220) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) by a dust collection motor (145). The dust bag (not shown) may be detachably connected to a dust collection housing (141). Thus, the dust bag (not shown) may be separated from the dust collection housing (141) and discarded, and a new dust bag (not shown) may be connected to the dust collection housing (141). That is, the dust bag (not shown) may be defined as a consumable part.

[0219] A dust bag (not shown) can be provided so that when suction force is generated by a dust collection motor (145), its volume increases and dust is contained inside.

[0220] To this end, the dust bag (not shown) may be made of a material that allows air to pass through but does not allow foreign substances such as dust to pass through. For example, the dust bag (not shown) may be made of a non-woven fabric material and may have a cuboid shape corresponding to the shape of the dust collection housing (141) when the volume is increased.

[0221] A filter (142) may be placed between the dust collection housing (141) and the second dust collection path (148). The filter (142) may be placed at the outlet. The filter (142) may be a pre-filter or a HEPA filter. Air passing through a dust bag (not shown) may pass through the filter (142) and flow into the second dust collection path (148).

[0222] The dust bag drawer (144) is coupled to be withdrawable from the dust collection housing (141), and a dust bag (not shown) can be accommodated inside.

[0223] Meanwhile, the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) may include a dust collection path. The dust collection path may refer to a path through which air sucked in through a dust passage hole flows through a dust bag to a dust collection motor (145).

[0224] Specifically, the dust collection path may include a first dust collection path (147) that connects the dust bin (220) and the internal space of the dust collection housing (141) when the robot vacuum cleaner (200) is connected to the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) and the dust passage hole and the dust bin (220) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) are connected, and a second dust collection path (148) that connects the internal space of the dust collection housing (141) and the dust collection motor (145).

[0225] The first dust collection channel (147) can connect the dust bin (220) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) and the internal space of the dust collection housing (141). The first dust collection channel (147) can connect the dust bin (220) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) and the internal space of the dust collection housing (141). The first dust collection channel (147) can connect the dust passage hole of the seating portion (120) and the internal space of the dust collection housing (141). The first dust collection channel (147) may refer to the space between the dust bin (220) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) and the dust collection housing (141). The first dust collection channel (147) may be formed close to the horizontal direction. The first dust collection channel (147) may be a space formed towards the rear from the dust passage hole, or a channel formed by bending toward the side from the dust passage hole so that dust and air can flow. Dust inside the dust bin (220) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) can move into the internal space of the dust collection housing (141) through the first dust collection path (147).

[0226] The second dust collection channel (148) can connect the internal space of the dust collection housing (141) and the dust collection motor (145). The second dust collection channel (148) can be formed close to the horizontal direction. At this time, the first dust collection channel (147) and the second dust collection channel (148) can be formed at different heights. The first dust collection channel (147) and the second dust collection channel (148) can be formed in a stacked structure. The second dust collection channel (148) can be positioned lower than the first dust collection channel (147). With such a configuration, the width in the left-right direction and the overall volume of the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) can be minimized.

[0227] The dust collection motor (145) can generate suction force in the dust collection path.

[0228] The dust collection motor (145) can be positioned at the rear of the dust collection housing (141). By doing so, the dust collection motor (145) can provide suction power to suck up dust inside the dust bin (220) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200).

[0229] The dust collection motor (145) can generate suction force by rotation. For example, the dust collection motor (145) can be formed in a shape similar to a cylinder.

[0230] The circulation path according to an embodiment of the present invention can guide air discharged from a dust collection motor (145) to the suction part (211) of a robot vacuum cleaner (200).

[0231] The circulation path can be designed so that air discharged from the dust collection motor (145) is guided to the suction part (211) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) without being discharged to the outside, thereby creating a structure in which air continuously circulates between the robot vacuum cleaner (200) and the robot vacuum cleaner station (100). As a result, the heat discharged from the dust collection motor (145) is not discharged to the kitchen cabinet (2) but is recirculated back into the interior of the robot vacuum cleaner (200), thus preventing damage to the interior of the kitchen cabinet (2).

[0232] Air passing through the dust collection motor (145) is discharged into the receiving space through the air return port, and the air discharged into the receiving space can be recirculated to the suction part (211) due to the suction force of the dust collection motor (145). Accordingly, air sucked from the dust bin (220) by the suction force of the dust collection motor (145) can be discharged into the receiving space after flowing in order through the dust passage hole, the first dust collection path (147), the second dust collection path (148), the dust collection motor (145), the circulation path, and the air return port.

[0233] At this time, the dust collection motor (145) can be driven together with the suction motor (not shown) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200). Since the air exhausted through the air circulation port is sucked into the suction part (211) by the suction force of the suction motor (not shown) in addition to the dust collection motor (145), it has the effect of improving dust collection efficiency.

[0234] FIG. 13 is a diagram schematically illustrating a first embodiment of the flow paths for clean water, soft water, hot water, and steam in a robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a diagram schematically illustrating the main configuration of the flow paths shown in FIG. 13. FIG. 15 is a diagram schematically illustrating the configuration for estimating and notifying the replacement cycle of a water treatment filter (1640) in a robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0235] A robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a housing (110), a seating portion (120), and a mop washing portion (160).

[0236] The housing (110) is a part that forms the exterior of the robot vacuum cleaner station (100), and a seating part (120) and a mop washing part (160) may be placed inside the housing (110).

[0237] The seating portion (120) is a portion placed within the housing (110) to accommodate the robot vacuum cleaner (200), and through this seating portion (120), the robot vacuum cleaner (200) and the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) can be physically, electrically, and / or electrically connected.

