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(11) | EP 4 772 099 A1 |
| (12) | EUROPEAN PATENT APPLICATION |
| published in accordance with Art. 153(4) EPC |
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| (54) | ROBOT CLEANER STATION |
| (57) A station for a robot cleaner comprising: a housing; a seating unit disposed in the
housing and forming an accommodation space in which at least a portion of a robot
cleaner is accommodated; and a mop drying unit for drying a mop of the robot cleaner.
The mop drying unit includes an external air supply module for discharging heat into
the accommodation space, and a vapor discharge unit through which air heated by the
heat is discharged. Accordingly, an excessive increase in humidity of a space where
the robot cleaner is disposed can be prevented. |
[Technical Field]
[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a station for a robot cleaner, and more particularly, to a built-in station for a robot cleaner configured to, when the robot cleaner is docked therewith, collect dust from a dust bin of the robot cleaner, wash a mop of the robot cleaner, and dry the mop.
[Background Art]
[0002] With the recent development of industrial technology, robot cleaners have been developed to travel and clean a target area autonomously without a user's manipulation.
[0003] Such a robot cleaner may include a sensor capable of recognizing a space to be cleaned, an agitator for sweeping a floor surface, and a mop for wiping the floor surface. The robot cleaner may travel while suctioning dust from the floor surface of the space recognized by the sensor and wiping the floor surface with the mop or the like.
[0004] Among robot cleaners, there are dry-type robot cleaners capable of removing foreign substances scattered on a floor surface by suctioning the same, and wet-type robot cleaners capable of wiping the floor surface with a wet mop to effectively remove foreign substances adhered to the floor surface. A dry-type robot cleaner includes a dust bin and suctions foreign substances on a floor surface using a suction force of a suction motor. A wet-type robot cleaner includes a water tank and is configured to effectively remove foreign substances adhered to a floor surface by supplying water contained in the water tank to a mop so that the mop wipes the floor surface while containing moisture. In addition, there is a type of robot cleaner provided with both an agitator and a mop.
[0005] A charging stand for a robot cleaner is a device to which a robot cleaner that has completed cleaning is docked, and which charges a battery by supplying power to the battery provided in the robot cleaner. The charging stand includes a power supply module therein. The charging stand includes a charging terminal connected to the power supply module, and the robot cleaner includes a corresponding terminal. When the charging terminal and the corresponding terminal come into contact with each other, power is supplied to the battery for charging.
[0006] Meanwhile, when the charging stand for the robot cleaner is disposed in an indoor space of a building, it occupies a certain range of the indoor space. In this case, the efficiency of the indoor space may be deteriorated. In addition, a problem may occur in which a user or a pet collides with the robot cleaner while moving, leading to injury to the user or the pet as well as damage to the robot cleaner.
[0007] Furthermore, in the case of a station to which a dust collection function of a robot cleaner is added, there is a limitation in that the interior of the room may be marred as the volume occupied by the station increases.
[0008] In this regard, Chinese Utility Model Registration No. CN 219206761 U discloses an apparatus for washing a robot cleaner at a lower portion of a washing machine.
[0009] The aforementioned washing apparatus is capable of washing the robot cleaner by utilizing a lower space of the washing machine.
[0010] Furthermore, since the robot cleaner is washed using the water supply and drainage connected to the washing machine, a separate water supply and drainage structure is not required.
[0011] However, the aforementioned washing apparatus merely washes the robot cleaner and has a limitation in that it is not provided with a function for drying the robot cleaner.
[0012] Accordingly, the aforementioned washing apparatus can be used only when washing the robot cleaner, cannot provide basic functions such as drying, and has a limitation in that a separate module equipped with a drying function must be provided.
[0013] Meanwhile, Chinese Utility Model Registration No. CN 2192708414 U discloses a station for a cleaner in which a robot cleaner is coupled to a lower side of a washing machine to perform charging and dust collection for the robot cleaner and to wash a mop of the robot cleaner.
[0014] However, in the aforementioned cleaner station, an open space into which the robot cleaner can enter is formed at the lower side of the washing machine, a detergent and water supply device for washing the mop are provided at a vertically upper side of the space into which the robot cleaner enters, and a dust bag is disposed at a side of the space into which the robot cleaner enters.
[0015] In the case of such an arrangement, since the overall height of the cleaner station increases, there is a limitation in that the station cannot be mounted by utilizing a lower space of furniture including a sink.
[0016] In addition, in the aforementioned cleaner station, since the space through which the robot cleaner enters and exits is always open, there is a limitation in that, if a configuration for drying the mop of the robot cleaner is provided, heat is discharged to the outside, thereby deteriorating drying efficiency.
[0017] Meanwhile, Chinese Utility Model Registration No. CN 218922468 U discloses a station for a cleaner in which a robot cleaner is coupled to a lower side of a washing machine to perform charging and dust collection for the robot cleaner and to wash a mop of the robot cleaner.
[0018] The aforementioned cleaner station is configured to dry a mop disposed above a washing tub by supplying drying air into the washing tub for washing the mop of the robot cleaner.
[0019] However, in the case where the mop is dried in an open indoor space as in the aforementioned cleaner station, there are limitations in that indoor humidity may increase due to water vapor generated during the drying process, and odors may spread indoors as wastewater generated while washing the mop evaporates.
[0020] In addition, in the process of drying the mop in an open space, heated air is dispersed to the outside, and thus the heated air must be continuously supplied for a long period of time, which leads to a limitation of decreased energy efficiency.
[Summary of Invention]
[Technical Problem]
[0021] The present invention has been devised to improve the problems of the conventional station for a robot cleaner as described above, and an aspect of the present invention is to provide a station for a robot cleaner that can be built into a lower space of a kitchen cabinet without requiring a separate installation space.
[0022] In another aspect of the present invention, embodiments provide a station for a robot cleaner capable of accommodating a robot cleaner in a lower space of a kitchen cabinet having a predetermined height restriction.
[0023] In yet another aspect of the present invention, embodiments provide a station for a robot cleaner capable of automatically collecting dust from a dust bin of a robot cleaner when the robot cleaner is docked therewith.
[0024] In still another aspect of the present invention, embodiments provide a station for a robot cleaner capable of automatically washing a mop of a robot cleaner when the robot cleaner is docked therewith.
[0025] In still another aspect of the present invention is to provide a station for a robot cleaner capable of automatically drying the mop after washing the mop of the robot cleaner.
[0026] Still another aspect of the present invention is to provide a station for a robot cleaner capable of preventing a failure of electronic components or decomposition of collected dust caused by an excessive increase in humidity within an accommodation space where the robot cleaner is disposed, due to moist air (or water vapor) generated while drying the mop of the robot cleaner.
[0027] In still another aspect of the present invention, embodiments provide a station for a robot cleaner capable of preventing a failure of electronic components or decomposition of collected dust caused by an excessive increase in humidity within an accommodation space where the robot cleaner is disposed, due to moist air (or water vapor) generated while drying the mop of the robot cleaner.
[0028] In still another aspect of the present invention, embodiments provide a station for a robot cleaner capable of increasing drying efficiency during a process of drying the mop.
[0029] In still another aspect of the present invention, embodiments provide a station for a robot cleaner capable of preventing vaporized moisture from leaking into a kitchen interior during a process of drying the mop of the robot cleaner.
[Technical Solution]
[0030] To solve the above-described problems, a station for a robot cleaner according to the present invention comprises: a housing; a seating unit disposed in the housing and forming an accommodation space in which at least a portion of a robot cleaner is accommodated; and a mop drying unit for drying a mop of the robot cleaner, wherein the mop drying unit comprises: an external air supply module for discharging heated air into the accommodation space; and an air inlet disposed inside the housing and configured to suction air from inside the housing.
[0031] Through this, the station for a robot cleaner supplies heated air to the robot cleaner to dry the mop, and is capable of suctioning and discharging moisture to the outside, which is vaporized during a drying process and spreads inside the housing.
[0032] Meanwhile, a plurality of the air inlets may be disposed at the same distance from a front end of the housing.
[0033] In this case, the mop drying unit further comprises an air discharge duct in which the air inlet is formed and an air discharge flow path communicating with the air inlet is formed therein, and the air discharge duct has one side coupled to an exhaust fan and the other side branched into a plurality of pipes.
[0034] In addition, the external air supply module may comprise: an external air inlet through which air from outside the housing is introduced; a heater for heating the air introduced through the external air inlet; and an external air discharge portion for discharging the air heated by the heater into the accommodation space.
[0035] Furthermore, the external air supply module may further comprise a blowing fan for providing a flow force to the air introduced through the external air inlet, so as to discharge heat toward the mop to scatter moisture, thereby increasing drying efficiency.
[0036] In this case, a temperature of heat discharged from the external air supply module may be 65 degrees Celsius or higher.
[0037] With such a configuration, it is possible to dry the mop of the robot cleaner by heating external air.
[0038] Meanwhile, the station for a robot cleaner according to the present invention may further include a door disposed on the housing and configured to open and close an entrance through which the robot cleaner enters and exits the housing.
[0039] In this case, the external air supply module may discharge heated air while the door is in a closed state. Accordingly, the mop can be dried by increasing a temperature of a space in which the robot cleaner is accommodated.
[0040] Meanwhile, when humidity of the accommodation space is greater than or equal to a preset reference humidity, the door may be opened. Through this, it is possible to prevent the humidity of the accommodation space from excessively increasing.
[0041] Meanwhile, the mop drying unit may further include an exhaust fan for providing a flow force to air introduced through the air inlet.
[0042] In this case, when the humidity of the accommodation space is greater than or equal to a preset exhaust humidity, the exhaust fan may be driven.
[0043] Further, the air introduced through the air inlet may be discharged to a drainage pipe disposed in a kitchen cabinet. Through this, when the humidity of the accommodation space increases, air can be discharged to the drainage pipe.
[0044] Accordingly, high-temperature and high-humidity air generated during a drying process of the mop can be discharged to the drainage pipe instead of an indoor space. Furthermore, odors that may be generated in the process of drying the mop can be discharged to the drainage pipe, thereby preventing the occurrence of odors in a kitchen.
[0045] Meanwhile, the air inlet may be disposed higher from the ground than the robot cleaner in a state where the robot cleaner is docked with the seating unit 120. Through this, efficiency in suctioning vapor that upwardly convects as the mop is dried can be increased.
[0046] In this case, at least a portion of the air inlet may be disposed vertically above a position where a width of the robot cleaner in a left-right direction is largest.
[0047] Through this, vapor generated during a drying process of the mop can be prevented from flowing toward the front, and an occurrence of malfunction in a sensor disposed at the front of the robot cleaner can be prevented.
[0048] In addition, a distance from the external air discharge portion 171c to the air inlet may be larger than a distance from the external air discharge portion to the mop.
[0049] Furthermore, the air inlet may be disposed above a path through which the robot cleaner moves within the housing. Through this, it is possible to prevent condensation from occurring on a wall inside the housing.
[0050] Meanwhile, the station for a robot cleaner according to the present invention further comprises a dust collection unit for collecting dust from a dust bin of the robot cleaner through operation of a dust collection motor, and the exhaust fan may be disposed between the dust collection motor and the external air supply module. Through this, components can be arranged in a limited space, and a space in which a flow path for discharging vapor can be disposed can be secured.
[0051] Meanwhile, according to an embodiment, air introduced into the air inlet may be re-supplied to the external air supply module. Through this, there is an effect of increasing energy efficiency by supplying heated air back to the heater.
[0052] Meanwhile, the housing comprises an upper cover covering an upper side of the accommodation space and facing a lower plate of a kitchen cabinet, and the air inlet may be disposed on the upper cover.
[0053] That is, the air discharge duct in which the air inlet is formed may be provided on the upper cover.
[Advantageous Effects]
[0054] According to embodiments of the present invention, as described above, a module capable of charging the robot cleaner, collecting dust, and washing a mop is arranged along a horizontal direction with the robot cleaner, thereby achieving an effect of utilizing a lower space of a kitchen cabinet.
[0055] In addition, since a charging terminal, a dust collection unit, a mop washing unit, and a mop drying unit are arranged to surround the robot cleaner, various functions for the robot cleaner can be simultaneously performed.
[0056] In addition, since surfaces other than a front surface are concealed by the kitchen cabinet, it is possible to provide aesthetic appeal to a user in terms of interior design.
[0057] In addition, when the robot cleaner is docked, dust in a dust bin of the robot cleaner is automatically collected. Therefore, the user only needs to take out a dust bag at regular intervals, thereby reducing the user's effort.
[0058] In addition, when the robot cleaner is docked, a mop of the robot cleaner can be automatically washed, thereby reducing the inconvenience of having to separate and wash the mop separately.
[0059] In addition, since detergent can be added as needed, an effect of increasing the washing performance of the mop can be achieved.
[0060] In addition, since the mop is washed using a water supply pipe and a drainage pipe of a kitchen, the inconvenience of a user having to separately supply water or discharge wastewater can be reduced.
[0061] In addition, since the mop can be automatically dried by supplying heated air to the mop after washing the mop of the robot cleaner, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of odors due to a wet mop.
[0062] Furthermore, embodiments of the present invention provide a station for a robot cleaner capable of preventing a failure of electronic components or decomposition of collected dust caused by an excessive increase in humidity within an accommodation space where the robot cleaner is disposed, due to moist air generated while drying the mop of the robot cleaner.
[0063] In addition, embodiments of the present invention provide a station for a robot cleaner capable of increasing drying efficiency during a process of drying the mop.
[Brief Description of Drawings]
[0064]
FIG. 1 is a view for explaining a state in which a cleaner system according to an embodiment of the present invention is installed in a lower space of a kitchen cabinet.
FIG. 2 is a view for explaining a relationship in which a pipe of the cleaner system according to an embodiment of the present invention is connected to a drainage pipe.
FIG. 3 is a perspective view for explaining the cleaner system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is a plan view of FIG. 3.
FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 3 taken along a front-rear direction.
FIG. 6 is a perspective view for explaining a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a side view of FIG. 6.
FIG. 8 is a bottom view of FIG. 6.
FIG. 9 is a rear view of FIG. 6.
FIG. 10 is a perspective view for explaining a station for a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 11 is a plan view of FIG. 10.
FIG. 12 is a side view for explaining a dust collection flow path of the station for a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 13 to FIG. 16 are cross-sectional views for explaining the dust collection flow path of the station for a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view for explaining a discharge hole of a dust collection motor housing of the station for a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 18 to FIG. 20 are views for explaining an exhaust flow path of the station for a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 21 and FIG. 22 are views showing a state in which a portion of a bottom surface of a base member body is removed to explain the exhaust flow path of the station for a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 23 is a perspective view for explaining in detail region A shown in FIG. 22.
FIG. 24 is an enlarged view for explaining a mop washing unit of the station for a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 25 is an enlarged view for explaining a washing water discharge unit of the mop washing unit of the station for a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional perspective view for explaining a space formed between a washing plate and a washing tub of the station for a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 27 is a perspective view for explaining a mop drying unit of the station for a robot cleaner according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 28 and FIG. 29 are enlarged views of the mop drying unit of the station for a robot cleaner according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view for explaining a state in which air flows into an external air supply module according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 31 is a view for explaining a mop drying unit of the station for a robot cleaner according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 32a and FIG. 32b are front views for explaining an arrangement relationship on a horizontal plane of the station for a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 33 is a view showing a state in which a dust bag drawer and a detergent container are pulled out from the station for a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 34 is a plan view for explaining a mop drying unit of the station for a robot cleaner according to a third embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 35 is a perspective view showing a state in which an upper cover is removed from the station for a robot cleaner according to the third embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 36 and FIG. 37 are views showing a state in which air flows into the station for a robot cleaner according to the third embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 38 is a perspective view showing an air discharge unit of the station for a robot cleaner according to the third embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 39 is an enlarged view showing a partial configuration of a vapor discharge unit of the station for a robot cleaner according to the third embodiment of the present invention.
[Description of Embodiments]
[0065] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0066] Since the present invention may be modified in various ways and may have various embodiments, specific embodiments will be illustrated in the drawings and described in detail in the detailed description. However, this is not intended to limit the present invention to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutes included in the spirit and technical scope of the present invention.
[0067] In describing the present invention, terms such as "first" and "second" may be used to describe various components, but the components may not be limited by the terms. These terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. For example, a first component may be referred to as a second component, and similarly, a second component may also be referred to as a first component, without departing from the scope of the present invention.
[0068] The term "and/or" may include a combination of a plurality of related listed items or any item of a plurality of related listed items.
