ROBOT CLEANER AND CLEANER SYSTEM

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a robot cleaner and a cleaner system, and more particularly, to a robot cleaner capable of clumping and sucking up animal hair stuck to a carpet or the like, and a cleaner system including a cleaner station capable of collecting dust stored in a dust bin of the robot cleaner.

BACKGROUND ART

A cleaner refers to a device that cleans a target cleaning region by sucking dust or debris or wiping the target cleaning region.

The cleaners may be classified into a manual cleaner which is moved directly by a user to perform a cleaning operation, and an automatic cleaner which performs a cleaning operation while autonomously traveling.

In this case, the robot cleaner sucks debris such as dust from the floor while autonomously traveling in a zone to be cleaned. In addition, the robot cleaner may clean a cleaning region while automatically traveling by using an obstacle sensor or other sensors provided in the robot cleaner. Alternatively, the robot cleaner may clean the cleaning region be manually operated by a remote controller wirelessly connected to the robot cleaner.

Meanwhile, Korean Patent No. KR 1978282 B1 discloses a robot cleaner including a dust bin configured to filter out and collect dust.

The dust bin is detachably coupled to a main body of the robot cleaner. With this structure, a user may separate the dust bin from the main body of the robot cleaner and empty the dust bin.

In this case, the robot cleaner has a structure in which a lower casing of the dust bin is openable to easily discharge dust and fine dust collected in the dust bin.

However, there is a limitation in that the dust bin of the robot cleaner cannot be automatically emptied, and the user needs to empty the dust bin by manually separating the dust bin and opening the lower casing of the dust bin.

In addition, there is a limitation in that fine dust, which may accumulate in a cyclone part configured to separate dust in the robot cleaner, cannot be removed.

DISCLOSURE

Technical Problem

The present disclosure has been made in an effort to solve the above-mentioned problem of the robot cleaner and the cleaner system in the related art, and an object of the present disclosure is to provide a robot cleaner capable of automatically emptying a dust bin

Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a robot cleaner capable of discharging fine dust accumulated in a cyclone part.

Still another object of the present disclosure is to provide a robot cleaner capable of automatically sealing a dust bin when a process of collecting dust in the dust bin ends.

Technical Solution

In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, a robot cleaner according to the present disclosure may include: a body having therein a space in which a battery and a suction motor are accommodated and having a suction port; a dust bin coupled to the body and configured to store dust introduced through the suction port; and a dust separating part disposed in an internal space of the dust bin and configured to separate dust from air introduced through the suction port.

In this case, the dust bin may include: a dust bin main body having a first dust discharge port; and a first discharge cover coupled to the dust bin main body and configured to open or close the first dust discharge port.

Further, the dust separating part may include: a cyclone part configured to separate dust from air by means of a cyclone flow; a dust capturing part disposed below the cyclone part based on a gravitational direction, configured to capture the dust separated by the cyclone part, and having a second dust discharge port; and a second discharge cover disposed on the dust capturing part and configured to open or close the dust capturing part.

In this case, the first discharge cover may be coupled to an outer peripheral surface of the dust bin main body and configured to open or close the first dust discharge port by means of pressure of the air.

In addition, the second discharge cover may be coupled to a lower surface of the dust capturing part and configured to open or close the second dust discharge port by being rotated by pressure of the air.

In addition, the first discharge cover and the second discharge cover may be opened while operating in conjunction with each other by means of pressure of the air.

Meanwhile, the dust separating part according to another embodiment may further include a cover cap coupled to the lower surface of the dust capturing part, and one side of the second discharge cover is coupled between the cover cap and the lower surface of the dust capturing part.

In this case, a cover accommodation portion may be formed in the cover cap and provide a space in which the second discharge cover rotates.

In addition, a hole may be formed in the cover cap, and dust captured in the dust capturing part may pass through the hole as the second discharge cover rotates.

Meanwhile, in the robot cleaner according to still another embodiment, the second dust discharge port may be formed in an outer peripheral surface of the dust capturing part and disposed at a position facing the first dust discharge port, and the second discharge cover may be coupled to the outer peripheral surface of the dust capturing part and configured to open or close the second dust discharge port by means of pressure of the air.

In this case, a diameter of a lower end of the dust capturing part may be smaller than a diameter of an upper end of the dust capturing part.

Meanwhile, in the robot cleaner according to yet another embodiment, the second discharge cover may be coupled to a lower surface of the dust capturing part and configured to open or close the second dust discharge port while being may be formed upward or downward in the gravitational direction by pressure of the air.

Meanwhile, in order to achieve the above-mentioned object, a cleaner system according to the present disclosure may include: a robot cleaner including a wheel, a battery, and at least one motor and configured to suck dust-containing air through a suction port and store the sucked dust in a dust bin; and a robot cleaner station including a coupling part to which the robot cleaner is coupled, a flow path part configured to communicate with an internal space of the dust bin, a dust collecting part configured to capture dust present in the dust bin, and a dust collecting motor configured to generate a suction force for sucking the dust present in the dust bin into the dust collecting part.

In this case, the dust bin may include: a dust bin main body having a first dust discharge port formed in an outer peripheral surface thereof; and a first discharge cover coupled to the dust bin main body and configured to open or close the first dust discharge port, and the coupling part may include: a bottom plate coupled to an upper side of the robot cleaner; a dust bin accommodation surface formed in a direction intersecting a ground surface so as to face the dust bin; and a dust collecting hole formed in the dust bin accommodation surface, configured to communicate with the flow path part, and configured to communicate with the internal space of the dust bin when the first discharge cover is opened.

In this case, the robot cleaner may further include a dust separating part disposed in the internal space of the dust bin and configured to separate dust from the air introduced through the suction port, and the dust collecting hole may be disposed at a position facing an outer peripheral surface of the dust separating part when the first discharge cover is opened.

Further, at least a part of the dust collecting hole may be disposed at the same height as the second dust discharge port in a state in which the robot cleaner is coupled to the cleaner station.

In addition, the dust separating part may further include a second discharge cover disposed on the dust capturing part and configured to open or close the dust capturing part, and the second discharge cover may be disposed toward the dust collecting hole by being rotated by a suction force of the dust collecting motor when the dust collecting motor operates.

Further, the first discharge cover may be accommodated in the flow path part while passing through the dust collecting hole when the dust collecting motor operates.

Advantageous Effects

According to the robot cleaner and the cleaner system according to the present disclosure described above, when the robot cleaner is coupled to the cleaner station, the cleaner station may automatically empty the dust bin of the robot cleaner by collecting dust present in the dust bin of the robot cleaner.