[0238] In this case, the mounting portion (120) includes a cleaning plate (122) that comes into contact with the mop (242) while the robot vacuum cleaner (200) is attached. That is, when the mop (242) rotates while the mop (242) is mounted on the cleaning plate (122), the rotating mop (242) can be cleaned by friction with the cleaning plate (122) while it is stationary.

[0239] The mop washing unit (160) is positioned within the housing (110) and is a part for washing the mop (242) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200). When the mop (242) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) is seated on the washing plate (122), a fluid for washing the mop (242) can be supplied to the washing plate (122).

[0240] Referring to FIGS. 13 to 15, a first embodiment of the fluid flow path supplied through the mop washing unit (160) will be described.

[0241] In this embodiment, the mop washing unit (160) includes a fresh water supply pipe (1610), a first branch valve (1621), a first pipe (1631), a water treatment filter (1640), a second pipe (1632), a heater (1650), a heating washing pipe (1661, 1662) and a fresh water washing pipe (1671), and may further include a second branch valve (1622).

[0242] In this case, the heating cleaning pipe (1661, 1662) is a part where hot water or steam that has passed through the heater (1650) is supplied to the cleaning plate (122), and depending on the type of fluid supplied, it can be a hot water cleaning pipe (1661) or a steam cleaning pipe (1662).

[0243] The clean water supply pipe (1610) is a part through which clean water is supplied, and it may be a pipe through which an external fluid flows into the robot vacuum cleaner station (100). In this case, the clean water is direct water supplied from the outside, such as tap water, and the clean water may contain hard substances (such as calcium or magnesium components) that can cause scale formation.

[0244] 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.

[0245] Scale that forms on the water flow path can cause malfunction or performance degradation of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) and the robot vacuum cleaner station (100), so it is necessary to prevent the formation of scale.

[0246] In particular, when clean water from which hardness substances have not been removed is heated, the occurrence of scale increases further, so it is necessary to prevent this.

[0247] Meanwhile, a heater (1650) for heating fresh water may be used in a robot vacuum cleaner (200) and a robot vacuum cleaner station (100) of various structures, and it may be desirable for such a heater (1650) to be miniaturized for structural and placement reasons.

[0248] In order to miniaturize the heater (1650) as described above, a micro-curved pipe may be used in the heater (1650). In the case of such a micro-curved pipe, blockage of the flow path by scale can become a more significant problem, so it is necessary to minimize the occurrence of scale in the flow path used in the robot vacuum cleaner (200) and the robot vacuum cleaner station (100).

[0249] The first branch valve (1621) is a part installed in the fresh water supply pipe (1610) to branch the supplied fresh water in both directions, and can be made of a two-way valve (2 way valve) such as a solenoid valve.

[0250] According to this first branch valve (1621), the fresh water supplied to the fresh water supply pipe (1610) may flow in one direction toward the first pipe (1631) or in the other direction toward the fresh water washing pipe (1671).

[0251] The first pipe (1631) is connected to the first branch valve (1621) and is a section through which clean water flowing in one direction passes. A water treatment filter (1640) is installed so that all the clean water flowing through the first pipe (1631) can be converted into soft water.

[0252] The water treatment filter (1640) is installed in the first pipe (1631) and is a part that filters hardness substances from clean water to change it into soft water, and filters substances that can cause scale formation from clean water.

[0253] Accordingly, clean water that has passed through the water treatment filter (1640) can be changed into soft water from which hardness substances have been removed. In this case, the water treatment filter (1640) may be referred to as a water softening device or a water purification filter.

[0254] The second branch valve (1622) is installed in the first pipe (1631) and is a part that branches the softened water passing through the water treatment filter (1640) in both directions, and can be made of a two-way valve (2 way valve) for switching the flow path.

[0255] According to this second branch valve (1622), the soft water flowing through the first pipe (1631) may flow in one direction toward the second pipe (1632) or in the other direction toward the robot supply pipe (1680) to be described later.

[0256] The second pipe (1632) is connected to the first pipe (1631) and is a part through which soft water passes. A heater (1650) is installed so that all the soft water flowing through the second pipe (1632) can be heated by the heater (1650).

[0257] In particular, the second pipe (1632) is connected to the second branch valve (1622) so that soft water flowing in one direction can pass through.

[0258] In this case, as described above, the soft water flowing through the second pipe (1632) is in a state where hardness substances causing scale formation are filtered out, so even if it is heated by the heater (1650), scale formation can be prevented.

[0259] The heater (1650) is installed in the second pipe (1632) and is a part that heats soft water to change it into hot water or steam, and the soft water can be changed into a hot water state or a steam state depending on the temperature at which it is heated. In this case, the heater (1650) that changes soft water into steam can function as a steam generator.

[0260] The hot water washing pipe (1661) is a part through which hot water that has passed through the heater (1650) is supplied to the washing plate (122), and by supplying hot water in a high-temperature state to the washing plate (122), the washing efficiency for the rag (242) can be improved.

[0261] The steam cleaning tube (1662) is a part through which steam that has passed through the heater (1650) is supplied to the cleaning plate (122), and the cleaning efficiency of the mop (242) is improved by the steam, and a sterilization effect can be achieved.

[0262] The clean water washing pipe (1671) is connected to the first branch valve (1621) and is a part through which clean water flowing in the other direction is supplied to the washing plate (122), so that clean water for washing the rag (242) can be supplied directly to the washing plate (122).

