Cleaner having rechargeable battery, and control method therefor

Abstract

This cleaner comprises: a charging terminal connected to a charging device, which is outside the cleaner, used to charge a battery; and at least one processor including processing circuitry, wherein instructions executed by the processor instruct the cleaner to: perform a charging function in a first mode by supplying, to the battery, a battery current having a threshold intensity; acquire a first voltage of the charging terminal of the cleaner and a second voltage of a charging terminal of the charging device while operating in the first mode; identify, on the basis of the first voltage and the second voltage, whether a charging error has occurred; if the charging error does not occur, acquire a battery voltage of the battery while operating in the first mode; and, if the battery voltage is greater than or equal to a threshold value, perform a charging function in a second mode by maintaining the battery voltage within a threshold range corresponding to the threshold value.

Description

A vacuum cleaner including a rechargeable battery and a control method thereof

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a vacuum cleaner comprising a rechargeable battery and a control method thereof, and more specifically, to a vacuum cleaner and a control method thereof that monitors charging problems while supplying power to the battery.

[0002] A wirelessly operating device may include a rechargeable battery. The rechargeable battery can be pre-charged, and wireless operation can be performed using power supplied from the charged battery. A separate charging device may be used to charge the battery. A vacuum cleaner containing a battery and a charging device that supplies power for charging to the vacuum cleaner may exist separately.

[0003] When the vacuum cleaner and the charging device come into contact with each other, the charging device can supply power to the vacuum cleaner. If the contact is not properly established, charging efficiency may decrease. Additionally, overheating may occur at the contact terminals.

[0004] Charging may not proceed normally in various situations, such as deformation of the connection terminals, assembly variation, misassembly, docking abnormalities, vibration, chattering, or the presence of foreign matter on the contact parts.

[0005] The present disclosure provides a vacuum cleaner and a control method thereof that identify a charging error by analyzing the voltage difference between the vacuum cleaner and the charging device while performing a charging function.

[0006] Additional aspects will be presented in part in the following description, and may become apparent from the description or be learned through the execution of the presented embodiments.

[0007] According to one embodiment, the vacuum cleaner comprises a memory for storing instructions, a power supply unit including a rechargeable battery, a suction motor driven by power supplied through the power supply unit, a foreign matter container for storing foreign matter sucked in according to the rotation of the suction motor, a charging terminal connected to the external charging device used to charge the battery, and at least one processor including a processing circuitry. When the instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the vacuum cleaner performs a charging function of a first mode by supplying a battery current of a threshold strength to the battery, and while performing the charging function of the first mode, obtains a first voltage of the charging terminal of the vacuum cleaner and a second voltage of the charging terminal of the external charging device, identifies whether a charging error has occurred based on the first voltage and the second voltage, and if the charging error has not occurred, while performing the charging function of the first mode, obtains a battery voltage of the battery, and if the battery voltage is greater than or equal to a threshold value, maintains the battery voltage within a threshold range corresponding to the threshold value, thereby a second Performs the charging function of the mode.

[0008] When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, if the vacuum cleaner identifies that a charging error has occurred, it stops the performance of the charging function of the first mode, and the charging error may include an error caused by a charging abnormality of the charging terminal of the vacuum cleaner and the charging terminal of the external charging device.

[0009] When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the cleaner may obtain a difference value between the first voltage and the second voltage and identify whether the charging error occurs based on the difference value.

[0010] When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the cleaner continues to perform the charging function of the first mode if the difference value is less than or equal to the first threshold value, and identifies that a charging error has occurred if the difference value exceeds the second threshold value which is greater than the first threshold value, and the threshold value may be the third threshold value.

[0011] When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the cleaner may identify whether the charging error occurs by reacquiring the first voltage and the second voltage if the difference value exceeds the first threshold and is less than or equal to the second threshold.

[0012] When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, if the vacuum cleaner identifies that the charging error has occurred, it may stop the performance of the charging function of the first mode by controlling the switch included in the power supply unit to an off state.

[0013] The device further includes a display and a speaker, and when the instructions are executed individually or collectively by at least one processor, if the vacuum cleaner identifies that a charging error has occurred, it may control the display to display an error UI indicating the charging error or control the speaker to output a sound corresponding to the error UI.

[0014] The above vacuum cleaner includes a communication interface, and when the instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the vacuum cleaner can activate the communication interface when the charging terminal of the vacuum cleaner comes into contact with the charging terminal of the external charging device, request a response from the external charging device through the communication interface, and if no response signal is received from the external charging device through the communication interface, identify that an error has occurred and output an error UI indicating that the general error has occurred.

[0015] When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the vacuum cleaner may be configured to perform the charging function of the first mode when the response signal is received from the external charging device through the communication interface.

[0016] The first mode corresponds to a CC (Constant Current) mode that maintains the battery current strength at the threshold strength, and the second mode corresponds to a CV (Constant Voltage) mode that maintains the battery voltage within the threshold range based on the threshold value.

[0017] According to one embodiment, a vacuum cleaner comprising a power supply unit including a rechargeable battery, a suction motor driven by power supplied through the power supply unit, and a foreign matter container for storing foreign matter sucked in according to the rotation of the suction motor, wherein the vacuum cleaner comprises a charging terminal connected to an external charging device used to charge the battery, the control method comprises: an operation of performing a charging function in a first mode by supplying a battery current of a threshold strength to the battery; an operation of obtaining a first voltage of the charging terminal of the vacuum cleaner and a second voltage of the charging terminal of the external charging device while performing the charging function in the first mode; an operation of identifying whether a charging error occurs based on the first voltage and the second voltage; an operation of stopping the performance of the charging function in the first mode if it is identified that a charging error occurs; an operation of obtaining a battery voltage of the battery while performing the charging function in the first mode if no charging error occurs; and an operation of performing a charging function in a second mode by maintaining the battery voltage within a threshold range corresponding to the threshold value if the battery voltage is greater than or equal to a threshold value.

[0018] The above charging error may include an error caused by a charging abnormality of the charging terminal of the vacuum cleaner and the charging terminal of the external charging device.

[0019] The operation of identifying whether the above charging error occurs can obtain a difference value between the first voltage and the second voltage, and identify whether the above charging error occurs based on the difference value.

[0020] The operation of identifying whether the above charging error occurs is to continue performing the charging function of the first mode if the difference value is less than or equal to the first threshold value, and to identify that the charging error has occurred if the difference value exceeds the second threshold value which is greater than the first threshold value, and the threshold value may be the third threshold value.

[0021] The operation of identifying whether the above charging error occurs can identify whether the charging error occurs by reacquiring the first voltage and the second voltage when the difference value exceeds the first threshold and is less than or equal to the second threshold.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the electronic device comprises a memory for storing instructions, a power supply unit including a rechargeable battery, a suction motor driven by power supplied through the power supply unit, a foreign matter container for storing foreign matter sucked in according to the rotation of the suction motor, a charging terminal connected to the external charging device used to charge the battery, and at least one processor including a processing circuitry. When the instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the electronic device performs a charging function of a first mode by supplying a battery current of a threshold strength to the battery, and while performing the charging function of the first mode, obtains a first voltage of the charging terminal of the electronic device and a second voltage of the charging terminal of the external charging device, identifies whether a charging error has occurred based on the first voltage and the second voltage, and if the charging error has not occurred, while performing the charging function of the first mode, obtains a battery voltage of the battery, and if the battery voltage is greater than or equal to a threshold value, maintains the battery voltage within a threshold range corresponding to the threshold value, thereby a second Performs the charging function of the mode.

[0023] When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, if the electronic device identifies that the charging error has occurred, it stops the performance of the charging function of the first mode, and the charging error may include an error caused by a charging abnormality of the charging terminal of the electronic device and the charging terminal of the external charging device.

[0024] When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the electronic device may obtain a difference value between the first voltage and the second voltage and identify whether the charging error occurs based on the difference value.

[0025] When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the electronic device continues to perform the charging function of the first mode if the difference value is less than or equal to a first threshold value, and identifies that a charging error has occurred if the difference value exceeds a second threshold value which is greater than the first threshold value, and the threshold value may be a third threshold value.

[0026] When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the electronic device may identify whether the charging error occurs by reacquiring the first voltage and the second voltage if the difference value exceeds the first threshold and is less than or equal to the second threshold.

[0027] The above and other aspects, features, and advantages of specific embodiments of the present invention will become more apparent from the following description together with the accompanying drawings.

[0028] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining a vacuum cleaner and a charging device according to one embodiment.

[0029] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment.

[0030] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating the specific configuration of the vacuum cleaner of FIG. 2 according to one embodiment.

[0031] FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining a portable vacuum cleaner according to one embodiment.

[0032] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining the structure of a vacuum cleaner and a charging device according to one embodiment.

[0033] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining a charging operation according to one embodiment.

[0034] FIG. 7 is a drawing for specifically explaining the charging operation of FIG. 6 according to one embodiment.

[0035] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an operation to check for a charging error according to one embodiment.

[0036] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating the operation of checking battery current according to one embodiment.

[0037] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the operation of checking a voltage difference according to one embodiment.

[0038] FIG. 11 is a drawing for explaining the operation of calculating the number of additional inspections according to one embodiment.

[0039] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the operation of requesting sensing data from a charging device according to one embodiment.

[0040] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating the operation of calculating a voltage difference according to one embodiment.

[0041] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating battery current, battery voltage, and equivalent resistance according to one embodiment.

[0042] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating battery current, battery voltage, and equivalent resistance according to one embodiment.

[0043] FIG. 16 is a drawing for explaining battery temperature and charge amount according to one embodiment.

[0044] FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating the operation of analyzing a voltage difference according to one embodiment.

[0045] FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating the analysis results corresponding to the voltage difference according to one embodiment.

[0046] FIG. 19 is a drawing for explaining the operation when an error occurs, according to one embodiment.

[0047] FIG. 20 is a drawing for explaining how to provide an error UI to a terminal device according to one embodiment.

[0048] FIG. 21 is a drawing for explaining a first error UI according to one embodiment.

[0049] FIG. 22 is a drawing for explaining a second error UI according to one embodiment.

[0050] FIG. 23 is a drawing for explaining a method of controlling an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0051] The present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0052] The terms used in the embodiments of this disclosure have been selected to be as widely used as possible, taking into account their functions within this disclosure; however, these terms may vary depending on the intent of those skilled in the art, case law, the emergence of new technologies, etc. Additionally, in specific cases, terms have been arbitrarily selected by the applicant, and in such cases, their meanings will be described in detail in the relevant explanatory section of this disclosure. Therefore, terms used in this disclosure should be defined not merely by their names, but based on their meanings and the overall content of this disclosure.