In addition, the dust separating part has the dust discharge port formed below the cyclone part, and the discharge cover is provided to open or close the dust discharge port, such that when the cleaner station collects dust from the dust bin, fine dust accumulated in the cyclone part may be discharged.

In addition, the discharge cover configured to open or close the dust bin of the robot cleaner may open the dust discharge port by means of the pressure of the air when the dust collecting motor of the cleaner station operates, and the discharge cover may seal the dust discharge port by means of the restoring force of the elastic body when the operation of the dust collecting motor ends.

In addition, the dust discharge port of the dust separating part is disposed to be close to the dust collecting hole of the cleaner station, such that the shortest route along which dust is collected may be provided, and efficiency in collecting dust may be improved by reducing a flow path loss.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a top plan view of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a side view of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a view for explaining a dust bin of the robot cleaner according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 is an exploded view of a first discharge cover in FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 4.

FIG. 7 is a view for explaining a lower side of a dust separating part in the dust bin in the robot cleaner according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view for explaining a dust bin of a robot cleaner according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 is a view for explaining a dust separating part of the robot cleaner according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 is a view for explaining a dust discharge port and a discharge cover of a dust separating part of a robot cleaner according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 is a view for explaining a lower side of the dust separating part of the robot cleaner according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view for explaining a dust bin of a robot cleaner according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 13 is a partially enlarged view for explaining a state in which a discharge cover in FIG. 12 is opened.

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view for explaining a state in which the robot cleaner according to the embodiment of the present disclosure is coupled to a cleaner station.

FIG. 15 is a view for explaining a process of controlling the robot cleaner according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

MODE FOR INVENTION

Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

The present disclosure may be variously modified and may have various embodiments, and particular embodiments illustrated in the drawings will be specifically described below. The description of the embodiments is not intended to limit the present disclosure to the particular embodiments, but it should be interpreted that the present disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents and alternatives falling within the spirit and technical scope of the present disclosure.

The terminology used herein is used for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the present disclosure. Singular expressions may include plural expressions unless clearly described as different meanings in the context.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, may have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains. The terms such as those defined in a commonly used dictionary may be interpreted as having meanings consistent with meanings in the context of related technologies and may not be interpreted as ideal or excessively formal meanings unless explicitly defined in the present application.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 2 is a top plan view of FIG. 1, and FIG. 3 is a side view of FIG. 1.

A robot cleaner 100 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure is configured to be placed on a floor and clean the floor while moving on a floor surface B. Therefore, hereinafter, a vertical direction is defined based on a state in which the robot cleaner 100 is placed on the floor.

Further, a side at which an agitator 141 to be described below is defined as a front side F based on a pair of driving wheels 151.

Among the portions described in the embodiment of the present disclosure, a ‘lowermost portion’ may be a portion positioned at a lowest position or a portion closest to the floor when the robot cleaner 100 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure is placed on the floor and used.

A robot cleaner 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes a body 110, a dust bin 120, a dust separating part 130, a cleaning part 140, a driving part 150, a battery 160, a suction motor 170, a sensor part 180, and a controller 190.

The body 110 may define an overall external shape of the robot cleaner 100. Components constituting the robot cleaner 100 may be coupled to the body 110, and some of the components constituting the robot cleaner 100 may be accommodated in the body 110.

Specifically, the components of the robot cleaner 100 may be provided in a space in the body 110. For example, the battery 160 and at least one motor may be accommodated in the space in the body 110.

In the embodiment of the present disclosure, a width (or a diameter) in a horizontal direction (i.e., a direction parallel to an X-axis and a Y-axis) of the body 110 may be larger than a height in a vertical direction (i.e., a direction parallel to a Z-axis) of the body 110. The body 110 may provide an advantageous structure that assists the robot cleaner 100 in having a stable structure and allows the robot cleaner 100 to avoid an obstacle while moving traveling.

The body 110 may have various shapes such as a circular shape, an elliptical shape, or a quadrangular shape when viewed from above or below.

The body 110 may be divided into a lower body 111 and an upper body 112, and the lower body 111 and the upper body 112 are coupled to define the space in the body 110.

The lower body 111 may be coupled to the upper body 112 to define the space capable of accommodating therein the battery 160, at least one sensor, and at least one motor.

Although not illustrated, the lower body 111 may have a suction port through which air is introduced, and a hole configured to accommodate the pair of driving wheels 151.

The suction port may be a passageway through which dust on the floor surface is introduced. Further, the suction port may communicate with a suction flow path (not illustrated) formed in the body 110, and the suction flow path may communicate with an internal space of the dust bin 120.

Meanwhile, an air discharge flow path may be further provided in the lower body 111. One side of the air discharge flow path (not illustrated) may communicate with the internal space of the dust bin 120, and the other side of the air discharge flow path (not illustrated) may communicate with an air discharge outlet (not illustrated). In this case, a filter may be disposed in the air discharge outlet.

With this configuration, the air introduced through the suction port may flow into the dust bin 120 through the suction flow path, and the air having passed through the dust separating part 130 may be discharged to the air discharge outlet through the air discharge flow path.

The agitator 141 to be described below may be rotatably accommodated in the suction port. With this configuration, dust present around the suction port may be guided into the suction port by a rotation of the agitator 141, thereby improving efficiency in sucking dust.

In addition, at least one auxiliary wheel 11la may be provided on a bottom surface of the lower body 111. For example, the auxiliary wheels 111a may include one auxiliary wheel 111a provided at a front side of the bottom surface of the lower body 111, and one auxiliary wheel 111a provided at a rear side of the bottom surface of the lower body 111. With this configuration, the auxiliary wheel 111a may guide a motion of the robot cleaner 100 while minimizing friction between the robot cleaner 100 and the floor surface.

The upper body 112 may define an external appearance of an upper side of the robot cleaner 100. Although not illustrated, a display may be provided on the upper body 112.

Although not illustrated, the robot cleaner 100 of the present disclosure may include a bumper. The bumper is coupled along a rim of the body 110 and configured to move relative to the body 110.

The bumper may be coupled along a part of the rim of the body 110 or coupled along the entire rim of the body 110. At least one elastic member (not illustrated) may be provided between the bumper and the body 110. With this configuration, when the bumper comes into contact with an obstacle or the like and relatively moves toward a center of the body 110, the bumper may be returned to an original position by a restoring force of the elastic member (not illustrated), and the elastic member (not illustrated) may absorb or disperse impact applied to the bumper to prevent and reduce the transmission of the impact to the body 110.

Meanwhile, the body 110 of the robot cleaner 100 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a dust bin cover 113.