[0069] When a component is referred to as being "connected" or "coupled" to another component, it may be directly connected or coupled to the other component, but it should be understood that other components may exist therebetween. On the other hand, when a component is referred to as being "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another component, it may be understood that no other components exist therebetween.
[0070] The terms used in the present application are used only to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention. Singular expressions include plural expressions unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.
[0071] In the present application, terms such as "comprise," "include," or "have" are intended to designate the existence of features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and it should be understood that they do not preclude the possibility of the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof in advance.
[0072] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, may have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention belongs. Terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries may be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with the meaning in the context of the related art, and unless clearly defined in the present application, they may not be interpreted in an ideal or excessively formal sense.
[0073] In addition, the following embodiments are provided to more completely explain the present invention to those of ordinary skill in the art, and the shapes and sizes of elements in the drawings may be exaggerated for clarity of description.
[0074] FIG. 1 is a view for explaining a state in which a cleaner system according to an embodiment of the present invention is installed in a lower space of a kitchen cabinet, and FIG. 2 is a view for explaining a relationship in which a pipe of the cleaner system according to an embodiment of the present invention is connected to a drainage pipe.
[0075] A cleaner system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention may be provided at a lower side of a kitchen cabinet 2. Specifically, the kitchen cabinet 2 may be disposed in a kitchen to store dishes, plates, cups, and the like, and may provide a space for cooking food or washing dishes.
[0076] In addition, the kitchen cabinet 2 may be provided with an upper plate (worktop) that can serve as a sink, a cooking counter, or a workbench.
[0077] For example, the kitchen cabinet 2 may include a sink providing a space for washing dishes on the upper plate. Alternatively, the kitchen cabinet 2 may include a cooking counter for performing cooking operations. In addition, the kitchen cabinet 2 may include a gas range stand on which a gas range, an induction heater, a highlight heater, an oven, or the like is installed on the upper plate.
[0078] Generally, as the kitchen cabinet 2, a standard cabinet having a width of 600 mm in a front-rear direction and a width of 600 mm in a left-right direction may be used.
[0079] A cleaner system 1 according to another embodiment of the present invention may be provided at a lower side of a structure including at least one of a water supply pipe and a drainage pipe. Specifically, the water supply pipe may refer to a flow path connected to an external water supply source that supplies fluid to the structure, and the drainage pipe may refer to a flow path for discharging fluid discharged from the structure to a sewer.
[0080] A storage cabinet for storing tableware and kitchen tools may be provided at a lower portion of the kitchen cabinet 2 or the aforementioned structure. That is, the kitchen cabinet 2 or the structure may include an upper plate 22 providing a space for operations such as cooking or dishwashing, a lower plate 23 disposed to be spaced apart from the ground by a predetermined height, and a storage space formed between the upper plate 22 and the lower plate 23 to store tableware and kitchen tools. In this case, when the kitchen cabinet 2 is a sink, a sink bowl 22a may be disposed on the upper plate 22.
[0081] In addition, the lower plate 23 may be supported by a pedestal 21. The pedestal 21 is arranged along a direction vertical to a floor of the kitchen and may support the load of the kitchen cabinet 2. In this case, a space may be formed between the floor of the kitchen and the lower plate 23 according to the height of the pedestal 21.
[0082] Alternatively, it is also possible for the kitchen cabinet 2 to be fixed to a wall of a building without the pedestal 21. Even in this case, a space may be formed between the floor of the kitchen and the lower plate 23.
[0083] The cleaner system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is mounted in the space between the floor of the kitchen and the lower plate 23 (hereinafter, referred to as a "mounting space 24") as described above.
[0084] For example, the mounting space 24 may have a height of 200 mm or less, and generally may have a height of 160 mm or less.
[0085] Therefore, according to the present invention, since the cleaner system 1 is disposed in the lower space of the kitchen cabinet 2, there is an effect of minimizing the exposure of the cleaner system 1 to the outside.
[0086] Furthermore, compared to a case where a charging stand for a robot cleaner is disposed in a certain space of a living room, a room, or a kitchen, the cleaner system 1 is disposed in an unutilized space created by the kitchen cabinet 2 without occupying a separate space, thereby maximizing space efficiency.
[0087] Meanwhile, the kitchen cabinet 2 or the aforementioned structure is provided with a drainage pipe 25 capable of draining liquid used for cooking or water used for dishwashing. At least a portion of the drainage pipe 25 may be disposed in the storage space formed between the upper plate 22 and the lower plate 23. Generally, the drainage pipe 25 may be connected to a drain formed in the sink bowl 22a of the sink. The drainage pipe 25 includes a U-trap 25a for preventing a backflow of contaminated gas or odors. The U-trap 25a may be disposed in the storage space. Liquid introduced through the drain flows downward by gravity in an upstream 25b of the U-trap, accumulates in the U-trap 25a, and when water rises above a predetermined level set by the U-trap 25a, flows downward along a downstream 25c of the U-trap to be discharged to a sewer.
[0088] The cleaner system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention may wash and dry the mop 242 of the robot cleaner 200 using the drainage pipe 25 as described above.
[0089] In addition, although not shown, the kitchen cabinet 2 may be provided with a water supply pipe. Fresh water (or purified water) may be supplied to the cleaner system 1 through the water supply pipe.
[0091] Meanwhile, FIG. 3 to FIG. 5 are views for explaining the cleaner system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0092] The cleaner system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a station for a robot cleaner 100 and a robot cleaner 200.
[0093] The cleaner system 1 includes the station for a robot cleaner 100. The robot cleaner 200 may be docked with the station for a robot cleaner 100. Specifically, the robot cleaner 200 may enter through a front surface of the station for a robot cleaner 100, and the robot cleaner 200 may be accommodated inside the station for a robot cleaner 100. The station for a robot cleaner 100 may remove dust from a dust bin 220 of the robot cleaner 200. The station for a robot cleaner 100 may wash a rotary cleaning unit 240 of the robot cleaner 200. The station for a robot cleaner 100 may dry the rotary cleaning unit 240 of the robot cleaner 200. The station for a robot cleaner 100 may supply power to the robot cleaner 200.
[0094] Meanwhile, FIGS. 6 to 9 disclose views for explaining a robot cleaner in the cleaner system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0095] The structure of the robot cleaner 200 will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 9 as follows.
[0096] The robot cleaner 200 may automatically clean a target area by traveling autonomously and suctioning foreign substances such as dust from a floor.
[0097] The robot cleaner 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention is configured to be placed on a floor and clean the floor while moving along a floor surface. Accordingly, in the following description, the vertical direction will be defined based on a state where the robot cleaner 200 is placed on the floor.
[0098] And based on a pair of wheels 260, the side where a sub-wheel 270 (to be described later) is disposed is defined as the front, and the side where a rotary cleaning unit 240 (to be described later) is disposed is defined as the rear for description.
[0099] The "lowest part" of each configuration described in embodiments of the present invention may be the lowest positioned part in each configuration when the robot cleaner 200 according to embodiments of the present invention is placed on a floor and used, or may be the part closest to the floor.
[0100] The robot cleaner 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention is configured to include a body 210, a dust bin 220, a water tank 230, a rotary cleaning unit 240, an agitator 250, wheels 260, a sub-wheel 270, and a charging terminal 280.
[0101] The body 210 may form the overall appearance of the robot cleaner 200. Each component constituting the robot cleaner 200 may be coupled to the body 210, and some components constituting the robot cleaner 200 may be accommodated inside the body 210.
[0102] Specifically, components of the robot cleaner 200 may be provided in an internal space of the body 210. For example, the body 210 may accommodate a battery and at least one motor in the internal space.
[0103] In embodiments of the present invention, the body 210 may be configured in a shape in which a width (or diameter) in a horizontal direction (direction parallel to X and Y) is greater than a height in a vertical direction (direction parallel to Z). This body 210 helps the robot cleaner 200 to form a stable structure and may provide a structure advantageous for avoiding obstacles when the robot cleaner 200 moves (travels).
[0104] When viewed from above or below, the body 210 may be formed in various shapes such as a circle, an ellipse, or a rectangle.
[0105] he body 210 may be configured to be divided into a lower body and an upper body, and the lower body and the upper body may be coupled to form a space therein.
[0106] The lower body may be coupled with the upper body to form a space capable of accommodating a battery, at least one sensor, and at least one motor therein.
[0107] The lower body may be formed with the suction port 211 through which air is introduced and holes for accommodating a pair of wheels 260.
[0108] The suction port 211 may be a passage through which dust on a floor surface is introduced. Further, the suction port 211 may communicate with a suction flow path (not shown) formed inside the body 210, and the suction flow path may communicate with an internal space of the dust bin 220.
[0109] Meanwhile, an exhaust flow path may be further provided in the lower body. One side of the exhaust flow path may communicate with the internal space of the dust bin 220, and the other side thereof may communicate with an exhaust port. In this case, a filter may be disposed at the exhaust port.
[0110] With such a configuration, air introduced through the suction port 211 flows into the dust bin 220 through the suction flow path and may be discharged to the exhaust port through the exhaust flow path.
[0111] An agitator 250, which will be described later, may be rotatably accommodated in the suction port 211. With such a configuration, dust around the suction port 211 may be guided into the suction port 211 by rotation of the agitator 250, thereby increasing dust suction efficiency.
[0112] The upper body may form an upper appearance of the robot cleaner 200. Although not shown, a display may be provided on the upper body.
[0113] Although not shown, the robot cleaner 200 of the present invention may include a bumper. The bumper is coupled along a rim of the body 210 and is configured to move relative to the body 210.
[0114] The bumper may be coupled along a part of the rim of the body 210, or may be coupled along the entire rim of the body 210. At least one elastic member (not shown) may be provided between the bumper and the body 210. With such a configuration, when the bumper moves relatively toward a center of the body 210 by contacting an obstacle or the like, the bumper may return to an original position by a restoring force of the elastic member (not shown), and an impact applied to the bumper may be absorbed or dispersed to prevent and reduce transmission of the impact to the body 210.
[0116] The dust bin 220 may store dust introduced through the suction flow path. The dust bin 220 may be formed with a dust inlet communicating with the suction flow path, an internal space for storing dust may be formed therein, and an air outlet through which air is discharged may be formed.
[0117] The dust bin 220 may be provided inside the body 210. In this case, the dust bin 220 may be fixedly coupled to the body 210 or may be detachably provided according to embodiments.
[0118] Meanwhile, in the present invention, a dust discharge flow path may be formed in the dust bin 220. The dust discharge flow path may communicate the internal space of the dust bin 220 with an external space of the robot cleaner 200. With such a configuration, when dust is collected through the station for a robot cleaner 100, the dust inside the dust bin 220 may be removed.
[0119] Meanwhile, the dust bin 220 according to an embodiment of the present invention may be formed with a dust discharge port 221 communicating with the dust discharge flow path. For example, the dust discharge port 221 may be formed at one side of a rear of an outer surface (or an outer peripheral surface) of the body 210. As another example, the dust discharge port 221 may be formed on an outer surface of the dust bin 220.
[0120] In addition, the robot cleaner 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention may be provided with a dust bin door 222 capable of selectively opening and closing the dust discharge port 221. Specifically, the dust bin door 222 is coupled to the body 210 and may be disposed at a position capable of blocking the dust discharge port 221. For example, the dust bin door 222 may be formed of a rubber or resin material and provided to be flippable, with one side thereof fixedly coupled to the body 210.
[0121] With such a configuration, when a dust collection motor 152 of the station for a robot cleaner 100, which will be described later, is operated, the dust bin door 222 is elastically deformed by a driving force of the dust collection motor 152, and as the dust discharge port 221 is opened, dust in the dust bin 220 may be collected into a dust collection unit 140 of the station for a robot cleaner 100.
[0122] The water tank 230 is configured in a form of a container having an internal space so that liquid such as water is stored therein. The water tank 230 is disposed inside the body 210 and may be fixedly coupled to the body 210 or may be detachably coupled to the body 210.
[0123] The water tank 230 includes a supply unit 231 and a nozzle (not shown). The supply unit 231 may be provided so that liquid such as water is supplied from the outside. For example, the supply unit 231 may have an inlet formed at the other side of the rear of the outer surface (or outer peripheral surface) of the body 210 and may be connected to a storage space inside the water tank 230 through a water supply hose.
[0124] In this case, the supply unit 231 may be disposed at an opposite side in a left-right direction of the robot cleaner 200 with respect to the dust discharge port 221. For example, if the dust discharge port 221 is disposed at a rear left side of the body 210, the supply unit 231 may be disposed at a rear right side of the body 210.
[0125] Through such a configuration, in a state where the robot cleaner 200 is docked with the station for a robot cleaner 100, the station for a robot cleaner 100 may simultaneously perform dust collection and water injection.
[0126] Meanwhile, the nozzle (not shown) is configured in a form of a tube or a pipe and is connected to the water tank 230 so that the liquid inside the water tank 230 can flow through an interior thereof. One side of the nozzle (not shown) is connected to the water tank 230, and the other end thereof is disposed to be positioned above each of a pair of rotary plates 241, so that the liquid inside the water tank 230 can be supplied to each of a pair of mops 242.
[0127] That is, the nozzle (not shown) may be configured in a form in which one pipe is branched into two, and in this case, one branched end may be positioned above a left rotary plate, and the other branched end may be positioned above a right rotary plate.
[0128] Meanwhile, although not shown, a pump may be provided in the water tank 230 to cause the water inside the water tank 230 to flow to the nozzle (not shown). Therefore, when the pump of the water tank 230 is operated, the liquid stored in the water tank 230 may be discharged to the rotary cleaning unit 240 through the nozzle (not shown).
[0130] The rotary plates 241 may be provided as a pair including a left rotary plate and a right rotary plate, and the mops 242 may be provided as a pair including a left mop and a right mop.
[0131] The rotary plates 241 may be rotatably disposed on a bottom surface of the body 210, and the mops 242 may be coupled to a lower side thereof.
[0132] The rotary plate 241 is configured to have a predetermined area and is formed in a shape of a flat plate or a flat frame. Such a rotary plate 241 is generally laid horizontally, and accordingly, is configured in a shape in which a width (or diameter) in a horizontal direction is sufficiently larger than a height in a vertical direction. The rotary plate 241 coupled to the body 210 may be parallel to a floor surface or may be inclined with respect to the floor surface. The rotary plate 241 may be formed in a shape of a circular plate, a bottom surface of the rotary plate 241 may generally have a circular shape, and the rotary plate 241 may have a rotationally symmetrical shape as a whole.
[0134] The mop 242 may be coupled to a lower side of the rotary plate 241 so as to face the floor surface.
[0135] The mop 242 is configured such that a bottom surface facing the floor has a predetermined area, and the mop 242 is configured in a flat shape. The mop 242 is configured in a shape in which a width (or diameter) in a horizontal direction is sufficiently larger than a height in a vertical direction. When the mop 242 is coupled to the body 210 side, a bottom surface of the mop 242 may be parallel to the floor surface or may be inclined with respect to the floor surface.
[0136] The bottom surface of the mop 242 may generally have a circular shape, and the mop 242 may have a rotationally symmetrical shape as a whole. In addition, the mop 242 may be detachably attached to the bottom surface of the rotary plate 241 and may be coupled to the rotary plate 241 to rotate together with the rotary plate 241.
[0137] Meanwhile, although not shown, a driving unit for applying a rotational force to the rotary plate 241 may be provided in the rotary cleaning unit 240. For example, the driving unit may include a motor and at least one gear. Accordingly, when the driving unit is operated, the rotary plate 241 and the mop 242 rotate to wipe and clean the floor surface.
[0138] The agitator 250 may be rotatably provided with a plurality of brushes to guide external dust and air into the dust bin 220. In this case, at least one gear may be provided in the agitator 250.
[0139] Meanwhile, the agitator 250 according to the present embodiment may be installed with a separate agitator motor (not shown) to receive rotational power, but may also receive rotational power from a traveling motor according to embodiments, and may also receive rotational power from a driving unit of the rotary cleaning unit 240.
[0140] The wheels 260 may be provided on a bottom surface of the body 210 and may be connected to a driving unit (not shown). In this case, the driving unit (not shown) may be coupled to the body 210.
[0142] The wheels 260 may be configured as a first traveling wheel and a second traveling wheel. In this case, the first traveling wheel may be configured identically to the second traveling wheel, or may be configured symmetrically. For example, if the first traveling wheel is located on the left side of the robot cleaner 200, the second traveling wheel may be located on the right side of the robot cleaner 200, and in this case, the first traveling wheel and the second traveling wheel may be symmetrical to each other in the left-right direction.