[0053] In this specification, expressions such as “compose,” “can constitute,” “have,” “can have,” “include,” or “can include” refer to the existence of such features (e.g., components such as numerical values, functions, operations, or parts) and do not exclude the existence of additional features.

[0054] The expression "at least one of A or / and B" should be understood as representing either "A" or "B" or "A and B".

[0055] Expressions such as "first," "second," "first," or "second" used in this specification may modify various components regardless of order and / or importance, and are used only to distinguish one component from another and do not limit said components.

[0056] Where it is stated that a component (e.g., Component 1) is "(operatively or communicatively) coupled with / to" or "connected to" another component (e.g., Component 2), it should be understood that the component may be directly connected to the other component or connected through the other component (e.g., Component 3).

[0057] The singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this application, terms such as “composed,” “comprising,” or “composed” are intended to specify the existence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and should be understood as not precluding the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0058] In the present disclosure, a "module" or "part" performs at least one function or operation and may be implemented in hardware or software, or a combination of hardware and software. Additionally, a plurality of "modules" or a plurality of "parts" may be integrated into at least one module and implemented by at least one processor, except for a "module" or "part" that needs to be implemented in specific hardware.

[0059] In this specification, the term "user" may refer to a person using an electronic device or a device using an electronic device (e.g., an artificial intelligence electronic device).

[0060] An embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in more detail below with reference to the attached drawings.

[0061] FIG. 1 is a drawing for explaining a vacuum cleaner (100) and a charging device (200) according to one embodiment.

[0062] Referring to FIG. 1, the vacuum cleaner (100) may be a device including a battery. The vacuum cleaner (100) can perform electrical operations wirelessly using a charged battery. The vacuum cleaner (100) can perform a predetermined function wirelessly even without being connected to a plug via a wire.

[0063] The vacuum cleaner (100) may include a charging terminal (190). The charging terminal (190) may include a first terminal (191) and a second terminal (192). The first terminal (191) may be the negative terminal of the vacuum cleaner (100). The second terminal (192) may be the positive terminal of the vacuum cleaner (100).

[0064] The charging device (200) may include a charging terminal (290). The charging terminal (290) may include a first terminal (291) and a second terminal (292). The first terminal (291) may be the negative terminal of the charging device (200). The second terminal (292) may be the positive terminal of the charging device (200).

[0065] Descriptions related to each terminal are shown in Fig. 13.

[0066] The vacuum cleaner (100) and the charging device (200) may be contacted based on charging terminals (190, 290). It is assumed that the charging device (200) is positioned in a fixed state. However, this is merely one example and the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The vacuum cleaner (100) may be contacted to the charging device (200) through charging terminals (190, 290).

[0067] When the vacuum cleaner (100) and the charging device (200) come into contact, the charging device (200) can supply charging power to the vacuum cleaner (100). The vacuum cleaner (100) can charge the battery included in the vacuum cleaner (100) based on the power received from the charging device (200).

[0068] According to one embodiment, the vacuum cleaner (100) may be a device that performs the function of sucking up foreign matter. The vacuum cleaner (100) may be a vacuum cleaner that performs a cleaning function.

[0069] For example, the vacuum cleaner (100) may be a handheld (or portable) vacuum cleaner operated by a user. The handheld vacuum cleaner may be a vacuum cleaner that is easy for the user to hold with one hand.

[0070] For example, the vacuum cleaner (100) may be a stick-type vacuum cleaner. A stick-type vacuum cleaner may be a vacuum cleaner having a stick-shaped body and a handle.

[0071] For example, the vacuum cleaner (100) may be a mobile robot that moves automatically. An explanation related to this is described in FIG. 4.

[0072] For example, the vacuum cleaner (100) may be a wireless vacuum cleaner.

[0073] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a vacuum cleaner (100) according to one embodiment.

[0074] Referring to FIG. 2, the vacuum cleaner (100) may include a memory (110) for storing instructions and a power supply unit (180) including a rechargeable battery (182).

[0075] It may include at least one processor (120) including a suction motor (175) driven by power supplied through a power supply unit (180), a foreign matter container for storing foreign matter sucked in according to the rotation of the suction motor, a charging terminal (190) connected to a charging device (200), and a processing circuitry.

[0076] The foreign matter container may be referred to as a foreign matter storage box or a foreign matter storage pack.

[0077] At least one processor (120) can perform electrical operations using a battery (182). For example, at least one processor (120) can control a suction motor (175) based on power supplied from the battery (182).

[0078] The vacuum cleaner (100) can charge the battery (182) through a charging function. At least one processor (120) can perform a charging function to charge the battery (182).

[0079] A vacuum cleaner (100) can be connected to a charging device (200). At least one processor (120) can receive external power from the charging device (200). The charging device (200) can be described as a charging station.

[0080] Multiple modes for charging the battery (182) may be provided. Multiple modes may include a first mode and a second mode.

[0081] For example, the first mode may be a CC (Constant Current) mode that maintains the strength of the battery current (Ib) at a threshold strength. For example, the second mode may be a CV (Constant Voltage) mode that maintains the battery voltage (Vb) at a threshold strength (third threshold strength). Descriptions of the first mode and the second mode are provided in FIG. 15. The vacuum cleaner (100) can control the battery state in the first mode or the second mode.

[0082] The operation of maintaining the battery current (Ib) at a critical strength may represent the operation of maintaining the battery current (Ib) within a critical range. The vacuum cleaner (100) can control the power supply unit (180) so that the battery current (Ib) is within a critical range based on the critical strength.

[0083] The operation of maintaining the battery voltage (Vb) at a threshold value may represent an operation of maintaining the battery voltage (Vb) within a threshold range. The vacuum cleaner (100) can control the power supply unit (180) so that the battery voltage (Vb) is within a threshold range based on a threshold value (third threshold value).

[0084] For example, if the third threshold of the battery voltage (Vb) is th3 (V), the threshold range may be between th3 (V) and +a (V).

[0085] For example, if the third threshold of the battery voltage (Vb) is th3(V), the threshold range can be th3+b(V) or th3-b(V).

[0086] The threshold range can be described as a threshold ratio. For example, if the third threshold of the battery voltage (Vb) is th3 (V), the threshold ratio can be +c% (V) or -d% (V). The threshold ratio can be changed by user settings.

[0087] The numbers of the third threshold (th3), a, b, c, d, etc., can be changed according to user settings.

[0088] The battery current (Ib) may be the current supplied to the battery (182). The battery voltage (Vb) may represent the internal voltage of the battery (182). A circuit diagram related to this is shown in FIG. 14.

[0089] When the vacuum cleaner (100) comes into contact with the charging device (200), at least one processor (120) can charge the battery (182).

[0090] At least one processor (120) can operate in a first mode to perform a charging function by supplying a battery current (Ib) of critical strength to the battery (182).

[0091] While operating in the first mode, at least one processor (120) can obtain a first voltage (V1) corresponding to the charging terminal (190) of the vacuum cleaner (100) and a second voltage (V2) corresponding to the charging terminal (290) of the charging device (200).

[0092] The first voltage (V1) may be a voltage applied to the charging terminal (190) of the vacuum cleaner (100). The second voltage (V2) may be a voltage applied to the charging terminal (290) of the charging device (200). Descriptions of the first voltage (V1) and the second voltage (V2) are provided in FIG. 13.

[0093] At least one processor (120) can identify the occurrence of a charging error based on a first voltage (V1) and a second voltage (V2). The operation of identifying the occurrence of a charging error may correspond to step S750 of FIG. 7. Specific operations related thereto are described in FIG. 8.

[0094] A charging error may include an error caused by a charging abnormality of the charging terminal (190) of the vacuum cleaner (100) and the charging terminal (290) of the charging device (200). For example, a charging abnormality may include an error where the connection positions of the charging terminals (190, 290) are misaligned. If a charging error occurs, the charging function may not be performed normally. The space between the vacuum cleaner (100) and the charging device (200) may be perceived as resistance, which may reduce charging efficiency. If a charging error occurs, parts related to charging (e.g., charging terminal (190), charging terminal (290)) may be damaged or deformed. If a charging error occurs, a fire (or ignition) may occur under certain conditions. Damage to the product itself or injury to the user may occur due to the fire.

[0095] At least one processor (120) can obtain a difference value (Vdiff) between a first voltage (V1) and a second voltage (V2). At least one processor (120) can identify the occurrence of a charging error based on the difference value (Vdiff).

[0096] If the difference value (Vdiff) is less than or equal to the first threshold value, at least one processor (120) can continue to operate in the first mode.

[0097] If the difference value (Vdiff) exceeds a second threshold, at least one processor (120) can identify that a charging error has occurred.

[0098] If the difference value (Vdiff) exceeds a first threshold and is less than or equal to a second threshold, at least one processor (120) can identify the occurrence of a charging error by reacquiring the first voltage (V1) and the second voltage (V2). The operation of reacquiring the first voltage (V1) and the second voltage (V2) may be included in additional check operations. An explanation related thereto may correspond to the S845 operation of FIG. 8. An additional explanation related thereto is described in FIG. 10.

[0099] If a charging error occurs, at least one processor (120) may stop the charging function of the first mode. The operation of stopping the charging function may correspond to the S850 operation of FIG. 8.

[0100] For example, if a charging error occurs, the charging function of the first mode can be stopped by controlling the switch (183) included in the power supply (180) to an off state.

[0101] If a charging error occurs, at least one processor (120) may provide an error UI (second error UI) indicating the charging error. The occurrence of a charging error may mean that there is a large difference between the voltage supplied by the charging device (200) (second voltage (V2)) and the voltage received by the vacuum cleaner (100) (first voltage (V1)).

[0102] At least one processor (120) may provide an error UI (second error UI) to warn that the charging function may not be performed normally. The error UI (second error UI) may be a UI for indicating that an error related to charging has occurred. An explanation related to this is provided in FIG. 22.

[0103] If no charging error occurs, at least one processor (120) can obtain a battery voltage (Vb) corresponding to the battery (182) while operating in a first mode. If the battery voltage (Vb) is greater than or equal to a threshold value (third threshold value), at least one processor (120) can operate in a second mode to perform a charging function by maintaining the battery voltage (Vb).

[0104] At least one processor (120) can check for the occurrence of a general error before performing the charging function of the first mode. The charging error represents an error related to charging and can be obtained based on the difference value (Vdiff). However, the general error may include an error not related to charging. An explanation regarding this is described in the operation S720 of FIG. 7.

[0105] The vacuum cleaner (100) may include a communication interface (130). At least one processor (120) may activate the communication interface (130) when the charging terminal (190) of the vacuum cleaner (100) and the charging terminal (290) of the charging device (200) come into contact.