The dust bin cover 113 is rotatably coupled to the body 110 by a hinge part. The dust bin cover 113 is disposed to completely cover an upper side of the dust bin 120 when the dust bin cover 113 is coupled to the dust bin 120. The hinge part is configured to elastically press the dust bin cover 113 upward. When the dust bin cover 113 is not coupled to the dust bin 120, the dust bin cover 113 may be tilted to be inclined upward with respect to the upper side of the dust bin 120.

The dust bin cover 113 may be formed in an elliptical shape elongated in a forward/rearward direction of the body 110 and disposed to completely cover the circular dust bin 120 when the dust bin cover 113 is coupled to the dust bin 120. A forward/rearward length of the dust bin cover 113 corresponding to the forward/rearward direction of the body 110 may be longer than a leftward/rightward length of the dust bin cover 113 corresponding to a leftward/rightward direction of the body 110, and the leftward/rightward length may be equal to or larger than a radius of the dust bin cover 113.

The dust bin 120 may be provided to suck outside dust and air and store dust.

The dust bin 120 may store dust that passes through the suction flow path and is introduced. The dust bin 120 may have a dust inlet port configured to communicate with the suction flow path, the internal space capable of storing dust, and an air discharge port through which air may be discharged.

A specific structure of the dust bin 120 will be described below.

The dust separating part 130 may be accommodated in the dust bin 120 and separate dust from the air introduced into the dust bin 120.

A specific structure of the dust separating part 130 will be described together with the dust bin 120.

The cleaning part 140 may suck dust and air on the floor surface and capture the dust.

The cleaning part 140 may include the agitator 141.

The agitator 141 may have a plurality of brushes configured to be rotatable and guide outside dust and air into the dust bin 120. In this case, the agitator 141 may have at least one gear.

Meanwhile, the agitator 141 according to the present embodiment may be equipped with a separate agitator motor 142 to receive rotational power. According to the embodiment, the agitator 141 may also receive rotational power from a driving motor and receive rotational power from the suction motor 170.

The driving part 150 may be provided on the body 110 and travel on the floor surface.

The driving part 150 may include the driving wheels 151 and an actuator 152. In this case, the driving wheels 151 may be accommodated in a hole formed in the lower body 111 and coupled to the actuator 152. In this case, the actuator 152 may be coupled to the body 110.

The driving wheels 151 may be provided on the body 110 and roll on the floor surface.

The driving wheels 151 may include a first driving wheel and a second driving wheel. In this case, the first driving wheel may be identical to the second driving wheel, or the first driving wheel and the second driving wheel may be symmetric. For example, in case that the first driving wheel is positioned at the left side of the robot cleaner 100, the second driving wheel may be positioned at the right side of the robot cleaner 100. In this case, the first driving wheel and the second driving wheel may be symmetric vertically.

The actuator 152 may include driving motors and gears. In this case, the driving motors may be accommodated in the body 110 and provide power to the driving wheels 151. The driving motors may include a first driving motor and a second driving motor.

The driving motor may be configured as an electric motor. The plurality of gears engage with one another and rotate. The plurality of gears connect the driving motors and the driving wheels and transmit rotational power of the driving motors to the driving wheels. Therefore, the driving wheels may rotate when rotary shafts of the driving motors rotate.

In the embodiment of the present disclosure, the actuator 152 may be disposed immediately next to the driving wheels 151. This configuration may minimize a loss of power to be transmitted from the actuator 152 to the driving wheels 151.

With this configuration, when the driving motors operate, the driving wheels may rotate, and the body 110 may travel on the floor surface at a predetermined traveling speed.

The battery 160 is coupled to the body 110 and configured to supply electric power to other components that constitute the robot cleaner 100. The battery 160 may supply electric power to the actuator 152.

In addition, the battery 160 may supply electric power to the suction motor 170. Further, the battery 160 may supply electric power to the sensor part 180 and the controller 190.

In the embodiment of the present disclosure, the battery 160 may be charged with external power. To this end, a charging terminal for charging the battery 160 may be provided at one side of the body 110 or provided on the battery 160.

In the robot cleaner 100 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the battery 160 may be coupled to the body 110. Specifically, the battery 160 may be accommodated in the internal space formed by coupling the lower body 111 and the upper body 112.

The suction motor 170 may generate a suction force capable of sucking outside dust and air through the suction port. For example, the suction motor 170 may be an electric motor. By the suction force generated by the suction motor 170, outside dust and air may be introduced into the suction port and reach the dust bin 120 after passing through the suction flow path.

Meanwhile, FIG. 15 is a view for explaining a process of controlling the robot cleaner according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

With reference to FIG. 15, the sensor part 180 may detect an obstacle in a cleaning zone to be cleaned by the robot cleaner 100.

The sensor part 180 may include a first sensor 181, a second sensor 182, and a third sensor 183.

The first sensor 181 may be coupled to the body 110 and configured to detect a motion (relative movement) of the bumper relative to the body 110. The first sensor 181 may be configured by using a micro-switch, a photo interrupter, a tact switch, or the like.

The second sensor 182 may be coupled to the body 110 and configured to detect a relative distance from the obstacle. The second sensor 182 may be configured as a distance sensor.

The third sensor 183 may be coupled to the body 110 and configured to detect a relative distance from the floor surface.

In case that the relative distance from the floor surface (a distance in the vertical direction from the floor surface or a distance in the direction inclined with respect to the floor surface), which is detected by the third sensor 183, exceeds a predetermined value or exceeds a predetermined range, this may be a case in which the floor surface is rapidly lowered. Therefore, the third sensor 183 may detect a cliff.

The third sensor 183 may be an optical sensor and include a light-emitting portion for emitting light, and a light-receiving portion for receiving reflected light. The third sensor 183 may be configured as an infrared sensor.

The third sensor 183 may be referred to as a cliff sensor.

Meanwhile, although not illustrated, the robot cleaner 100 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a displacement sensor.

The displacement sensor may be disposed on the bottom surface (rear surface) of the body 110 and measure a distance by which the robot cleaner moves along the floor surface.

For example, an optical flow sensor (OFS), which acquires image information of the floor surface by using light, may be used as the displacement sensor. In this case, the optical flow sensor (OFS) includes an image sensor configured to acquire image information on the floor surface by capturing an image of the floor surface, and one or more light sources configured to adjust the amount of light.

An operation of the displacement sensor will be described as an example of the optical flow sensor. The optical flow sensor is provided on the bottom surface (rear surface) of the robot cleaner 100 and captures an image of a lower portion, that is, the floor surface while the robot cleaner 100 moves. The optical flow sensor converts a lower image inputted from the image sensor and creates a predetermined lower image information.