[0143] The driving unit (not shown) may be configured to include a traveling motor and gears. In this case, the traveling motor is accommodated inside the body 210 and may provide power to the wheels 260. The traveling motor may include a first traveling motor and a second traveling motor.
[0144] The traveling motor may be configured as an electric motor. The plurality of gears are configured to mesh with each other and rotate, connect the traveling motor and the wheels 260, and transmit rotational power of the traveling motor to the wheels 260. Therefore, the wheels 260 may rotate when a rotating shaft of the traveling motor rotates.
[0145] With such a configuration, when the traveling motor is operated, the wheels 260 rotate, and the body 210 may travel at a predetermined traveling speed on the floor surface.
[0146] The sub-wheel 270 is provided on a lower surface of the body 210 and may roll on the floor surface (surface to be cleaned). The sub-wheel 270 may support the body 210 on the floor surface together with the pair of wheels 260. With such a configuration, the sub-wheel 270 can minimize friction between the robot cleaner 200 and the floor surface while guiding the movement of the robot cleaner 200.
[0147] A suction motor (not shown) may generate suction force capable of suctioning external dust and air through the suction port 211. For example, the suction motor (not shown) may be an electric motor. External dust and air may be introduced into the suction port 211 by the suction force generated by the suction motor (not shown) and may reach the dust bin 220 after passing through the suction flow path.
[0148] Although not shown, a battery is coupled to the body 210 and configured to supply power to other components constituting the robot cleaner 200. The battery may supply power to at least one motor provided in the robot cleaner 200. For example, the battery may supply power to motors provided in the rotary cleaning unit 240, the agitator 250, the wheels 260, and the suction motor (not shown).
[0149] In addition, the battery may supply power to a sensor unit (not shown) and a control unit (not shown).
[0150] The battery may be charged by an external power source, and for this purpose, a charging terminal 280 for charging may be provided on one side of the body 210. For example, the charging terminal 280 may be disposed at a rear side of an outer surface of the body 210. When the robot cleaner 200 is docked with the station for a robot cleaner 100, the charging terminal 280 may come into contact with a power supply terminal 123b of the station for a robot cleaner 100 to receive power.
[0151] FIG. 10 is a perspective view for explaining a station for a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 11 is a plan view of FIG. 10.
[0152] The station for a robot cleaner 100 of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11 as follows.
[0153] The robot cleaner 200 may be accommodated in the station for a robot cleaner 100. The robot cleaner 200 may be docked with a seating unit 120 of the station for a robot cleaner 100.
[0155] The housing 110 may form an appearance of the station for a robot cleaner 100. For example, the housing 110 may be formed in a shape similar to a hexahedron including at least one outer wall.
[0156] The housing 110 may have a space formed therein capable of accommodating the seating unit 120, a dust collection flow path 130, a dust collection unit 140, a dust collection motor 152, a mop washing unit 160, a mop drying unit 170, and an exhaust flow path 125a.
[0157] The housing 110 may be mounted at a lower side of a kitchen cabinet 2. Specifically, the housing 110 may be installed in a mounting space 24 formed between a lower plate 23 of the kitchen cabinet 2 and a floor of a kitchen.
[0158] The housing 110 includes an outer wall 111 forming an appearance. The outer wall 111 may refer to a surface formed along a direction of gravity.
[0159] For example, the outer wall 111 may be installed at a lower side of the kitchen cabinet 2 at a predetermined interval. As another example, the housing 110 further includes a bottom part 112 facing the floor of the kitchen, and the outer wall 111 may be connected through the bottom part 112. As another example, the housing 110 further includes a bottom part 112 facing the floor of the kitchen and an upper cover 113 facing the lower plate 23 of the kitchen cabinet 2, and both upper and lower ends of the outer wall 111 may be connected to each other through the bottom part 112 and the upper cover 113. As still another example, the housing 110 may further include a third outer wall member 111c facing the bottom part 112, the upper cover 113, and a wall of a building.
[0160] With such a configuration, the housing 110 may block upper and lower sides of the station for a robot cleaner 100. Accordingly, even when foreign substances fall downward from the kitchen cabinet 2, it is possible to prevent components of the robot cleaner 200 and the station for a robot cleaner 100 from being contaminated.
[0161] The outer wall 111 may include a first outer wall member 111a, a second outer wall member 111b, and a third outer wall member 111c.
[0162] The first outer wall member 111a may cover any one of both side surfaces of the housing 110, and the second outer wall member 111b may cover the other one of both side surfaces of the housing 110. For example, the first outer wall member 111a may be disposed on a left surface of the housing 110, and the second outer wall member 111b may be disposed on a right surface of the housing 110.
[0163] The third outer wall member 111c may connect the first outer wall member 111a and the second outer wall member 111b. Specifically, the third outer wall member 111c may connect the first outer wall member 111a and the second outer wall member 111b from the rear.
[0164] With such a configuration, components of the station for a robot cleaner 100 may be accommodated inside the housing 110 (between the first outer wall member 111a, the second outer wall member 111b, and the third outer wall member 111c).
[0165] In addition, the robot cleaner 200 may be accommodated inside the housing 110. The housing 110 may be arranged such that the outer wall 111 has an interval larger than a maximum horizontal width of the robot cleaner 200. With such a configuration, the robot cleaner 200 may enter and exit the interior of the housing 110.
[0166] In this case, in the present embodiment, the robot cleaner 200 may enter and exit through the front of the station for a robot cleaner 100. Here, the front may refer to a direction in which a door 126 is provided based on the interior of the station for a robot cleaner 100.
[0167] In addition, the rear may refer to a direction opposite to the front based on the interior of the station for a robot cleaner 100. For example, a wall of a building (not shown) may be disposed at the rear of the station for a robot cleaner 100.
[0168] In addition, based on when looking forward from the inside of the station for a robot cleaner 100, the left side may be referred to as a leftward side, and the right side may be referred to as a rightward side.
[0169] That is, the outer wall 111 of the station for a robot cleaner 100 may be disposed at the leftward side and the rightward side, respectively.
[0170] Accordingly, the upper side of the housing 110 is concealed by the kitchen cabinet 2, and the lower side of the housing 110 may be concealed by the floor of the kitchen. In addition, left and right side surfaces of the housing 110 exist in a state covered by the outer wall 111, but are disposed at the lower portion of the kitchen cabinet 2. In this case, since a portion of the lower portion of the kitchen cabinet 2 excluding the station for a robot cleaner 100 is finished by a baseboard 26, only the front surface of the housing 110 may be exposed to the outside as a result.
[0171] Through this, exposure of the station for a robot cleaner 100 and the robot cleaner 200 to the outside can be minimized.
[0172] With such a configuration, the station for a robot cleaner 100 of the present invention has an effect of providing aesthetic appeal to a user in terms of interior design.
[0173] Meanwhile, although not shown, the housing 110 may have a space through which a water supply hose connected to a water supply pipe passes, a space through which a drainage hose for discharging wastewater generated after washing the mop 242 passes, and a space through which a hose for discharging moisture generated during a drying process of the mop 242 passes. For example, at least one of the outer wall 111, the third outer wall member 111c, and the upper cover 113 of the housing 110 may have a space formed therein through which the aforementioned hoses can pass.
[0175] The robot cleaner 200 may be docked with the station for a robot cleaner 100 through the seating unit 120.
[0176] The robot cleaner 200 and the station for a robot cleaner 100 may be connected physically, electrically, and/or fluidly through the seating unit 120. When the robot cleaner 200 is connected physically, electrically, and/or fluidly to the station for a robot cleaner 100 through the seating unit 120, it may be expressed that the robot cleaner 200 is docked with the station for a robot cleaner 100.
[0177] The seating unit 120 may be disposed inside the housing 110. In this case, according to embodiments, the seating unit 120 may be provided to be pulled out from the housing 110 through a drawer 190.
[0178] With such a configuration, when cleaning or repair of the seating unit 120 is required, or when replacement of some parts is necessary, there is an effect that a user can easily pull out the seating unit 120 for maintenance.
[0179] The seating unit 120 may have an entrance 127 formed therein, through which the robot cleaner 200 enters. The entrance 127 may refer to a space formed on a front surface of the station for a robot cleaner 100.
[0180] The entrance 127 may be formed in a size through which the robot cleaner 200 can pass. That is, a height of the entrance 127 is formed to be larger than a height of the robot cleaner 200. In this case, the entrance 127 may refer to a space formed upward along a vertical direction from a front end of a base member 121, which will be described later, and an upper end of the entrance may be the same as a lower surface of the lower plate 23 of the kitchen cabinet 2 or an upper end of the housing 110.
[0181] In addition, a width of the entrance 127 in a left-right direction is formed to be larger than a maximum width of the robot cleaner 200. In this case, at least one of a dust collection unit 140 and a mop washing unit 160 may be disposed on left and right sides of the entrance 127. Accordingly, left and right ends of the entrance 127 may form a boundary with the dust collection unit 140 and the mop washing unit 160. If either the dust collection unit 140 or the mop washing unit 160 is not present, an outer wall 111 of the housing 110 may serve as the boundary.
[0182] In this case, the entrance 127 may be opened and closed by a door 126. The door 126 is disposed at the upper end of the entrance 127, and a rotation axis may be provided along a direction parallel to the base member 121. The door 126 may be hinged to the housing 110. Alternatively, the door 126 may be hinged to a side wall 124 of the seating unit 120. The door 126 may be rotated by a door driving unit 126a. For example, the door driving unit 126a may be a motor.
[0183] For example, the door 126 may be formed in a shape of a rectangular flat plate, a hinge part 126b may be provided at an upper end thereof, and the door driving unit 126a may be connected to one end of the hinge part 126b in an axial direction. In this case, the hinge part 126b of the door 126 may be directly connected to a shaft of the door driving unit 126a, or may be connected to enable power transmission through at least one gear.
[0184] The door 126 may maintain a state in which the entrance 127 is closed when the robot cleaner 200 is accommodated in the seating unit 120. Further, when the robot cleaner 200 starts traveling from the seating unit 120, the door 126 may be rotated to open the entrance 127. Then, the door 126 may be rotated to close the entrance 127 after the robot cleaner 200 passes through the entrance 127. In addition, the door 126 may be rotated to open the entrance 127 when the robot cleaner 200 approaches from the outside of the station for a robot cleaner 100.
[0185] The seating unit 120 may include an accommodation space S, a base member 121, a coupling wall 123, and a side wall 124.
[0186] The robot cleaner 200 may be accommodated in the accommodation space S of the seating unit 120. For example, the accommodation space S may refer to a space surrounded by the base member 121, the coupling wall 123, and the side wall 124. As another example, the accommodation space S may refer to a space surrounded by the base member 121, a washing plate 122, the coupling wall 123, and the side wall 124. As still another example, the accommodation space S may refer to a space where the robot cleaner 200 is positioned in a state where the robot cleaner 200 is coupled to a power supply terminal 123b, or a space where the robot cleaner 200 is positioned in a state where a dust bin 220 of the robot cleaner 200 communicates with a dust passage hole 123a.
[0187] The base member 121 may be disposed such that the station for a robot cleaner 100 comes into contact with a floor surface, and is configured to support the robot cleaner 200 when the robot cleaner 200 is docked with the station for a robot cleaner 100.
[0188] The base member 121 may refer to a part of the bottom portion 112 of the housing 110. Alternatively, the base member 121 may be a configuration included in the bottom portion 112 of the housing 110. Alternatively, the base member 121 may be a configuration formed on an upper surface of the bottom portion 112 of the housing 110.
[0189] The base member 121 may include a base member body 121a, an inclined portion 121b, a wheel seating portion 121c, an agitator accommodation portion 121d, and a washing tub 121e.
[0190] The base member body 121a may form an overall appearance of the base member 121. The inclined portion 121b, the wheel seating portion 121c, the agitator accommodation portion 121d, and the washing tub 121e may be disposed on the base member body 121a.
[0191] The base member body 121a may be configured in a shape in which a width (or diameter) in a horizontal direction (direction parallel to X and Y) is greater than a height in a vertical direction (direction parallel to Z). Due to such a structure, there is an effect that the station for a robot cleaner 100 can be stably supported on the floor surface.
[0192] An exhaust flow path 125a may be provided inside the base member body 121a. Accordingly, air discharged from the dust collection motor 152 may flow through the exhaust flow path 125a formed inside the base member body 121a and be exhausted to the exhaust port 125b.
[0193] The inclined portion 121b may be disposed at an entrance of the base member body 121a where the robot cleaner 200 climbs.
[0194] The inclined portion 121b may have an upward slope toward the front in a direction in which the robot cleaner 200 enters. More specifically, a front-side end of the entrance side of the inclined portion 121b is connected so as not to have a height difference from the ground, but may have a slope that increases toward the front in the direction in which the robot cleaner 200 enters. In this case, the front in the direction in which the robot cleaner 200 enters refers to the rear based on the station for a robot cleaner 100. Accordingly, the robot cleaner 200 can easily climb from the ground to the station for a robot cleaner 100.
[0196] The wheel guide portion 121ba may be formed in a shape of a groove to guide movement of the wheels 260 of the robot cleaner 200. A surface of the wheel guide unit 121ba may be formed to correspond to a surface of the wheels 260 so that the robot cleaner 200 can travel stably. In addition, the wheel guide unit 121ba may be formed such that a width of the groove at the entrance where the robot cleaner 200 climbs is larger than a width of the wheels 260, and the width of the groove becomes narrower toward the front of a climbing path of the robot cleaner 200 compared to the entrance. Accordingly, the wheels 260 of the robot cleaner 200 can easily enter the station for a robot cleaner 100, and lateral movement is limited by the groove that gradually narrows, so that the wheels 260 can be guided to a correct position.
[0198] The sub-wheel guide portion 121bb may be formed in a groove shape to guide movement of the sub-wheel 270 of the robot cleaner 200. In addition, the sub-wheel guide portion 121bb may be formed in a protruding shape to contact the sub-wheel 270 when the wheels 260 of the robot cleaner 200 are seated on the wheel seating portion 121c. Accordingly, when the robot cleaner 200 travels on the inclined portion 121b, the robot cleaner 200 can travel while being stably supported by the sub-wheel 270 as well as the wheels 260.
[0199] The wheels 260 of the robot cleaner 200, which have moved upward along the wheel guide portion 121ba, may be seated on the wheel seating portion 121c. When the wheels 260 of the robot cleaner 200 are seated on the wheel seating portion 121c, physical coupling between the robot cleaner 200 and the station for a robot cleaner 100 may be achieved. A surface of the wheel seating portion 121c may be formed to correspond to the surface of the wheels 260 so that the robot cleaner 200 can be stably stopped. The wheel seating portion 121c may extend from an upper end of the wheel guide unit 121ba. The wheel seating portion 121c may be connected to the wheel guide portion 121ba without a step. Accordingly, the robot cleaner 200 can easily move to the wheel seating portion 121c past the inclined portion 121b.
[0200] The wheel seating portion 121c may be disposed at a stop position of the left and right wheels 260 of the robot cleaner 200 so that the robot cleaner 200 stops at the correct position. Here, the stop position of the wheels 260 refers to a position determined for the robot cleaner 200 to stop in order to be coupled to the power supply terminal 123b and/or a position determined for the robot cleaner 200 to stop in order for the dust bin 220 of the robot cleaner 200 to communicate with the dust passage hole 123a.
[0201] A shape of the wheel seating portion 121c may be formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the wheels 260 of the robot cleaner 200, that is, an arch shape. Through such a configuration, the robot cleaner 200 moves along the wheel guide unit 121ba and can stop at the same time as the wheels 260 are inserted into the wheel seating portion 121c, and the wheels 260 can be stably seated on the arch-shaped wheel seating portion 121c.
[0202] The agitator accommodation portion 121d may accommodate the agitator 250 of the robot cleaner 200. Specifically, the agitator accommodation portion 121d may provide a space in which the agitator 250 of the robot cleaner 200 is accommodated in a state where the wheels 260 of the robot cleaner 200 are seated on the wheel seating portion 121c.
[0204] The recess 121da may be formed to be recessed from the base member 121. The recess 121da may form an accommodation space 121dc in which at least a portion of the agitator 250 is accommodated. Through this, in a state where the wheels 260 of the robot cleaner 200 are seated on the wheel seating portion 121c, at least a portion of the agitator 250 may be accommodated in the accommodation space 121dc of the recess 121da.
[0205] The accommodation space 121dc of the recess 121da may communicate with the accommodation space S of the seating unit 120.
[0206] An exhaust port 125b may be formed at one side of the recess 121da. Specifically, the exhaust port 125b may be formed on a side surface of the recess 121da. Accordingly, air discharged from the dust collection motor 152 and passing through the exhaust flow path 125a may be exhausted to the accommodation space 121dc of the recess 121da through the exhaust port 125b.
