Management station and cleaning system

Abstract

The present application relates to a management station and a cleaning system. A base station (30) is provided with an accommodating cavity (31), a self-cleaning device is accommodated in the accommodating cavity (31), and the accommodating cavity (31) has an opening formed in a side wall of the base station (30); a housing (10) is connected to the base station (30), and the housing (10) is provided with at least one accessory slot (11); the accessory slot (11) has an opening formed in a side wall of the housing (10), and the opening direction of the accessory slot (11) is aligned with the opening direction of the accommodating cavity (31).

Description

Management station and cleaning system

[0001] Related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Chinese patent application No. 202522452237.X, filed November 19, 2025, entitled “Management Station and Cleaning System”, and Chinese patent application No. 2025205609787, filed March 27, 2025, entitled “Extension Device and Self-Cleaning Equipment”, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This application relates to the field of cleaning technology, and more particularly to a management station and cleaning system. Background Technology

[0004] With the continuous development of technology and the continuous improvement of people's living standards, self-cleaning devices such as robot vacuum cleaners have become widely used in people's homes because they are more time-saving and labor-saving than traditional manual cleaning, greatly freeing up people's hands.

[0005] To better achieve its cleaning function, current self-cleaning devices are equipped with robotic arms to move obstacles and collect items. To enable more functions from the robotic arm, it is typically equipped with various functional accessories. In order to locate these extended devices, self-cleaning devices often require a separate signal transmission and reception module, thus complicating the positioning structure and process. Therefore, it is necessary to improve the relevant technology to overcome the aforementioned shortcomings. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to various embodiments of this application, this application provides an easily locatable management station and cleaning system.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, this application adopts the following technical solution:

[0008] This application provides a management station for use in conjunction with a self-cleaning device. The management station includes: a base station having a receiving cavity, in which the self-cleaning device is at least partially received, and the receiving cavity having an opening on the side wall of the base station; and a housing connected to the base station, the housing having at least one accessory slot; wherein the accessory slot has an opening on the shell wall of the housing, and the opening direction of the accessory slot is consistent with the opening direction of the receiving cavity.

[0009] As an optional implementation, the base station and the housing are arranged side by side and adjacent to each other in the left-right direction, wherein the direction of the receiving cavity opening and the accessory slot opening is the front, and the direction opposite to the opening direction is the rear, and the left-right direction is defined relative to the front-back direction.

[0010] As an optional implementation, the base station is larger in the left-right direction than the housing is in the left-right direction.

[0011] As an optional implementation, the surface of the base station with the cavity opening is approximately flush with the surface of the housing with the accessory slot opening.

[0012] As an optional implementation, the rear surface of the base station is flush with the rear surface of the housing, wherein the rear side refers to the direction opposite to the opening.

[0013] As an optional implementation, the base station is distributed at the same height as the housing.

[0014] As an optional implementation, the housing is detachably connected to the base station.

[0015] As an optional implementation, the housing is fixedly connected to the base station.

[0016] As an optional implementation, the housing is provided with a connector, and the connector is provided with a snap-fit ​​structure to snap into the base station.

[0017] As an optional implementation, the connector is rotatably disposed on the housing, and a groove for receiving the connector is recessed on the side wall of the housing, so as to hide the snap-fit ​​structure when the housing is separated from the base station.

[0018] As an optional implementation, the housing is electrically connected to the base station.

[0019] As an optional implementation, the housing is communicatively connected to the base station.

[0020] As an optional implementation, the housing is provided with an electrical connector for electrical connection to the base station, wherein the electrical connector includes at least one of a spring electrode and a wire.

[0021] As an optional implementation, the spring electrode includes an elastic element and an electrical connector, wherein the elastic element abuts against the electrical connector to electrically connect the electrical connector to the base station when the housing is connected to the base station.

[0022] As an optional implementation, the spring electrode further includes a positioning element for positioning the electrical connector when the housing is connected to the base station, so that the electrical connector is electrically connected to the base station.

[0023] As an optional implementation, the positioning element includes a magnet, which is magnetically connected to the base station to position the electrical connector.

[0024] As an optional implementation, the accessory slot is used to accommodate accessories, which are detachably disposed in the corresponding accessory slot, wherein the accessories include at least one of brush accessories, cleaning accessories, and vacuuming accessories.

[0025] As an optional implementation, the accessory slots include multiple slots, which are located on the same side of the housing and are arranged sequentially along the vertical direction.

[0026] As an optional implementation, the opening of the accessory slot is smaller than the opening of the receiving cavity.

[0027] As an optional implementation, the accessory slot is provided, and all the accessories are housed in the accessory slot. The accessory slot is provided with a partition structure, which is configured such that at least one of the accessories is housed in the accessory slot in an orderly manner.

[0028] As an optional implementation, the partition structure includes at least a partition that divides the accessory slot into a plurality of cavities for storing the accessories.

[0029] As an optional implementation, the housing also includes a storage cavity located at the top of the housing.

[0030] This application also provides a cleaning system, which includes a self-cleaning device and a management station, the management station being as described above.

[0031] Details of one or more embodiments of this application are set forth in the following drawings and description, and other features, objects and advantages of this application will become apparent from the specification, drawings and claims. Attached Figure Description

[0032] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the conventional technology, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the conventional technology will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the disclosed drawings without creative effort.

[0033] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of one of the structures of the expansion device provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0034] Figure 2 is one of the partial exploded structural diagrams of the expansion device shown in Figure 1;

[0035] Figure 3 is a second partially exploded structural diagram of the expansion device shown in Figure 1;

[0036] Figure 4 is a second schematic diagram of the structure of the expansion device provided in some embodiments of this application;

[0037] Figure 5 is one of the partial exploded structural diagrams of the expansion device shown in Figure 4;

[0038] Figure 6 is a partial exploded structural diagram of the expansion device shown in Figure 4;

[0039] Figure 7 is a third schematic diagram of the structure of the expansion device provided in some embodiments of this application.