With this configuration, the displacement sensor may detect a predetermined point and a relative position of the robot cleaner 100 regardless of slippage. That is, the optical flow sensor may be used to observe the lower portion of the robot cleaner 100, such that it is possible to correct a position caused by slippage.

Meanwhile, although not illustrated, the robot cleaner 100 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may further include an angle sensor.

The angle sensor may be disposed in the body 110 and measure a movement angle of the body 110.

For example, a gyro sensor for measuring a rotational velocity of the body 110 may be used as the angle sensor. The gyro sensor may detect a direction of the robot cleaner 100 by using the rotational velocity.

With this configuration, based on a predetermined imaginary line, the angle sensor may detect a direction in which the robot cleaner 100 moves and an angle at which the robot cleaner 100 moves.

Meanwhile, an acceleration sensor may be provided on the dust bin cover 113. The acceleration sensor may detect a gravitational acceleration applied to the acceleration sensor by dividing the gravitational acceleration into X, Y, and Z vectors perpendicular to one another.

The controller 190 may be configured to control an operation of the actuator 152 in accordance with preset information or real-time information. The robot cleaner 100 may be provided with a storage medium that stores an application program for the control operation of the controller 190. The controller 190 may be configured to control the robot cleaner 100 by executing the application program based on information inputted to the robot cleaner 100 and information outputted from the robot cleaner 100.

The controller 190 may control a traveling direction of the robot cleaner 100. That is, the controller may control the rotational velocities of the pair of driving motors of the actuator 152.

In this case, the controller 190 may control the robot cleaner 100 so that the robot cleaner 100 travels straight or reciprocates straight. The controller 190 may also control the robot cleaner 100 so that the robot cleaner 100 travels predetermined regions that overlap one another. In addition, the controller 190 may control the robot cleaner 100 so that the robot cleaner 100 travels along a preset traveling pattern.

In case that the bumper of the robot cleaner 100 comes into contact with an obstacle, the controller 190 may control the robot cleaner 100 to allow the robot cleaner 100 to avoid the obstacle. The controller 190 may control the operation of the actuator 152 based on information detected by the first sensor 181. For example, in case that the bumper comes into contact with an obstacle while the robot cleaner 100 moves, the first sensor 181 may recognize a position at which the bumper comes into contact with the obstacle, and the controller 190 may control the operation of the actuator 152 so that the robot cleaner 100 departs from the contact position.

In case that a distance between the robot cleaner 100 and the obstacle is a predetermined value or less based on information detected by the second sensor 182, the controller 190 may control the operation of the actuator 152 so that the traveling direction of the robot cleaner 100 is changed or the robot cleaner 100 moves away from the obstacle.

In addition, the controller 190 may control the operation of the actuator 152 on the basis of the distance detected by the third sensor 183 so that the robot cleaner 100 is stopped or the traveling direction is changed.

The controller 190 may control the cleaning part 140. Specifically, the controller 190 may control an output of the suction motor 170. That is, the controller 190 may control a rotational velocity of the suction motor 170. In addition, the controller 190 may also control a rotational velocity of the agitator 141.

In addition, the controller 190 may control an output of the suction motor 170 on the basis of the amount of dust present on the floor surface. That is, the controller 190 may detect the amount of dust present on the floor surface by means of the sensor part 180. In case that the controller 190 determines that the amount of dust present on the floor surface is larger than a predetermined reference value, the controller 190 may increase the output of the suction motor 170.

In addition, the controller 190 may detect whether the dust bin cover 113 is opened or closed by using the X, Y, and Z vector values detected by the acceleration sensor.

Meanwhile, FIG. 4 is a view for explaining the dust bin of the robot cleaner according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 5 is an exploded view of a first discharge cover in FIG. 4, FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 4, and FIG. 7 is a view for explaining a lower side of the dust separating part in the dust bin of the robot cleaner according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

The dust bin 120 of the robot cleaner according to the embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to FIGS. 4 to 7.

The robot cleaner 100 may include the dust bin 120. The dust bin 120 may capture debris such as dust.

The dust bin 120 includes a dust bin main body 121, a dust bin cover 122, a first dust discharge port 123, and a first discharge cover 124.

The dust bin main body 121 provides a space capable of storing debris such as dust. For example, the dust bin main body 121 may be formed in a cylindrical shape.

The dust inlet port (not illustrated) may be formed in the dust bin main body 121 and communicate with the suction flow path, and the air discharge port (not illustrated) may be formed in the dust bin main body 121 and communicate with the air discharge flow path. For example, the dust inlet port and the air discharge port may be formed in an upper portion of an outer peripheral surface of the dust bin main body 121. With this configuration, the air sucked through the suction port may be introduced into the dust bin main body 121, and the air from which dust is separated while the air passes through the dust separating part 130 may be discharged to the air discharge flow path.

A bottom side (lower side) of the dust bin main body 121 may be selectively opened or closed. For example, the dust bin cover 122 may be hingedly coupled to the lower side of the dust bin main body 121. When the dust bin cover 122 is opened, the internal space of the dust bin main body 121 may be opened. With this configuration, the user may manually open the dust bin cover 122 and remove dust captured in the dust bin 120.

The dust bin cover 122 may be formed in an approximately circular plate shape and open or close the bottom side of the dust bin main body 121. In this case, one side of the dust bin cover 122 may be hingedly coupled to the dust bin main body 121, and the other side of the dust bin cover 122 may hook-engage with the dust bin main body 121. In this case, one side and the other side of the dust bin cover 122 may, of course, be opposite to each other based on a center of the dust bin cover 122 and may also be disposed at a predetermined phase difference (angle difference) in a circumferential direction.

Meanwhile, a central portion 122a of the dust bin cover 122 having a circular plate shape may protrude upward in an arcuate shape. With this configuration, the dust, which is separated by the dust separating part 130 and moved downward, may move radially outward along the inclination. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the dust in the dust bin 120 from accumulating and remaining on the central portion of the dust bin cover 122.

The dust bin 120 may include dust discharge ports 123 and 133. In this case, the dust discharge ports include the first dust discharge port 123 and a second dust discharge port 133. The dust and fine dust captured in the dust bin 120 may be discharged through the dust discharge ports.

Specifically, the dust bin 120 includes the first dust discharge port 123. In this case, the first dust discharge port 123 may be disposed in a lateral surface (outer peripheral surface) of the dust bin 120 of the robot cleaner 100 and disposed at a rearmost side of the robot cleaner 100. Therefore, when the robot cleaner 100 is coupled to a cleaner station 200, the dust bin 120 and a flow path part 240 of the cleaner station 200 may be disposed to face each other.