[0263] Although the cleaning efficiency may be lower compared to hot water or steam due to the relatively low temperature of the clean water, it can be supplied in large quantities to clean the rag (242).

[0264] If all of the fresh water supplied in such large quantities is converted into soft water in the water treatment filter (1640), the capacity of the water treatment filter (1640) must be relatively larger, and the replacement cycle can also be shortened.

[0265] Therefore, only for hot water and steam, where there is a high risk of scale formation due to heating, soft water that has passed through a water treatment filter (1640) is used, and clean water that is not heated and is not at high risk of scale formation can be used as is for washing the rag (242).

[0266] Accordingly, a relatively small water treatment filter (1640) can be used, and the water treatment filter (1640) can be replaced after being used for a relatively long time.

[0267] In this way, the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to the embodiment of the present invention supplies hot water and steam that have passed through the heater (1650) in the mop washing section (160) to the washing plate (122) to wash the mop (242), thereby improving the washing power and sterilization effect due to high-temperature washing, so the washing performance of the mop (242) can be further improved.

[0268] In addition, the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to the embodiment of the present invention converts the softened water that has passed through the water treatment filter (1640) in the mop washing unit (160) into hot water and steam and uses it for washing the mop (242), thereby minimizing performance degradation due to scale formation and ensuring that the washing performance of the mop (242) is always properly maintained.

[0269] In the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention, the seating portion (120) may further include a robot supply pipe (1680) connected to a second branch valve (1622) to supply soft water flowing in the other direction to the robot vacuum cleaner (200).

[0270] As described above, the robot vacuum cleaner (200) can supply water to the mop (242) and perform cleaning. To this end, the robot vacuum cleaner (200) can receive water through the water supply nozzle (123c) while connected to the robot vacuum cleaner station (100).

[0271] In this case, if clean water is supplied to the robot vacuum cleaner (200), there is a risk that scale will form in the pipes inside the robot vacuum cleaner (200) and performance will be degraded.

[0272] Therefore, it may be desirable to use softened water that has passed through a water treatment filter (1640) for the water supplied to the robot vacuum cleaner (200).

[0273] In this way, in the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to the embodiment of the present invention, since softened water that has passed through the water treatment filter (1640) is supplied to the robot vacuum cleaner (200), scale formation can be prevented in the robot vacuum cleaner (200) as well.

[0274] In the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention, the mop washing unit (160) may further include a temperature sensor (1691) that detects the temperature of hot water and steam supplied to the washing plate (122).

[0275] As described above, the cleaning efficiency of the mop (242) can be improved and a sterilization effect can be achieved through hot water and steam, but for this to happen, the hot water and steam need to be maintained in a state suitable for cleaning the mop (242).

[0276] If the temperature of the hot water heated by the heater (1650) is not sufficiently high, the cleaning efficiency of the mop (242) may be relatively reduced, and if steam is generated by the heater (1650) and the temperature is not sufficient, it may be difficult to exert a sterilization effect as steam.

[0277] Therefore, it may be desirable to detect the temperature of the hot water and steam supplied to the cleaning plate (122) so that an appropriate temperature is always maintained even under the influence of the external environment, etc.

[0278] In this way, the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention detects the temperature of the hot water and steam used for washing the mop (242), so that it can supply the hot water and steam at the most appropriate temperature for washing the mop (242).

[0279] In the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention, the mop washing unit (160) may further include a flow control valve (1692) installed in the second pipe (1632) to control the flow rate of softened water passing through the heater (1650).

[0280] As described above, it is necessary to adjust the temperature of the hot water and steam so that the hot water and steam remain in a state suitable for cleaning the mop (242).

[0281] To this end, the output of the heater (1650) can be adjusted, but it may not be easy to control the output in a heater (1650) with a relatively simple structure.

[0282] In this regard, in order to further simplify and lighten the structure of the robot vacuum cleaner station (100), it may be desirable to install a heater (1650) with a relatively simple structure so that a single output is achieved.

[0283] Therefore, rather than controlling the temperature of the hot water and steam by controlling the output of the heater (1650), it may be preferable to control the temperature of the hot water and steam by controlling the flow rate of the soft water passing through the heater (1650).

[0284] For example, if it is necessary to increase the temperature of the hot water and steam, the flow rate can be reduced through the flow control valve (1692) so that the soft water passing through the heater (1650) is heated relatively more.

[0285] On the other hand, if it is necessary to lower the temperature of the hot water and steam, the flow rate can be increased through the flow control valve (1692) so that the soft water passing through the heater (1650) is heated relatively less.

[0286] In this way, the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to the embodiment of the present invention controls the temperature of the hot water steam through the flow rate passing through the heater (1650), so that the temperature control of the hot water and steam can be made easier.

[0287] In a robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention, the mop washing unit (160) may further include a flow sensor (1693) that detects the flow rate of clean water supplied to the clean water supply pipe (1610). In this case, the replacement cycle of the water treatment filter (1640) can be estimated through the accumulated value of the flow rate detected by the flow sensor (1693).

[0288] The water treatment filter (1640) may lose its filtering performance as usage time increases, and may need to be replaced if it fails to effectively filter hard substances.

[0289] However, since it is not easy for the user to determine the need to replace the water treatment filter (1640), it may be desirable to replace the water treatment filter (1640) when it is estimated that the filter needs to be replaced.