[0040] Figure 8 is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the management station provided in some embodiments of this application.

[0041] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: 100-Extension device; 10-Housing; 11-Accessory slot; 12-Charging component; 13-Connector; 131-Snap-fit ​​structure; 132-Groove; 14-Spring electrode; 141-Elastic component; 142-Electrical connector; 143-Positioning component; 15-Storage cavity; 20-Accessory; 21-Clamping part; 211-Clamping groove; 212-Interlocking component; 22-Functional part; 23-Brush accessory; 24-Cleaning accessory; 25-Vacuuming accessory; 251-Charging electrode; 252-Manual switch; 253-Charging interface; 30-Base station; 31-Receiving cavity; 32-Climbing plate. Detailed Implementation

[0042] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those of ordinary skill in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0043] With the continuous development of technology and the continuous improvement of people's living standards, self-cleaning devices such as robot vacuum cleaners have become widely used in people's homes because they are more time-saving and labor-saving than traditional manual cleaning, greatly freeing up people's hands.

[0044] To better achieve cleaning functionality, current self-cleaning devices are equipped with robotic arms to move obstacles and collect items. However, since the grippers on the robotic arm only have the function of holding objects, the functionality achieved by adding a robotic arm to a robot vacuum cleaner is relatively limited, resulting in low utilization of the robotic arm.

[0045] In order to overcome the shortcomings of the related technologies, after repeated thinking and verification, the inventors discovered that if an extension device 100 is added, the extension device 100 includes at least a housing 10 for storing the extension accessories that the robotic arm can grip and use. By having the robotic arm autonomously grip the accessories in the accessory compartment, a single device can switch between multiple cleaning modes, thereby breaking through the single-function limitation of traditional sweeping machines and simply adding a robotic arm, and improving the utilization of the robotic arm.

[0046] Furthermore, it is considered that the self-cleaning device needs to cooperate with the base station during the cleaning process. In other words, the self-cleaning device needs to cooperate with the housing 10 of the extension device 100 and the base station during the cleaning process.

[0047] Therefore, as shown in Figure 8, this application proposes a management station for use in conjunction with a self-cleaning device. In one application scenario, the self-cleaning device is a robotic vacuum cleaner equipped with a robotic arm for assisting cleaning. However, it is not limited to this; the self-cleaning device includes, but is not limited to, robotic vacuum cleaners. In other possible implementations, the self-cleaning device can also be a sweeping and mopping robot, or other self-moving cleaning devices that meet cleaning needs. The following description uses a robotic vacuum cleaner as an example of a self-cleaning device, but as can be seen from the above description, the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto.

[0048] The management station includes a base station 30 and a housing 10, with the housing 10 connected to the base station 30. The base station 30 has a receiving cavity 31, with an opening formed on its side wall. A robotic vacuum cleaner enters or exits the receiving cavity 31 through this opening. When the robotic vacuum cleaner is parked at the base station 30, it is at least partially housed within the receiving cavity 31. In this application, the direction of the opening of the receiving cavity 31 is the front of the base station 30, and the direction opposite to the opening of the receiving cavity 31 is the rear. The left-right direction is defined relative to the front-back direction.

[0049] The base station 30 is also equipped with a ramp 32, which guides the robotic vacuum cleaner into the receiving cavity 31. The bottom of the receiving cavity 31 has a cleaning structure for cleaning the mop (not shown). It is worth noting that the structure of the base station 30 is the same as or similar to that of base stations in related technologies, providing logistical support for the robotic vacuum cleaner, such as automatic charging, automatic dust collection, automatic mop cleaning, automatic water replenishment, automatic drying, and automatic sterilization. The structure of the base station 30 will not be described in detail here.

[0050] As shown in Figures 1 to 7, the extension device 100 is used to provide extension functions for the robotic arm. The extension device 100 includes a housing 10, which is used to store accessories 20 that the robotic arm can grip.

[0051] The housing 10 has at least one accessory slot 11, in which an accessory 20 is disposed. The accessory slot 11 is used to accommodate the accessory 20. The accessory 20 is detachably disposed in the corresponding accessory slot 11. The accessory 20 is configured as an end effector capable of connecting to the robotic arm on the robot vacuum cleaner. The accessory 20 is used for gripping by the robotic arm.

[0052] The accessory slot 11 has an opening formed on the shell wall of the housing 10, wherein the opening direction of the accessory slot 11 is consistent with the opening direction of the receiving cavity 31. That is, the opening of the accessory slot and the opening of the receiving cavity are located on the same side. Since the robot vacuum cleaner usually regards the base station 30 as the origin, the above arrangement can achieve the purpose of the robot vacuum cleaner actively searching for the accessory slot 11 with the base station 30 as the origin, so that the robot vacuum cleaner can locate the opening of the accessory slot 11 without having to set up a separate signal transmission and reception module for the extension device 100. The robot vacuum cleaner can identify the accessory slot 11 with its own robotic arm camera (not shown), which can effectively simplify the overall structure, reduce production costs, and make positioning convenient and simple.

[0053] In this application, after the housing 10 is connected to the base station 30, the housing 10 and the base station 30 can be regarded as a whole, and the base station 30 can be regarded as the absolute coordinate origin of the whole. The robot vacuum cleaner senses the position of the accessory slot 11 through its own sensors and camera, and operates the accessory 20 in the accessory slot 11 through the robotic arm.