The first dust discharge port 123 may be formed to correspond to a shape of a dust collecting hole 213 of the cleaner station 200. For example, the first dust discharge port 123 may have a quadrangular hole shape. The first dust discharge port 123 may communicate with the dust collecting hole 213 and the flow path part 240 when the robot cleaner 100 is coupled to the cleaner station 200 and the first discharge cover 124 is opened.

The dust bin 120 may include discharge covers 124 and 134. In this case, the discharge covers include the first discharge cover 124 and a second discharge cover 134. The dust discharge ports 123 and 133 may be opened or closed by the discharge covers.

The robot cleaner 100 may include the first discharge cover 124. In this case, the first discharge cover 124 may be formed in a shape corresponding to a shape of the first dust discharge port 123 and provided to close the first dust discharge port 123. For example, the first discharge cover 124 may be formed in an approximately quadrangular plate shape and formed in a curved shape having a curvature equal to a curvature of the outer peripheral surface of the dust bin 120. In addition, the first discharge cover 124 may be disposed in the first dust discharge port 123.

In addition, the first discharge cover 124 may be hingedly coupled to the dust bin 120. Specifically, the first discharge cover 124 may be hingedly coupled to the outer peripheral surface of the dust bin main body 121 and rotate about a hinge pin 124a, and the first dust discharge port 123 may be opened or closed by the rotation of the first discharge cover 124. In this case, a torsion spring 124b may be provided on the hinge pin 124a and apply a restoring force when the first discharge cover 124 is opened.

The first discharge cover 124 may open or close the first dust discharge port 123 by pressure of air. In this case, a diameter of the first discharge cover 124 may be larger than a diameter of the first dust discharge port 123, and the first discharge cover 124 may be disposed to be farther from a center of the dust bin 120 than the first dust discharge port 123 from the center of the dust bin 120. Therefore, when negative pressure is applied from the outside of the dust bin 120, the first discharge cover 124 may rotate to open the first dust discharge port 123.

With this configuration, when a dust collecting motor 230 of the cleaner station 200 generates a suction force, the first discharge cover 124 rotates toward the outside of the dust bin 120, such that the first dust discharge port 123 may be opened. In this case, the first discharge cover 124 may be accommodated in the flow path part 240. With this configuration, the dust collecting hole 213 of the cleaner station and the first dust discharge port 123 are disposed to be very adjacent to each other and communicate with each other.

In addition, when the operation of the dust collecting motor 230 is stopped, a free end of the first discharge cover 124 may be rotated in a direction toward the dust bin 120 by the restoring force of the torsion spring 124b and block the first dust discharge port 123 again. As described above, the first discharge cover 124 may block the dust bin 120 of the robot cleaner 100 and the flow path part 240 or allow the dust bin 120 of the robot cleaner 100 and the flow path part 240 to communicate with each other while being rotated by the operation of the dust collecting motor 230.

Meanwhile, a sealer 124c may be provided on the dust bin 120. The sealer 124c may be disposed along an outer periphery of the first dust discharge port 123. The sealer 124c may be in contact with the first discharge cover 124. With this configuration, in a state in which the first discharge cover 124 closes the first dust discharge port 123, the sealer 124c may seal a portion between the dust bin 120 and the first discharge cover 124, thereby preventing a leak of dust.

Meanwhile, a dust bin upper casing 125 may be coupled to an upper portion of the dust bin main body 121. The dust bin upper casing 125 may block an upper side of the dust bin main body 121.

Although not illustrated, a handle may be provided on the dust bin upper casing 125. With this configuration, the user may separate the dust bin 120 from the body 110 by lifting up the dust bin 120 while holding the handle and transport the dust bin 120.

Meanwhile, the dust separating part 130 may be disposed in the dust bin 120. The dust separating part 130 may separate dust by using a cyclone flow, capture dust, and discharge air.

The dust separating part 130 includes a cyclone part 131, a dust capturing part 132, the second dust discharge port 133, and the second discharge cover 134.

The cyclone part 131 may separate dust from the air by means of a spiral flow. That is, the cyclone part 131 may separate dust from the air by using a centrifugal force applied by the spiral flow of the air.

The cyclone part 131 may be provided as at least one cyclone part capable of generating the spiral flow of the air.

Therefore, the air and dust sucked into the dust bin 120 may spirally flow in the dust separating part 130, and the dust may be separated from the air and moved downward.

The dust capturing part 132 may be disposed below the cyclone part 131 based on a gravitational direction and capture the dust that is separated by the cyclone part 131 and moved downward.

The dust capturing part 132 may be formed in a cylindrical shape, and a lower side of the dust capturing part 132 may be formed in a shape having a diameter that decreases. For example, an upper portion of the dust capturing part 132 may be formed in a cylindrical shape having a constant diameter, and a lower portion of the dust capturing part 132 may be formed in a shape having a diameter that gradually decreases downward. With this configuration, the dust, which is moved downward in the cyclone part 131, is collected downward.

Meanwhile, the second dust discharge port 133 may be formed at a lower end of the dust capturing part 132. For example, the second dust discharge port 133 may be formed to be similar to a shape of a circular hole. With this configuration, the dust, which is moved downward in the cyclone part 131, may be collected in the dust capturing part 132, pass through the second dust discharge port 133, and move toward the bottom surface of the dust bin 120.

Meanwhile, the second discharge cover 134 may be disposed on the second dust discharge port 133 and open or close the second dust discharge port 133. That is, the second discharge cover 134 may be hingedly coupled to the dust capturing part 132 and open or close the second dust discharge port 133 while rotating.

The second discharge cover 134 may be formed in a shape corresponding to a shape of the second dust discharge port 133 and provided to close the second dust discharge port 133. For example, the second discharge cover 134 may be formed in an approximately circular flat plate shape.

In addition, the second discharge cover 134 may be hingedly coupled to the dust capturing part 132. In this case, a torsion spring (not illustrated) may be provided on a hinge and applies a restoring force when the second discharge cover 134 is opened. In this case, the hinge may be disposed at a position farthest from the first dust discharge port 123.

With this configuration, when the second discharge cover 134 is opened, the second dust discharge port 133 may be opened, and the dust discharged through the second dust discharge port 133 may be moved toward the first dust discharge port 123 along the second discharge cover 134 (see FIG. 7). As a result, it is possible to minimize a loss of the flow path for the air flowing from the second dust discharge port 133 to the dust collecting hole 213.

In addition, the second discharge cover 134 may open or close the second dust discharge port 133 by being rotated by pressure of the air. In this case, a diameter of the second discharge cover 134 may be larger than a diameter of the second dust discharge port 133, and the second discharge cover 134 may be disposed below the second dust discharge port 133 based on the gravitational direction. Therefore, when negative pressure is applied from the outside of the dust capturing part 132, the second discharge cover 134 may rotate to open the second dust discharge port 133.