[0207] The protrusion 121db may be formed to protrude from the base member 121. The protrusion 121db may be disposed along a rim of the recess 121da. In addition, in a state where the agitator 250 is accommodated in the accommodation space 121dc of the recess 121da, the protrusion 121db may be disposed to be spaced apart from the body 210 of the robot cleaner 200 by a predetermined distance.
[0208] The protrusion 121db may guide air discharged through the exhaust port 125b to the suction port 211 of the robot cleaner 200. Through this, the air discharged to the accommodation space 121dc of the recess 121da may be guided to the suction port 211 of the robot cleaner 200 by the protrusion 121db.
[0209] The agitator accommodation portion 121d may be formed between the wheel seating portions 121c. The agitator accommodation portion 121d may be formed in a shape corresponding to the agitator 250 of the robot cleaner 200. The agitator accommodation portion 121d may be formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape with an open top. A bottom surface of the agitator accommodation portion 121d may be sealed by the bottom portion 112. Accordingly, the agitator 250 of the robot cleaner 200, which has moved upward along the inclined portion 121b, may be seated in the recess 121da through the open upper surface of the agitator accommodation portion 121d. In this case, a depth of the recess 121da may be formed to be shallower than a depth of the wheel seating portion 121c.
[0210] The exhaust port 125b may be formed in the agitator accommodation portion 121d. The exhaust port 125b may be formed on a side surface of the agitator accommodation portion 121d. The exhaust port 125b may connect the recess 121da of the agitator accommodation portion 121d and the dust collection motor 152 through the exhaust flow path 125a. The recess 121da of the agitator accommodation portion 121d and the exhaust flow path 125a may communicate with each other through the exhaust port 125b. Accordingly, air discharged from the dust collection motor 152 may pass through the exhaust port 125b and be discharged to the recess 121da of the agitator accommodation portion 121d.
[0211] The washing tub 121e is a configuration on which a washing plate 122 (to be described later) is seated. The washing tub 121e may be disposed at a rear side of the base member body 121a. The washing tub 121e may be formed to correspond to the washing plate 122 so that the washing plate 122 can be inserted therein.
[0212] The washing plate 122 is a configuration for washing the mop of the robot cleaner 200, and the washing plate 122 may be seated on the washing tub 121e of the base member 121.
[0213] Protrusions 122a and drainage holes 122b may be formed on the washing plate 122. In a state where the mop 242 of the robot cleaner 200 is seated on the washing plate 122, when the driving unit of the rotary cleaning unit 240 is driven, the mop 242 rotates. In this case, when the mop 242 rotates while washing water is supplied to the washing plate 122, the mop 242 may be washed while rubbing against the protrusions 122a in a stationary state.
[0214] In addition, the washing plate 122 may be formed to be downwardly inclined toward a center thereof. Accordingly, the washing water flowing along the inclined washing plate 122 may, after washing the mop 242, be discharged to a space formed between the washing plate 122 and the washing tub 121e through the drainage holes 122b.
[0215] The coupling wall 123 is a configuration in which the dust passage hole 123a, the power supply terminal 123b, and a water supply nozzle 123c of the station for a robot cleaner 100 are disposed. The coupling wall 123 may spatially distinguish the accommodation space S from components of the station for a robot cleaner 100. The coupling wall 123 may extend from a rear side of the base member 121 in a direction intersecting the base member 121. The coupling wall 123 may extend in a vertical direction from the rear side of the base member 121. The coupling wall 123 may be formed to correspond to a shape of the robot cleaner 200. For example, the coupling wall 123 may be formed in a shape of a circular arc having a predetermined radius. With such a configuration, the coupling wall 123 can surround an outer periphery of the robot cleaner 200 and increase an area capable of facing an outer surface of the robot cleaner 200. In addition, the robot cleaner 200 can be stably supported.
[0216] The dust passage hole 123a may be formed in the seating unit 120 so that air outside the housing 110 can be introduced into an interior thereof. Specifically, the dust passage hole 123a may be formed in the coupling wall 123 of the seating unit 120 so that air outside the housing 110 can be introduced into the interior. The dust passage hole 123a may communicate with the dust bin 220 of the robot cleaner 200. The dust passage hole 123a may communicate with the dust discharge port 221 of the dust bin 220 of the robot cleaner 200. The dust passage hole 123a may be formed in a hole shape corresponding to the shape of the dust bin 220 so that dust in the dust bin 220 is introduced into the dust collection unit 140. The dust passage hole 123a may be formed to correspond to a shape of the dust discharge port 221 of the dust bin 220. The dust passage hole 123a may be formed to communicate with the dust collection flow path 130. Air suctioned through the dust passage hole 123a may flow through the dust collection flow path 130 and then be exhausted through the exhaust unit 125.
[0217] The power supply terminal 123b may supply power to the robot cleaner 200 docked with the seating unit 120. The power supply terminal 123b may come into contact with the charging terminal 280 of the robot cleaner 200 to be electrically connected thereto. The power supply terminal 123b may be disposed in the seating unit 120. Specifically, the power supply terminal 123b may be disposed on the coupling wall 123. The power supply terminal 123b may be electrically connected to the robot cleaner 200 coupled to the coupling wall 123. The power supply terminal 123b may supply power to a battery of the robot cleaner 200 coupled to the coupling wall 123.
[0219] The water supply nozzle 123c may be connected to the supply unit 231 of the water tank 230 of the robot cleaner 200. Specifically, the water supply nozzle 123c may be connected to an inlet of the water tank 230. The inlet is configured to be connected to the water tank 230 of the robot cleaner 200. The water supply nozzle 123c may supply water supplied from a water supply pipe of the kitchen cabinet 2 to a storage space inside the water tank 230 of the robot cleaner 200.
[0220] When the robot cleaner 200 is docked with the station for a robot cleaner 100, an electrode sensor (not shown) provided in the robot cleaner 200 may recognize the docking. Accordingly, when the electrode sensor recognizes the docking, water supplied from the water supply pipe of the kitchen cabinet 2 may be supplied to the water tank 230 of the robot cleaner 200 through the water supply nozzle 123c. Here, water supplied from the water supply pipe of the kitchen cabinet 2 and having passed through a regulator 162 may be supplied to the water supply nozzle 123c by selective opening of a flow path by a switching valve 166, which will be described later.
[0221] The side wall 124 is a configuration for spatially distinguishing the accommodation space S of the seating unit 120 from components of the station for a robot cleaner 100.
[0222] A pair of side walls 124 may be disposed on left and right sides of the base member 121. The side wall 124 may be connected to both ends of the coupling wall 123.
[0223] Specifically, the side wall 124 may include a first side wall member 124a and a second side wall member 124b.
[0224] The first side wall member 124a may be disposed on any one of both sides of the base member 121, and the second side wall member 124b may be disposed on the other one of both sides of the base member 121. For example, the first side wall member 124a may be disposed on a left side of the base member 121, and the second side wall member 124b may be disposed on a right side of the base member 121.
[0225] The side wall 124 may extend from the left and right sides of the base member 121 in a direction intersecting the base member 121. Specifically, the side wall 124 may extend in a vertical direction from the left and right sides of the base member 121. A height of the side wall 124 may be formed to correspond to a height of the pedestal 21. Specifically, the height of the side wall 124 may be formed to be the same as the height of the pedestal 21.
[0226] Meanwhile, various components such as a dust collection flow path 130, a dust collection unit 140, a dust collection motor 152, a detergent container 163, and a wastewater container 164 may be disposed outside the side wall 124. Specifically, the dust collection unit 140, the detergent container 163, and the wastewater container 164 may be accommodated in a space between the side wall 124 and the outer wall 111 of the housing 110.
[0227] The dust collection unit 140 and the detergent container 163 may be separated from the space between the side wall 124 and the outer wall 111 of the housing 110 in a sliding manner. Widths of the dust collection unit 140 and the detergent container 163 in a left-right direction may be formed to correspond to a distance between the side wall 124 and the outer wall 111 of the housing 110.
[0228] The dust collection unit 140 may collect dust from the dust bin 220 of the robot cleaner 200. The dust collection unit 140 may be disposed inside the housing 110. The dust collection unit 140 may be disposed outside the seating unit 120. In this case, the accommodation space S may be disposed inside the seating unit 120.
[0229] The dust collection unit 140 may include a dust collection unit housing 141, a dust bag (not shown), a filter 142, and a dust bag drawer 144.
[0230] The dust collection unit housing 141 may form a space therein capable of accommodating the dust bag (not shown), the filter 142, and the dust bag drawer 144.
[0231] The dust bag drawer 144 is coupled to the dust collection unit housing 141 so as to be pulled out, and the dust bag (not shown) may be stored inside the dust bag drawer 144. For example, the dust collection unit housing 141 may be formed in a rectangular tube shape with an open front, and a rear internal space thereof may be in fluid communication with a first dust collection flow path 131 and a second dust collection flow path 132.
[0232] The dust bag drawer 144 is coupled to the dust collection unit housing 141 so as to be pulled out, and the dust bag (not shown) may be stored inside the dust bag drawer 144. For example, the dust collection unit housing 141 may be formed in a rectangular tube shape with an open front, and a rear internal space thereof may be in fluid communication with a first dust collection flow path 131 and a second dust collection flow path 132.
[0233] One side of an interior of the dust collection unit housing 141 may communicate with the first dust collection flow path 131, and the other side thereof may communicate with the second dust collection flow path 132. In addition, when the dust bag (not shown) is coupled to the dust collection unit housing 141, the dust bag (not shown) may communicate with the first dust collection flow path 131 inside the dust collection unit housing 141.
[0234] The dust collection unit housing 141 may communicate with the first dust collection flow path 131 through an inlet 141a formed at an upper side of a side surface thereof. The inlet 141a may be configured to guide air flowing through the first dust collection flow path 131 into the dust bag (not shown). The inlet 141a may communicate the first dust collection flow path 131 with the dust bag (not shown). Accordingly, dust suctioned from the dust bin 220 of the robot cleaner 200 may move into the dust bag (not shown) via the first dust collection flow path 131 and the inlet 141a.
[0235] The dust collection unit housing 141 may communicate with the second dust collection flow path 132 through an outlet 141b formed at a lower side of a side surface thereof. The outlet 141b may be configured to guide air that has passed through the dust collection unit housing 141 to the second dust collection flow path 132. The outlet 141b may be disposed at a different height from the inlet 141a. The outlet 141b may be disposed lower than the inlet 141a. The outlet 141b may communicate the internal space of the dust collection unit housing 141 with the second dust collection flow path 132. Accordingly, air from which dust has been filtered while passing through the dust bag (not shown) may move to the second dust collection flow path 132 via the outlet 141b.
[0236] The dust bag (not shown) may refer to a dust envelope for collecting dust suctioned from the interior of the dust bin 220 of the robot cleaner 200 by the dust collection motor 152. The dust bag (not shown) may be detachably coupled to the dust collection unit housing 141. Accordingly, the dust bag (not shown) may be separated from the dust collection unit housing 141 and discarded, and a new dust bag (not shown) may be coupled to the dust collection unit housing 141. That is, the dust bag (not shown) may be defined as a consumable part.
[0237] The dust bag (not shown) may be provided such that, when suction force is generated by the dust collection motor 152, a volume thereof increases and dust is received therein.
[0238] To this end, the dust bag (not shown) may be made of a material that is permeable to air but impermeable to foreign substances such as dust. For example, the dust bag (not shown) may be made of a non-woven fabric material, and may have a hexahedral shape corresponding to the shape of the dust collection unit housing 141 when the volume thereof is increased.
[0239] Alternatively, the dust bag (not shown) may be formed of an impermeable material. For example, the dust bag (not shown) may include a roll vinyl (not shown). With such a configuration, when the dust bag (not shown) is sealed or bonded, it is possible to prevent dust or odors collected inside the dust bag (not shown) from leaking out of the dust bag (not shown). In this case, the dust bag (not shown) may be mounted on the dust collection unit housing 141 through a dust bag cartridge (not shown). If necessary, the dust bag (not shown) may be replaced through the dust bag cartridge.
[0240] The filter 142 may be disposed between the dust collection unit housing 141 and the second dust collection flow path 132. The filter 142 may be disposed at the outlet 141b. The filter 142 may be a pre-filter or a HEPA filter. Air that has passed through the dust bag (not shown) may be introduced into the second dust collection flow path 132 through the filter 142.
[0241] The dust bag drawer 144 is coupled to the dust collection unit housing 141 so as to be pulled out, and the dust bag (not shown) may be accommodated therein.
[0242] In this case, the dust bag drawer 144 includes a dust bag drawer body 144a, a handle 144d, and a drawer rail 144e.
[0243] The dust bag drawer body 144a may provide a space capable of coupling the dust bag (not shown) therein. For example, the dust bag drawer body 144a may be formed in a box shape with an open top, and an inlet 144b and an outlet 144c may be formed at a rear thereof so as to be in fluid communication with the first dust collection flow path 131 and the second dust collection flow path 132.
[0244] For example, the dust bag drawer body 144a may be formed such that a width in a left-right direction at an upper side is different from a width in the left-right direction at a lower side. For example, the width in the left-right direction at the upper side of the dust bag drawer body 144a may be formed to be larger than the width in the left-right direction at the lower side. That is, an interior of the dust bag drawer body 144a may be formed to be stepped. Through this, an upper space in which the dust bag (not shown) is provided can be maximized, and a flow path can be formed to facilitate air that has passed through the dust bag (not shown) to escape downward.
[0245] The upper side of the dust bag drawer body 144a may be in fluid communication with the first dust collection flow path 131 through the inlet 144b. The inlet 144b may be configured to guide air flowing through the first dust collection flow path 131 into the dust bag (not shown). The inlet 144b may communicate the first dust collection flow path 131 with the dust bag (not shown). Accordingly, dust suctioned from the dust bin 220 of the robot cleaner 200 may move into the dust bag (not shown) via the first dust collection flow path 131 and the inlet 144b.
[0246] The dust bag drawer 144 may be in fluid communication with the second dust collection flow path 132 through the outlet 144c formed at a lower side of a side surface thereof. The outlet 144c may be configured to guide air that has passed through the dust bag drawer 144 to the second dust collection flow path 132. The outlet 144c may be disposed at a different height from the inlet 144b. The outlet 144c may be disposed lower than the inlet 144b. The outlet 144c may communicate the internal space of the dust bag drawer 144 with the second dust collection flow path 132. Accordingly, air from which dust has been filtered while passing through the dust bag (not shown) may move to the second dust collection flow path 132 via the outlet 144c.
[0247] A handle 144d may be provided at a front of the dust bag drawer body 144a. The handle 144d may be provided to be grippable by a user. For example, the handle 144d may include a pair of coupling parts hinged to a front surface of the dust bag drawer body 144a, and a grippable portion formed to be grippable by the user by connecting the pair of coupling parts.
[0248] With such a configuration, when the user grips the grippable portion and pulls it forward, the dust bag drawer body 144a may be pulled forward and pulled out together. Accordingly, according to the present invention, the user can easily pull the dust bag drawer 144 forward, and then the dust bag (not shown) can be lifted upward to be removed and replaced.
[0249] Drawer rails 144e may be formed on left and right side surfaces of the dust bag drawer body 144a. The drawer rails 144e may guide movement of the dust bag drawer body 144a.
[0250] For example, the drawer rails 144e may be formed in a shape of a groove or a rib along a front-rear direction on the left and right side surfaces of the dust bag drawer body 144a.
[0251] With such a configuration, when the user couples the dust bag drawer 144 to the dust collection unit housing 141, it can be coupled to a correct position, and the dust collection unit 140 can be connected to the first dust collection flow path 131 and the second dust collection flow path 132 at the correct position, thereby reducing flow loss.
[0252] Meanwhile, rails 141c may also be formed on an inner surface of the dust collection unit housing 141 to correspond to the drawer rails 144e. The rails 141c of the dust collection unit housing 141 may be formed to correspond to a shape and a position of the drawer rails 144e. For example, if the drawer rails 144e are formed in a groove shape, the rails 141c of the dust collection unit housing 141 may be formed in a shape of a rib or a stepped portion.
[0253] FIG. 12 is a side view for explaining a dust collection flow path of the station for a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIGS. 13 to 16 are cross-sectional views for explaining the dust collection flow path of the station for a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view for explaining a discharge hole of a dust collection motor housing of the station for a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0254] The dust collection flow path 130 will be described with reference to FIGS. 12 to 17 as follows.