[0290] In this regard, since it is common for the performance of the water treatment filter (1640) to deteriorate as the amount of clean water passing through the water treatment filter (1640) increases, it can be estimated that replacement is required when the amount of clean water passing through the water treatment filter (1640) is a pre-set capacity.

[0291] In this case, the pre-set capacity may be a value derived from experimental data, etc., during the design and manufacturing phase of the robot vacuum cleaner station (100), and may be appropriately adjusted according to the environment in which the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) is used.

[0292] Meanwhile, whether the fresh water has passed through the water treatment filter (1640) in a pre-set amount can be measured using the signal from the first branch valve (1621) as well as the flow sensor (1693).

[0293] Accordingly, the accumulated value of the flow rate detected by the control unit (300) is determined by mode (clean water, soft water, hot water, etc.) to estimate the replacement cycle of the water treatment filter (1640), and if the replacement cycle has not yet been reached, the time for future replacement can be predicted.

[0294] Here, the control unit (300) is composed of a printed circuit board and components mounted on the printed circuit board, and can control the main components of the robot vacuum cleaner station (100), including the mop washing unit (160).

[0295] Meanwhile, the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a communication unit (not shown). The communication unit may support wireless communication with other devices existing outside the robot vacuum cleaner station (100), including a robot vacuum cleaner (200) or a terminal (not shown). A short-range communication module or a long-range communication module may be provided as a wireless communication module to support wireless communication.

[0296] In this way, the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to the embodiment of the present invention estimates the replacement cycle of the water treatment filter (1640) through the accumulated value of the flow rate supplied to the clean water supply pipe (1610), so the need for replacement can be easily identified without separately checking the condition of the water treatment filter (1640).

[0297] A robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a notification display unit (1641) that displays notification information regarding the replacement cycle of a water treatment filter (1640) to a user.

[0298] That is, the replacement cycle of the water treatment filter (1640) estimated by the control unit (300) as described above can be notified to the user through a separately installed display or speaker, etc.

[0299] In addition, notification information regarding the replacement cycle of the water treatment filter (1640) can be transmitted and displayed to the user's terminal, etc. through the communication unit.

[0300] In this way, the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to the embodiment of the present invention notifies the user of the replacement cycle of the water treatment filter (1640), thereby ensuring that the replacement of the water treatment filter (1640) is properly carried out so that the scale prevention performance can be stably maintained.

[0301] A robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a detergent container (163) in which a liquid containing detergent is stored and which is connected to a clean water washing pipe (1671). That is, the detergent stored in the detergent container (163) can be mixed with clean water flowing through the clean water washing pipe (1671) and then supplied to wash a mop (242).

[0302] The detergent container (163) may include a detergent container body, a handle, and a detergent container rail.

[0303] The detergent container body can provide a space for storing liquids including detergent. A handle may be provided on the front of the detergent container body. With this configuration, when a user grasps the gripper and pulls forward, the detergent container body can be pulled forward and withdrawn together.

[0304] A detergent container rail may be formed on the left and right sides of the detergent container body. The detergent container rail can guide the movement of the detergent container body. With this configuration, when a user attaches the detergent container (163) to the housing (110), it can be attached in the correct position and prevent the washing water from leaking out.

[0305] In this way, the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to the embodiment of the present invention uses the detergent stored in the detergent container (163) for washing the mop (242), so that the washing performance of the mop (242) can be adequately ensured even during low-temperature washing.

[0306] A robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a wastewater tank (164) in which wastewater used for washing a mop (242) passes through a washing plate (122) and is stored.

[0307] The wastewater tank (164) can provide a space for storing the washing water used to wash the mop (242). After the washing of the mop (242) is finished, the washing water discharged onto the upper surface of the washing plate (122) can be drained into the passage hole (122b) while descending along the slope of the washing plate (122). The washing water that passes through the passage hole (122b) accumulates in the washing tank (128). Additionally, the washing water accumulated in the washing tank (128) can flow into the wastewater tank (164) by passing through the wastewater inflow path.

[0308] The washing water stored in the wastewater tank (164) can be drained through the wastewater discharge path to the drain pipe (25) of the kitchen cabinet (2). One end of the wastewater discharge path can be connected to the wastewater tank (164), and the other end can be connected to the drain pipe (25). At this time, the washing water stored in the wastewater tank (164) can be drained into the drain pipe by flowing through the wastewater discharge path by a centrifugal pump (not shown).

[0309] In this way, the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to the embodiment of the present invention stores the wastewater used for washing the mop (242) in the wastewater tank (164), so that the management and discharge of wastewater can be effectively carried out.

[0310] In a robot vacuum station (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention, the robot vacuum (200) may include a body (210) having a mop (242) on its lower side and a water tank (230) having water stored in the body (210) supplied to the mop (242). In this case, a robot supply pipe (1680) may be connected to the water tank (230).

[0311] As described above, the robot vacuum cleaner (200) can supply water to the mop (242) and perform cleaning. In this case, the water can be stored in a water tank (230) provided inside the robot vacuum cleaner (200).

[0312] Therefore, since water can be stored in the water tank (230) for a long time, there is a concern that scale may form on the water tank (230) when fresh water is stored inside the water tank (230).

[0313] Accordingly, it may be desirable to store the softened water supplied through the robot supply pipe (1680) in the water tank (230) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) so that it can be used for cleaning.

[0314] In this way, the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to the embodiment of the present invention supplies softened water that has passed through a water treatment filter (1640) to the water tank (230) of the robot vacuum cleaner (200) and is used for cleaning with a mop (242), so that the water cleaning function with the mop (242) can be performed smoothly without performance degradation.