[0054] When the robotic arm on the robot vacuum needs to perform a task, the robot moves to a position close to the housing 10, and the docking end of the robotic arm inserts into the accessory slot 11 containing the accessory 20 capable of performing the current cleaning task. After the robotic arm and accessory 20 are successfully docked, the robotic arm takes accessory 20 out of the accessory slot 11 and performs the preset cleaning task. After the cleaning task is completed, the robotic arm simply inserts accessory 20 back into the corresponding accessory slot 11.

[0055] By providing at least one accessory slot 11 on the housing 10, and detachably placing the accessory 20 into the corresponding accessory slot 11, the accessory 20 that expands the functionality of the robotic arm is stored. The robotic arm of the self-cleaning device can autonomously pick up and replace different accessories 20 as needed via its grippers, thereby achieving multiple cleaning functions. This flexibility allows the device to adapt to different cleaning tasks. By using the robotic arm to pick up different accessories 20, it breaks through the single-function limitations of traditional sweepers and simply adding robotic arms to existing devices. A single device can switch between multiple cleaning modes, expanding the functionality of the robotic arm and improving its utilization. The self-cleaning device can flexibly adjust according to different cleaning needs and environmental conditions, adapting to various usage scenarios, meeting the personalized needs of different users, and improving the user experience. The modular design of the housing 10 and accessories 20 allows the device to be customized and expanded according to different market demands, exhibiting good design flexibility and market adaptability.

[0056] In this application, the surface of the base station 30 with the opening of the receiving cavity 31 is approximately flush with the surface of the housing 10 with the opening of the accessory slot 11. This allows the robot vacuum to precisely locate itself on only one reference surface. Once the position of this reference surface is determined, the relative positions of all accessory slots 11 on the housing 10 can be determined, simplifying the robot vacuum's positioning operation and improving efficiency.

[0057] Considering that the base station 30 needs to provide a docking place for the robotic vacuum cleaner and also needs to have charging, cleaning, and drying functions, the base station 30 requires a relatively large space. The housing 10, on the other hand, is used to house accessories 20, which occupy relatively less space. Therefore, the left-right dimension of the base station 30 is larger than the left-right dimension of the housing 10.

[0058] The base station 30 and the housing 10 are arranged side-by-side and adjacent in the left-right direction. This side-by-side and adjacent arrangement allows for a compact overall structure of the management station, reducing space occupancy. If the base station 30 and the housing 10 are not adjacent, there will be a gap between them. The space occupied by the management station includes the space occupied by the base station 30, the housing 10, and the gap, requiring users to reserve a larger installation space. Furthermore, the side-by-side and adjacent arrangement reduces unnecessary movements of the robotic vacuum cleaner, significantly improving work efficiency.

[0059] Furthermore, the rear surface of base station 30 is flush with the rear surface of housing 10, making the overall shape more aesthetically pleasing. The equal height of base station 30 and housing 10 creates a unified visual effect and good harmony with the environment. If there were a height difference between base station 30 and housing 10, it would not only create a visually cluttered appearance, but the protruding part would also pose a safety hazard.

[0060] In this application, when the housing 10 has multiple accessory slots 11, the opening of the accessory slot 11 is smaller than the opening of the receiving cavity 31. When there is only one accessory slot 11, all accessories 20 are received in this one accessory slot 11. The accessory slot 11 is provided with a partition structure (not shown), which is configured to allow the accessories 20 to be received in an orderly manner within the accessory slot 11.

[0061] The partition structure includes at least partitions that divide the accessory slot 11 into multiple cavities for storing accessories 20. In one embodiment, the accessory slot 11 is an elongated slot extending vertically, and multiple partitions are spaced apart in the vertical direction, thereby dividing the accessory slot 11 into multiple vertically distributed cavities. Adjacent cavities can be independent of each other or partially connected. When adjacent cavities are partially connected, the partitions can be understood as a pair of blocks supporting the accessories 20 below.

[0062] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, in one possible implementation, the accessory 20 includes a clamping part 21 and a functional part 22. The functional part 22 is connected to the clamping part 21 and located on the side of the clamping part 21 away from the opening of the accessory slot 11. The clamping part 21 is used for gripping with claws. The functional part 22 is used to implement various special functions.

[0063] By dividing accessory 20 into a clamping part 21 and a functional part 22, the design becomes more modular, making replacement and maintenance more convenient. The functional part 22 can be customized and replaced according to different cleaning tasks, such as installing different brush heads, mops, or other cleaning tools. This allows the device to quickly switch between different cleaning functions by gripping the clamping part 21 of different accessories 20 with its grippers. This design can adapt to different types of self-cleaning equipment and robotic arms, exhibiting good versatility and adaptability, facilitating its widespread application in various products.

[0064] The gripping part 21 is specifically designed to cooperate with the gripper of the robotic arm, ensuring that the accessory 20 is securely held during operation. This improves the stability and reliability of the equipment and reduces the risk of malfunctions caused by the accessory 20 becoming loose or falling off. The gripping part 21 is designed specifically for gripper hold, simplifying the robotic arm's operation. The robotic arm only needs to identify and grip the gripping part 21 to complete the replacement and use of the accessory 20, reducing operational complexity.

[0065] In one possible implementation, the clamping part 21 is provided with a clamping groove 211 for the robotic arm to extend into for clamping.

[0066] The gripping slot 211 provides a dedicated fixed position for the robotic arm's gripper, ensuring that the accessory 20 is securely grasped and held during gripping, reducing potential shaking or detachment of the accessory during operation, and improving equipment reliability. The design of the gripping slot 211 allows the robotic arm to more accurately position and grip the accessory 20, contributing to improved operational efficiency and ensuring quick and accurate completion of each accessory replacement or use. Because the gripping slot 211 provides a clear gripping position for the robotic arm, the operating procedure can be simplified, reducing the complexity of locating and gripping the accessory 20 and increasing automation. The design of the gripping slot 211 also reduces the risk of misoperation, minimizing equipment damage or malfunction due to improper gripping, and improving overall operational safety.