[0255] The station for a robot cleaner 100 may include the dust collection flow path 130. The dust collection flow path 130 may refer to a flow path through which air suctioned through the dust passage hole 123a flows via the dust collection unit 140 to reach the dust collection motor 152.
[0256] Specifically, the dust collection flow path 130 may include a first dust collection flow path 131 that communicates the dust bin 220 with the dust collection unit 140 when the robot cleaner 200 is docked with the station for a robot cleaner 100 and the dust passage hole 123a communicates with the dust bin 220 of the robot cleaner 200, and a second dust collection flow path 132 that communicates the dust collection unit 140 with the dust collection motor 152.
[0257] Meanwhile, in the present specification, the first dust collection flow path 131 may also be referred to as a suction flow path 131. Hereinafter, for convenience of description, both the first dust collection flow path 131 and the suction flow path 131 will be referred to as the first dust collection flow path 131.
[0258] The first dust collection flow path 131 may connect the dust bin 220 of the robot cleaner 200 to the dust collection unit 140. The first dust collection flow path 131 may be in fluid communication with the dust bin 220 of the robot cleaner 200 and the dust collection unit 140. The first dust collection flow path 131 may connect the dust passage hole 123a of the seating unit 120 to the dust collection unit 140. The first dust collection flow path 131 may refer to a space between the dust bin 220 of the robot cleaner 200 and the dust collection unit 140. The first dust collection flow path 131 may be formed to be close to a horizontal direction. The first dust collection flow path 131 may be a space formed rearward from the dust passage hole 123a, and may be a flow path formed by being bent toward a side from the dust passage hole 123a so that dust and air can flow therethrough. Dust in the dust bin 220 of the robot cleaner 200 may move to the dust collection unit 140 through the first dust collection flow path 131.
[0259] The second dust collection flow path 132 may connect the dust collection unit 140 to the dust collection motor 152. The second dust collection flow path 132 may be formed to be close to a horizontal direction. In this case, the first dust collection flow path 131 and the second dust collection flow path 132 may be formed at different heights. The first dust collection flow path 131 and the second dust collection flow path 132 may be formed in a stacked structure. The second dust collection flow path 132 may be disposed lower than the first dust collection flow path 131. With such a configuration, a width in a left-right direction and an overall volume of the station for a robot cleaner 100 can be minimized.
[0260] A dust collection module 150 may provide a suction air current to the dust collection flow path 130.
[0261] Specifically, the dust collection module 150 may include a dust collection motor housing 151 and a dust collection motor 152.
[0262] The dust collection motor housing 151 may be disposed inside the housing 110. The dust collection motor housing 151 may accommodate the dust collection motor 152 therein.
[0263] An inlet hole 151a and an outlet hole 151b may be formed in the dust collection motor housing 151.
[0264] An internal space of the dust collection motor housing 151 may be in fluid communication with the second dust collection flow path 132 through the inlet hole 151a. Accordingly, the inlet hole 151a may guide air flowing through the second dust collection flow path 132 to the dust collection motor 152.
[0265] The internal space of the dust collection motor housing 151 may be in fluid communication with the exhaust flow path 125a through the outlet hole 151b. Accordingly, the outlet hole 151b may guide air that has passed through the dust collection motor 152 to the exhaust flow path 125a.
[0266] The dust collection motor 152 may generate suction force in the dust collection flow path 130. The dust collection motor 152 may be disposed inside the dust collection motor housing 151.
[0267] The dust collection motor 152 may be disposed at a rear of the dust collection unit 140. Through this, the dust collection motor 152 may provide suction force capable of suctioning dust in the dust bin 220 of the robot cleaner 200.
[0268] The dust collection motor 152 may generate suction force by rotation. For example, the dust collection motor 152 may be formed in a shape similar to a cylinder.
[0269] One side of the dust collection motor 152 may be connected to the second dust collection flow path 132, and the other side thereof may be connected to the exhaust flow path 125a. When the dust collection motor 152 is driven, air flowing through the second dust collection flow path 132 may be introduced into the interior of the dust collection motor housing 151 via the inlet hole 151a. In addition, the air introduced into the interior of the dust collection motor housing 151 may be exhausted through the outlet hole 151b after passing through the dust collection motor 152. In addition, the air exhausted through the outlet hole 151b may flow through the exhaust flow path 125a and be exhausted to the exhaust port 125b.
[0270] Meanwhile, an imaginary dust collection motor axis AC extending from a rotation shaft of the dust collection motor 152 may be formed to be close to a horizontal direction. In addition, the inlet hole 151a and the outlet hole 151b of the dust collection motor housing 151 may also be opened in the horizontal direction. In addition, the outlet hole 151b may be positioned at the same height as the exhaust port 125b. With such a configuration, an overall volume of the station for a robot cleaner 100 disposed in the mounting space 21a of the kitchen cabinet 2 or the structure can be minimized.
[0271] An exhaust unit 125 may guide the air discharged from the dust collection motor 152 to the outside of the housing 110. The exhaust unit 125 may communicate an internal space of the housing 110 with an external space thereof.
[0272] The exhaust unit 125 may be composed of the exhaust flow path 125a and the exhaust port 125b.
[0273] The exhaust flow path 125a may provide a flow path through which the air discharged from the dust collection motor 152 flows. The exhaust flow path 125a may be disposed inside the base member body 121a.
[0274] The exhaust flow path 125a may be fluidly connected to the dust collection motor 152. The exhaust flow path 125a may refer to a flow path connecting the outlet hole 151b and the exhaust port 125b. One end of the exhaust flow path 125a may be in fluid communication with the internal space of the dust collection motor housing 151, and the other end of the exhaust flow path 125a may be in fluid communication with the accommodation space 121dc of the recess 121da. Specifically, one end of the exhaust flow path 125a may be connected to the outlet hole 151b, and the other end of the exhaust flow path 125a may be connected to the exhaust port 125b.
[0275] The exhaust flow path 125a may be a flow path formed along the horizontal direction inside the housing 110. The exhaust flow path 125a may be fluidly connected to the dust collection motor 152. Specifically, one end portion of the exhaust flow path 125a may communicate with the dust collection unit 140, and the other end portion of the exhaust flow path 125a may communicate with the exhaust port 125b.
[0276] The exhaust port 125b may serve as an outlet for guiding the air discharged from the dust collection motor 152 to the accommodation space 121dc of the recess 121da. Accordingly, the air discharged from the dust collection motor 152 and flowing through the exhaust flow path 125a may be discharged to the outside of the housing 110 through the exhaust port 125b.
[0277] The exhaust port 125b may be formed in the base member 121. The exhaust port 125b may be formed in the agitator accommodation portion 121d. The exhaust port 125b may be formed in the recess 121da of the agitator accommodation portion 121d. The exhaust port 125b may be formed on a side surface of the recess 121da.
[0278] FIGS. 18 to 20 are views for explaining an exhaust flow path of a station for a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIGS. 21 and 22 are views showing a state in which a portion of a bottom surface of a base member body is removed to explain the exhaust flow path of the station for a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 23 is a perspective view for explaining in detail region A shown in FIG. 22.
[0279] The exhaust flow path of the station for a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 18 to 23 as follows.
[0280] The exhaust flow path 125a according to an embodiment of the present invention may guide air discharged from the dust collection motor 152 to the suction port 211 of the robot cleaner 200.
[0281] The exhaust flow path 125a may guide the air discharged from the dust collection motor 152 to the suction port 211 of the robot cleaner 200 without discharging the air to the outside, thereby creating a circulating structure in which the air continuously circulates between the robot cleaner 200 and the station for a robot cleaner 100. Accordingly, heat discharged from the dust collection motor 152 is not discharged to the mounting space 24 of the kitchen cabinet 2 but is introduced back into the robot cleaner 200 to form an exhaust flow path, thereby providing an effect of preventing internal damage to the kitchen cabinet 2.
[0282] The exhaust flow path 125a may refer to a space between the exhaust port 125b of the station for a robot cleaner 100 and the suction port 211 of the robot cleaner 200. The exhaust flow path 125a may refer to the recess 121da of the agitator accommodation portion 121d. The exhaust flow path 125a may refer to a connection pipe (not shown) having one end communicating with the suction port 211 of the robot cleaner 200 and the other end communicating with the exhaust port 125b of the station for a robot cleaner 100.
[0283] Air that has passed through the dust collection motor 152 is discharged to the accommodation space S through the exhaust port 125b, and the air discharged to the accommodation space S may be introduced back into the suction port 211 due to suction force of the dust collection motor 152. Accordingly, the air suctioned from the dust bin 220 by the suction force of the dust collection motor 152 may flow through the dust passage hole 123a, the first dust collection flow path 131, the dust collection unit 140, the second dust collection flow path 132, the dust collection motor 152, the exhaust flow path 125a, and the exhaust port 125b in order, and then be discharged to the accommodation space S.
[0284] When the dust collection motor 152 is driven in a state where the dust bin 220 of the robot cleaner 200 and the suction port 211 of the station for a robot cleaner 100 communicate with each other, air may be suctioned through the suction port 211 of the robot cleaner 200. In addition, since the agitator 250 is accommodated inside the suction port 211, air discharged from the dust collection motor 152 and exhausted to the exhaust port 125b may be suctioned into the suction port 211 of the robot cleaner 200 by the suction force of the dust collection motor 152.
[0285] In this case, the dust collection motor 152 may be driven together when a suction motor (not shown) of the robot cleaner 200 is driven. Since the air exhausted through the exhaust port 125b is suctioned into the suction port 211 by the suction force of the suction motor (not shown) in addition to the dust collection motor 152, there is an effect of improving dust collection efficiency.
[0286] Meanwhile, a flow path structure of the station for a robot cleaner 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference again to FIGS. 12 to 23 and 31 as follows.
[0287] Meanwhile, a flow path structure of the station for a robot cleaner 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference again to FIGS. 12 to 23 and 31 as follows.
[0288] Specifically, the inlet 141a and the outlet 141b may be formed at different heights on a side surface of the dust collection unit housing 141.
[0289] As shown in FIG. 15, the side surface of the dust collection unit housing 141 may be formed in a stepped shape.
[0290] Specifically, the dust collection unit housing 141 may include an upper surface portion 1411, a first side surface portion 1412, a second side surface portion 1413, and a lower surface portion 1414.
[0291] The upper surface portion 1411 may cover an upper side of the dust collection unit housing 141. The first side surface portion 1412 and the second side surface portion 1413 may cover a rear side of the dust collection unit housing 141. The lower surface portion 1414 may cover a lower side of the dust collection unit housing 141.
[0292] The inlet 141a may be formed in the first side surface portion 1412, and the outlet 141b may be formed in the second side surface portion 1413. The first side surface portion 1412 may extend downward from the upper surface portion 1411, and the second side surface portion 1413 may extend upward from the lower surface portion 1414.
[0293] The first side surface portion 1412 and the second side surface portion 1413 may be formed to be stepped with respect to each other. That is, the outlet 141b formed in the second side surface portion 1413 may be disposed rearward of the inlet 141a formed in the first side surface portion 1412.
[0294] Alternatively, the side surface of the dust collection unit housing 141 may be formed flat. When the side surface of the dust collection unit housing 141 is formed flat, the first side surface portion 1412 and the second side surface portion 1413 may be arranged to vertically overlap each other. Accordingly, when the side surface of the dust collection unit housing 141 is formed flat, the inlet 141a and the outlet 141b may be arranged to vertically overlap each other.
[0295] The inlet 141a and the outlet 141b may be opened in the same direction with respect to the dust collection unit 140.
[0296] Specifically, in the present specification, when a direction in which the dust bag drawer 144 is pulled out is referred to as a front, and a direction in which the dust bag drawer 144 is inserted is referred to as a rear, the inlet 141a and the outlet 141b may be opened toward the rear.
[0297] A direction in which the inlet 141a is opened and a direction in which the outlet 141b is opened may be parallel to each other in the vertical direction.
[0298] The inlet 141a and the outlet 141b may be formed on the same side of the dust collection unit 140. Specifically, the inlet 141a and the outlet 141b may be formed on the rear side of the dust collection unit housing 141.
[0299] Referring to FIG. 31, the station for a robot cleaner 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a dust collection motor axis AC extending from a rotation shaft of the dust collection motor 152.
[0300] The dust collection motor axis AC may be arranged parallel to the bottom part 112. In other words, the dust collection motor axis AC may be arranged in a horizontal direction.
[0301] In addition, the dust collection motor 152 and the dust collection unit 140 may be arranged in a horizontal direction.
[0302] Through this, since a vertical height of the station for a robot cleaner 100 is minimized, a compact configuration of the station for a robot cleaner 100 is possible.
[0303] Accordingly, the station for a robot cleaner 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention can be installed in a narrow space, such as a lower space of a kitchen cabinet including a sink, by minimizing a space occupied in the horizontal direction and simultaneously minimizing a space occupied in a vertical direction.
[0304] At least a portion of the first dust collection flow path 131 and at least a portion of the second dust collection flow path 132 may be arranged to vertically overlap each other. Through this, since a length of the dust collection flow path 130 is minimized, flow resistance can be reduced. In addition, since a space required for installing the station for a robot cleaner 100 is minimized, space efficiency can be maximized.
[0305] At least a portion of the first dust collection flow path 131 and at least a portion of the second dust collection flow path 132 may be disposed in the same direction with respect to the dust collection unit 140.
[0306] Specifically, when a direction in which the dust bag drawer 144 is pulled out is referred to as a front, and a direction in which the dust bag drawer 144 is inserted is referred to as a rear, at least a portion of the first dust collection flow path 131 and at least a portion of the second dust collection flow path 132 may be disposed rearward of the dust collection unit 140.
[0307] The inlet 141a and the dust collection motor 152 may be disposed in the same direction with respect to an internal space of the dust collection unit 140. Accordingly, the inlet 141a and the dust collection motor 152 may be disposed rearward with respect to the internal space of the dust collection unit 140.
[0308] At least a portion of the first dust collection flow path 131 and at least a portion of the exhaust flow path 125a may vertically overlap each other. Through this, since an overall length of flow paths of the station for a robot cleaner 100 including the dust collection flow path 130 and the exhaust flow path 125a is minimized, the flow resistance is reduced as described above, and space efficiency can be maximized as a space required for installing the station for a robot cleaner 100 is minimized.
[0309] At least a portion of the first dust collection flow path 131 and at least a portion of the exhaust flow path 125a may be disposed in the same direction with respect to the dust collection unit 140. At least a portion of the second dust collection flow path 132 and at least a portion of the exhaust flow path 125a may be disposed in the same direction with respect to the dust collection unit 140. Accordingly, at least a portion of the first dust collection flow path 131 and at least a portion of the second dust collection flow path 132 may be disposed rearward of the dust collection unit 140.
[0310] FIG. 24 is an enlarged view for explaining a mop washing unit of the station for a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 25 is an enlarged view for explaining a washing water discharge unit of the mop washing unit of the station for a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional perspective view for explaining a space formed between a washing plate and a washing tub of the station for a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0311] The mop washing unit 160 of the station for a robot cleaner 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 24 to 26 as follows.
[0312] The station for a robot cleaner 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a mop washing unit 160. The mop washing unit 160 may wash the mop 242 of the robot cleaner 200 docked with the seating unit 120.
[0313] The mop washing unit 160 may include a washing water supply unit 161 for discharging washing water to the washing plate 122, a detergent container 163 in which liquid containing detergent is stored, and a wastewater container 164 in which washing water used after washing the mop 242 is stored.
[0314] In the washing water supply unit 161, fresh water and detergent may be mixed to generate washing water for washing the mop 242.
[0315] A pair of washing water supply units 161 may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other at a rear side of the coupling wall 123. The washing water supply unit 161 may discharge the washing water toward the washing plate 122 from above both ends of the washing plate 122. In this case, fresh water supplied from a water supply pipe of the kitchen cabinet 2 and having passed through a regulator 162 may be branched to both sides through a branch flow path 161a and connected to each of the spaced apart washing water supply units 161. That is, the branch flow path 161a may be formed in a shape in which one pipe is branched into two, and in this case, one branched end may be connected to any one of the pair of washing water supply units 161, and the other branched end may be connected to the other one of the pair of washing water supply units 161.
[0316] The washing water supply unit 161 may be formed integrally with the coupling wall 123 at the rear side of the coupling wall 123, or may be detachably coupled to the coupling wall 123.
[0317] A fresh water inlet 161b, a detergent inlet 161c, and a washing water discharge port (not shown) may be formed in the washing water supply unit 161.