[0315] In the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention, a pair of mops (242) may be provided on the lower side of the body (210). In this case, a pair of cleaning plates (122) may be arranged on the seating portion (120) to correspond to each mop (242).

[0316] That is, a pair of mops (242) are each placed on a cleaning plate (122), and when each mop (242) rotates, it can be cleaned by friction with the cleaning protrusions (122a) of each cleaning plate (122).

[0317] In this way, the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention is equipped with a pair of mops (242), and since cleaning of each mop (242) is performed on a pair of corresponding cleaning plates (122), cleaning of a pair of mops (242) can be performed simultaneously.

[0318] In the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention, the hot water washing pipe (1661), the steam washing pipe (1662), and the fresh water washing pipe (1671) can be connected to each washing plate (122). That is, fluid for washing the mop (242) can be branched and supplied to each washing plate (122).

[0319] In this way, the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to the embodiment of the present invention supplies hot water and steam to each washing plate (122), so that washing of each mop (242) can be performed uniformly.

[0320] In a robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention, the water treatment filter (1640) may include one or more of an ion exchange resin, a polyphosphate, and a hardness reduction catalyst.

[0321] 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.

[0322] Polyphosphates can prevent scale formation by releasing polyphosphate into water, which combines with calcium and magnesium ions in the water.

[0323] 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.

[0324] In addition to this, the water treatment filter (1640) can be configured in various ways to prevent scale formation. For example, the water treatment filter (1640) may include a carbon filter that removes impurities in water using the adsorption power of activated carbon.

[0325] In this way, the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention uses at least one of an ion exchange resin, a polyphosphate, and a hardness reduction catalyst in the water treatment filter (1640), so that the filtering of hardness substances in clean water can be effectively achieved.

[0326] FIG. 16 is a diagram schematically illustrating a second embodiment of the flow paths for clean water, soft water, hot water and steam in a robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0327] Referring to FIG. 16, a second embodiment of the fluid flow path supplied through the mop washing unit (160) will be described.

[0328] In this embodiment, the mop washing unit (160) includes a fresh water supply pipe (1610), a first branch valve (1621), a first pipe (1631), a water treatment filter (1640), a second branch valve (1622), a second pipe (1632), a third pipe (1633), a third branch valve (1623), a fourth pipe (1634), a heater (1650), a hot water washing pipe (1661), a steam washing pipe (1662), and a fresh water washing pipe (1671).

[0329] The fresh water supply pipe (1610) is a part where fresh water is supplied, and it may be a pipe through which external fluid flows into the robot vacuum cleaner station (100).

[0330] The first branch valve (1621) is a part installed in the fresh water supply pipe (1610) to branch the supplied fresh water in both directions, and can be made of a two-way valve (2 way valve) such as a solenoid valve.

[0331] According to this first branch valve (1621), the fresh water supplied to the fresh water supply pipe (1610) may flow in one direction toward the first pipe (1631) or in the other direction toward the third pipe (1633).

[0332] The first pipe (1631) is connected to the first branch valve (1621) and is a section through which clean water flowing in one direction passes. A water treatment filter (1640) is installed so that all the clean water flowing through the first pipe (1631) can be converted into soft water.

[0333] The water treatment filter (1640) is installed in the first pipe (1631) and is a part that filters hardness substances from clean water to change it into soft water, and filters substances that can cause scale formation from clean water.

[0334] The second branch valve (1622) is installed in the first pipe (1631) and is a part that branches the softened water passing through the water treatment filter (1640) in both directions, and can be made of a two-way valve (2 way valve) for switching the flow path.

[0335] According to this second branch valve (1622), the soft water flowing through the first pipe (1631) may flow in one direction toward the second pipe (1632) or in the other direction toward the robot supply pipe (1680).

[0336] The second pipe (1632) is connected to the second branch valve (1622) and is a part through which soft water flowing in one direction passes. A heater (1650) is installed so that the soft water flowing through the second pipe (1632) can be heated by the heater (1650).

[0337] The third pipe (1633) is connected to the first branch valve (1621) and is a part through which clean water flowing in the other direction passes.

[0338] The third branch valve (1623) is installed in the third pipe (1633) and is a part that branches the clean water passing through the third pipe (1633) in both directions, and can be made of a two-way valve (2 way valve) for switching the flow path.

[0339] According to this third branch valve (1623), the clean water flowing through the third pipe (1633) may flow in one direction toward the fourth pipe (1634) or in the other direction toward the clean water washing pipe (1671).

[0340] The fourth pipe (1634) is connected to the third branch valve (1623) and is a section through which clean water flowing in one direction passes. A heater (1650) is installed so that the clean water flowing through the fourth pipe (1634) can be heated by the heater (1650).

[0341] The heater (1650) is installed in the second pipe (1632) and the fourth pipe (1634) and is a part that heats soft water to change it into steam and heats clean water to change it into hot water, so that the soft water can be changed into a hot water state or a steam state depending on the temperature at which it is heated.

[0342] That is, the soft water flowing through the second pipe (1632) is heated by the heater (1650) and changed into steam, and the clean water flowing through the fourth pipe (1634) is heated by the heater (1650) and changed into hot water.

[0343] The hot water washing pipe (1661) is a part through which hot water that has passed through the heater (1650) is supplied to the washing plate (122), and by supplying hot water in a high-temperature state to the washing plate (122), the washing efficiency for the rag (242) can be improved.