With this configuration, when the dust collecting motor 230 of the cleaner station 200 generates a suction force, the second discharge cover 134 rotates downward in the gravitational direction, such that the second dust discharge port 133 may be opened. In this case, when the dust collecting motor 230 operates, the second discharge cover 134 may be rotated by the suction force of the dust collecting motor 230 and disposed toward the dust collecting hole 213.

In addition, when the operation of the dust collecting motor 230 is stopped, the second discharge cover 134 may be rotated upward in the gravitational direction by the restoring force of the torsion spring and block the second dust discharge port 133. As described above, the second discharge cover 134 may block the internal space of the dust capturing part 132 and the internal space of the dust bin 120 or allow the internal space of the dust capturing part 132 and the internal space of the dust bin 120 to communicate with each other while being rotated by the operation of the dust collecting motor 230.

Meanwhile, a sealer 136 may be provided on the dust capturing part 132. The sealer 136 may be disposed along an outer periphery of the second dust discharge port 133. The sealer 136 may be in contact with the second discharge cover 134. With this configuration, in a state in which the second discharge cover 134 closes the second dust discharge port 133, the sealer 136 may seal a portion between the dust capturing part 132 and the second discharge cover 134, thereby preventing a leak of dust.

As described above, in the present disclosure, the first discharge cover 124 and the second discharge cover 134 may be opened while being operated in conjunction with each other by pressure of the air. Specifically, when the dust collecting motor 230 operates in the state in which the robot cleaner 100 is coupled to the cleaner station 200, the first discharge cover 124 is opened by the suction force of the dust collecting motor 230, and negative pressure is also applied in the dust bin 120 as the first discharge cover 124 is opened, such that the second discharge cover 134 may also be opened. As a result, when the dust collecting motor 230 operates, both the first discharge cover 124 and the second discharge cover 134 may be opened, such that both the dust stored in the dust bin 120 and the fine dust stored in the dust capturing part 132 may be collected.

Meanwhile, a mesh net 135 may be disposed radially outside the cyclone part 131. The mesh net 135 may prevent dust in the air from being introduced into the cyclone part 131. With this configuration, the dust, which is relatively large in size or mass in the dust, may be caught by the mesh net 135 and prevented from being introduced into the cyclone part 131.

Meanwhile, FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view for explaining a dust bin of a robot cleaner according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 9 is a view for explaining a dust separating part of the robot cleaner according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure.

In order to avoid the repeated description, the description of the robot cleaner according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may be applied, except for the components that have not been particularly described in the present embodiment, because the same configuration and effect of the robot cleaner may be applied.

The robot cleaner according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9.

A dust separating part 1130 of the robot cleaner according to the present embodiment includes a cyclone part 1131, a dust capturing part 1132, a second dust discharge port 1133, a second discharge cover 1134, and a mesh net 1135.

In this case, in the present embodiment, the second dust discharge port 1133 is formed in an outer peripheral surface of the dust capturing part 1132. In this case, the second dust discharge port 1133 is disposed at a position on the outer peripheral surface of the dust capturing part 1132 that faces the first dust discharge port 123.

With this configuration, when the robot cleaner 100 is coupled to the cleaner station 200, a distance from the second dust discharge port 1133 to the dust collecting hole 213 may be advantageously configured as a shortest distance. As a result, it is possible to minimize a loss of the flow path for the air flowing from the second dust discharge port 1133 to the dust collecting hole 213.

In addition, because the second discharge cover 1134 is disposed in the second dust discharge port 1133, the second discharge cover 1134 may be coupled to the outer peripheral surface of the dust capturing part 1132 and open or close the second dust discharge port 1133 by means of pressure of the air.

In this case, the second discharge cover 1134 may also be disposed at a position that faces the first dust discharge port 123 and the dust collecting hole 213. With this configuration, a response speed at which the second discharge cover 1134 is opened may increase when the dust collecting motor 230 operates in the state in which the robot cleaner 100 is coupled to the cleaner station 200.

Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, a diameter of a lower end of the dust capturing part 1132 may be smaller than a diameter of an upper end of the dust capturing part 1132. For example, the outer peripheral surface of the dust capturing part 1132 may be formed in a shape inclined rearward and downward. Further, the second dust discharge port 1133 may be disposed at a rear lower side of the outer peripheral surface of the dust capturing part 1132. With this configuration, the dust, which is moved downward in the cyclone part 1131, may be collected at the rear lower side of the dust capturing part 1132 along the inclination of the dust capturing part 1132, and the dust may be easily discharged when the second dust discharge port 1133 is opened.

Meanwhile, FIG. 10 is a view for explaining a dust discharge port and a discharge cover of a dust separating part of a robot cleaner according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 11 is a view for explaining a lower side of the dust separating part of the robot cleaner according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure.

In order to avoid the repeated description, the description of the robot cleaner according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may be applied, except for the components that have not been particularly described in the present embodiment, because the same configuration and effect of the robot cleaner may be applied.

The robot cleaner according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11.

A dust separating part 2130 of the robot cleaner according to the present embodiment includes a cyclone part 2131, a dust capturing part 2132, a second dust discharge port 2133, a second discharge cover 2134, a mesh net 2135, and a cover cap 2136.

In this case, in the present embodiment, the second dust discharge port 2133 is formed in a lower surface of the dust capturing part 2132, the second discharge cover 2134 is disposed below the second dust discharge port 2133, and the cover cap 2136 is disposed below the second discharge cover 2134.

In this case, the lower surface of the dust capturing part 2132 and the cover cap 2136 may be fitted and coupled, and one side of the second discharge cover 2134 may be fitted, fixed, and coupling between the lower surface of the dust capturing part 2132 and the cover cap 2136.

To this end, an inclined surface 2132a may protrude from the lower surface of the dust capturing part 2132 to fix the second discharge cover 2134 and enable the second discharge cover 2134 to press and block the second dust discharge port 2133.

In the present embodiment, the second discharge cover 2134 may be formed in an approximately circular plate shape, and one side of the second discharge cover 2134 may protrude and extend radially outward and be coupled between the lower surface of the dust capturing part 2132 and the cover cap 2136.

The second discharge cover 2134 may be made of a material with elasticity. For example, the second discharge cover 2134 may be made of a material containing rubber, silicone, or the like. With this configuration, a free end of the second discharge cover 2134 may rotate about a rotation axis that is a fixed end fixed between the lower surface of the dust capturing part 2132 and the cover cap 2136. Therefore, the second discharge cover 2134 may open or close the second dust discharge port 2133 while rotating between the lower surface of the dust capturing part 2132 and the cover cap 2136.