[0106] When the communication interface (130) is activated, at least one processor (120) can request a response from the charging device (200) through the communication interface (130). The communication interface (130) can be changed from an inactive state to an active state.

[0107] After requesting a response from the charging device (200), at least one processor (120) can identify that a general error has occurred through the communication interface (130) if no response signal is received from the charging device (200). At least one processor (120) can provide an error UI (first error UI) indicating that a general error has occurred. A description of the first error UI is provided in FIG. 21.

[0108] When a response signal is received from the charging device (200) through the communication interface (130), at least one processor (120) can perform a charging function of the first mode.

[0109] If there is a problem with the contact between the charging terminal (190) of the vacuum cleaner (100) and the charging terminal (290) of the charging device (200), a heat generation problem may occur. The vacuum cleaner (100) can accurately determine the contact problem using a difference value (Vdiff). This can prevent the problem from escalating into damage (or corrosion) to the charging terminal.

[0110] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating the specific configuration of the vacuum cleaner (100) of FIG. 2 according to one embodiment.

[0111] Referring to FIG. 3, the vacuum cleaner (100) may include at least one of a memory (110), at least one processor (120), a communication interface (130), a display (140), an operation interface (150), an input / output interface (155), a speaker (160), a microphone (165), and a camera (170). The vacuum cleaner (100) may include a power supply unit (180) and a charging terminal (190). A description related to this is provided in FIG. 2. Redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0112] The memory (110) may be implemented as internal memory such as ROM (e.g., EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory)) or RAM included in at least one processor (120), or as memory separate from at least one processor (120). Depending on the purpose of data storage, the memory (110) may be implemented as a memory embedded in the vacuum cleaner (100) or as a memory that can be attached to and detached from the vacuum cleaner (100). For example, data for operating the vacuum cleaner (100) may be stored in memory embedded in the vacuum cleaner (100), and data for the expansion function of the vacuum cleaner (100) may be stored in memory that can be attached to and detached from the vacuum cleaner (100).

[0113] In the case of memory embedded in the vacuum cleaner (100), it may be implemented as at least one of volatile memory (e.g., DRAM (dynamic RAM), SRAM (static RAM), or SDRAM (synchronous dynamic RAM), etc.), non-volatile memory (e.g., OTPROM (one time programmable ROM), PROM (programmable ROM), EPROM (erasable and programmable ROM), EEPROM (electrically erasable and programmable ROM), mask ROM, flash ROM, flash memory (e.g., NAND flash or NOR flash), etc.), hard drive, or solid state drive (SSD), and in the case of memory that can be attached to the vacuum cleaner (100), it may be implemented in the form of a memory card (e.g., CF (compact flash), SD (secure digital), Micro-SD (micro secure digital), Mini-SD (mini secure digital), xD (extreme digital), MMC (multi-media card), etc.), external memory that can be connected to a USB port (e.g., USB memory).

[0114] Memory (110) can store at least one instruction. Based on the instruction stored in memory (110), at least one processor (120) can perform various operations.

[0115] At least one processor (120) may be implemented as a digital signal processor (DSP) that processes digital signals, a microprocessor, or a time controller (TCON). However, it is not limited thereto and may include or be defined by one or more of a central processing unit (CPU), a micro controller unit (MCU), a micro processing unit (MPU), a controller, an application processor (AP), a graphics-processing unit (GPU), a communication processor (CP), or an ARM (advanced reduced instruction set computer (RISC) machine) processor. At least one processor (120) may be implemented as a System on Chip (SoC) or large scale integration (LSI) with a built-in processing algorithm, or may be implemented in the form of a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA). At least one processor (120) can perform various functions by executing computer executable instructions stored in memory.

[0116] The communication interface (130) is a configuration that communicates with various types of external devices according to various types of communication methods. The communication interface (130) may include a wireless communication module or a wired communication module. Each communication module may be implemented in the form of at least one hardware chip.

[0117] A wireless communication module may be a module that communicates wirelessly with an external device. For example, a wireless communication module may include at least one module among a Wi-Fi module, a Bluetooth module, an infrared communication module, or other communication modules.

[0118] Wi-Fi modules and Bluetooth modules can perform communication using Wi-Fi and Bluetooth methods, respectively. When using a Wi-Fi module or a Bluetooth module, various connection information, such as the SSID (service set identifier) ​​and session key, is transmitted and received first; after establishing a communication connection using this information, various types of information can be transmitted and received.

[0119] The infrared communication module performs communication according to infrared communication (IrDA, Infrared Data Association) technology, which uses infrared rays located between visible light and millimeter waves to wirelessly transmit data over short distances.

[0120] Other communication modules may include at least one communication chip that performs communication according to various wireless communication standards such as Zigbee, 3G (3rd Generation), 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project), LTE (Long Term Evolution), LTE-A (LTE Advanced), 4G (4th Generation), and 5G (5th Generation), in addition to the communication method described above.

[0121] A wired communication module may be a module that communicates with an external device via a wire. For example, a wired communication module may include at least one of a Local Area Network (LAN) module, an Ethernet module, a pair cable, a coaxial cable, a fiber optic cable, or an Ultra Wide-Band (UWB) module.

[0122] According to one embodiment, the communication interface (130) may use the same communication module (e.g., Wi-Fi module) to communicate with an external device, such as a remote control device, and an external server.

[0123] According to one embodiment, the communication interface (130) may use different communication modules to communicate with external devices, such as a remote control device and an external server. For example, the communication interface (130) may use at least one of an Ethernet module or a Wi-Fi module to communicate with an external server, and may use a Bluetooth module to communicate with an external device, such as a remote control device. However, this is merely one embodiment, and the communication interface (130) may use at least one of various communication modules when communicating with multiple external devices or external servers.

[0124] The display (140) can be implemented as various types of displays such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diodes) display, and a PDP (Plasma Display Panel). The display (140) may also include a driving circuit, a backlight unit, etc., which can be implemented in forms such as an a-si TFT (amorphous silicon thin film transistor), an LTPS (low temperature poly silicon) TFT, and an OTFT (organic TFT). The display (140) can be implemented as a touch screen combined with a touch sensor, a flexible display, a 3D display, a three-dimensional display, etc. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the display (140) may include not only a display panel that outputs an image, but also a bezel that houses the display panel. In particular, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the bezel may include a touch sensor for detecting user interaction.

[0125] The operation interface (150) may be implemented as a device such as a button, touch pad, mouse, and keyboard, or as a touch screen capable of performing the aforementioned display function and operation input function. The button may be a various type of button, such as a mechanical button, touch pad, or wheel, formed in any area of ​​the exterior of the main body of the vacuum cleaner (100), such as the front, side, or rear portions.

[0126] The input / output interface (155) may be any one of the following interfaces: HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface), MHL (Mobile High-Definition Link), USB (Universal Serial Bus), DP (Display Port), Thunderbolt, VGA (Video Graphics Array) port, RGB port, D-SUB (D-subminiature), and DVI (Digital Visual Interface). The input / output interface (155) may input and output at least one of audio and video signals. Depending on the implementation example, the input / output interface (155) may include separate ports for inputting and outputting only audio signals and for inputting and outputting only video signals, or it may be implemented as a single port for inputting and outputting both audio and video signals. The vacuum cleaner (100) may transmit at least one of the audio and video signals to an external device (e.g., an external display device or an external speaker) through the input / output interface (155). An output port included in the input / output interface (155) can be connected to an external device, and the vacuum cleaner (100) can transmit at least one of audio and video signals to the external device through the output port.

[0127] The input / output interface (155) can be connected to a communication interface. The input / output interface (155) can transmit information received from an external device to the communication interface or transmit information received through the communication interface to an external device.

[0128] The speaker (160) may be a component that outputs various audio data as well as various notification sounds or voice messages.

[0129] The microphone (165) is a component for receiving user voice or other sounds and converting them into audio data. The microphone (165) can receive the user's voice when active. For example, the microphone (165) may be formed integrally on the upper side, front side, or side side of the vacuum cleaner (100). The microphone (165) may include various components such as a microphone for collecting analog user voice, an amplifier circuit for amplifying the collected user voice, an A / D conversion circuit for sampling the amplified user voice and converting it into a digital signal, and a filter circuit for removing noise components from the converted digital signal.

[0130] The camera (170) is configured to capture an object and generate an image, and the image includes both video and still images. The camera (170) can acquire an image of at least one external device and can be implemented as a camera, lens, infrared sensor, etc.

[0131] The camera (170) may include a lens and an image sensor. The types of lenses include general-purpose lenses, wide-angle lenses, zoom lenses, etc., and may be determined according to the type, characteristics, and usage environment of the vacuum cleaner (100). As an image sensor, a Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) and a Charge Coupled Device (CCD) may be used.

[0132] FIG. 4 is a drawing for explaining a portable vacuum cleaner (100) according to one embodiment.

[0133] Referring to the embodiment (400) of FIG. 4, the vacuum cleaner (100) may be a mobile robot. The mobile robot may include a battery. The battery may be charged based on a charging power supplied from a charging device (200). The vacuum cleaner (100) may move wirelessly to perform a predetermined function. The vacuum cleaner (100) may store a map related to the space.

[0134] The vacuum cleaner (100) can drive to generate a map. Additionally, the vacuum cleaner (100) can drive along a predetermined path based on the generated map.

[0135] The vacuum cleaner (100) can store the location where the charging device (200) is placed. The vacuum cleaner (100) can move to the stored location to perform charging (or standby). When the vacuum cleaner (100) moves to the designated location, the charging device (200) can supply power to the vacuum cleaner (100).

[0136] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining the structure of a vacuum cleaner (100) and a charging device (200) according to one embodiment.

[0137] The vacuum cleaner (100) may include at least one of a processor (120), a communication interface (130), a display (140), an operation interface (150), a suction motor (175), a power supply (180), and a charging terminal (190).

[0138] The processor (120) can control the communication interface (130), display (140), operation interface (150), suction motor (175), or power supply (180).

[0139] For example, the processor (120) can control the communication interface (130). The vacuum cleaner (100) can be connected to the charging device (200) via the communication interface (130).

[0140] For example, the processor (120) can display a set image through the display (140).

[0141] For example, the processor (120) can control the suction motor (175) to perform a rotational function. When the suction motor (175) is rotated, the vacuum cleaner (100) can perform a suction operation.

[0142] For example, the processor (120) can supply power to the components included in the vacuum cleaner (100) through the power supply unit (180).