[0344] The steam cleaning tube (1662) is a part through which steam that has passed through the heater (1650) is supplied to the cleaning plate (122), and the cleaning efficiency of the mop (242) is improved by the steam, and a sterilization effect can be achieved.

[0345] The clean water washing pipe (1671) is connected to the third branch valve (1623) and is a part through which clean water flowing in the other direction is supplied to the washing plate (122), so that clean water for washing the rag (242) can be supplied directly to the washing plate (122).

[0346] Since steam is heated to a relatively higher temperature compared to hot water, it can lead to more scale formation. In particular, given that steam generators typically use fine-bent pipes to produce steam, performance degradation due to scale can become a more significant issue.

[0347] Therefore, soft water that has passed through the water treatment filter (1640) is used only for steam, which is said to have the greatest risk of scale formation, and clean water that has not passed through the water treatment filter (1640) is used for hot water, which has a relatively low risk of scale formation.

[0348] Accordingly, the capacity of the water treatment filter (1640) can be minimized, and the replacement cycle of the water treatment filter (1640) can also be maximized.

[0349] In this way, the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to the embodiment of the present invention can be configured with a structure in which a water treatment filter (1640) of minimum capacity is installed, as the clean water in the mop washing unit (160) is converted into hot water and the softened water that has passed through the water treatment filter (1640) is converted into steam and used for washing the mop (242).

[0350] FIG. 17 is a diagram schematically illustrating a third embodiment of the flow paths for clean water, soft water, hot water and steam in a robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0351] Referring to FIG. 17, a third embodiment of the fluid flow path supplied through the mop washing unit (160) will be described.

[0352] In this embodiment, the mop washing unit (160) includes a fresh water supply pipe (1610), a water treatment filter (1640), a first branch valve (1621), a first pipe (1631), a second branch valve (1622), a second pipe (1632), a heater (1650), a hot water washing pipe (1661), a steam washing pipe (1662), and a softened water washing pipe (1672).

[0353] The fresh water supply pipe (1610) is a part where fresh water is supplied, and it may be a pipe through which external fluid flows into the robot vacuum cleaner station (100).

[0354] The water treatment filter (1640) is installed in the clean water supply pipe (1610) and is a part that filters hardness substances from clean water to change it into soft water, and filters substances that can cause scale formation from clean water.

[0355] In particular, as the water treatment filter (1640) is installed in the clean water supply pipe (1610), all the clean water supplied to the clean water supply pipe (1610) can be changed into soft water.

[0356] The first branch valve (1621) is installed in the fresh water supply pipe (1610) and is a part that branches the softened water that has passed through the water treatment filter (1640) in both directions, and can be made of a two-way valve (2 way valve) such as a solenoid valve.

[0357] According to this first branch valve (1621), the softened water that has passed through the water treatment filter (1640) may flow in one direction toward the first pipe (1631) or in the other direction toward the softened water washing pipe (1672).

[0358] The first pipe (1631) is connected to the first branch valve (1621) and is a part through which soft water flowing in one direction passes.

[0359] The second branch valve (1622) is installed in the first pipe (1631) and is a part that branches the soft water passing through the first pipe (1631) in both directions, and can be made of a two-way valve (2 way valve) for switching the flow path.

[0360] According to this second branch valve (1622), the soft water flowing through the first pipe (1631) may flow in one direction toward the second pipe (1632) or in the other direction toward the robot supply pipe (1680).

[0361] The second pipe (1632) is connected to the second branch valve (1622) and is a part through which soft water flowing in one direction passes. A heater (1650) is installed so that the soft water flowing through the second pipe (1632) can be heated by the heater (1650).

[0362] The heater (1650) is installed in the second pipe (1632) and is a part that heats the soft water to change it into hot water and steam, and depending on the temperature at which it is heated, the soft water can be changed into a hot water state or a steam state.

[0363] The hot water washing pipe (1661) is a part through which hot water that has passed through the heater (1650) is supplied to the washing plate (122), and by supplying hot water in a high-temperature state to the washing plate (122), the washing efficiency for the rag (242) can be improved.

[0364] The steam cleaning tube (1662) is a part through which steam that has passed through the heater (1650) is supplied to the cleaning plate (122), and the cleaning efficiency of the mop (242) is improved by the steam, and a sterilization effect can be achieved.

[0365] The water softener washing pipe (1672) is connected to the first branch valve (1621) and is a part through which water softener flowing in the other direction is supplied to the washing plate (122), and can supply unheated water to the washing plate (122).

[0366] Since steam is heated to a relatively higher temperature compared to hot water, more scale may form. In particular, given that steam generators typically use fine-bent pipes to produce steam, performance degradation due to scale can become a more significant issue.

[0367] If the capacity of the water treatment filter (1640) is sufficient and there are no restrictions on the replacement cycle, converting all clean water into soft water and using it to wash the rag (242) may be a way to minimize scale formation.

[0368] Accordingly, a flow path is formed so that all clean water supplied to the mop washing unit (160) passes through the water treatment filter (1640), so that only soft water is used for washing the mop (242).

[0369] Accordingly, the occurrence of scale in all major pipes of the mop washing unit (160) can be minimized.

[0370] In this way, the robot vacuum cleaner station (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention can be structured so that scale formation can be prevented in all major components, as all clean water in the mop washing unit (160) passes through a water treatment filter (1640) and is changed into soft water, and this soft water is used for washing the mop (242) either directly or by changing it into hot water and steam.