[0318] The fresh water inlet 161b is configured to guide fresh water supplied from the water supply pipe of the kitchen cabinet 2 to the washing water supply unit 161. Specifically, the water supply pipe of the kitchen cabinet 2 is connected to the regulator 162 so that a flow rate supplied from the water supply pipe can be adjusted. In addition, a portion of the fresh water having passed through the regulator 162 may be supplied to the water tank 230 of the robot cleaner 200 through the water supply nozzle 123c, and the remainder may be introduced into the pair of washing water supply units 161 spaced apart from each other through the fresh water inlet 161b.
[0319] The detergent inlet 161c is configured to guide the liquid containing detergent supplied from the detergent container 163 to the washing water supply unit 161. Specifically, the liquid containing detergent stored in the detergent container 163 may be supplied to the washing water supply unit 161 through a pump (not shown).
[0320] In addition, the detergent and fresh water introduced into the washing water supply unit 161 may be mixed and utilized as washing water. The washing water supply unit 161 may discharge the washing water to an upper surface of the washing plate 122 through the washing water discharge port. The washing water discharge port may be formed on a bottom surface of the washing water supply unit 161. The washing water discharge port may be opened in a direction facing an upper surface of the mop 242 seated on the washing plate 122.
[0322] The detergent container 163 includes a detergent container body 163a, a handle 163b, and detergent container rails 163c.
[0323] The detergent container body 163a may provide a space capable of storing liquid containing detergent. For example, the detergent container body 163a may be formed in a box shape with an open top, and a rear thereof may be connected to the washing water supply unit 161.
[0324] A handle 163b may be provided at a front of the detergent container body 163a. The handle 163b may be provided to be grippable by a user. For example, the handle 163b may include a pair of coupling parts hinged to a front surface of the detergent container body 163a, and a grippable portion formed to be grippable by the user by connecting the pair of coupling parts.
[0325] With such a configuration, when the user grips the grippable portion and pulls it forward, the detergent container body 163a may be pulled forward and pulled out together. Accordingly, according to the present invention, the user can easily pull the detergent container 163 forward and then supply detergent.
[0326] The detergent container rails 163c may be formed on left and right side surfaces of the detergent container body 163a. The detergent container rails 163c may guide movement of the detergent container body 163a.
[0327] For example, the detergent container rails 163c may be formed in a shape of a groove or a rib along a front-rear direction on the left and right side surfaces of the detergent container body 163a.
[0328] With such a configuration, when the user couples the detergent container 163 to the housing 110, it can be coupled to a correct position, and leakage of washing water can be prevented.
[0329] Meanwhile, although not shown, rails may be formed in the housing 110 to correspond to the detergent container rails 163c. The aforementioned rails may be formed to correspond to a shape and a position of the detergent container rails 163c.
[0330] The wastewater container 164 may provide a space in which washing water used to wash the mop 242 is stored. The washing water discharged to the upper surface of the washing plate 122 may, after washing of the mop 242 is completed, be drained to the drainage hole 122b while descending along a slope of the washing plate 122. The washing water having passed through the drainage hole 122b accumulates between the washing tub 121e and the washing plate 122. In addition, the washing water accumulated between the washing tub 121e and the washing plate 122 may be introduced into the wastewater container 164 through a wastewater suction flow path 164b.
[0331] The washing water stored in the wastewater container 164 may be drained to the drainage pipe 25 of the kitchen cabinet 2 through a wastewater discharge flow path 164a. One end of the wastewater discharge flow path 164a may be connected to the wastewater container 164, and the other end thereof may be connected to the drainage pipe 25. In this case, the washing water stored in the wastewater container 164 may flow through the wastewater discharge flow path 164a by a centrifugal pump 168 and be drained to the drainage pipe 25.
[0332] The wastewater discharge flow path 164a connected to the wastewater container 164 may be connected to an upstream 25b with respect to the U-trap 25a of the drainage pipe 25 of the kitchen cabinet 2. This is because, if the wastewater discharge flow path 164a is connected to a downstream 25c with respect to the U-trap 25a of the drainage pipe 25, odors or fluid inside the drainage pipe 25 may backflow into the wastewater discharge flow path 164a.
[0333] In addition, the mop washing unit 160 may include a check valve 165. The check valve 165 may prevent the fluid inside the drainage pipe 25 from flowing back into the wastewater discharge flow path 164a. The check valve 165 may be provided at the other end of the wastewater discharge flow path 164a connected to the drainage pipe 25.
[0334] Meanwhile, the detergent container 163 and the wastewater container 164 may be accommodated in a space formed between the side wall 124 and the outer wall 111 of the housing. The detergent container 163 may be disposed at a lower side of the space between the side wall 124 and the outer wall 111 of the housing, and the wastewater container 164 may be disposed above the detergent container 163 in the space between the side wall 124 and the outer wall 111 of the housing.
[0335] Meanwhile, a horizontal arrangement of the mop washing unit of the station for a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference again to FIGS. 24 to 26 as follows.
[0336] The mop washing unit 160 may be disposed between the outer wall 111 and the seating unit 120. In this case, the outer wall 111 may be disposed between the robot cleaner 200 seated on the bottom part 112 and the outer wall 111.
[0338] Specifically, the wastewater container 164 and the detergent container 163 may be disposed between the first outer wall member 111a and the first side wall member 124a.
[0339] The washing water supply unit 161 may be disposed at a rear side of the seating unit 120. Specifically, the washing water supply unit 161 may be disposed at a rear side of the coupling wall 123.
[0340] The wastewater container 164 may be disposed at a side of the seating unit 120. Specifically, the wastewater container 164 may be disposed at a side of the first side wall member 124a.
[0341] The detergent container 163, which is arranged with the wastewater container 164 in a vertical direction, may be disposed at a side of the seating unit 120. Specifically, the detergent container 163 may be disposed at a side of the first side wall member 124a.
[0342] In the station for a robot cleaner 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention, components constituting the mop washing unit 160 may be arranged in a horizontal direction with the accommodation space S in which the robot cleaner 200 is accommodated. Accordingly, a space required for installing the station for a robot cleaner 100 is minimized, so that the station can be installed in a lower space of a kitchen cabinet having a low height.
[0343] Meanwhile, the mop washing unit 160 may further include a heater (not shown). The heater may heat water supplied to the mop 242 through the washing water supply unit 161. Accordingly, since hot water can be supplied to the mop 242 through the heater, cleaning performance of the mop 242 can be increased.
[0344] A switching valve 166 may be provided at an outlet side of the regulator 162. The switching valve 166 may be configured to selectively supply fresh water having passed through the regulator 162 to the water supply nozzle 123c or the heater. The switching valve 166 may be referred to as a 2-way valve.
[0345] The mop washing unit 160 may include a diaphragm pump 167. The diaphragm pump 167 may suction washing water accumulated between the washing tub 121e and the washing plate 122 and discharge the same to the wastewater container 164. In this case, the diaphragm pump 167 may cause the washing water accumulated between the washing tub 121e and the washing plate 122 to flow into the wastewater container 164 through the wastewater suction flow path 164b.
[0346] FIGS. 32a and 32b are front views for explaining an arrangement relationship on a horizontal plane of the station for a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 33 is a view showing a state in which the dust collection unit and the detergent container are pulled out from the station for a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0347] The arrangement of the station for a robot cleaner 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 4, 32a, 32b, and 33 as follows.
[0348] The station for a robot cleaner 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is characterized by being installed in a lower space of a kitchen cabinet 2.
[0349] To this end, the station for a robot cleaner 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is characterized by being arranged along a horizontal direction in accordance with a space formed between the lower plate 23 of the kitchen cabinet 2 and a floor of a kitchen.
[0350] Specifically, in the station for a robot cleaner 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the dust collection unit 140 and/or the mop washing unit 160 may be disposed at a side of the entrance 127.
[0351] In this case, when both the dust collection unit 140 and the mop washing unit 160 are provided, the seating unit 120 may be disposed between the dust collection unit 140 and the mop washing unit 160.
[0352] For example, the entrance 127 and the door 126 may be disposed at a front of the station for a robot cleaner 100. Further, the seating unit 120, to which the robot cleaner 200 is coupled, may be disposed rearward from the entrance 127. In this case, the dust collection unit 140 may be disposed rearward by a predetermined length from a front end of the station for a robot cleaner 100. In addition, the mop washing unit 160 may also be disposed rearward by a predetermined length from the front end of the station for a robot cleaner 100.
[0353] Accordingly, when looking at the station for a robot cleaner 100 from a front outside of the station for a robot cleaner 100, the front end of the dust collection unit 140 and/or the front end of the mop washing unit 160 may be disposed on left and right sides of the entrance 127.
[0354] In this case, a dust bag (not shown) of the dust collection unit 140 may be provided to be pulled out toward the front of the housing 110. In addition, the detergent container 163 of the mop washing unit 160 may be provided to be pulled out toward the front of the housing 110.
[0355] That is, a handle 144d for a user to grip the dust collection unit housing 141 may be provided at the front end of the dust collection unit 140. In addition, a handle 163b for pulling the detergent container 163 may also be provided at the front end of the mop washing unit 160.
[0356] With such a configuration, when the user intends to pull out the dust bag (not shown) or the detergent container 163, the user can immediately recognize a pull-out position, and convenience can be provided in that the dust bag (not shown) or the detergent container 163 can be pulled out through a simple operation of pulling the handle.
[0357] Meanwhile, rear ends of the dust collection unit 140 and the mop washing unit 160 may be disposed to be spaced apart from a rear end of the housing 110 by a predetermined distance. Further, the dust collection motor 152 may be disposed between the rear end of the housing 110 and the rear end of the dust collection unit 140. With such a configuration, it is possible to easily connect electric wires for supplying power to the dust collection motor 152. In addition, there is an effect of minimizing the overall space occupied by the seating unit 120, the dust collection unit 140, and the dust collection motor 152 within a limited space.
[0358] Furthermore, between the rear end of the housing 110 and the rear end of the mop washing unit 160, a flow path through which washing water for washing the mop 242 can flow and a pump providing a flow force of the washing water may be at least partially disposed. With such a configuration, a path through which the washing water is introduced from the water supply pipe can be made to have a shortest distance. In addition, there is an effect of minimizing the overall space occupied by the seating unit 120, the mop washing unit 160, and the flow path through which the washing water flows within a limited space.
[0359] Meanwhile, in the station for a robot cleaner 100, the mop drying unit 170 may be disposed rearward of the seating unit 120. In this case, the mop drying unit 170 may be disposed between the rear end of the seating unit 120 and the rear end of the housing 110.
[0360] Accordingly, in the station for a robot cleaner 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the dust collection unit 140 and the mop washing unit 160 may be disposed on left and right sides with respect to the seating unit 120, and the mop drying unit 170 may be disposed at a rear side thereof.
[0361] That is, in the station for a robot cleaner 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the dust collection unit 140, the mop washing unit 160, and the mop drying unit 170 may all be disposed within a predetermined distance range from an outer periphery of the seating unit 120.
[0362] Through such an arrangement, there is an effect that the seating unit 120, the dust collection unit 140, the mop washing unit 160, and the mop drying unit 170 can all be arranged within the narrowest space on a horizontal plane.
[0363] This makes the distance between the dust bin 220 of the robot cleaner 200 and the dust collection unit 140 short, thereby having an effect of minimizing flow loss. In addition, by minimizing the distance between the mop 242 of the robot cleaner 200 and the mop washing unit 160 and the distance between the mop 242 of the robot cleaner 200 and the mop drying unit 170, there is an effect of limiting a range in which the washing water and the used wastewater exist.
[0364] In addition, by such an arrangement, the station for a robot cleaner 100 of the present invention can arrange all the components within a limited height.
[0365] Specifically, based on a state in which the robot cleaner 200 is docked with the seating unit 120, at least a portion of the dust collection unit 140 may be disposed lower than a topmost end of the robot cleaner 200. In addition, at least a portion of the mop washing unit 160 may be disposed lower than the topmost end of the robot cleaner 200. In addition, at least a portion of the mop drying unit 170 may be disposed lower than the topmost end of the robot cleaner 200. Furthermore, at least a portion of the mop washing unit 160 may be disposed lower than a topmost end of the dust collection unit 140.
[0366] In addition, based on the state in which the robot cleaner 200 is docked with the seating unit 120, the topmost end of the robot cleaner 200 may be disposed higher than a dust bag (not shown). In addition, the topmost end of the robot cleaner 200 may be disposed higher than the detergent container 163. Furthermore, a topmost end of the dust bag (not shown) may be disposed higher than the detergent container 163.
[0367] From another perspective, when an imaginary plane H parallel to the floor of the kitchen is drawn based on the floor in the state where the robot cleaner 200 is docked with the seating unit 120, the plane H may pass through the robot cleaner 200, the dust collection unit 140, the mop washing unit 160, and the mop drying unit 170. This means that all the components can be arranged within a predetermined height range.
[0368] From another perspective, in a state where the robot cleaner 200 is docked with the seating unit 120, the seating unit 120 may be divided into three regions along the vertical direction. In this case, the seating unit 120 may include a first region (a space between B and H1) positioned in the same horizontal space as the detergent container 163, a second region (a space between H1 and H2) disposed above the first region and positioned in the same horizontal space as at least a portion of a dust bag (not shown), and a third region (a space between H2 and H3) disposed above the second region. In this case, both the dust bag (not shown) and the detergent container 163 may be disposed on both sides of the first region in the left-right direction, the dust bag (not shown) and the wastewater container 164 may be disposed on both sides of the second region in the left-right direction, and only an upper end of the robot cleaner 200 may be disposed in the third region.
[0369] As a result, in the station for a robot cleaner 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention, the dust collection unit 140, the mop washing unit 160, and the mop drying unit 170 may be disposed on three sides surrounding the seating unit 120 except for a front surface through which the robot cleaner 200 enters. By such an arrangement, even in a situation where height in the vertical direction is limited, there is an effect of not only charging the robot cleaner 200 but also collecting dust from the robot cleaner 200, washing the mop 242, and drying the mop 242 using a minimum horizontal space.
[0370] FIG. 27 is a perspective view for explaining a mop drying unit of a station for a robot cleaner according to a first embodiment of the present invention, FIGS. 28 and 29 are enlarged views of the mop drying unit of the station for a robot cleaner according to the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view for explaining a state in which air flows into a heating supply module according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
[0371] Referring to FIGS. 27 to 30, the station for a robot cleaner 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention may include a mop drying unit 170. In this case, the mop drying unit 170 may dry the mop 242 of the robot cleaner 200 washed by the mop washing unit 160 or the mop 242 in a wet state after a water cleaning operation is completed.
[0372] The mop drying unit 170 according to the first embodiment of the present invention may include an external air supply module 171, a vapor discharge unit 172, an exhaust fan 173, and a check valve (not shown).
[0373] The external air supply module 171 may supply heated air to the accommodation space S, and may include an external air supply flow path 171a, an external air inlet 171b, an external air discharge part 171c, a heater 171d, and a blowing fan (not shown).
[0374] The external air supply flow path 171a has a heating supply flow path formed therein and may connect an external space of the housing 110 and the accommodation space S. The external air inlet 171b may be disposed at one side of the external air supply flow path 171a, and the external air discharge part 171c may be disposed at the other side thereof. The external air inlet 171b may be in fluid communication with the external space, and the external air discharge part 171c may be in fluid communication with the accommodation space S.
[0375] The external air inlet 171b may be formed in the third outer wall member 111c of the housing 110. Air outside the housing 110 may be introduced through the external air inlet 171b.
[0376] The external air discharge part 171c may be disposed above the washing plate 122. The external air discharge part 171c may be formed to be downwardly inclined toward the front. That is, the external air discharge part 171c is formed to discharge air toward the washing plate 122, and may be formed along a direction intersecting a direction in which the washing plate 122 is formed. The external air discharge part 171c may be provided as a pair in a state of being opened downward.
[0377] The external air discharge part 171c may be opened toward the washing plate 122 in a state where the mop 242 is seated on the washing plate 122. The external air discharge part 171c may be positioned adjacent to the mop 242 in a state where the mop 242 is seated on the washing plate 122, and may be opened downward so that discharged air can flow toward the mop 242. The external air discharge part 171c may be opened in a direction facing the mop 242 in a state where the robot cleaner 200 is docked with the seating unit 120.
[0378] With such a configuration, the external air discharge part 171c may discharge air heated by the heater 171d into the accommodation space S.
[0379] The blowing fan (not shown) is disposed on the external air supply flow path 171a and may provide a flow force for blowing air toward the accommodation space S. When the blowing fan (not shown) is driven, air introduced through the external air inlet 171b is heated by the heater 171d and may be discharged into the accommodation space S through the external air discharge part 171c.