[0143] For example, the vacuum cleaner (100) can receive user input through the operation interface (150). The user input may be an input that performs a cleaning function. When user input is received, the vacuum cleaner (100) can supply power to the suction motor (175) by the power supply unit (180). When the suction motor (175) rotates, the vacuum cleaner (100) can perform a cleaning function by sucking in ambient air and dust, etc.

[0144] The vacuum cleaner (100) can be in contact (or connected) with the charging device (200) through the charging terminal (190).

[0145] The charging device (200) may include at least one of a processor (220), a communication interface (230), an operation interface (250), a suction motor (275), a power supply (280), and a charging terminal (290).

[0146] The charging device (200) can be connected to an external power source (10). The charging device (200) can receive power from the external power source (10). The charging device (200) can receive power from the external power source (10) through the power supply unit (280).

[0147] When power is supplied from an external power source (10), the charging device (200) can transmit the supplied power to the vacuum cleaner (100) through the charging terminal (290). Since the charging terminal (190) of the vacuum cleaner (100) and the charging terminal (290) of the charging device (200) are connected, power from the external power source (10) can be supplied to the vacuum cleaner (100) through the charging device (200).

[0148] When power is supplied to the charging device (200) from an external power source (10), the charging device (200) can transmit the power supplied through the power supply unit (280) to the vacuum cleaner (100) through the charging terminal (290) and the charging terminal (190) of the vacuum cleaner (100). The vacuum cleaner (100) can transmit the power supplied through the charging terminal (190) to the power supply unit (180). The power supply unit (180) can charge the battery based on the supplied power.

[0149] For example, the charging device (200) can receive user input through the operation interface (250). The user input may be an input that performs the function of transferring foreign matter contained in the vacuum cleaner (100) to the charging device (200). The charging device (200) may include a foreign matter container (or foreign matter storage pack or foreign matter filter bag or dust bag) for storing foreign matter. When user input related to the foreign matter container is received through the operation interface (250) of the charging device (200), the charging device (200) may open the cap and perform the function of transferring the foreign matter stored in the vacuum cleaner (100) to the charging device (200).

[0150] Configurations that perform the same function may exist in the vacuum cleaner (100) and the charging device (200), respectively. For convenience of distinction, ordinal numbers such as first and second may be added. For example, the communication interface (130) of the vacuum cleaner (100) may be described as the first communication interface. The communication interface (230) of the charging device (200) may be described as the second communication interface.

[0151] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining a charging operation according to one embodiment.

[0152] Referring to FIG. 6, the vacuum cleaner (100) can check the connection between the vacuum cleaner (100) and the charging device (200) (S600). The vacuum cleaner (100) can identify whether the charging device (200) is connected. The vacuum cleaner (100) can receive power from the charging device (200). The vacuum cleaner (100) can be connected to the charging device (200) through the charging terminal (190). An explanation of whether the vacuum cleaner (100) and the charging device (200) are properly connected is disclosed in FIG. 7.

[0153] When the vacuum cleaner (100) is connected to the charging device (200), the vacuum cleaner (100) can perform a charging function in a first mode. The first mode may be a CC (Constant Current) mode. The first mode may be a mode that performs a charging function while supplying a charging current (or battery current) within a critical range (or critical strength).

[0154] While performing in the first mode, the vacuum cleaner (100) can check whether a charging error occurs (S650). The vacuum cleaner (100) can check whether the charging function is performed normally after contacting the charging device (200). Even if charging power is supplied, if the contact is unstable, charging may not be performed normally. If the vacuum cleaner (100) and the charging device (200) are not in normal contact, the vacuum cleaner (100) or the charging device (200) may be damaged due to the abnormal supply of charging power.

[0155] The vacuum cleaner (100) can check whether the charging function is performed normally. An explanation related to this is disclosed in FIGS. 7 and 8.

[0156] After checking for a charging error, the vacuum cleaner (100) can perform a charging function in a second mode (S670). The second mode may be a CV (Constant Voltage) mode. The second mode may be a mode that performs a charging function while supplying a charging voltage within a critical range (or critical strength).

[0157] The vacuum cleaner (100) can charge the battery using a first mode and a second mode. A description of each mode is disclosed in FIG. 15.

[0158] FIG. 7 is a drawing for specifically explaining the charging operation of FIG. 6 according to one embodiment.

[0159] Referring to FIG. 7, the vacuum cleaner (100) can check whether it is connected to the charging device (200). The vacuum cleaner (100) can identify the occurrence of an initialization event (S710). The initialization event may be a pre-set event that occurs before performing the charging function.

[0160] For example, the initialization event may include at least one of an event in which the power of the vacuum cleaner (100) is turned on or an event in which the charging terminal (190) of the vacuum cleaner (100) comes into contact with the charging terminal (290) of the charging device (200).

[0161] The vacuum cleaner (100) can check whether the charging terminal (190) is in contact. If the charging terminal (190) is not in contact with the charging terminal (290) of the charging device (200), the vacuum cleaner (100) can repeatedly perform the S710 operation. If the charging terminal (190) is in contact with the charging terminal (290) of the charging device (200), the vacuum cleaner (100) can perform an initialization function.

[0162] When an initialization event occurs (S710-Y), the vacuum cleaner (100) can perform an initialization function (S711). The initialization function may include at least one of the operations required for charging the battery and the operation of waking up the communication interface (130) of the vacuum cleaner (100). When the communication interface (130) is not used, the vacuum cleaner (100) can control the communication interface (130) to an off state or a power-saving state. When an initialization event occurs, the vacuum cleaner (100) can change the communication interface (130) from an off state (or power-saving state) to an on state (or active state).

[0163] The vacuum cleaner (100) can identify whether a general error event has occurred (S720). The general error event may be described as a first event or a first type of event. The general error event may be an event set to check for charging readiness before performing a charging function. When a general error event occurs, the vacuum cleaner (100) can determine that charging readiness is not fully complete.

[0164] For example, a general error event may include at least one of an error in the vacuum cleaner (100), an error in the charging device (200), or a lack of communication.

[0165] For example, the error of the vacuum cleaner (100) may include at least one of the error of the power supply unit (180), the error of the suction motor (175), the error of the pressure sensor, the error of the battery (182), and the error of the communication interface (130).

[0166] For example, an error in the power supply unit (180) may include an error indicating that the battery included in the power supply unit (180) is in a state where it is not capable of being charged. An error in the power supply unit (180) may include an error indicating that the temperature of the battery (182) is above a critical temperature. If the temperature of the battery (182) is above a critical temperature, the vacuum cleaner (100) may not perform the charging function. An explanation related to this is described in FIG. 16.

[0167] For example, an error in the suction motor (175) may include an error indicating that the suction motor is not rotating normally.

[0168] For example, an error in the pressure sensor may include an error in which pressure data of a preset size is not identified in the pressure sensor included in the vacuum cleaner (100).

[0169] For example, an error in the charging device (200) may include at least one of an error in the power supply unit (280), an error in the suction motor (275), and an error in the pressure sensor.

[0170] For example, an error in the power supply unit (280) may include an error indicating that the battery included in the power supply unit (280) is not in a state where it can be charged.

[0171] For example, an error in the suction motor (275) may include an error indicating that the suction motor is not rotating normally.

[0172] For example, an error in the pressure sensor may include an error in which pressure data of a preset size is not identified in the pressure sensor included in the charging device (200).

[0173] When a general error event occurs, the vacuum cleaner (100) may provide a first error UI (S721). The first error UI may include a UI indicating that a general error has occurred. The vacuum cleaner (100) may generate a control signal to display the first error UI on the vacuum cleaner (100) or the charging device (200). Through the first error UI, the user can easily recognize that the charging function cannot be performed.

[0174] If no general error event occurs (S720-N), the vacuum cleaner (100) can operate in a first mode that performs a charging function by supplying a battery current (Ib) of critical strength (S740). For example, the first mode may be a CC mode.

[0175] While operating in the first mode, the vacuum cleaner (100) can check whether a charging error occurs (S750). While performing the charging function of the first mode, the vacuum cleaner (100) can check whether a charging error occurs. An explanation related to this is described in FIG. 8.

[0176] The vacuum cleaner (100) can acquire (or measure) the battery voltage (Vb) while operating in the first mode (S760). The vacuum cleaner (100) can identify whether the battery voltage (Vb) is above a third threshold (S765). The third threshold may be changed according to the user's settings. If the battery voltage (Vb) is below the third threshold (S765-N), the vacuum cleaner (100) can repeat the actions S740, S750, S760, and S765.

[0177] If the battery voltage (Vb) is above the third threshold value (S765-Y), the vacuum cleaner (100) may operate in a second mode that performs a charging function while maintaining the battery voltage (Vb). For example, the second mode may be a CV mode.

[0178] The vacuum cleaner (100) can charge the battery of the vacuum cleaner (100) based on the first mode and the second mode.

[0179] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an operation to check for a charging error according to one embodiment.

[0180] FIG. 8 may include a description specifying the operation (S750) for confirming the occurrence of a charging error of FIG. 7. After performing the first mode, the vacuum cleaner (100) can identify (or measure) the battery current (Ib) (S805). The vacuum cleaner (100) can identify whether the battery current (Ib) is above a threshold strength (S810).

[0181] If the battery current (Ib) is below a threshold level (S810-N), the vacuum cleaner (100) can repeat the S805 and S810 operations. As another example, if the battery current (Ib) is below a threshold level, the vacuum cleaner (100) can stop the charging function. An explanation related to this is described in FIG. 9.

[0182] If the battery current (Ib) is greater than or equal to the threshold strength (S810-Y), the vacuum cleaner (100) can obtain a first voltage (V1) corresponding to the charging terminal (190) of the vacuum cleaner (100) while operating in the first mode (S815). The vacuum cleaner (100) can obtain a second voltage (V2) corresponding to the charging terminal (290) of the charging device (200) while operating in the first mode (S820). The vacuum cleaner (100) can obtain a difference value (Vdiff) between the first voltage (V1) and the second voltage (V2) (S825).

[0183] The first voltage (V1) is a voltage measured at the charging terminal (190) of the vacuum cleaner (100), and the second voltage (V2) may be a voltage measured at the charging terminal (290) of the charging device (200).

[0184] For example, the difference value can represent an absolute value. The vacuum cleaner (100) can obtain a value obtained by subtracting the second voltage (V2) from the first voltage (V1). The vacuum cleaner (100) can obtain the absolute value of the subtracted value as the difference value (Vdiff).

[0185] The vacuum cleaner (100) can identify whether the difference value (Vdiff) is below a first threshold value (S830). The first threshold value may be changed. A smaller difference value may indicate that the vacuum cleaner (100) and the charging device (200) are in normal contact.