Meanwhile, a hole 2136a may be formed in the cover cap 2136. That is, the lower surface of the cover cap 2136 may be formed in a lattice shape and have at least one hole 2136a. The dust captured in the dust capturing part 2132 may pass through the hole 2136a as the second discharge cover 2134 rotates.

In addition, in the present embodiment, a cover accommodation portion 2136b may be formed in the cover cap 2136 and provide a space in which the second discharge cover 2134 may rotate. The cover accommodation portion 2136b may be recessed in an upper surface of the cover cap 2136 formed to have a predetermined thickness. A depth at which the cover accommodation portion 2136b is formed may be larger than a thickness of the second discharge cover 2134. With this configuration, it is possible to provide the space in which the second discharge cover 2134 may rotate.

That is, according to the present embodiment, the cover cap 2136 may fix the second discharge cover 2134 and restrict a rotation range of the second discharge cover 2134. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the second discharge cover 2134 from sagging downward and prevent the second dust discharge port 2133 from being opened always.

Meanwhile, FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view for explaining a dust bin of a robot cleaner according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 13 is a partially enlarged view for explaining a state in which a discharge cover in FIG. 12 is opened.

In order to avoid the repeated description, the description of the robot cleaner according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may be applied, except for the components that have not been particularly described in the present embodiment, because the same configuration and effect of the robot cleaner may be applied.

The robot cleaner according to the fourth embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to FIGS. 12 and 13.

A dust separating part 3130 of the robot cleaner according to the present embodiment includes a cyclone part 3131, a dust capturing part 3132, a second dust discharge port 3133, a second discharge cover 3134, and a mesh net 3135.

In this case, in the present embodiment, the second dust discharge port 3133 is formed in a lower surface of the dust capturing part 3132, and the second discharge cover 3134 is disposed below the second dust discharge port 3133.

In the robot cleaner according to the present embodiment, the second discharge cover 3134 may be coupled to the lower surface of the dust capturing part and configured to reciprocate straight, and the second discharge cover 3134 may open or close the second dust discharge port while being moved upward or downward in the gravitational direction by pressure of the air.

The second dust discharge port 3133 may be formed in a circular hole shape in the lower surface of the dust capturing part 3132, and at least one frame 3133a may be provided to traverse the circular hole. Meanwhile, a hole, which may be penetrated by a shaft 3134a of the second discharge cover 3134 to be described below, may be formed at a middle point on the frame 3133a.

Further, the second discharge cover 3134 may be formed in a circular plate shape, and the shaft 3134a, which penetrates the frame 3133a, may protrude from a center of the second discharge cover 3134.

Meanwhile, a gasket 2134b may be disposed above the frame 3133a. The gasket 2134b may cover an upper side of the shaft 3134a to prevent the dust from being introduced into the shaft 3134a. Meanwhile, a restoring spring 3134c may be disposed between the gasket 2134b and the shaft 3134a. In case that the second discharge cover 3134 is opened, the restoring spring 3134c may apply a restoring force in a direction in which the second discharge cover 3134 closes the second dust discharge port 3133.

With this configuration, when the dust collecting motor 230 operates in the state in which the robot cleaner 100 is coupled to the cleaner station 200, the second discharge cover 3134 may open the second dust discharge port 3133 while moving downward. When the operation of the dust collecting motor 230 is stopped, the second discharge cover 3134 may close the second dust discharge port 3133 while being moved upward by the restoring force of the restoring spring.

In the case of the present embodiment, there is an advantage in that many spaces may be simultaneously opened in comparison with the case in which the second dust discharge port 3133 is opened by the hinge structure.

Meanwhile, FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view for explaining a state in which the robot cleaner according to the embodiment of the present disclosure is coupled to the cleaner station.

The cleaner system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1 to 14.

A cleaner system 1 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure includes the robot cleaner 100 and the cleaner station 200.

In this case, all the robot cleaners 100 according to the above-mentioned first to fourth embodiments may be applied as the robot cleaner 100.

Meanwhile, the cleaner station 200 includes a coupling part 210, a dust collecting part 220, the dust collecting motor 230, and the flow path part 240.

The dust collecting part 220 and the dust collecting motor 230 may be disposed in a housing of the cleaner station 200, and the coupling part 210 may be disposed at a lower side of the housing of the cleaner station 200. In this case, the coupling part 210 may be exposed to the outside of the cleaner station 200 and define an external appearance together with the housing.

The robot cleaner 100 is coupled to the coupling part 210. In this case, the coupling part 210 includes a bottom plate 211, a dust bin accommodation surface 212, and the dust collecting hole 213.

The bottom plate 211 may be configured such that the robot cleaner 100 climbs over the bottom plate 211 so as to be coupled. A degree to which the bottom plate 211 is inclined may be determined depending on the shape of the lower body 111 of the robot cleaner 100.

Therefore, the robot cleaner 100 may be coupled to an upper side of the bottom plate 211.

The dust bin accommodation surface 212 may be formed in a direction intersecting the ground surface. For example, the dust bin accommodation surface 212 may be a surface formed in a direction perpendicular to the ground surface and disposed to face the dust bin 120. The dust bin accommodation surface 212 may be concavely formed in a curved shape having a predetermined curvature in a horizontal direction. With this configuration, when the robot cleaner 100 moves to collect dust, the dust bin accommodation surface may guide the robot cleaner 100 so that the robot cleaner 100 is coupled at an exact position.

The coupling part 210 may include the dust collecting hole 213 provided at a position corresponding to the position at which the dust bin 120 of the robot cleaner 100 is disposed based on the state in which the robot cleaner 100 is coupled. More specifically, the dust collecting hole 213 may be formed in the dust bin accommodation surface 212.

Therefore, the dust collecting hole 213 may be disposed at the position facing the first dust discharge port 123 based on the state in which the robot cleaner 100 is coupled. In addition, the dust collecting hole 213 may be disposed at the position that faces the outer peripheral surface of the dust separating part 130 in the state in which the first discharge cover 124 is opened. Further, in the state in which the robot cleaner 100 is coupled to the cleaner station 200, at least a part of the dust collecting hole 213 may be disposed at the same height as the second dust discharge port 133. With this configuration, when the suction force of the dust collecting motor 230 is applied through the dust collecting hole 213, the dust stored in the dust capturing part 132 may flow to the dust collecting hole 213 along a shortest route, thereby improving efficiency in collecting dust.