[0380] Accordingly, moisture can be scattered by discharging air toward the mop 242 by the blowing fan (not shown), and drying efficiency can be increased.
[0381] The heater 171d is disposed on the external air supply flow path 171a and is capable of heating air flowing through the external air supply flow path 171a. The heater 171d may heat air introduced through the external air inlet 171b and discharged through the external air discharge part 171c. Although the heater 171d may be disposed on the external air supply flow path 171a, it may alternatively be disposed at the external air discharge part 171c. That is, as long as the air discharged into the accommodation space S can be heated, the specific shape or arrangement is not limited.
[0382] The heater 171d may include a heater housing 171da and a heating element (not shown). The heater housing 171da may be disposed on the external air supply flow path 171a, and a space for accommodating the heater 171d may be provided therein. The heating element may heat external air introduced into the heater housing 171da. Accordingly, the air heated by the heating element is discharged to the accommodation space S through the external air discharge part 171c, thereby drying the wet mop 242.
[0383] The vapor discharge unit 172 may discharge high-temperature and high-humidity air in the accommodation space S, which is generated while drying the mop 242, to the drainage pipe 25. The vapor discharge unit 172 may connect the accommodation space S and the drainage pipe 25 of the kitchen cabinet 2.
[0384] One end of the vapor discharge unit 172 may be connected to the accommodation space S, and the other end thereof may be connected to the drainage pipe 25. Specifically, an air inlet 172a, which is one end of the vapor discharge unit 172, may be connected to the accommodation space S, and an air outlet, which is the other end thereof, may be connected to the drainage pipe 25.
[0385] The vapor discharge unit 172 is disposed inside the housing 110 and includes an air inlet 172a for suctioning air inside the housing 110.
[0386] The air inlet 172a may be disposed higher from the ground than the mop 242 in a state where the robot cleaner 200 is docked with the seating unit 120. Through this, efficiency in suctioning vapor that upwardly convects as the mop 242 is dried can be increased.
[0387] The vapor discharge unit 172 may be connected to a downstream 25c with respect to the U-trap 25a of the drainage pipe 25 of the kitchen cabinet 2. This is because, if the vapor discharge unit 172 is connected to an upstream 25b with respect to the U-trap 25a of the drainage pipe 25, the heat exhausted through the vapor discharge unit 172 may not be able to pass through the drainage pipe 25 due to water accumulated in the U-trap 25a.
[0388] Meanwhile, in the vapor discharge unit 172, one pipe may be branched into two inside the housing 110 to penetrate both sides of the housing 110. In this case, one of the branched pipes may penetrate the first outer wall member 111a of the housing 110, and the other one of the branched pipes may penetrate the second outer wall member 111b of the housing 110. The vapor discharge unit 172 penetrating both side outer walls 111 of the housing 110 may be connected to the drainage pipe 25. Accordingly, vapor in the accommodation space S suctioned from the vapor discharge unit 172 may flow through the vapor discharge unit 172 branched to both sides and be exhausted to the downstream 25c with respect to the U-trap 25a of the drainage pipe 25.
[0389] The exhaust fan 173 may exhaust air in the accommodation space S to the drainage pipe 25 through the vapor discharge unit 172. The exhaust fan 173 may cause a flow of air along the vapor discharge unit 172. The exhaust fan 173 may be disposed on the vapor discharge unit 172.
[0390] When the exhaust fan 173 is driven, air in the accommodation space S may be introduced into the air inlet 172a. The air introduced into the air inlet 172a may flow through the vapor discharge unit 172 and be exhausted to the drainage pipe 25. Specifically, the air flowing through the vapor discharge unit 172 as the exhaust fan 173 is driven may be exhausted to the downstream 25c with respect to the U-trap 25a of the drainage pipe 25. Through this, when the humidity of the accommodation space S increases, air can be discharged to the drainage pipe 25.
[0391] Accordingly, high-temperature and high-humidity air generated in the drying process of the mop 242 can be discharged to the drainage pipe 25 instead of an indoor space. Further, odors that may be generated in the process of drying the mop 242 can be discharged to the drainage pipe 25, thereby preventing the occurrence of odors in the kitchen.
[0392] The mop drying unit 170 may include a check valve (not shown). The check valve may prevent fluid inside the drainage pipe 25 from flowing back into the vapor discharge unit 172. The check valve may be provided at the other end of the vapor discharge unit 172 connected to the drainage pipe 25.
[0393] Accordingly, according to the present invention, the mop 242 is dried by supplying heated air to the robot cleaner 200, and moisture that is vaporized during the drying process and spreads inside the housing 110 can be suctioned and discharged to the outside.
[0394] FIG. 31 is a view for explaining a mop drying unit of a station for a robot cleaner according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
[0395] The mop drying unit 170 according to the second embodiment of the present invention may include an external air supply module, an air discharge flow path, an exhaust fan, and a check valve.
[0396] To avoid redundant description, the description of the mop drying unit 170 according to the first embodiment of the present invention may be incorporated by reference in the second embodiment of the present invention, except for those specifically mentioned.
[0397] A vapor discharge flow path of the mop drying unit according to the second embodiment of the present invention may discharge high-temperature and high-humidity air in the accommodation space S, generated while drying the mop 242, to the outside of the housing 110.
[0398] The vapor discharge flow path of the mop drying unit according to the second embodiment of the present invention may be disposed in a space formed between the side wall 124 and the outer wall 111 of the housing 110. Specifically, in the second embodiment of the present invention, the vapor discharge flow path may be disposed above the wastewater container 164, between the wastewater container 164 and the detergent container 163, or below the detergent container 163. In the second embodiment of the present invention, an air inlet of the air discharge flow path may be formed in the side wall 124, and an air outlet of the air discharge flow path may be formed on a front surface of the housing 110. In the second embodiment of the present invention, the air outlet may be disposed above the wastewater container 164, between the wastewater container 164 and the detergent container 163, or below the detergent container 163. Accordingly, in the second embodiment of the present invention, one end of the air discharge flow path may communicate with the accommodation space S, and the other end thereof may communicate with the external space of the housing 110.
[0399] The exhaust fan of the mop drying unit according to the second embodiment of the present invention may discharge air in the accommodation space S to the external space of the housing 110 through the air discharge flow path. In addition, in the second embodiment of the present invention, the mop 242 of the robot cleaner 200 may be interposed between the external air supply module and the exhaust fan. That is, since the external air supply module is disposed in a space rearward of the coupling wall 123 and the exhaust fan is disposed on the side wall 124, the mop of the robot cleaner 200 may be disposed on a linear path connecting the external air supply module and the exhaust fan.
[0400] Meanwhile, in the second embodiment of the present invention, a guide member for guiding air in a direction away from the outer wall 111 of the housing 110 may be disposed at a discharge port of the vapor discharge flow path. The direction away from the outer wall 111 of the housing 110 may refer to a direction toward a center of a front surface of the housing 110. For example, the guide member may guide heat discharged through the discharge port of the vapor discharge flow path in a direction toward the base member 121.
[0401] When the station for a robot cleaner 100 according to the present invention is disposed in the mounting space 24 of the kitchen cabinet 2, the outer wall 111 of the housing 110 may come into contact with a baseboard 26 of the kitchen cabinet 2. In this case, since the baseboard 26 is vulnerable to moisture, the baseboard 26 may be damaged if the heat discharged from the vapor discharge flow path flows toward the outer wall 111 of the housing 110. Therefore, if a guide member for guiding the heat discharged in the direction away from the outer wall 111 of the housing 110 is installed at the discharge port of the vapor discharge flow path according to the second embodiment of the present invention, damage to the baseboard 26 can be prevented.
[0402] In the second embodiment of the present invention, the guide member may be a vane or a louver for guiding the heat discharged through the discharge port of the vapor discharge flow path in one direction. The guide member may guide the heat discharged through the discharge port of the vapor discharge flow path toward an inner side of the housing 110. The heat discharged to the outside of the housing 110 through the discharge port of the vapor discharge flow path may flow in a direction away from an inner wall surface of the kitchen cabinet 2 by the guide member.
[0403] The heat discharged to the outside of the housing 110 through the discharge port of the vapor discharge flow path may flow in a direction away from the outer wall 111 of the housing 110 by the guide member. For example, the heat discharged to the outside of the housing 110 through the discharge port of the vapor discharge flow path may flow in a direction toward the base member 121.
[0404] FIG. 34 is a plan view for explaining a mop drying unit of a station for a robot cleaner according to a third embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 35 is a perspective view showing a state in which an upper cover is removed from the station for a robot cleaner according to the third embodiment, FIGS. 36 and 37 are views showing air flowing into the station for a robot cleaner according to the third embodiment, FIG. 38 is a bottom perspective view showing an air outlet of the station for a robot cleaner according to the third embodiment, and FIG. 39 is an enlarged view showing a partial configuration of an air discharge unit of the station for a robot cleaner according to the third embodiment.
[0405] Hereinafter, a mop drying unit of a station for a robot cleaner according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 34 to 39.
[0406] To avoid redundant description, the description of the mop drying unit 170 according to the first embodiment of the present invention may be incorporated by reference in the third embodiment of the present invention, except for those specifically mentioned.
[0407] The mop drying unit 170 of the station for a robot cleaner 100 according to the third embodiment of the present invention may include an external air supply module 171 and an air discharge unit 2172.
[0408] The external air supply module 171 may heat air outside the housing 110 and supply the same to the accommodation space S. The external air supply module 171 may include an external air supply flow path 171a, an external air inlet 171b, an external air discharge portion 171c, a heater 171d, and a blowing fan (not shown).
[0409] An external air supply flow path 171a is formed in the external air supply module 171. The external air supply flow path 171a may cause external air to flow to the external air discharge portion 171c.
[0410] The external air supply flow path 171a may connect an external space of the housing 110 and the accommodation space S. One side of the external air supply flow path 171a may be in fluid communication with the external space through the external air inlet 171b, and the other side of the external air supply flow path 171a may be in fluid communication with the accommodation space S through the external air discharge part 171c.
[0411] The external air inlet 171b may be formed on a rear side surface of the housing 110. A plurality of external air inlets 171b may be formed on the rear side surface of the housing 110. Air outside the housing 110 may be introduced into the external air supply flow path 171a through the external air inlets 171b. Accordingly, the air outside the housing 110 may be introduced into the interior of the housing 110.
[0412] At least a portion of the external air discharge portion 171c may be disposed above the washing plate 122. The external air discharge portion 171c may be opened in a direction facing the washing plate 122. The external air discharge portion 171c may be provided as a pair in a state of being opened downward.
[0413] The external air discharge portion 171c may discharge air that has passed through the external air supply flow path 171a. The external air discharge portion 171c may discharge air heated by the heater 171d. For example, an external air discharge port may be formed in the external air discharge portion 171c.
[0414] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, a diameter of the external air discharge portion 171c in a left-right direction may become narrower toward the front. That is, in the present embodiment, a width of a rear end of the external air discharge portion 171c may be larger than a width of a front end thereof. Through this, there is an effect of uniformly drying the entire mop 242 even if the disc-shaped mop 242 is rotated during a drying process.
[0415] Meanwhile, a grille for guiding a discharge direction of air may be provided in the external air discharge portion 171c. Through this, it is possible to prevent the heated air from being intensively discharged to a specific position.
[0416] In a state where the mop 242 is seated on the washing plate 122, the external air discharge portion 171c may be opened toward an upper side surface of the mop 242. Accordingly, the external air discharge portion 171c is positioned adjacent to the mop 242 and opened downward, so that the air discharged from the external air discharge portion 171c can flow toward the mop 242.
[0417] In particular, the external air discharge portion 171c of the present embodiment may be provided in a downwardly inclined shape toward the front of the station for a robot cleaner 100. Accordingly, an end portion of the external air discharge portion 171c where air is discharged may be formed to be inclined at a predetermined angle with respect to the ground. In this case, the angle may be 90 degrees or less. Accordingly, the external air discharge portion 171c may discharge air along a direction intersecting a direction in which a flow guide surface 122c is formed.
[0418] A blowing fan (not shown) is disposed on the external air supply flow path 171a and is capable of blowing air toward the accommodation space S. When the blowing fan (not shown) is driven, air introduced through the external air inlet 171b is heated by the heater 171d and may be discharged into the accommodation space S through the external air discharge portion 171c.
[0419] The heater 171d is disposed on the external air supply flow path 171a and is capable of heating air flowing through the external air supply flow path 171a. The heater 171d may heat air discharged through the external air discharge portion 171c.
[0420] The heater 171d may include a heater housing and a heating element. In this case, the heater housing may be disposed on the external air supply flow path 171a, and a space for accommodating the heating element may be provided therein. In addition, the heating element may heat air introduced into the heater housing. Accordingly, the air heated by the heating element is discharged to the accommodation space S through the external air discharge portion 171c, thereby drying the wet mop 242.
[0421] In the present embodiment, air heated by heat discharged from the external air supply module 171 may be discharged through the air discharge unit 2172.
[0422] At least a portion of the air discharge unit 2172 may be disposed at an upper portion of the accommodation space S.
[0423] The air heated by the heat discharged from the external air supply module 171 may supply heat to the mop 242 of the robot cleaner 200. Accordingly, moisture remaining by being absorbed into the mop 242 may absorb heat from the air and be vaporized. The moisture vaporized in this manner may flow within the accommodation space S. Therefore, the air within the accommodation space S may include the vaporized moisture, and the humidity within the accommodation space S may increase (hereinafter, air containing the vaporized moisture within the accommodation space S may be referred to as "moist air").
[0424] Specifically, at least a portion of the air discharge unit 2172 may be disposed on the upper cover 113, and the upper cover 113 may cover the upper portion of the accommodation space S.
[0425] The air heated by the heat discharged from the external air supply module 171 is in a state in which humidity is increased by vaporizing the moisture of the mop 242. Therefore, when the station for a robot cleaner 100 is disposed at the lower portion of the kitchen cabinet 2, if the moist air comes into contact with various parts of the kitchen cabinet 2 such as the baseboard 26, the parts are adversely affected.
[0426] At this time, in the present embodiment, since the upper cover 113 covers the upper portion of the accommodation space S and the door 126 covers the front of the accommodation space S, the upper cover 113, together with the door 126, can prevent the kitchen cabinet 2 from coming into contact with the moist air by preventing the moist air in the accommodation space S from escaping to the outside.
[0427] The air discharge unit 2172 may include an air inlet 2172a, an air discharge duct 2172b, and an exhaust fan 2172c.
[0428] The air inlet 2172a may communicate with the accommodation space S. The air inlet 2172a may be disposed above the accommodation space S. Moist air in the accommodation space S may be discharged through the air inlet 2172a.
[0429] The air inlet 2172a may be disposed higher from the ground than the robot cleaner 200 in a state where the robot cleaner 200 is docked with the seating unit 120. Through this, efficiency in suctioning vapor that upwardly convects as the mop is dried can be increased.
[0430] For example, the air inlet 2172a may be formed in the upper cover 113. In this case, the upper cover 113 may include a cover portion for covering the accommodation space S and a duct portion coupled to the cover portion to form a flow path. In this case, the air inlet 2172a may be formed in the duct portion to constitute the air discharge duct 2172b.
[0431] As another example, the air inlet 2172a may be formed on an air discharge duct 2172b in a shape of a circular or rectangular pipe, and the air discharge duct 2172b may be coupled to the upper cover 113.
[0432] With such a configuration, when the upper cover 113 is separated, the air discharge duct 2172b may be separated together with the upper cover 113 (or 133). When it is necessary to open the upper part of the station for a robot cleaner 100 for reasons such as repair, there is an advantage in that an operator can remove even the air discharge duct 2172b through a simple operation of lifting the upper cover 113.
[0433] The air inlet 2172a may be formed in a hole shape on the air discharge duct 2172b. For example, the air inlet 2172a may be formed in a shape in which a plurality of slits are formed in parallel in the air discharge duct 2172b. Alternatively, the air inlet 2172a may be formed in a long hole shape in the air discharge duct 2172b.
[0434] Meanwhile, a plurality of air inlets 2172a may be disposed at the same distance from a front end of the housing 110. For example, a pair of air inlets 2172a may be disposed at the same distance from the front end of the housing 110. That is, the air inlet 2172a may include a first inlet and a second inlet. In this case, the first inlet may be disposed at a front left upper end of the accommodation space S, and the second inlet may be disposed to be spaced apart from the first inlet and disposed at a front right upper end of the accommodation space S. In this case, a distance from the first inlet to the first outer wall member 111a and a distance from the second inlet to the second outer wall member 111b may be smaller than a distance between the first inlet and the second inlet.