[0371]

[0372] Although specific embodiments of the present invention have been described and illustrated above, it is obvious to those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the described embodiments and can be modified and varied in various ways without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Accordingly, such modifications or variations should not be understood individually from the technical spirit or perspective of the present invention, and the modified embodiments should be considered to fall within the scope of the claims of the present invention.

[0373] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, hot water and steam that have passed through a heater in the mop washing unit are supplied to the washing plate to wash the mop, thereby improving washing power and sterilization effects due to high-temperature washing, so that the washing performance of the mop can be further improved.

[0374] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, softened water that has passed through a water treatment filter in the mop washing unit is converted into hot water and steam and used for washing the mop, so that performance degradation due to scale formation is minimized and the washing performance of the mop can always be maintained appropriately.

[0375] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since softened water that has passed through a water treatment filter is supplied to the robot vacuum cleaner, scale formation can be prevented in the robot vacuum cleaner as well.

[0376] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, the temperature of the hot water and steam used for washing the mop is detected, so the hot water and steam can be supplied at the most appropriate temperature for washing the mop.

[0377] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, the temperature of the steam in the hot water is controlled through the flow rate passing through the heater, so the temperature control of the hot water and the steam can be achieved more easily.

[0378] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the replacement cycle of the water treatment filter is estimated through the cumulative value of the flow rate supplied to the fresh water supply pipe, the need for replacement can be easily identified without separately checking the condition of the water treatment filter.

[0379] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, the user is notified of the replacement cycle of the water treatment filter, thereby ensuring that the replacement of the water treatment filter is performed properly and that the performance of preventing scale formation can be stably maintained.

[0380] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the detergent stored in the detergent container is used to wash the rag, the washing performance for the rag can be adequately ensured even during low-temperature washing.

[0381] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, wastewater used for washing the mop is stored in a wastewater container, so that the management and discharge of wastewater can be effectively carried out.

[0382] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, softened water that has passed through a water treatment filter is supplied to the water tank of a robot vacuum cleaner and used for cleaning with a mop, so that the water cleaning function with a mop can be performed smoothly without performance degradation.

[0383] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, a pair of mops is provided, and washing of each mop is performed on a corresponding pair of washing plates, so that washing of the pair of mops can be performed simultaneously.

[0384] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, hot water and steam are supplied to each washing plate, so that washing of each rag can be performed uniformly.

[0385] In addition, according to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, since at least one of an ion exchange resin, a polyphosphate, and a hardness reduction catalyst is used in the water treatment filter, the filtering of hardness substances in clean water can be effectively achieved.

[0386] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since clean water is converted into hot water in the mop washing unit and softened water that has passed through a water treatment filter is converted into steam and used for washing the mop, the robot vacuum cleaner station can be constructed with a structure in which a water treatment filter of minimum capacity is installed.

[0387] In addition, according to at least one embodiment of the present invention, all clean water in the mop washing unit passes through a water treatment filter and is converted into soft water, and since this soft water is used for washing the mop either directly or by converting it into hot water and steam, the robot vacuum cleaner station can be constructed with a structure that prevents scale formation in all major components.

Claims

1. Housing; A seating portion disposed within the above housing for accommodating a robot vacuum cleaner; and It includes a mop washing unit disposed within the above housing for washing the mop of the robot vacuum cleaner; and The above-mentioned seating portion is, The above-mentioned robot vacuum cleaner includes a cleaning plate that comes into contact with the mop while in a combined state, The above mop washing unit is, clean water supply pipe supplying clean water, A first branch valve installed in the above-mentioned fresh water supply pipe to branch the supplied fresh water into both directions, A first pipe connected to the above-mentioned first branch valve through which clean water flowing in one direction passes, A water treatment filter installed in the first pipe above to filter hardness substances from clean water and convert them into soft water, A second pipe connected to the first pipe above through which soft water passes, A heater installed in the second pipe above to heat soft water and convert it into hot water or steam, A heating and washing pipe through which hot water or steam passing through the heater is supplied to the washing plate, and A robot vacuum cleaner station comprising a clean water washing pipe connected to the first branch valve above, through which clean water flowing in the other direction is supplied to the washing plate above.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above mop washing unit is, It further includes a second branch valve installed in the first pipe to branch the softened water that has passed through the water treatment filter in both directions, and The above second pipe is connected to the above second branch valve, through which soft water flowing in one direction passes, and The above-mentioned seating portion is, A robot vacuum cleaner station further comprising a robot supply pipe connected to the second branch valve above, through which soft water flowing in the other direction is supplied to the robot vacuum cleaner.

3. In Paragraph 1, The above mop washing unit is, A robot vacuum cleaner station further comprising a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of hot water and steam supplied to the above-mentioned cleaning plate.

4. In Paragraph 3, The above mop washing unit is, A robot vacuum cleaner station further comprising a flow control valve installed in the second pipe above to control the flow rate of soft water passing through the heater.

5. In Paragraph 1, The above mop washing unit is, It further includes a flow sensor that detects the flow rate of fresh water supplied to the above fresh water supply pipe, The above water treatment filter is a robot vacuum cleaner station in which the replacement cycle is estimated through the accumulated value of the flow rate detected by the flow sensor.

6. In Paragraph 5, A robot vacuum cleaner station further comprising: a notification display unit that displays notification information regarding the replacement cycle of the water treatment filter to the user.

7. In Paragraph 1, A robot vacuum cleaner station further comprising a detergent container in which a liquid containing detergent is stored and which is connected to the clean water washing pipe.