The dust collecting hole 213 may be formed and provided in a shape corresponding to the first dust discharge port 123. For example, the dust collecting hole 213 may have a quadrangular hole shape. In this case, in case that the first discharge cover 124 is opened, the dust collecting hole 213 may accommodate at least a part of the first discharge cover 124. With this configuration, the first dust discharge port 123 and the dust collecting hole 213 may be disposed to be close to each other and communicate with each other even though the dust collecting motor 230 operates and the first discharge cover 124 is opened.

In addition, although not illustrated, the coupling part 210 may include a charging terminal (not illustrated) electrically connected to the robot cleaner 100 and configured to supply electric power to charge the robot cleaner 100. When the robot cleaner 100 is coupled, a corresponding terminal of the robot cleaner 100 and the charging terminal (not illustrated) may be electrically connected, and electric power may be supplied to the robot cleaner 100 from the coupling part 210 to charge the robot cleaner 100.

Meanwhile, the flow path part 240 may be formed in the coupling part 210. Specifically, a first flow path 241 may be formed in the coupling part 210. The flow path part 240 may be formed to communicate with the dust collecting hole 213.

The dust collecting part 220 may refer to a dust bag for collecting dust sucked from the inside of the dust bin 120 by the dust collecting motor 230.

The dust collecting part 220 may be detachably coupled to the housing of the cleaner station 200.

Therefore, the dust collecting part 220 may be separated from the cleaner station 200 and discarded, and a new dust collecting part 220 may be coupled. That is, the dust collecting part 220 may be defined as a consumable component.

When the suction force is generated by the dust collecting motor 230, a volume of the dust bag is increased, such that the dust may be accommodated in the dust bag. To this end, the dust bag may be made of a material that transmits air but does not transmit debris such as dust. For example, the dust bag may be made of a non-woven fabric material and have a hexahedral shape when the dust bag has an increased volume.

Therefore, it is not necessary for the user to separately tie a bag in which the dust is captured, and as a result, it is possible to improve convenience for the user.

The dust collecting motor 230 may be disposed below the dust collecting part 220. The dust collecting motor 230 may apply a suction force to the flow path part 240. Therefore, the dust collecting motor 230 may provide a suction force capable of sucking the dust in the dust bin 120 of the robot cleaner 100.

The flow path part 240 may connect the dust bin 120 of the robot cleaner 100 and the dust collecting part 220.

The flow path part 240 may be formed rearward of the coupling part 210 and formed upward after being bent.

Specifically, the flow path part 240 includes the first flow path 241. The first flow path 241 may communicate with the dust collecting hole 213 and be formed rearward of the dust collecting hole 213 in the forward/rearward direction of the cleaner station 200. For example, the first flow path 241 may be formed rearward of the dust collecting hole 213 in a direction parallel to the ground surface.

The space in the dust bin 120 of the robot cleaner 100, the dust collecting hole 213, and the first flow path 241 may communicate with one another. That is, when the dust collecting motor 230 operates, the first discharge cover 124 may be opened by the suction force of the dust collecting motor 230. In this case, the space in the dust bin 120 of the robot cleaner 100, the dust collecting hole 213, and the first flow path 241 may communicate with one another, and the dust stored in the dust bin 120 may pass through the dust collecting hole 213 and the first flow path 241.

In addition, the flow path part 240 includes a second flow path 242. The second flow path 242 may communicate with the first flow path 241 and formed in the upward/downward direction of the cleaner station 200. That is, the second flow path 242 may be bent upward from the first flow path 241 and formed in the direction perpendicular to the ground surface. When the dust collecting motor 230 operates, the dust stored in the dust bin 120 may be moved upward against the gravity by the suction force of the dust collecting motor 230.

In addition, the flow path part 240 includes a third flow path 243. The third flow path 243 may communicate with the second flow path 242 and be formed to define a predetermined angle with respect to the ground surface.

The third flow path 243 may refer to a flow path formed in a shape bent at a predetermined angle from the second flow path 242.

One longitudinal end of the third flow path 243 is connected to the second flow path 242. Further, the other longitudinal end of the third flow path 243 may be connected to the dust collecting part 220.

Therefore, the dust sucked into the dust bin 120 of the robot cleaner 100 may be collected in the dust collecting part 220 through the flow path part 240.

As the cleaner station 200 operates, the dust bin 120 of the robot cleaner 100 may be emptied as follows.

First, the robot cleaner 100 may be coupled to the cleaner station 200 while traveling and moving on the bottom plate 211. In this case, the robot cleaner 100 may move so that the first dust discharge port 123 becomes close to the dust collecting hole 213. In this case, whether the robot cleaner 100 is coupled at an exact position may be determined depending on whether the charging terminal of the cleaner station 200 and the corresponding terminal of the robot cleaner 100 come into contact with each other and are electrically connected to each other. Alternatively, the cleaner station 200 may further have a separate sensor to identify whether the robot cleaner 100 is coupled at the exact position.

When the robot cleaner 100 is coupled to the cleaner station 200, the dust collecting motor 230 operates. The suction force applied by the operation of the dust collecting motor 230 may be transmitted to the flow path part 240 and applied to the dust collecting hole 213. In this case, the first discharge cover 124, which is disposed at the position facing the dust collecting hole 213, is opened by the suction force, and the first dust discharge port 123 communicates with the dust collecting hole 213 and the flow path part 240.

Meanwhile, the first discharge cover 124 may be opened and accommodated in the space in the flow path part 240.

In addition, in the state in which the robot cleaner 100 is coupled to the coupling part 210, the sealer 124c, which has been in contact with the first discharge cover 124, may come into contact with the dust bin accommodation surface 212. Therefore, the outer peripheral surface of the dust bin 120 of the robot cleaner 100 and the coupling part 210 may be sealed by the sealer 124c. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the dust introduced into the dust collecting hole 213 through the first dust discharge port 123 from scattering to the outside.

The first dust discharge port 123 communicates with the dust collecting hole 213, and the suction force of the dust collecting motor 230 is transmitted into the dust bin 120. Therefore, a difference in atmospheric pressure may occur between the inside and outside of the dust capturing part 132, and the second dust discharge port 133 may communicate with the internal space of the dust bin 120 as the second discharge cover 134 is opened. As a result, the second dust discharge port 133 may communicate with the first dust discharge port 123, the dust collecting hole 213, and the flow path part 240, and the dust remaining in the dust capturing part 132 may be captured in the dust collecting part 220.

While the present disclosure has been described with reference to the specific embodiments, the specific embodiments are only for specifically explaining the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments. It is apparent that the present disclosure may be modified or altered by those skilled in the art without departing from the technical spirit of the present disclosure.

All the simple modifications or alterations to the present disclosure fall within the scope of the present disclosure, and the specific protection scope of the present disclosure will be defined by the appended claims.