[0435] A distance from the external air discharge portion 171c to the air inlet 2172a may be larger than a distance from the external air discharge portion 171c to the mop 242. This is to prevent energy from being wasted due to heated air discharged from the external air discharge portion 171c being directly suctioned into the air inlet 2172a without being sufficiently supplied to the mop 242.
[0436] In addition, the air inlet 2172a may be disposed closer to the door 126 than the external air discharge portion 171c. Since the air inlet 2172a is disposed at a front upper portion of the accommodation space S, a range of a space in which heat discharged from the external air discharge portion 171c flows is widened, so that drying efficiency of the mop 242 can be improved. Accordingly, the heat discharged through the external air discharge portion 171c flows toward the front to dry the mop 242 of the robot cleaner 200 and then can be discharged through the air inlet 2172a.
[0437] In addition, the air inlet 2172a may be disposed above a path through which the robot cleaner 200 moves within the housing 110. Through this, it is possible to prevent condensation from occurring on a wall inside the housing 110.
[0438] For example, at least a portion of the air inlet 2172a may be disposed vertically above a position where a width of the robot cleaner 200 in the left-right direction is largest in a state where the robot cleaner 200 is docked with the seating unit 120. That is, at least a portion of the air inlet 2172a may be disposed above a position where an interval between the robot cleaner 200 and a pair of side walls 124 is narrowest. In this case, at least a portion of the air inlet 2172a may be disposed forward of the washing plate 122.
[0439] Through this, vapor generated during a drying process of the mop 242 can be prevented from flowing toward the front of the station for a robot cleaner 100, and a malfunction caused by moisture penetrating into a sensor disposed at the front of the robot cleaner 200 can be prevented.
[0440] The air discharge duct 2172b may connect the air inlet 2172a and the exhaust fan 2172c to be in fluid communication with the drainage pipe 25 of the kitchen cabinet 2. The air discharge duct 2172b may guide moist air discharged through the air inlet 2172a to the drainage pipe 25.
[0441] One side of the air discharge duct 2172b may be coupled to the exhaust fan 2172c, and the other side thereof may be branched into a plurality of pipes. Through this, even when one exhaust fan 2172c is used, moist air can be suctioned from a plurality of positions, thereby providing an effect of stably discharging the moist air.
[0442] An air discharge flow path communicating with the air inlet 2172a may be formed inside the air discharge duct 2172b.
[0443] The air discharge flow path may refer to a flow path through which air introduced through the air inlet 2172a flows. For example, the air discharge flow path may be formed to include an internal space of the air discharge duct 2172b, an internal space of an exhaust fan housing (to be described later), and an internal space of a check valve (to be described later). One side of the air discharge flow path may communicate with the air inlet 2172a, and the other side thereof may communicate with an air outlet 2172d.
[0444] The exhaust fan 2172c may cause a flow of air from the air inlet 2172a toward the drainage pipe 25. The exhaust fan 2172c may generate an air flow so that moist air in the accommodation space S is suctioned into the air inlet 2172a and then discharged to the outside through the air discharge duct 2172b.
[0445] The exhaust fan 2172c may include an exhaust fan housing, a fan motor, and an impeller. In this case, an exhaust fan motor and an exhaust fan impeller may be accommodated inside the exhaust fan housing. A flow path may be formed inside the exhaust fan housing so as to communicate with the air discharge duct 2172b. Accordingly, when the exhaust fan motor is operated and the exhaust fan impeller rotates, air in the accommodation space S or the housing 110 is introduced into the air discharge duct 2172b, passes through the interior of the exhaust fan housing, and can be discharged to the air outlet 2172d.
[0446] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, the exhaust fan 2172c may be coupled with the external air supply module 171. Specifically, an exhaust fan housing of the exhaust fan 2172c may be coupled with the external air supply module 171 to be configured as a single assembly. Through this, a space occupied by the external air supply module 171 and the air discharge unit 2172 can be minimized.
[0447] The exhaust fan 2172c may be disposed on a side surface of the external air supply module 171 in the left-right direction. Specifically, the exhaust fan 2172c may be disposed between the dust collection motor 152 and the external air supply module 171. Through this, components can be arranged in a limited space, and a space in which a flow path for discharging vapor can be disposed can be secured.
[0448] The mop drying unit 170 may include a check valve for preventing fluid inside the drainage pipe 25 from flowing back into the air discharge duct 2172b. The check valve may be disposed rearward of the exhaust fan 2172c. The check valve may communicate with an internal space of the exhaust fan 2172c. That is, based on a flow direction of air, the check valve may be disposed downstream of the exhaust fan 2172c. An air outlet 2172d may be formed at a rear end of the check valve.
[0449] In this case, a lower end of the air outlet 2172d may be arranged along a direction vertical to the ground. Specifically, the air outlet 2172d may be formed in an air discharge pipe arranged along the direction vertical to the ground, and the air discharge pipe may be connected to the check valve. With such a configuration, a property of high-temperature and high-humidity air upwardly convecting is utilized to prevent a backflow of fluid discharged from the air outlet 2172d.
[0450] The air discharge unit 2172 may be connected to a downstream with respect to the U-trap 25a of the drainage pipe 25. Specifically, the air outlet 2172d of the air discharge unit 2172 may be connected to the drainage pipe 25 through a flow path member. For example, the flow path member may be a hose.
[0451] Moist air discharged through the air inlet 2172a and having passed through the exhaust fan 2172c may be discharged to the outside of the housing 110 along a flow path member while passing through the air outlet 2172d.
[0452] In this case, the flow path member may penetrate the first outer wall member 111a and be connected to the drainage pipe 25. Alternatively, the flow path member may penetrate the second outer wall member 111b and be connected to the drainage pipe 25. With such a configuration, a connection direction of the flow path member can be selected according to an installation environment of the station for a robot cleaner 100, thereby providing an advantage in that installation and maintenance are easy.
[0453] Meanwhile, a station for a robot cleaner 100 according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention may include a mop drying unit 170.
[0454] To avoid redundant description, the description of the mop drying unit 170 according to the third embodiment of the present invention may be incorporated by reference in the fourth embodiment of the present invention, except for those specifically mentioned.
[0455] The mop drying unit of the station for a robot cleaner 100 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention may include an external air supply module 171 and an air discharge unit 2172.
[0456] Air heated by heat discharged from the external air supply module 171 may be discharged through the air discharge unit 2172.
[0457] Air heated by heat discharged from the external air supply module 171 may be discharged through the air discharge unit 2172.
[0458] The air heated by the heat discharged from the external air supply module 171 may supply heat to the mop 242 of the robot cleaner 200. Accordingly, moisture remaining by being absorbed into the mop 242 may absorb heat from the air and be vaporized. The moisture vaporized in this manner may flow within the accommodation space S. Therefore, the air within the accommodation space S may include the vaporized moisture, and the humidity within the accommodation space S may increase (hereinafter, air containing the vaporized moisture within the accommodation space S may be referred to as "moist air").
[0459] In this case, in the present embodiment, air (moist air) introduced into the air inlet 2172a may be re-supplied to the external air supply module. That is, the moist air introduced into the air inlet 2172a may be introduced back into the external air supply module 171 through the air discharge unit 2172. The moist air introduced into the external air supply module 171 may be heated again by the heater 171d to lower its relative humidity, and may be discharged back into the accommodation space S by a blowing fan (not shown).
[0460] Specifically, at least a portion of the air discharge unit 2172 may be disposed on the upper cover 113, and the upper cover 113 may cover the upper portion of the accommodation space S.
[0461] The air discharge unit 2172 may include an air inlet 2172a, an air discharge duct 2172b, and an exhaust fan 2172c.
[0462] The air inlet 2172a may be in fluid communication with the accommodation space S. The air inlet 2172a may be disposed at a front upper side of the accommodation space S. Moist air in the accommodation space S may be discharged through the air inlet 2172a.
[0463] The air discharge duct 2172b may connect the air inlet 2172a and the external air supply module 171. The air discharge duct 2172b may guide the moist air discharged through the air inlet 2172a to the external air supply module 171.
[0464] The exhaust fan 2172c may cause a flow of air from the air inlet 2172a toward the external air supply module 171. Specifically, the exhaust fan 2172c may generate an air flow so that the moist air in the accommodation space S is suctioned into the air inlet 2172a and then flows to the heater 171d through the air discharge duct 2172b.
[0465] The external air supply module 171 may include an external air inlet 171b through which air outside the housing 110 is introduced, an external air discharge portion 171c for discharging air to the accommodation space S, an external air supply flow path 171a connecting the external air inlet 171b and the external air discharge portion 171c, a blowing fan (not shown) disposed on the external air supply flow path 171a and blowing air toward the accommodation space S, and a heater 171d for heating the air flowing through the external air supply flow path 171a.
[0466] A temperature of heat heated by the heater 171d and discharged into the accommodation space S may be 65 degrees Celsius or higher.
[0467] The air discharge duct 2172b may be in fluid communication with the external air supply flow path 171a. Alternatively, the air discharge duct 2172b may be in fluid communication with a heater housing in which the heater 171d is disposed.
[0468] Moist air in the accommodation space S introduced through the air inlet 2172a may be introduced into the external air supply flow path 171a or the heater housing 171da through the air discharge duct 2172b, and the moist air may be discharged into the accommodation space S after being heated by the heater 171d.
[0469] Meanwhile, the station for a robot cleaner 100 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention may further include a door 126.
[0470] The door 126 is rotatably disposed on the housing 110 and is capable of opening and closing the accommodation space S.
[0471] Air heated by heat discharged from the external air supply module 171 is in a state of moist air containing moisture of the mop 242. Therefore, when the station for a robot cleaner 100 is disposed at the lower portion of the kitchen cabinet 2, if the moist air comes into contact with various parts of the kitchen cabinet 2 such as the baseboard 26, the parts are adversely affected.
[0472] Since the door 126 covers the front of the accommodation space S, the kitchen cabinet 2 can be prevented from coming into contact with moist air by preventing the moist air in the accommodation space S from escaping to the outside.
[0473] Accordingly, the external air supply module 171 may discharge heat in a state where the door 126 closes the accommodation space S. Since the heater 171d of the external air supply module 171 is driven while the door 126 closes the accommodation space S, moist air generated while drying the mop 242 may not be discharged to the outside. Accordingly, the mop 242 can be dried by increasing the temperature of the space in which the robot cleaner 200 is accommodated.
[0474] When the humidity of the accommodation space S is greater than or equal to a threshold value (hereinafter, may be referred to as "reference humidity"), the door 126 may open the accommodation space S. The reference humidity may refer to a humidity value in a state where moisture contained in air of the accommodation space S is saturated. When the humidity of the accommodation space S is greater than or equal to the threshold value, it is difficult for the air in the accommodation space S to absorb moisture from the mop 242, and thus the door 126 is opened so that a portion of the air in the accommodation space S can be discharged to the outside. Through this, it is possible to prevent the humidity of the accommodation space S from excessively increasing.
[0475] When the humidity of the accommodation space S decreases below the threshold value, the door 126 is closed again, and the external air supply module 171 may discharge heat into the accommodation space S again.
[0476] Meanwhile, the mop drying unit 170 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention may further include an exhaust fan 2172c.
[0477] The exhaust fan 2172c may cause a flow of air from the air inlet 2172a toward the external air supply module 171.
[0478] When the humidity of the accommodation space S is greater than or equal to a threshold value (hereinafter, may be referred to as "exhaust humidity"), the exhaust fan 2172c may be driven. The exhaust humidity may refer to a humidity value in a state where moisture contained in air of the accommodation space S is saturated. When the humidity of the accommodation space S is greater than or equal to the threshold value, it is difficult for the air in the accommodation space S to absorb moisture from the mop 242, and thus the exhaust fan 2172c is driven so that the air in the accommodation space S can be introduced into the air inlet 2172a.
[0479] When the humidity of the accommodation space S decreases below the threshold value, the driving of the exhaust fan 2172c is terminated, and the external air supply module 171 may discharge heat into the accommodation space S again.
[0480] Meanwhile, in the station for a robot cleaner 100 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, after the drying of the mop 242 is completely finished, the moist air in the accommodation space S may be discharged to the outside by completely opening the door 126, or the moist air in the accommodation space S may be discharged through the air inlet 2172a by driving the exhaust fan 2172c.
[0481] Although the present invention has been described in detail through specific embodiments, these are for describing the present invention in detail, and the present invention is not limited thereto. It is apparent that modifications or improvements can be made by those of ordinary skill in the art within the technical spirit of the present invention.
1. A station for a robot cleaner comprising:
a housing;
a seating unit disposed in the housing and forming an accommodation space in which at least a portion of a robot cleaner is accommodated; and
a mop drying unit for drying a mop of the robot cleaner,
wherein the mop drying unit comprises:
an external air supply module for discharging heated air into the accommodation space; and
an air inlet disposed inside the housing and configured to suction air from inside the housing.
2. The station for a robot cleaner of claim 1, wherein the mop drying unit further comprises
an air discharge duct in which the air inlet is formed and an air discharge flow path
communicating with the air inlet is formed therein, and
wherein the air discharge duct has one side coupled to an exhaust fan and the other side branched into a plurality of pipes.
wherein the air discharge duct has one side coupled to an exhaust fan and the other side branched into a plurality of pipes.
3. The station for a robot cleaner of claim 1, wherein the external air supply module
comprises:
an external air inlet through which air from outside the housing is introduced;
a heater for heating the air introduced through the external air inlet; and
an external air discharge portion for discharging the air heated by the heater into the accommodation space.
4. The station for a robot cleaner of claim 3, wherein the external air supply module
further comprises a blowing fan for providing a flow force to the air introduced through
the external air inlet.
5. The station for a robot cleaner of claim 3, further comprising:
a door disposed on the housing and configured to open and close an entrance through which the robot cleaner enters and exits the housing.
a door disposed on the housing and configured to open and close an entrance through which the robot cleaner enters and exits the housing.
6. The station for a robot cleaner of claim 5, wherein the door is opened when humidity
of the accommodation space is greater than or equal to a preset reference humidity.
7. The station for a robot cleaner of claim 5, wherein the external air supply module
is configured to discharge heated air while the door is in a closed state.
8. The station for a robot cleaner of claim 1, wherein the mop drying unit further comprises
an exhaust fan for providing a flow force to air introduced through the air inlet.
9. The station for a robot cleaner of claim 8, wherein the exhaust fan is driven when
humidity of the accommodation space is greater than or equal to a preset exhaust humidity.
10. The station for a robot cleaner of claim 1, wherein a temperature of heat discharged
from the external air supply module is 65 degrees Celsius or higher.
11. The station for a robot cleaner of claim 1, wherein the air inlet is disposed higher
from the ground than the robot cleaner in a state where the robot cleaner is docked
with the seating unit.
12. The station for a robot cleaner of claim 11, wherein at least a portion of the air
inlet is disposed vertically above a position where a width of the robot cleaner in
a left-right direction is largest.
13. The station for a robot cleaner of claim 3, wherein a distance from the external air
discharge portion to the air inlet is larger than a distance from the external air
discharge portion to the mop.
14. The station for a robot cleaner of claim 1, wherein the air inlet is disposed above
a path through which the robot cleaner moves within the housing.
15. The station for a robot cleaner of claim 8, further comprising:
a dust collection unit for collecting dust from a dust bin of the robot cleaner through operation of a dust collection motor,
wherein the exhaust fan is disposed between the dust collection motor and the external air supply module.
16. The station for a robot cleaner of claim 1, wherein a plurality of the air inlets
are disposed at the same distance from a front end of the housing.
17. The station for a robot cleaner of claim 1, wherein air introduced into the air inlet
is re-supplied to the external air supply module.
18. The station for a robot cleaner of claim 1, wherein air introduced into the air inlet
is discharged to a drainage pipe disposed in a kitchen cabinet.
19. The station for a robot cleaner of claim 1, wherein the housing comprises an upper
cover covering an upper side of the accommodation space, and
wherein the air inlet is disposed on the upper cover.
wherein the air inlet is disposed on the upper cover.
20. The station for a robot cleaner of claim 2, wherein the housing comprises an upper
cover covering an upper side of the accommodation space and facing a lower plate of
a kitchen cabinet, and
wherein the air discharge duct is provided on the upper cover.
wherein the air discharge duct is provided on the upper cover.
REFERENCES CITED IN THE DESCRIPTION
This list of references cited by the applicant is for the reader's convenience only. It does not form part of the European patent document. Even though great care has been taken in compiling the references, errors or omissions cannot be excluded and the EPO disclaims all liability in this regard.
Patent documents cited in the description