[0186] If the difference value (Vdiff) is less than or equal to the first threshold value (S830-Y), the vacuum cleaner (100) can perform the charging function normally (S835). The vacuum cleaner (100) can perform the operations S760, S765, and S770 of FIG. 7.

[0187] If the difference value (Vdiff) exceeds the first threshold (S830-N), the cleaner (100) can identify whether the difference value (Vdiff) is less than or equal to the second threshold (S840). The second threshold can be changed.

[0188] If the difference value (Vdiff) is less than or equal to the second threshold value (S840-Y), the vacuum cleaner (100) can perform an additional check (S845). The vacuum cleaner (100) can perform an additional check operation by re-measuring the first voltage (V1) and the second voltage (V2).

[0189] For example, the vacuum cleaner (100) can repeat operations S805 to S845 for additional inspection.

[0190] For example, the vacuum cleaner (100) can increase the measurement time for obtaining the first voltage (V1) and the second voltage (V2). Before the additional inspection, the vacuum cleaner (100) can obtain the first voltage (V1) and the second voltage (V2) for a first time. During the additional inspection, the vacuum cleaner (100) can obtain the first voltage (V1) and the second voltage (V2) for a second time that is longer than the first time.

[0191] For example, the vacuum cleaner (100) can perform a modified inspection operation. The vacuum cleaner (100) can change at least one of the first threshold or the second threshold. The vacuum cleaner (100) can change at least one of the first threshold or the second threshold to determine an accurate charging error. This is described in FIG. 10.

[0192] If the difference value (Vdiff) exceeds the second threshold (S840-N), the vacuum cleaner (100) may stop (or interrupt) the charging function (S850). The vacuum cleaner (100) may not supply charging power to the battery. If the difference value (Vdiff) exceeds the second threshold, the vacuum cleaner (100) may identify that a problem related to charging has occurred. Accordingly, the vacuum cleaner (100) may temporarily suspend or interrupt the charging function.

[0193] For example, the vacuum cleaner (100) may stop the operation of supplying the charging voltage of the vacuum cleaner (100). The charging voltage of the vacuum cleaner (100) may be a first voltage (V1). The vacuum cleaner (100) may not supply the charging voltage to the battery by turning off the switch (Sb) that supplies the charging voltage to the battery.

[0194] For example, the vacuum cleaner (100) may stop the operation of supplying the charging voltage of the charging device (200). The charging voltage of the charging device (200) may be a second voltage (V2). The vacuum cleaner (100) may generate a control signal to stop the supply of the charging voltage of the charging device (200). The vacuum cleaner (100) may transmit the generated control signal to the charging device (200) through the communication interface (130). When the control signal is received, the charging device (200) may no longer supply the charging voltage of the charging device (200) to the vacuum cleaner (100). The charging device (200) may not supply the charging power (or charging voltage) to the vacuum cleaner (100) through a switch included in the charging device (200).

[0195] The vacuum cleaner (100) may provide a second error UI to indicate a charging error (S855). When the second error UI is provided, the user can easily recognize that a problem related to charging has occurred.

[0196] For example, the vacuum cleaner (100) can display a second error UI through a display (140) included in the vacuum cleaner (100).

[0197] For example, the vacuum cleaner (100) can display a second error UI through an optical element (e.g., LED, LCD) included in the vacuum cleaner (100).

[0198] For example, the vacuum cleaner (100) can display a second error UI through a display (240) included in the charging device (200). The vacuum cleaner (100) can generate a control signal to display the second error UI on the display (240) and transmit the generated control signal to the charging device (200) through a communication interface (130).

[0199] For example, the vacuum cleaner (100) can display a second error UI through an optical element (e.g., an LED) included in the charging device (200). The vacuum cleaner (100) can generate a control signal to display the second error UI on the optical element (e.g., an LED) and transmit the generated control signal to the charging device (200) through a communication interface (130).

[0200] For example, a vacuum cleaner (100) can generate a control signal to display a second error UI on a terminal device (300) that can be connected to the vacuum cleaner (100). The vacuum cleaner (100) can transmit the control signal to the terminal device (300). An explanation related to this is described in FIG. 20.

[0201] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating the operation of checking battery current according to one embodiment.

[0202] The operations S905, S910, and S920 of FIG. 9 may correspond to the operations S805, S810, and S820 of FIG. 8. Redundant explanation is omitted.

[0203] If the battery current (Ib) is greater than or equal to the threshold strength (S910-Y), the vacuum cleaner (100) can perform operation S920. After operation S920, operations S825 to S855 of FIG. 8 can be performed.

[0204] If the battery current (Ib) is below a threshold strength (S910-N), the vacuum cleaner (100) can identify the battery current (Ib) after a preset time has elapsed (S915). The vacuum cleaner (100) can re-identify whether the battery current (Ib) is above a threshold strength (S925).

[0205] If the re-identified battery current (Ib) is greater than or equal to the threshold strength (S925-Y), the vacuum cleaner (100) can perform the S920 operation and subsequent operations (operations S825 to S855 of FIG. 8).

[0206] If the re-identified battery current (Ib) is below a threshold strength (S925-N), the vacuum cleaner (100) may stop the charging function (S930). The vacuum cleaner (100) may control the charging power so that it is not supplied to the battery of the vacuum cleaner (100). The operation of stopping the charging function may correspond to the operation S850 of FIG. 8.

[0207] The vacuum cleaner (100) may provide a third error UI to indicate a charging error (S935). The third error UI may include information indicating that the first mode is not operating normally.

[0208] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the operation of checking a voltage difference according to one embodiment.

[0209] Referring to FIG. 10, the vacuum cleaner (100) can identify whether an additional inspection event occurs (S1005). The additional inspection event may include an event that performs the operation S845 of FIG. 8. The additional inspection event may indicate an event in which the difference value (Vdiff) falls within a range where it is difficult to determine whether it is normal or an error.

[0210] When an additional inspection event occurs (S1005-Y), the vacuum cleaner (100) can change the first threshold to the fourth threshold (S1010). The vacuum cleaner (100) can change the second threshold to the fifth threshold (S1011).

[0211] For example, the fourth threshold may be higher than the first threshold. For example, the fifth threshold may be lower than the second threshold. The vacuum cleaner (100) may change at least some of the thresholds for more accurate analysis.

[0212] For example, the fourth threshold can be smaller than the fifth threshold.

[0213] While operating in a first mode, the vacuum cleaner (100) can obtain a first voltage (V1) corresponding to the charging terminal (190) of the vacuum cleaner (100) (S1015). While operating in a first mode, the vacuum cleaner (100) can obtain a second voltage (V2) corresponding to the charging terminal (290) of the charging device (200) (S1020). The vacuum cleaner (100) can obtain a difference value (Vdiff) between the first voltage (V1) and the second voltage (V2) (S1025).

[0214] For example, the difference value can represent an absolute value. The vacuum cleaner (100) can obtain a value obtained by subtracting the second voltage (V2) from the first voltage (V1). The vacuum cleaner (100) can obtain the absolute value of the subtracted value as the difference value (Vdiff).

[0215] The vacuum cleaner (100) can identify whether the difference value (Vdiff) is below the fourth threshold value (S1030). The smaller the difference value, the more likely it is that the vacuum cleaner (100) and the charging device (200) are in normal contact.

[0216] If the difference value (Vdiff) is less than or equal to the fourth threshold value (S1030-Y), the vacuum cleaner (100) can perform the charging function normally (S1035). The vacuum cleaner (100) can perform the operations S760, S765, and S770 of FIG. 7.

[0217] If the difference value (Vdiff) exceeds the fourth threshold (S1030-N), the cleaner (100) can identify whether the difference value (Vdiff) is less than or equal to the fifth threshold (S1040). The fifth threshold can be changed.

[0218] If the difference value (Vdiff) is less than or equal to the fifth threshold value (S1040-Y), the vacuum cleaner (100) can perform an additional check (S1045). The vacuum cleaner (100) can perform an additional check operation by re-measuring the first voltage (V1) and the second voltage (V2).

[0219] If the difference value (Vdiff) exceeds the fifth threshold (S1040-N), the vacuum cleaner (100) may stop (or interrupt) the charging function (S1050). The vacuum cleaner (100) may not supply charging power to the battery. If the difference value (Vdiff) exceeds the fifth threshold, the vacuum cleaner (100) may identify that a problem related to charging has occurred. Accordingly, the vacuum cleaner (100) may temporarily suspend or interrupt the charging function.

[0220] The vacuum cleaner (100) may provide a second error UI to indicate a charging error (S1055). When the second error UI is provided, the user can easily recognize that a problem related to charging has occurred.

[0221] The operations S1015 to S1055 of FIG. 10 may correspond to the operations S815 to S855 of FIG. 8, excluding the threshold value. Redundant description is omitted.

[0222] FIG. 11 is a drawing for explaining the operation of calculating the number of additional inspections according to one embodiment.

[0223] Referring to FIG. 11, the vacuum cleaner (100) can identify the number of additional checks (S1105). The additional checks may represent checks performed by the operation S845 of FIG. 8 and S1045 of FIG. 10.

[0224] The vacuum cleaner (100) can identify whether the number of additional checks is greater than or equal to the threshold number (S1110). If the number of additional checks is less than the threshold number (S1010-N), the vacuum cleaner (100) can perform additional checks (S1115).

[0225] If the number of additional checks exceeds a threshold number (S1010-Y), the vacuum cleaner (100) may stop the charging function. The vacuum cleaner (100) may control the charging power so that it is not supplied to the battery of the vacuum cleaner (100). The operation of stopping the charging function may correspond to the operation S850 of FIG. 8.

[0226] The vacuum cleaner (100) may provide a fourth error UI to indicate a charging error (S1025). The fourth error UI may be a UI provided when the difference value (Vdiff) falls within the error range. The fourth error UI may include information to indicate that there is a possibility that the charging function may not be performed normally, even though the exact cause is unknown.

[0227] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the operation of requesting sensing data from a charging device (200) according to one embodiment.

[0228] Steps S1210, S1211, S1221, and S1230 of FIG. 12 may correspond to steps S710, S711, S721, and S730 of FIG. 7. Redundant description is omitted.

[0229] The general error event described in step S720 of FIG. 7 may include at least one of the general error event of the vacuum cleaner (100) or the general error event of the charging device (200).

[0230] After performing the initialization function, the vacuum cleaner (100) can identify whether a general error event of the vacuum cleaner (100) occurs (S1220).

[0231] General error events of the vacuum cleaner (100) may include at least one of an error in the power supply unit (180), an error in the suction motor (175), and an error in the pressure sensor. An explanation related to this is described in the operation S720 of FIG. 7.