[0067] The gripping slot 211 provides a dedicated gripping area, reducing friction and wear between the robotic arm gripper and other parts of the accessory 20, thereby extending the service life of the accessory 20 and the robotic arm.

[0068] The clamping slot 211 can be adjusted and optimized according to different robotic arm designs, offering high design flexibility and adaptability to various types of self-cleaning equipment and robotic arms. This design makes the device more intuitive and user-friendly during use, eliminating concerns about accessory installation and clamping, thus improving the user experience.

[0069] In one possible implementation, the groove wall of the clamping groove 211 is provided with a biting member 212, which is used to abut against the gripper to achieve clamping of the accessory 20.

[0070] The engagement element 212 provides additional contact and abutment points, increasing the friction and clamping force between the gripper and accessory 20. This ensures greater stability of accessory 20 during operation, reduces the risk of slippage or dislodgement, and improves overall operational safety. Through the abutment between the engagement element 212 and the gripper, accessory 20 maintains greater stability during clamping, reducing displacement caused by vibration or external forces and improving the reliability of equipment operation. The engagement element 212 also helps the robotic arm's gripper achieve precise positioning within the clamping slot 211, ensuring that accessory 20 is accurately grasped and placed during each operation, improving the equipment's operational efficiency and automation level.

[0071] The design of the gripper 212 reduces the risk of misoperation of the gripper during the clamping process, ensuring that the accessory 20 can be correctly clamped and used, thus reducing the equipment failure rate. By providing a more stable grip, the gripper 212 reduces wear between the gripper and the accessory 20, thereby extending the service life of both the accessory 20 and the robotic arm.

[0072] In one possible implementation, when the robotic arm extends into the gripping slot 211, the gripper of the robotic arm opens to abut against the engagement member 212, thereby gripping the accessory 20.

[0073] The clamping groove 211 has a meshing element 212 on its wall, allowing the gripper to engage with the meshing element 212 through an internal support mechanism. When the robotic arm is closed, it extends into the clamping groove 211 and then opens the gripper to abut against the meshing element 212 on the inner wall of the clamping groove 211. This design allows the clamping groove 211 of the accessory 20 to be as small as possible, thus minimizing the width of the extension device 100 and saving overall equipment space. The internal support clamping also distinguishes the action of gripping the accessory 20 from other operating modes, reducing the risk of misoperation and improving safety. The internal support design ensures that friction is evenly distributed during clamping, reducing localized stress concentration, decreasing wear on the accessory 20 and the gripper, and extending their service life. Furthermore, when the gripper is working with the accessory 20, it is hidden within the clamping groove 211 inside the accessory 20, reducing the possibility of collisions with external obstacles, thereby improving equipment safety and reducing the risk of the accessory 20 falling off or equipment malfunction due to collisions.

[0074] In one possible implementation, the engaging member 212 is a toothed member provided on the wall of the clamping groove 211.

[0075] The jaws engage with the teeth on the inner wall of the clamping groove 211 to provide a secure grip, ensuring that the parts will not loosen or fall off during operation.

[0076] In one possible implementation, accessory 20 includes at least one of brush accessory 23, cleaning accessory 24, and vacuuming accessory 25.

[0077] By providing a variety of accessories 20, the device can perform a variety of cleaning tasks. Different accessories 20 are optimized for specific cleaning tasks, improving cleaning efficiency. For example, the brush accessory 23 can be used to sweep away dust and debris, the cleaning accessory 24 is suitable for wet wiping or deep cleaning, such as using a sponge or scouring pad on the functional section 22, while the vacuuming accessory 25 is used to pick up fine particles and dust. This versatility allows the device to adapt to different cleaning needs and environments. The device can select the appropriate accessory 20 according to the cleaning task and environmental conditions to achieve the best cleaning effect, improving the device's practicality and user satisfaction. The device can automatically identify and replace different accessories 20 without manual intervention, simplifying the operation process and enhancing the user experience. Each accessory 20 can be replaced or cleaned individually as needed, simplifying the device's maintenance process and extending its lifespan.

[0078] Accessory 20 may also include spray accessories, scraper accessories, bucket accessories, and other accessories to achieve other functions. For example, spray accessories are used to spray cleaning agents on dirty areas, scraper accessories are used to scrape off dirt, and bucket accessories are used to collect dirt.

[0079] In one possible implementation, the housing 10 has a dust channel that communicates with the base station 30. A dust collection opening is provided in the accessory slot 11 corresponding to the dust collection accessory 25, and this dust collection opening communicates with the dust channel. The dust collection accessory 25 has a dust collection port that communicates with the dust collection opening.

[0080] In one possible implementation, the dust duct is directly connected to the dust collection bag of the base station 30.

[0081] During dust collection, by connecting the dust collection port of the vacuum accessory 25 with the dust collection opening and dust channel, dust and debris can be directly sucked into and transferred to the dust collection bag of the base station 30 in sequence through the dust collection port, dust collection opening, and dust channel. This direct dust collection path improves vacuuming efficiency and ensures a more thorough cleaning effect. Since dust and debris are directly transferred to the dust collection bag, accumulation inside the vacuum accessory 25 is reduced, decreasing the frequency of cleaning and maintenance and extending the equipment's lifespan. The dust collection bag centrally collects dust and debris, reducing secondary dust transmission in the air and improving indoor air quality and hygiene. Users only need to periodically replace or empty the dust collection bag, eliminating the need for frequent cleaning of the dust inside the vacuum accessory 25, simplifying the operation process and improving the user experience.