8. In Paragraph 7, A robot vacuum cleaner station further comprising a wastewater tank in which wastewater used for washing the mop passes through the washing plate and is stored.

9. In Paragraph 2, The above robot vacuum cleaner is, A body having the above-mentioned mop on the lower side and It includes a water container in which water stored in the above body is supplied to the above rag, and The robot supply pipe above is connected to the water tank, and the robot vacuum cleaner station.

10. In Paragraph 9, The above mop is provided as a pair on the lower side of the body, and A robot vacuum cleaner station in which the above cleaning plates are arranged in pairs on the seating portion to correspond to each of the above mops.

11. In Paragraph 10, A robot vacuum cleaner station in which the heating washing pipe and the fresh water washing pipe are each connected to the washing plate.

12. In Paragraph 1, The above water treatment filter comprises one or more of an ion exchange resin, a polyphosphate, and a hardness reduction catalyst, in a robot vacuum cleaner station.

13. Housing; A seating portion disposed within the above housing for accommodating a robot vacuum cleaner; and It includes a mop washing unit disposed within the above housing for washing the mop of the robot vacuum cleaner; and The above-mentioned seating portion is, The above-mentioned robot vacuum cleaner includes a cleaning plate that comes into contact with the mop while in a combined state, The above mop washing unit is, clean water supply pipe supplying clean water, A first branch valve installed in the above-mentioned fresh water supply pipe to branch the supplied fresh water into both directions, A first pipe connected to the above-mentioned first branch valve through which clean water flowing in one direction passes, A water treatment filter installed in the first pipe above to filter hardness substances from clean water and convert them into soft water, A second branch valve installed in the first pipe above to branch the softened water that has passed through the water treatment filter into both directions, A second pipe connected to the above-mentioned second branch valve through which soft water flowing in one direction passes, A third pipe connected to the first branch valve above, through which clean water flowing in the other direction passes, A third branch valve installed in the third pipe to branch the clean water passing through the third pipe into two directions, A fourth pipe connected to the above-mentioned third branch valve through which clean water flowing in one direction passes, A heater installed in the second pipe and the fourth pipe to heat soft water and convert it into steam, and to heat clean water and convert it into hot water. A hot water washing pipe and a steam washing pipe, through which hot water and steam passing through the heater are respectively supplied to the washing plate, and A robot vacuum cleaner station comprising a clean water washing pipe connected to the third branch valve above, through which clean water flowing in the other direction is supplied to the washing plate above.

14. In Paragraph 13, The above-mentioned seating portion is, A robot vacuum cleaner station further comprising a robot supply pipe connected to the second branch valve above, through which soft water flowing in the other direction is supplied to the robot vacuum cleaner.

15. In Paragraph 13, The above mop washing unit is, A robot vacuum cleaner station further comprising a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of hot water and steam supplied to the above-mentioned cleaning plate.

16. In Paragraph 15, The above mop washing unit is, A robot vacuum cleaner station further comprising a flow control valve installed in the second pipe and the fourth pipe to control the flow rate of soft water and fresh water passing through the heater.

17. In Paragraph 13, The above mop washing unit is, It further includes a flow sensor that detects the flow rate of fresh water supplied to the above fresh water supply pipe, The above water treatment filter is a robot vacuum cleaner station in which the replacement cycle is estimated through the accumulated value of the flow rate detected by the flow sensor.

18. Housing; A seating portion disposed within the above housing for accommodating a robot vacuum cleaner; and It includes a mop washing unit disposed within the above housing for washing the mop of the robot vacuum cleaner; and The above-mentioned seating portion is, The above-mentioned robot vacuum cleaner includes a cleaning plate that comes into contact with the mop while in a combined state, The above mop washing unit is, clean water supply pipe supplying clean water, A water treatment filter installed in the above-mentioned fresh water supply pipe to filter hardness substances from fresh water and convert it into soft water, A first branch valve installed in the above fresh water supply pipe to branch the softened water that has passed through the above water treatment filter into both directions, A first pipe connected to the above-mentioned first branch valve through which soft water flowing in one direction passes, A second branch valve installed in the first pipe to branch the softened water passing through the first pipe into two directions, A second pipe connected to the above-mentioned second branch valve through which soft water flowing in one direction passes, A heater installed in the second pipe above to heat soft water and convert it into hot water and steam, A hot water washing pipe and a steam washing pipe, through which hot water and steam passing through the heater are respectively supplied to the washing plate, and A robot vacuum cleaner station comprising a softened water washing pipe connected to the first branch valve above, through which softened water flowing in the other direction is supplied to the washing plate above.

19. In Paragraph 18, The above-mentioned seating portion is, A robot vacuum cleaner station further comprising a robot supply pipe connected to the second branch valve above, through which soft water flowing in the other direction is supplied to the robot vacuum cleaner.

20. In Paragraph 18, The above mop washing unit is, A robot vacuum cleaner station further comprising a temperature sensor for detecting the temperature of hot water and steam supplied to the above-mentioned cleaning plate.

21. In Paragraph 20, The above mop washing unit is, A robot vacuum cleaner station further comprising a flow control valve installed in the second pipe above to control the flow rate of soft water passing through the heater.

22. In Paragraph 18, The above mop washing unit is, It further includes a flow sensor that detects the flow rate of fresh water supplied to the above fresh water supply pipe, The above water treatment filter is a robot vacuum cleaner station in which the replacement cycle is estimated through the accumulated value of the flow rate detected by the flow sensor.

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