[0232] When a general error event occurs in the vacuum cleaner (100) (S1220-Y), the vacuum cleaner (100) may provide a first error UI (S1221). The first error UI may include information indicating that an error has occurred in the vacuum cleaner (100).

[0233] If no general error event of the vacuum cleaner (100) occurs (S1220-N), the vacuum cleaner (100) can request sensing data from the charging device (200) (S1222).

[0234] The charging device (200) can receive a request for sensing data from the vacuum cleaner (100). The charging device (200) can acquire the sensing data (S1223). The sensing data may include at least one of data related to the power supply (280), data related to the suction motor (275), and data related to the pressure sensor. The charging device (200) can transmit the sensing data to the vacuum cleaner (100) (S1224).

[0235] The vacuum cleaner (100) can receive sensing data from the charging device (200). Based on the sensing data from the charging device (200), the vacuum cleaner (100) can identify whether a general error event of the charging device (200) has occurred (S1225).

[0236] A general error event of the charging device (200) may include at least one of an error of the power supply unit (280), an error of the suction motor (275), and an error of the pressure sensor. An explanation related to this is described in the operation S720 of FIG. 7. The vacuum cleaner (100) can determine whether a general error event of the charging device (200) has occurred based on the sensing data.

[0237] When a general error event occurs in the charging device (200) (S1225-Y), the vacuum cleaner (100) can transmit an error notification to the charging device (200) (S1226). The vacuum cleaner (100) can generate a control signal to provide a fifth error UI in the charging device (200). The vacuum cleaner (100) can transmit the generated control signal to the charging device (200). The control signal may include an error notification.

[0238] The charging device (200) can receive an error notification from the vacuum cleaner (100). The charging device (200) can provide a fifth error UI based on the error notification (S1227). The fifth error UI may include information indicating that an error related to the charging device (200) has occurred.

[0239] If no general error event of the charging device (200) occurs (S1225-N), the vacuum cleaner (100) can check whether the charging terminal (190) is in contact (S1230). After the operation S1230, the vacuum cleaner (100) can perform the operations S740 to S770 of FIG. 7.

[0240] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating the operation of calculating a voltage difference according to one embodiment.

[0241] Referring to FIG. 13, the charging terminal (190) of the vacuum cleaner (100) may include a first terminal (191) and a second terminal (192). The first terminal (191) may be a negative terminal or a ground terminal of the charging terminal (190). The second terminal (192) may be a positive terminal or a terminal to which a charging voltage is supplied of the charging terminal (190).

[0242] The first terminal (191) can be connected to the first terminal (a) of the first resistor (R1).

[0243] The second terminal (b) of the first resistor (R1) can be connected to the first terminal (a) of the second resistor (R2) of the microcomputer (121) of the vacuum cleaner (100). The microcomputer (121) may include a processor for measuring voltage. The microcomputer (121) may be described as a voltage measurement module.

[0244] The second terminal (192) can be connected to the second terminal (b) of the second resistor (R2) and the power supply (180).

[0245] The vacuum cleaner (100) can obtain the voltage for the node connected to the second terminal (192) as the first voltage (V1).

[0246] The vacuum cleaner (100) can obtain a voltage for a node connected to the second terminal (b) of the first resistor (R1) and the first terminal (a) of the second resistor (R2) as a third voltage (V3).

[0247] Referring to mathematical formula (1310), the third voltage (V3) can be calculated based on the first voltage (V1), the first resistance (R1), and the second resistance (R2).

[0248] Referring to mathematical formula (1320), the first voltage (V1) can be calculated based on the third voltage (V3), the first resistance (R1), and the second resistance (R2).

[0249] The vacuum cleaner (100) can obtain a third voltage (V3) through a microcomputer (121). According to mathematical formula (1320), the vacuum cleaner (100) can obtain a first voltage (V1) based on the third voltage (V3), the first resistor (R1), and the second resistor (R2). The first voltage (V1) can be obtained based on the third voltage (V3), the first resistor (R1), and the second resistor (R2).

[0250] The charging terminal (290) of the charging device (200) may include a first terminal (291) and a second terminal (292). The first terminal (291) may be a negative terminal or a ground terminal of the charging terminal (290). The second terminal (292) may be a positive terminal or a terminal supplying charging voltage of the charging terminal (290).

[0251] The first terminal (291) can be connected to the first terminal (a) of the third resistor (R3).

[0252] The second terminal (b) of the third resistor (R3) can be connected to the first terminal (a) of the fourth resistor (R4) and the microcomputer (221) of the charging device (200). The microcomputer (221) may include a processor for measuring voltage. The microcomputer (221) may be described as a voltage measurement module.

[0253] The second terminal (292) can be connected to the second terminal (b) of the fourth resistor (R4) and the power supply (280).

[0254] The charging device (200) can obtain the voltage for the node connected to the second terminal (292) as the second voltage (V2).

[0255] The charging device (200) can obtain the voltage for the node connected to the second terminal (b) of the third resistor (R3) and the first terminal (a) of the fourth resistor (R4) as the fourth voltage (V4).

[0256] Referring to mathematical formula (1330), the fourth voltage (V4) can be calculated based on the second voltage (V2), the third resistance (R3), and the fourth resistance (R4).

[0257] Referring to mathematical formula (1340), the second voltage (V2) can be calculated based on the fourth voltage (V4), the third resistor (R3), and the fourth resistor (R4).

[0258] The vacuum cleaner (100) can obtain a fourth voltage (V4) through a microcomputer (221). According to mathematical formula (1340), the vacuum cleaner (100) can obtain a second voltage (V2) based on the fourth voltage (V4), the third resistor (R3), and the fourth resistor (R4). The second voltage (V2) can be obtained based on the fourth voltage (V4), the third resistor (R3), and the fourth resistor (R4).

[0259] For example, the charging device (200) can transmit power supplied from an external power source (10) to the charging terminal (290) through the power supply unit (280). When the charging terminal (190) of the vacuum cleaner (100) comes into contact with the charging terminal (290) of the charging device (200), the charging device (200) can transmit power to the vacuum cleaner (100). The vacuum cleaner (100) can transmit the power transmitted from the charging device (200) to the power supply unit (180).

[0260] For example, the vacuum cleaner (100) can first obtain a third voltage through the microcomputer (121) and obtain a first voltage based on the mathematical formula (1320).

[0261] For example, the charging device (200) can first obtain a fourth voltage through the microcomputer (221) and obtain a second voltage based on the mathematical formula (1340).

[0262] According to mathematical formula (1350), the vacuum cleaner (100) can obtain the difference value (Vdiff) between the first voltage (V1) and the second voltage (V2).

[0263] The vacuum cleaner (100) can obtain the absolute value of the subtraction of the first voltage (V1) and the second voltage (V2) as the difference value (Vdiff). According to the mathematical formula (1350), the vacuum cleaner (100) can obtain the difference value (Vdiff) based on the third voltage (V3), the fourth voltage (V4), the first resistor (R1), the second resistor (R2), the third resistor (R3), and the fourth resistor (R4).

[0264] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating battery current, battery voltage, and equivalent resistance according to one embodiment.

[0265] Referring to FIG. 14, the power supply unit (180) of the vacuum cleaner (100) may include at least one of a variable power supply unit (181), a battery (182), a switch (Sb, 183), and an external resistor (Ra, 184).

[0266] The variable power supply unit (181) can supply power according to the control of the vacuum cleaner (100).

[0267] The battery (182) may include at least one of an internal resistance (182-1, Rb) or an internal power source (182-2, Vb).

[0268] An external resistor (Ra) may be positioned to be connected to a variable power supply (181) and a battery (182). For example, the external resistor (Ra) may be a variable resistor. The resistance value of the external resistor (Ra) may be changed according to the control of the vacuum cleaner (100).

[0269] Internal resistance (Rb) may be included in the battery (182).

[0270] Internal resistance (Rb) can be described as internal impedance. Internal resistance (Rb) can be a variable resistor.

[0271] The external resistance (Ra) may be described as the fifth resistance. The internal resistance (Rb) may be described as the sixth resistance.

[0272] The voltage between the first stage (a) and the second stage (b) of the variable power supply (181) may be a charging voltage (Va). According to mathematical formula (1410), the vacuum cleaner (100) may obtain a charging voltage (Va) based on a first voltage (V1) and a constant (k). The constant (k) may be changed.

[0273] The current flowing from the variable power supply (181) to the battery (182) may be the battery current (Ib). According to the mathematical formula (1420), the vacuum cleaner (100) can obtain the battery current (Ib) based on the charging voltage (Va), battery voltage (Vb), and external resistance (Ra). The external resistance (Ra) may be described as an external resistance value.

[0274] The voltage between the first stage (a) and the second stage (b) of the battery (182) may be the battery voltage (Vb).

[0275] The internal resistance (182-1) may have a resistance value that changes according to the control of the vacuum cleaner (100). The internal resistance (182-1) may be described as an equivalent resistance or an equivalent impedance.

[0276] The vacuum cleaner (100) can control the switch (183) to determine whether to supply a charging voltage (Va) to the battery (182). When the switch (183) is in the ON state, the charging voltage (Va) can be supplied to the battery (182). To stop the charging function, the vacuum cleaner (100) can control the switch (183) to the ON state (or closed state).

[0277] If the switch (183) is in the off state, the charging voltage (Va) may not be supplied to the battery (182). To perform the charging function, the vacuum cleaner (100) can control the switch (183) to the off state (or open state).

[0278] The first stage (a) of the variable power supply (181) can be connected to the first stage (a) of the battery (182).

[0279] The first terminal (a) of the battery (182) can be connected to the first terminal (a) of the internal resistance (182-1) and the first terminal (a) of the internal power supply (182-2).

[0280] The second terminal (b) of the internal resistance (182-1) can be connected to the second terminal (b) of the internal power supply (182-2) and the second terminal (b) of the battery (182).

[0281] The second terminal (b) of the battery (182) can be connected to the second terminal (b) of the switch (183).

[0282] The first terminal (a) of the switch (183) can be connected to the second terminal (b) of the external resistor (184).

[0283] The first terminal (a) of the external resistor (184) can be connected to the second terminal (b) of the variable power supply (181).

[0284] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating battery current, battery voltage, and equivalent resistance according to one embodiment.

[0285] Referring to the graph (1500) of FIG. 15, the vacuum cleaner (100) can perform a charging function. The vacuum cleaner (100) can perform a charging function while performing a first mode (CC mode) or a second mode (CV mode).

[0286] The vacuum cleaner (100) can perform a first mode (CC mode) to maintain the battery current (Ib) at a constant level (within a constant range) to perform a charging function. Since charging is performed while the first mode (CC mode) is being performed, the battery voltage (Vb) can gradually increase.