[0082] As shown in Figures 2 and 7, in one possible implementation, the vacuum cleaner accessory 25 is provided with a charging electrode 251, and a charging component 12 is provided in the accessory slot 11 corresponding to the vacuum cleaner accessory 25. The charging component 12 is used to be electrically connected to the charging electrode 251 to charge the vacuum cleaner accessory 25.

[0083] By setting a charging electrode 251 on the vacuum cleaner accessory 25 and setting a charging component 12 in the accessory slot 11, the vacuum cleaner accessory 25 can be charged directly without being disassembled, ensuring that it is always in a usable state, improving the working efficiency and reliability of the equipment. The equipment can automatically complete the charging process of the vacuum cleaner accessory 25 without human intervention, improving the automation level of the equipment and reducing the user's operating burden. Users do not need to manually charge the vacuum cleaner accessory 25; the equipment can complete this process automatically, simplifying the operation process and improving the user experience.

[0084] In one possible implementation, the vacuuming accessory 25 includes a communication unit that is communicatively connected to the self-cleaning device.

[0085] Through the communication unit, the vacuuming accessory 25 can transmit information such as its working status, performance data, and battery level to the self-cleaning device in real time. This allows the device to monitor the status of the vacuuming accessory 25 in real time and make adjustments when necessary, improving the device's intelligence. The self-cleaning device can dynamically adjust its working mode and parameters based on the data transmitted by the vacuuming accessory 25 to optimize cleaning effect and energy consumption, helping to improve the overall performance and efficiency of the device. The communication unit can help identify and diagnose faults or abnormalities in the vacuuming accessory 25, and promptly notify the user or automatically take corrective measures, reducing equipment downtime and maintenance costs.

[0086] Through the communication connection, users can remotely control the operation of the vacuuming accessory 25 or wirelessly update its software and firmware to obtain the latest features and performance improvements. Users can view the status and performance data of the vacuuming accessory 25 through the self-cleaning device's interface or mobile application, gaining a more intuitive user experience and greater operational convenience. The communication unit can promptly send alarms when abnormal conditions (such as overheating or battery failure) are detected, helping to prevent potential safety hazards.

[0087] In one possible implementation, the vacuuming accessory 25 includes a manual switch 252.

[0088] In some situations, users may want to quickly activate the vacuuming function without using the main device or remote control. The manual switch 252 provides a convenient solution, especially for emergency cleaning or spot cleaning, where the vacuuming accessory 25 can be used as a manual handheld vacuum. Users can directly control the vacuuming accessory 25's on and off via the manual switch 252, making the device more flexible in use. Users can immediately start or stop the vacuuming function as needed. The manual switch 252 allows users to turn off the device when the vacuuming function is not needed, saving energy, extending battery life, and reducing unnecessary energy consumption. The manual switch 252 is generally designed to be intuitive and easy to use, requiring no complicated operations, making it suitable for users of all ages.

[0089] Meanwhile, the manual switch 252 can quickly shut down the equipment in emergencies, preventing damage or safety hazards caused by unexpected conditions such as blockage or overheating. In the event of a malfunction in the automatic control system, the manual switch 252 provides a backup operating method, ensuring the equipment can continue to be used until the problem is resolved.

[0090] In one possible implementation, the vacuuming accessory 25 is provided with a charging port 253.

[0091] By incorporating a charging port 253 on the vacuum cleaner accessory 25, the vacuum cleaner accessory 25 can be charged independently of the main device, allowing users to charge the vacuum cleaner accessory 25 without using the main device, thus improving the device's flexibility and convenience. The charging port 253 provides a simple and intuitive charging method, eliminating the need for complicated operations and enhancing the overall user experience. The charging port 253 also allows users to charge the vacuum cleaner accessory 25 anywhere there is a power outlet, no longer limited to a specific charging base or location, increasing its usability.

[0092] In one possible implementation, the charging port 253 is a Type-C charging port.

[0093] The Type-C charging port is the current standard charging interface. Through the standardized charging interface 253 design, the compatibility of the vacuum cleaner accessory 25 with other charging devices can be improved. Users can use a universal charger to charge the vacuum cleaner accessory 25, reducing the dependence on dedicated charging devices.

[0094] In one possible implementation, the housing 10 is detachably connected to the base station 30.

[0095] The detachable design allows users to easily separate the housing 10 from the base station 30, facilitating cleaning and maintenance of the internal components and helping to maintain the device in good working order and extend its lifespan. The detachable design also allows users to remove the housing 10 from the base station 30 as needed, making it convenient for use in different locations or environments, thus improving the device's applicability and portability.

[0096] Meanwhile, in the event of a malfunction, users can quickly disassemble housing 10 to inspect and repair the problem, reducing equipment downtime and simplifying maintenance. The detachable connection supports a modular design, allowing users to replace or upgrade specific components (such as replacing housing 10 with different functions) as needed, improving the device's scalability and adaptability.

[0097] When equipment needs to be transported or stored, the detachable design allows the equipment to be broken down into smaller parts, reducing its footprint and simplifying transportation and storage.

[0098] As shown in Figure 3, in one possible implementation, the housing 10 is provided with a connector 13, and the connector 13 is provided with a snap-fit ​​structure 131 to snap-fit ​​with the base station 30.

[0099] The snap-fit ​​structure 131 allows users to quickly and easily connect or disconnect the housing 10 from the base station 30 without the need for tools or complex operations, improving the operational efficiency of the device. The snap-fit ​​structure 131 provides a secure connection, ensuring that the housing 10 and base station 30 will not accidentally separate during use, improving the safety and reliability of the device. Compared to bolts or other fasteners, the snap-fit ​​structure 131 generally reduces wear on components during connection and disconnection, thereby extending the lifespan of the device.