[0287] The vacuum cleaner (100) can identify whether the battery voltage (Vb) is above a third threshold (th3). When an event is identified where the battery voltage (Vb) increases from below the third threshold to the third threshold, the vacuum cleaner (100) can change the first mode (CC mode) to a second mode (CV mode). The second mode (CV mode) may be a mode that maintains the battery voltage (Vb) at a constant (within a constant range).

[0288] For example, in the second mode, the battery voltage (Vb) can rise below a critical rate. In the first mode, the battery voltage (Vb) can rise at a first rate. In the second mode, the battery voltage (Vb) can rise at a second rate lower than the first rate.

[0289] At the time (t3) when an event occurs in which the battery voltage (Vb) increases from below the third threshold to the third threshold, the vacuum cleaner (100) can change from the first mode (CC mode) to the second mode (CV mode).

[0290] The operation of maintaining the battery current (Ib) or battery voltage (Vb) constant (within a constant range) may include controlling the variable power supply (181) so that the battery current (Ib) or battery voltage (Vb) is supplied within a critical range.

[0291] For example, the vacuum cleaner (100) can change the resistance value of the internal resistance (182-1) while maintaining the battery current (Ib) within a certain range in the first mode (CC mode).

[0292] For example, the resistance value of the internal resistance (182-1) can be changed while the first mode (CC mode) is performed.

[0293] For example, the vacuum cleaner (100) can change the resistance value of the internal resistance (182-1) while maintaining the battery voltage (Vb) within a certain range in the second mode (CV mode).

[0294] The constant range of battery voltage (Vb) and the constant range of battery current (Ib) may differ.

[0295] For example, the resistance value of the internal resistance (182-1) can be changed while the second mode (CV mode) is performed.

[0296] FIG. 16 is a drawing for explaining battery temperature and charge amount according to one embodiment.

[0297] Referring to the graph (1600) in FIG. 16, the vacuum cleaner (100) can perform electrical operations using the battery (182) before the first time point (t1). The battery (182) can be discharged. While the battery (182) is being discharged, the battery voltage (Vb) of the battery (182) decreases, the temperature (Tb) of the battery (182) decreases, and the state of charge (SOC) of the battery (182) decreases.

[0298] It is assumed that the vacuum cleaner (100) has a control signal generated to perform a charging function at a first time point (t1). At the first time point (t1), the first voltage (V1) may rise. When power is supplied from the charging device (200), the first voltage (V1) may rise. However, the battery voltage (Vb) of the vacuum cleaner (100) may not rise immediately. The vacuum cleaner (100) may check the temperature of the battery (182) before performing the charging function.

[0299] If the temperature of the battery (182) is above the critical temperature, the vacuum cleaner (100) may not perform the charging function.

[0300] For example, if the temperature of the battery (182) is above a critical temperature, the vacuum cleaner (100) may control the switch (183) to an off state so as not to supply the first voltage (V1) to the battery (182).

[0301] For example, if the temperature of the battery (182) is above the critical temperature, the vacuum cleaner (100) can lower the charging voltage (Va) by controlling the constant (k) of the mathematical formula (1410) of FIG. 14.

[0302] It is assumed that at the second time point (t2), the temperature (Tb) of the battery (182) is below a critical temperature. The vacuum cleaner (100) can perform a charging function in the first mode (CC mode) at the second time point (t2). While the first mode (CC mode) is being performed, the battery voltage (Vb) of the battery (182) increases, and the charge capacity (SOC) of the battery (182) can increase.

[0303] It is assumed that at the third time point (t3), the battery voltage (Vb) has become greater than or equal to the third threshold value. The vacuum cleaner (100) can perform a charging function in the second mode (CV mode) starting from the third time point (t3). While the second mode (CV mode) is being performed, the battery voltage (Vb) of the battery (182) can be increased, and the charge capacity (SOC) of the battery (182) can be increased. The charge capacity (SOC) of the battery (182) can be fully charged at the fourth time point (t4).

[0304] FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating the operation of analyzing a voltage difference according to one embodiment.

[0305] Referring to the graph (1700) of FIG. 17, the vacuum cleaner (100) can check for charging errors based on the difference value (Vdiff). The vacuum cleaner (100) can identify whether a charging error has occurred by analyzing the difference value (Vdiff).

[0306] If the difference value (Vdiff) is less than or equal to the first threshold value (th1), the vacuum cleaner (100) can determine that no charging error has occurred. The vacuum cleaner (100) can perform a normal charging function. The vacuum cleaner (100) can perform a charging function in the first mode (CC mode).

[0307] If the difference value (Vdiff) is greater than the first threshold value (th1) and less than or equal to the second threshold value (th2), the vacuum cleaner (100) can perform additional checks.

[0308] If the difference value (Vdiff) exceeds the second threshold value (th2), the vacuum cleaner (100) can determine that a charging error has occurred.

[0309] The vacuum cleaner (100) can obtain a difference value (Vdiff) while performing the first mode (CC mode). The reason for obtaining the difference value (Vdiff) in the first mode (CC mode) is that the difference value (Vdiff) is clearly distinguishable.

[0310] Through the threshold change operation described in FIG. 10, the vacuum cleaner (100) can obtain a fourth threshold (th4) and a fifth threshold (th5).

[0311] The fourth threshold (th4) may be greater than the first threshold (th1) and less than the fifth threshold (th5).

[0312] The fifth threshold (th5) may be greater than the fourth threshold (th4) and smaller than the second threshold (th2).

[0313] FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating the analysis results corresponding to the voltage difference according to one embodiment.

[0314] Referring to the embodiment (1810) of FIG. 18, the difference value (Vdiff) obtained in the first mode (CC mode) may be less than or equal to the first threshold value (th1). The vacuum cleaner (100) may determine that no charging error occurs. The vacuum cleaner (100) may perform the charging function normally.

[0315] Referring to the embodiment (1820) of FIG. 18, the difference value (Vdiff) obtained in the first mode (CC mode) may exceed the first threshold value (th1) and be less than or equal to the second threshold value (th2). The vacuum cleaner (100) may decide to perform additional checks.

[0316] Referring to the embodiment (1830) of FIG. 18, the difference value (Vdiff) obtained in the first mode (CC mode) may exceed the second threshold value (th2). The vacuum cleaner (100) may determine that a charging error has occurred. The vacuum cleaner (100) may stop the charging function.

[0317] The reason for analyzing the difference value (Vdiff) in the first mode (CC mode) is that the difference value (Vdiff) obtained in the first mode (CC mode) can clearly indicate the occurrence of an error depending on the situation. Assume that the system changes from the first mode (CC mode) to the second mode (CV mode) at the third time point (t3). After the third time point (t3), the difference value (Vdiff) may decrease rapidly. Therefore, it may be more difficult to accurately identify the occurrence of a charging error through the difference value (Vdiff) obtained in the second mode (CV mode) than in the first mode (CC mode).

[0318] FIG. 19 is a drawing for explaining the operation when an error occurs, according to one embodiment.

[0319] Referring to FIG. 19, the vacuum cleaner (100) may include an optical element (101). The charging device (200) may include an optical element (201).

[0320] For example, the optical element (101, 201) may include an LED.

[0321] The vacuum cleaner (100) can provide an error UI through an optical element (101). When an error is identified, the vacuum cleaner (100) can control the optical element (101) to output a preset color (e.g., red).

[0322] The charging device (200) can provide an error UI through an optical element (201). When an error is identified, the charging device (200) can control the optical element (201) to output a preset color (e.g., red).

[0323] The error UI may include at least one of the first error UI of operation S721 of FIG. 7, the second error UI of operation S855 of FIG. 8, the third error UI of operation S935 of FIG. 9, the second error UI of operation S1055 of FIG. 10, the fourth error UI of operation S1125 of FIG. 11, the first error UI of operation S1221 of FIG. 12, and the fifth error UI of operation S1227 of FIG. 12.

[0324] For example, the vacuum cleaner (100) can provide an error UI by outputting a different preset color depending on the type of error. The vacuum cleaner (100) can distinguish whether the error is a general error (S720 in FIG. 7) or a charging error (S750 in FIG. 7). When a general error occurs, the vacuum cleaner (100) can output an error UI of a first color through the optical element (101) or the optical element (201). When a charging error occurs, the vacuum cleaner (100) can output an error UI of a second color different from the first color through the optical element (101) or the optical element (201).

[0325] For example, a vacuum cleaner (100) can identify a target device corresponding to an error. The vacuum cleaner (100) can provide an error UI using only an optical element included in the target device. The vacuum cleaner (100) can identify a target device corresponding to the cause of the error. The vacuum cleaner (100) can provide an error UI of a preset color through an optical element included in the target device. If the cause of the error is the vacuum cleaner (100), the vacuum cleaner (100) can provide an error UI using only an optical element (101). If the cause of the error is the charging device (200), the vacuum cleaner (100) can provide an error UI using only an optical element (201).

[0326] FIG. 20 is a drawing for explaining how to provide an error UI to a terminal device (300) according to one embodiment.

[0327] Referring to the embodiment (2000) of FIG. 20, a vacuum cleaner (100) or a charging device (200) may be connected to a terminal device (300) for communication. The vacuum cleaner (100) or the charging device (200) may provide an error UI through the terminal device (300). The vacuum cleaner (100) or the charging device (200) may transmit information related to the error UI to the terminal device (300). The terminal device (300) may provide an error UI based on information related to the error UI received from the vacuum cleaner (100) or the charging device (200).

[0328] For example, a vacuum cleaner (100) can be connected to a terminal device (300) through an AP (Access Point) device. The AP device may be a device that manages and connects an IoT (Internet of Things) network.

[0329] For example, a vacuum cleaner (100) can be directly connected to a terminal device (300) based on a pre-set communication method (Wi-Fi or Bluetooth).

[0330] For example, the terminal device (300) may include at least one of a smartphone (301), a smart watch (302), or a smart ring (303).

[0331] FIG. 21 is a drawing for explaining a first error UI according to one embodiment.

[0332] Referring to FIG. 21, the vacuum cleaner (100) may provide a screen (2100) for notifying general errors. The screen (2100) may include at least one of a UI (2110) indicating that it is not ready for charging, a UI (2120) for guiding the preparation for charging, and an image (2130) for guiding the preparation for charging.

[0333] For example, it is assumed that the power cord of the charging device (200) is not connected to an external power source. If power is not supplied from the charging device (200), the vacuum cleaner (100) can identify that a general error event has occurred. When a general error event occurs, the vacuum cleaner (100) can provide a first error UI. The screen (2100) may be a screen containing the first error UI. The first error UI may include information indicating that the charging device (200) is not properly connected to an external power source.