[0100] Meanwhile, the snap-fit ​​design is typically intuitive and easy to use, allowing users to easily understand and operate it, thus improving the overall user experience and satisfaction. When maintenance or component replacement is required, the snap-fit ​​structure 131 makes the process simpler and faster, reducing maintenance time and costs.

[0101] In one possible implementation, as shown in FIG6, the connector 13 is rotatably disposed on the housing 10, and a groove 132 for accommodating the connector 13 is recessed on the side wall of the housing 10, so as to hide the snap-fit ​​structure 131 when the housing 10 is separated from the base station 30.

[0102] The rotatable design is generally easy to operate, and users can easily hide or show the snap-fit ​​structure 131, improving the ease of use of the device.

[0103] By concealing the snap-fit ​​structure 131 when the device is detached, it can be effectively protected from dust, dirt, and physical damage, thereby extending its service life and maintaining its functionality. At the same time, the concealed snap-fit ​​structure 131 reduces the possibility of accidental contact or misoperation by the user when the device is detached, improving the device's safety. In the detached state, the concealed snap-fit ​​structure 131 reduces the risk of accidental contact by the user or other objects, minimizing potential safety hazards.

[0104] The concealed snap-fit ​​structure 131 makes the appearance of the housing 10 cleaner and more aesthetically pleasing, enhancing the product's visual appeal and user experience. The concealed snap-fit ​​structure 131 reduces exposed, complex components, making the surface of the housing 10 easier to clean and maintain.

[0105] In one possible implementation, when the housing 10 is separated from the base station 30, the connector 13 can be flipped (e.g., flipped 180 degrees) under the action of gravity or spring, or it can be flipped manually to hide the snap-fit ​​structure 131, so that the outer surface of the expansion device 100 is flat and aesthetically pleasing.

[0106] In one possible implementation, the housing 10 is fixedly connected to the base station 30.

[0107] The fixed connection ensures a secure bond between the housing 10 and the base station 30, reducing the risk of loosening or separation due to vibration or movement during use, and improving the overall stability and reliability of the equipment. Because no additional connection mechanisms (such as snap-fit ​​structures or connectors) are required, the fixed connection simplifies the design and manufacturing process, thereby reducing production costs and complexity. With no removable parts, the fixed connection reduces maintenance and replacement required due to wear or damage to connectors, lowering maintenance costs and complexity. The fixed connection also reduces the likelihood of users accidentally separating the housing 10 and base station 30 during operation, improving equipment safety, especially in applications requiring stable operation.

[0108] The fixed connection ensures that the housing 10 and base station 30 are always in optimal position and alignment, providing consistent performance and functionality and reducing performance degradation caused by positional misalignment. The fixed connection design reduces the possibility of user error or accidental disassembly during use, making it particularly suitable for environments requiring high security and reliability. With no moving parts, the fixed connection reduces failures due to mechanical fatigue or wear, improving the durability and lifespan of the equipment.

[0109] In this application, the housing 10 and the base station 30 have the following electrical connection methods: First, the housing 10 and the base station 30 are electrically connected; Second, the housing 10 and the base station 30 are communicatively connected; Third, the housing 10 and the base station 30 are both electrically connected and communicatively connected.

[0110] In one possible implementation, the housing 10 is electrically connected to the base station 30.

[0111] Electrical connectivity ensures that the electronic components or accessories 20 within housing 10 continuously draw power from base station 30, thereby guaranteeing continuous operation and functional stability of the device. Electrical connectivity enables not only power transmission but also bidirectional data transmission. This allows sensors or other electronic devices within housing 10 to communicate with base station 30 in real time, supporting more complex and intelligent functions. Electrical connectivity reduces the need for wireless transmission modules or independent power supplies, thereby simplifying device design, reducing manufacturing costs, and minimizing potential points of failure.

[0112] Wired electrical connections are generally more stable and less susceptible to interference than wireless connections, ensuring reliable operation of devices in various environments. Wired connections also offer better data transmission security, reducing the risk of signal interception or interference that can occur with wireless transmissions. Furthermore, direct electrical connections are typically more energy-efficient than wireless transmissions, reducing the additional energy consumption caused by wireless communication and improving the overall energy efficiency of the device.

[0113] In one possible implementation, housing 10 is provided with an electrical connector for electrical connection to base station 30.

[0114] Electrical connectors ensure that housing 10 receives a stable power supply from base station 30, supporting continuous operation and functional stability of the equipment, especially suitable for equipment requiring long-term operation. Electrical connectors are not only used for power transmission but also for data transmission, ensuring reliable communication between housing 10 and base station 30, facilitating more complex functions such as real-time monitoring and remote control. The use of electrical connectors supports modular design, allowing different housings 10 or base stations 30 to be interchangeable or upgraded, improving the flexibility and adaptability of the equipment.

[0115] If the housing 10 contains a battery, the electrical connector can be used for efficient charging, ensuring that the device can be automatically recharged when not in use, keeping the device always available.

[0116] In one possible implementation, the electrical connector includes at least one of a spring electrode 14 and a wire.

[0117] By employing spring electrodes 14 or wires, it is possible to adapt to different equipment layouts and design requirements, providing greater design flexibility and making it suitable for a variety of application scenarios.

[0118] The spring electrode 14 provides stable electrical contact, maintaining a good connection even when the device is subjected to vibration or slight movement, ensuring continuous power supply and data transmission. The spring electrode 14 has a degree of elasticity, automatically adjusting to adapt to different contact surface or positional changes, reducing the need for precise alignment and improving connection reliability. The spring electrode 14 is typically made of durable materials, capable of withstanding multiple connection and disconnection cycles without affecting performance, extending the device's lifespan. The design of the spring electrode 14 simplifies and speeds up the connection process between the housing 10 and the base station 30, eliminating the need for complex alignment or locking mechanisms and enhancing user convenience.

[0119] Wires provide a flexible connection method, allowing devices to be moved or repositioned within a certain range without interrupting power or data transmission.

[0120] In one possible implementation, the spring electrode 14 includes an elastic element 141 and an electrical connector 142, with the elastic element 141 abutting against the electrical connector 142 to electrically connect the electrical connector 142 to the base station 30 when the housing 10 is connected to the base station 30.

[0121] The elastic element 141 provides continuous contact pressure, ensuring good contact between the electrical connector 142 and the base station 30, guaranteeing stable power supply and data transmission, and maintaining connection even when the equipment is subjected to vibration or slight movement. Because the elastic element 141 absorbs and alleviates mechanical stress during the connection process, it reduces wear on the contact surfaces of the electrical connector 142 and the base station 30, extending the service life of the components.

[0122] In one possible implementation, the spring electrode 14 further includes a positioning element 143, which is used to position the electrical connector 142 when the housing 10 is connected to the base station 30, so that the electrical connector 142 is electrically connected to the base station 30.

[0123] Positioning element 143 ensures that electrical connector 142 is accurately aligned with the corresponding contact point of base station 30 during connection, reducing the possibility of connection errors and improving the reliability of the electrical connection. Positioning element 143 helps users find the correct position and angle more easily when connecting housing 10 and base station 30, simplifying the installation process and improving the user experience. By ensuring the correct positioning of electrical connector 142, wear and damage caused by misalignment are reduced, extending the service life of the contact surface between electrical connector 142 and base station 30.

[0124] In one possible implementation, the positioning element 143 includes a magnet that is magnetically connected to the base station 30 to position the electrical connector 142.

[0125] The magnetic attraction of the magnet automatically aligns the housing 10 and the base station 30, ensuring that the electrical connector 142 accurately contacts the corresponding contact point of the base station 30, reducing errors caused by human alignment. Users simply need to bring the housing 10 close to the base station 30, and the magnet will automatically attract and align it, simplifying the connection process and improving user experience and ease of operation. Magnetic connection allows users to quickly connect and disconnect the housing 10 from the base station 30, making it suitable for applications requiring frequent connection and disconnection, thus improving work efficiency.

[0126] Because magnetic connections reduce the need for mechanical locking or plugging / unplugging, they reduce wear on electrical connectors 142 and base station 30 during connection and disconnection, extending the lifespan of the equipment. The magnets provide a certain degree of attraction, ensuring that the housing 10 and base station 30 maintain a stable connection even during slight vibrations or movement, reducing the risk of poor contact.

[0127] In one possible implementation, the accessory slots 11 include multiple slots located on the same side of the housing 10. Having multiple accessory slots 11 on the same side allows the robotic arm to pick up and place accessories without additional movement. If the accessory slots 11 were distributed across different surfaces of the housing 10, the self-cleaning device would need to move from one surface to another when changing different accessories. The arrangement of accessory slots 11 on the same side avoids this process, reducing redundant movements.

[0128] Considering that the dimension of the accessory slot 11 in the left-right direction is larger than its dimension in the up-down direction, arranging multiple accessory slots 11 sequentially in the vertical direction can effectively utilize the space in the up-down direction. Conversely, if the accessory slots 11 are arranged in the horizontal direction, it will result in a very large dimension of the housing 10 in the horizontal direction, and the housing 10 will be in a flat state, which is very unfavorable for the placement and installation of the housing 10.

[0129] Multiple accessory slots 11 allow users to install different accessories 20 as needed, enabling a modular design of the device and enhancing its flexibility and functional expandability. Concentrating multiple accessory slots 11 on one side helps optimize the internal and external space layout of the device, allowing other sides to be used for different functions or design requirements. The accessory slots 11, concentrated on one side, make connecting and managing accessories 20 easier, allowing users to more easily install, disassemble, and maintain them. Concentrating the accessory slots 11 on one side also keeps the other sides of the housing 10 neat and aesthetically pleasing, enhancing the product's visual appeal and user experience.

[0130] In one possible implementation, multiple accessory slots 11 are arranged sequentially along the vertical direction.

[0131] The vertically arranged accessory slots 11 effectively utilize the equipment's height and save lateral space, significantly reducing the footprint and making the overall equipment more compact. This makes it suitable for space-constrained applications and better meets user needs. The vertical arrangement also makes it easier for users to install or remove accessories 20, especially when the equipment is tall, allowing users to operate from top to bottom. The vertically arranged accessory slots 11 also support modular design, allowing users to add or replace accessories 20 as needed, enabling flexible functional expansion. Furthermore, the vertically arranged accessory slots 11 make the inspection, maintenance, and management of accessories 20 more systematic, allowing users to inspect and maintain each accessory 20 from top to bottom.

[0132] The vertical arrangement design simplifies internal wiring, allowing cables to be neatly arranged vertically, reducing cable crossings and tangles, and improving the cleanliness and ease of maintenance of the equipment.

[0133] In one possible implementation, the expansion device 100 may also be provided with an accessory slot 11, and multiple expansion devices 100 are stacked in sequence along the vertical direction, so that multiple accessory slots 11 are arranged in sequence along the vertical direction.

[0134] In one possible implementation, the housing 10 is further provided with a storage cavity 15, which is located at the top of the housing 10.

[0135] The storage compartment 15 provides additional storage space, allowing users to conveniently store small tools, accessories 20, or other items, improving the equipment's usability. The top-positioned storage compartment 15 enables users to quickly access stored items when needed, reducing search and retrieval time and improving work efficiency. The storage compartment 15 on the top of the equipment effectively utilizes the overall space without occupying the main operating space, making it suitable for environments with limited space. The storage compartment 15 helps users centrally store frequently used small items, reducing clutter in the work area and maintaining a clean and orderly environment around the equipment. Storing small items in the storage compartment 15 reduces the risk of items falling or getting lost, especially in environments with frequent movement or vibration.