[0334] The vacuum cleaner (100) can provide a first error UI through at least one of the vacuum cleaner (100), the charging device (200), or the terminal device (300).

[0335] FIG. 22 is a drawing for explaining a second error UI according to one embodiment.

[0336] Referring to FIG. 22, the vacuum cleaner (100) may provide a screen (2200) for notifying a charging error. The screen (2200) may include at least one of a UI (2210) indicating that an error related to the charging function has occurred, a UI (2220) for guiding the charging method, and an image (2130) for guiding the charging method.

[0337] For example, it is assumed that the vacuum cleaner (100) and the charging device (200) are not properly connected, so the charging terminals (190, 290) are misaligned. It is assumed that the vacuum cleaner (100) and the charging device (200) are not properly connected, but the charging function is performed. When the charging function is performed, the difference value (Vdiff) may exceed the second threshold value (th2). The vacuum cleaner (100) can identify the charging error. When the charging error is identified, the vacuum cleaner (100) can identify the cause of the charging error and provide a second error UI containing guide information for solving the problem. The screen (2200) may be a screen containing the second error UI. The second error UI may include information indicating that the charging terminal (190) of the vacuum cleaner (100) is not properly connected.

[0338] FIG. 23 is a drawing for explaining a method of controlling an electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0339] Referring to FIG. 23, a control method for an electronic device including a charging terminal connected to a rechargeable battery and a charging device comprises: an operation (S2310) of performing a charging function in a first mode by supplying a battery current of a threshold strength to the battery; an operation (S2320) of obtaining a first voltage corresponding to the charging terminal of the electronic device and a second voltage corresponding to the charging terminal of the charging device while operating in the first mode; an operation (S2330) of identifying the occurrence of a charging error based on the first voltage and the second voltage; an operation (S2340) of stopping the charging function in the first mode when a charging error occurs; an operation (S2350) of obtaining a battery voltage corresponding to the battery while operating in the first mode when no charging error occurs; and an operation (S2360) of performing a charging function in a second mode by maintaining the battery voltage when the battery voltage is greater than or equal to a threshold value.

[0340] A charging error may include an error where the connection position of the charging terminal of the electronic device and the charging terminal of the charging device is mismatched.

[0341] An operation (S2330) for identifying the occurrence of a charging error can obtain a difference value between a first voltage and a second voltage and identify the occurrence of a charging error based on the difference value.

[0342] The operation (S2330) for identifying the occurrence of a charging error continues to operate in the first mode if the difference value is less than or equal to the first threshold value, and identifies that a charging error has occurred if the difference value exceeds the second threshold value which is greater than the first threshold value, and the threshold value may be the third threshold value.

[0343] An operation (S2330) for identifying the occurrence of a charging error can identify the occurrence of a charging error by reacquiring the first voltage and the second voltage when the difference value exceeds the first threshold and is less than or equal to the second threshold.

[0344] The operation to stop the charging function of the first mode can be performed by controlling a switch included in the electronic device to an off state when a charging error occurs.

[0345] The control method may include an action that provides an error UI indicating a charging error when a charging error occurs.

[0346] The control method may include, when the charging terminal of the electronic device and the charging terminal of the charging device come into contact, an operation to activate a communication interface included in the electronic device, an operation to request a response from the charging device through the communication interface, an operation to identify that a general error has occurred if a response signal is not received from the charging device through the communication interface, and an operation to provide an error UI indicating that a general error has occurred.

[0347] The control method may include an operation to perform a charging function of a first mode when a response signal is received from a charging device through a communication interface.

[0348] The first mode is a CC (Constant Current) mode that maintains the battery current strength at a critical strength, and the second mode may be a CV (Constant Voltage) mode that maintains the battery voltage at a critical strength.

[0349] The methods according to the various embodiments of the present disclosure described above can be implemented in the form of an application that can be installed on an existing electronic device.

[0350] The methods according to the various embodiments of the present disclosure described above can be implemented by software upgrades or hardware upgrades alone for existing electronic devices.

[0351] The various embodiments of the present disclosure described above may also be performed through an embedded server equipped in an electronic device, or through an external server among at least one of the electronic device and the display device.

[0352] According to a specific example of the present disclosure, the various embodiments described above may be implemented as software comprising instructions stored on a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., a computer). The machine may include an electronic device according to the disclosed embodiments, which is a device capable of calling instructions stored from the storage medium and operating according to the called instructions. When instructions are executed by a processor, the processor may perform a function corresponding to the instructions directly or by using other components under the control of the processor. Instructions may include code generated or executed by a compiler or an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, "non-transitory" means only that the storage medium does not contain a signal and is tangible, and does not distinguish whether data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily in the storage medium.

[0353] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the method according to the various embodiments described above may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded between a seller and a buyer as a product. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a device-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)) or online through an application store. In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily created in a storage medium such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or a relay server.

[0354] Each component (e.g., module or program) according to the various embodiments described above may be composed of a single or multiple entities, and some of the aforementioned sub-components may be omitted, or other sub-components may be additionally included in the various embodiments. Generally or additionally, some components (e.g., module or program) may be integrated into a single entity to perform the functions performed by each of the respective components prior to integration in the same or similar manner. The operations performed by the module, program, or other components according to the various embodiments may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or at least some operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or other operations added.

[0355] Although preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments described above. It is understood that various modifications can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as claimed in the claims, and such modifications should not be understood individually from the technical spirit of the present disclosure. Accordingly, the scope of the various embodiments of the present disclosure should be interpreted to include all modifications or changes derived based on the technical spirit of the various embodiments of the present disclosure, in addition to the embodiments disclosed.

Claims

1. Regarding vacuum cleaners, Memory for storing instructions; Power supply unit including a rechargeable battery; A suction motor driven by power supplied through the above power supply unit; A foreign matter container for storing foreign matter sucked in according to the rotation of the above suction motor; A charging terminal connected to the external charging device used to charge the battery; and at least one processor including processing circuitry; and When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the cleaner, A charging function of the first mode is performed by supplying a battery current of critical strength to the battery, and While performing the charging function of the first mode above, the first voltage of the charging terminal of the vacuum cleaner and the second voltage of the charging terminal of the external charging device are obtained, and Identify whether a charging error has occurred based on the first voltage and the second voltage, and If the above charging error does not occur, while performing the charging function of the first mode, the battery voltage of the battery is obtained, and A vacuum cleaner that performs a charging function of a second mode by maintaining the battery voltage within a threshold range corresponding to the threshold when the battery voltage is above a threshold value.

2. In Paragraph 1, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the cleaner, If it is identified that the above charging error occurs, the execution of the charging function of the first mode is stopped, and The above charging error is, A vacuum cleaner that includes an error caused by a charging abnormality of the charging terminal of the vacuum cleaner and the charging terminal of the external charging device.

3. In Paragraph 1, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the cleaner, Obtain the difference value between the first voltage and the second voltage, and A vacuum cleaner that identifies whether the charging error occurs based on the difference value above.

4. In Paragraph 3, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the cleaner, If the above difference value is less than or equal to the first threshold value, the charging function of the first mode is continued to be performed, and A vacuum cleaner that identifies that a charging error has occurred if the difference value exceeds a second threshold value which is greater than the first threshold value.

5. In Paragraph 4, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the cleaner, A vacuum cleaner that identifies whether a charging error occurs by reacquiring the first voltage and the second voltage when the difference value exceeds the first threshold and is less than or equal to the second threshold.

6. In Paragraph 1, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the cleaner, A vacuum cleaner that, upon identifying that the above charging error has occurred, stops the performance of the charging function of the first mode by controlling a switch included in the power supply unit to an off state.

7. In Paragraph 1, Display; and Includes more speakers, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the cleaner, A vacuum cleaner that, upon identifying that a charging error has occurred, controls the display to show an error UI indicating the charging error or controls the speaker to output a sound corresponding to the error UI.

8. In Paragraph 1, The above vacuum cleaner is, Includes a communication interface; and When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the cleaner, When the charging terminal of the above vacuum cleaner comes into contact with the charging terminal of the above external charging device, the communication interface is activated, and Through the above communication interface, a response is requested from the external charging device, and If a response signal is not received from the external charging device through the communication interface, it is identified that an error has occurred, and A vacuum cleaner that outputs an error UI indicating that the above general error has occurred.

9. In Paragraph 8, When the above instructions are executed individually or collectively by the at least one processor, the cleaner, A vacuum cleaner that performs the charging function of the first mode when the response signal is received from the external charging device through the communication interface.

10. In Paragraph 1, The above first mode is, Corresponds to a CC (Constant Current) mode that maintains the battery current strength at the threshold strength, and The above second mode is, A vacuum cleaner corresponding to a CV (Constant Voltage) mode that maintains the battery voltage within the threshold range based on the threshold value.

11. A vacuum cleaner comprising a power supply unit including a rechargeable battery, a suction motor driven by power supplied through the power supply unit, and a foreign matter container for storing foreign matter sucked in according to the rotation of the suction motor, wherein the vacuum cleaner comprises a charging terminal connected to an external charging device used to charge the battery, The above control method is, An operation to perform a charging function in a first mode by supplying a battery current of critical strength to the battery; An operation of obtaining a first voltage of the charging terminal of the vacuum cleaner and a second voltage of the charging terminal of the external charging device while performing the charging function of the first mode; An operation to identify whether a charging error occurs based on the first voltage and the second voltage; If it is identified that the above charging error occurs, an operation to stop the execution of the charging function of the first mode; If the above charging error does not occur, an operation to obtain the battery voltage of the battery while performing the charging function of the first mode; and A control method comprising: an operation to perform a charging function in a second mode by maintaining the battery voltage within a threshold range corresponding to the threshold when the battery voltage is greater than or equal to the threshold value.

12. In Paragraph 11, The above charging error is, A control method including an error caused by a charging abnormality of the charging terminal of the above-mentioned vacuum cleaner and the charging terminal of the above-mentioned external charging device.

13. In Paragraph 11, The operation of identifying whether the above charging error occurs is, Obtain the difference value between the first voltage and the second voltage, and A control method for identifying whether the charging error occurs based on the difference value above.

14. In Paragraph 13, The operation of identifying whether the above charging error occurs is, If the above difference value is less than or equal to the first threshold value, the charging function of the first mode is continued to be performed, and If the above difference value exceeds a second threshold value that is greater than the first threshold value, it is identified that the charging error has occurred, and The above threshold is, A control method, which is a third threshold.

15. In Paragraph 14, The operation of identifying whether the above charging error occurs is, A control method for identifying whether a charging error occurs by reacquiring the first voltage and the second voltage when the difference value exceeds the first threshold and is less than or equal to the second threshold.

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