[0136] By adding the storage compartment 15, the expansion device 100 is no longer just a single-function tool, but also possesses additional storage capabilities, enhancing the overall value of the device. Providing the storage compartment 15 improves the user experience, making the device more user-friendly and closer to user needs, thereby increasing user satisfaction.

[0137] The expansion device 100 provided in this application embodiment includes a housing 10 and an accessory 20. The housing 10 is connected to the base station 30 of the self-cleaning device, and the housing 10 is provided with at least one accessory slot 11. The accessory 20 is detachably disposed in the corresponding accessory slot 11, and the accessory 20 is used for gripping by the gripper of the robotic arm on the self-cleaning device.

[0138] By providing at least one accessory slot 11 on the housing 10 and detachably placing accessories 20 into the corresponding slots 11, the robotic arm of the self-cleaning device can autonomously pick up and replace different accessories 20 as needed, thereby achieving multiple cleaning functions. This flexibility allows the device to adapt to different cleaning tasks. By using the robotic arm to pick up different accessories 20, it overcomes the single-function limitations of traditional sweepers and simply adding robotic arms to existing devices. A single device can switch between multiple cleaning modes, expanding the functionality of the robotic arm and improving its utilization. The self-cleaning device can flexibly adjust according to different cleaning needs and environmental conditions, adapting to various usage scenarios, meeting the personalized needs of different users, and improving the user experience.

[0139] This application embodiment also provides a self-cleaning device, including a base station 30 and the aforementioned extension device 100.

[0140] This application embodiment provides another cleaning system, which includes a self-cleaning device and a management station, the management station being as described above.

[0141] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0142] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the patent application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these modifications and improvements all fall within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this patent application should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A management station for use in conjunction with a self-cleaning device, characterized in that, include: The base station (30) is provided with a receiving cavity (31), and the self-cleaning device is at least partially received in the receiving cavity (31), and the receiving cavity (31) has an opening on the side wall of the base station (30); A housing (10) is connected to the base station (30), and the housing (10) is provided with at least one accessory slot (11); The accessory slot (11) has an opening on the shell wall of the housing (10), and the opening direction of the accessory slot (11) is consistent with the opening direction of the receiving cavity (31).

2. The management station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The base station (30) and the housing (10) are arranged side by side and adjacent to each other in the left-right direction, wherein the opening of the receiving cavity (31) and the opening of the accessory slot (11) are in the front direction, and the direction opposite to the opening direction is the rear direction, and the left-right direction is defined relative to the front-back direction.

3. The management station according to claim 2, characterized in that, The base station (30) is larger in the left-right direction than the housing (10).

4. The management station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The surface of the base station (30) with the opening of the receiving cavity (31) is roughly flush with the surface of the housing (10) with the opening of the accessory slot (11); The rear surface of the base station (30) is flush with the rear surface of the housing (10), wherein the rear side refers to the direction opposite to the opening.

5. The management station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The base station (30) is distributed at the same height as the housing (10).

6. The management station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing (10) is detachably connected to the base station (30).

7. The management station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing (10) is fixedly connected to the base station.

8. The management station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing (10) is provided with a connector (13), and the connector (13) is provided with a snap-fit ​​structure (131) to snap-fit ​​with the base station.

9. The management station according to claim 8, characterized in that, The connector (13) is rotatably disposed on the housing (10), and a groove (132) for receiving the connector (13) is recessed on the side wall of the housing (10) so as to hide the snap-fit ​​structure (131) when the housing (10) is separated from the base station.

10. The management station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing (10) is electrically connected to the base station (30).

11. The management station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing (10) is communicatively connected to the base station (30).

12. The management station according to claim 10, characterized in that, The housing (10) is provided with an electrical connector for electrical connection to the base station (30), wherein the electrical connector includes at least one of a spring electrode (14) and a wire.

13. The management station according to claim 12, characterized in that, The spring electrode (14) includes an elastic element (141) and an electrical connector (142), wherein the elastic element (141) abuts against the electrical connector (142) so that when the housing (10) is connected to the base station, the electrical connector (142) is electrically connected to the base station.

14. The management station according to claim 13, characterized in that, The spring electrode (14) further includes a positioning member (143), which is used to position the electrical connector (142) when the housing (10) is connected to the base station, so that the electrical connector (142) is electrically connected to the base station.

15. The management station according to claim 14, characterized in that, The positioning element (143) includes a magnet, which is magnetically connected to the base station to position the electrical connector (142).

16. The management station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The accessory slot (11) is used to accommodate accessories (20), which are detachably disposed in the corresponding accessory slot (11), wherein the accessories (20) include at least one of a brush accessory (23), a cleaning accessory (24), and a vacuuming accessory (25).

17. The management station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The accessory slots (11) include multiple slots, which are located on the same side of the housing (10) and are arranged sequentially in the vertical direction.

18. The management station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The opening of the accessory slot (11) is smaller than the opening of the receiving cavity.

19. The management station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The accessory slot (11) is provided, and the accessories (20) are all housed in the accessory slot (11). The accessory slot (11) is provided with a partition structure, which is configured to allow the accessories (20) to be housed in the accessory slot (11) in an orderly manner.

20. The management station according to claim 19, characterized in that, The partition structure includes at least a partition that divides the accessory slot (11) into a plurality of cavities for storing the accessory (20).

21. The management station according to claim 1, characterized in that, The housing (10) is also provided with a storage cavity (15), which is located at the top of the housing (10).

22. A cleaning system, characterized in that, It includes self-cleaning equipment and a management station, the management station being the management station as described in any one of claims 1-21.

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