CN118843414A - Base station of dust collector - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a vacuum cleaner base station. The flow path switching module of the present invention is arranged between a dust collecting flow path and a first vacuum cleaner flow path and a second vacuum cleaner flow path, so that the dust collecting flow path is selectively connected to the first vacuum cleaner flow path or the second vacuum cleaner flow path, and can be detachably combined with a cover body, so that the flow path switching module can be easily separated for easy cleaning.

Description

Vacuum cleaner base station

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a vacuum cleaner base station, and more particularly, to a vacuum cleaner base station in which a first vacuum cleaner and a second vacuum cleaner can be selectively combined or simultaneously combined.

Background Art

Generally, a vacuum cleaner is a household appliance that uses electricity to suck in air to suck in smaller garbage or dust and fills the dust collection bucket inside the product, and is usually called a vacuum cleaner.

Such vacuum cleaners can be divided into manual vacuum cleaners that the user directly moves the vacuum cleaner to perform cleaning, and automatic vacuum cleaners that move and perform cleaning by themselves. Manual vacuum cleaners can be divided into canister-type vacuum cleaners, upright vacuum cleaners, handheld vacuum cleaners, and stick-type vacuum cleaners according to the shape of the vacuum cleaner.

Conventionally, most household vacuum cleaners are cylinder-type vacuum cleaners. However, in recent years, handheld vacuum cleaners and stick-type vacuum cleaners are increasingly being used, in which the dust collecting bucket and the vacuum cleaner body are integrated to improve the usability.

In a cylinder-type vacuum cleaner, a main body and a suction port are connected by a rubber hose or a pipe, and a brush can be mounted on the suction port for use according to circumstances.

A handheld vacuum cleaner is a vacuum cleaner that maximizes portability. Although it is lightweight, it is short and requires squatting to clean, so the cleaning area is limited. Therefore, it is used to clean local places such as desks, sofas, or cars.

A stick vacuum cleaner can be used while standing, so it can be cleaned without bending over. Therefore, it is convenient to move and clean in a wide area. Compared with a handheld vacuum cleaner that cleans a narrow space, a stick vacuum cleaner can clean a wider space and can clean high places that cannot be reached by hand. In recent years, stick vacuum cleaners have been provided in a modular form to actively change the type of vacuum cleaner and use it for various objects.

In addition, recently, a cleaning robot that cleans the area by itself without user operation has been used. The cleaning robot automatically cleans the area to be cleaned by sucking in foreign matter such as dust from the ground while driving in the area to be cleaned.

However, in the existing handheld vacuum cleaners, stick vacuum cleaners and sweeping robots, the dust collecting bucket for storing the collected dust has a small capacity, so there is the inconvenience of the user needing to empty the dust collecting bucket every time.

In addition, there is a problem that when the dust collecting bucket is emptied, dust is scattered, which may adversely affect the health of the user.

In addition, there is a problem that the suction power of the vacuum cleaner is reduced when the residual dust in the dust collecting bucket is not removed.

In addition, there is a problem that if the dust remaining in the dust collecting box is not removed, a bad smell is generated due to the remaining dust.

Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2021-0157905 is proposed as a prior art document 1. Prior art document 1 relates to a vacuum cleaner base station and a method for controlling the vacuum cleaner base station.

Existing document 1 discloses a vacuum cleaner base station having a first flow path connected to a first vacuum cleaner and a second flow path connected to a second vacuum cleaner. In addition, the vacuum cleaner base station of existing document 1 discloses a flow path switching valve. The flow path switching valve is arranged between a dust collecting part, the first flow path and the second flow path, and selectively opens and closes the first flow path and the second flow path connected to the dust collecting part.

However, the existing document 1 provides a conceptual description of the flow path switching valve, but lacks a description of the specific structure of the flow path switching valve.

Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2021-0003543 is proposed as a prior art document 2. Prior art document 2 relates to a cleaning robot base station.

Existing document 2 discloses a robot vacuum cleaner base station for placement on a robot vacuum cleaner and including a connecting hose connected to a dust collecting device of the robot vacuum cleaner. In a first mode, the connecting hose is connected to the dust collecting device of the robot vacuum cleaner, sucking dust collected in the robot vacuum cleaner and capturing it in a dust collecting portion of the base station. In a second mode, the lower end of the connecting hose can be separated from the vacuum cleaner base station and combined with other cleaning modules to suck dust existing in other areas outside the robot vacuum cleaner and capture it in a dust collecting portion of the base station.

According to the existing document 2, the vacuum cleaner base station can selectively suck in dust existing outside the cleaning robot. However, there is the inconvenience that the user needs to open the cover of the vacuum cleaner base station and manually separate the connection hose, and there is the inconvenience of dust flying during the separation process.

Summary of the invention

Problems to be solved by the invention

The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a vacuum cleaner base station that solves the problems existing in the above-mentioned conventional vacuum cleaner base stations. That is, in the conventional vacuum cleaner base stations, in order to use the connection hose for other purposes, the user needs to open the cover and manually separate the connection hose. The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a vacuum cleaner base station having a flow path switching module. When the first vacuum cleaner and the second vacuum cleaner are selectively combined or simultaneously combined with the vacuum cleaner base station, the flow path switching module can selectively connect the connection hose to the first vacuum cleaner or the second vacuum cleaner, and the user does not need to manually reassemble the connection hose.

Another problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a vacuum cleaner base station that can prevent the seal from being damaged by friction with other components when the connecting hose of the flow path switching module moves between the first vacuum cleaner connecting flow path connecting part and the second vacuum cleaner connecting flow path connecting part.

Another problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a vacuum cleaner base station that can easily combine or separate a flow path switching module to clean dust caught in the flow path switching module.

The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a vacuum cleaner base station that prevents dust that may be generated in a flow path switching module from remaining and scattering outside a cover.

The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a vacuum cleaner base station that guides specific components of a flow path switching module with one side open to operate stably.

The subject of the present invention is not limited to the subject mentioned above, and those skilled in the art can clearly understand other subjects not mentioned from the following description.

Technical solutions to the problem

In order to achieve the objectives as stated above, the vacuum cleaner base station of the present invention includes: a cover body, which forms an outer shape, at least one of the first vacuum cleaner and the second vacuum cleaner is combined with the cover body, and a space is formed inside the cover body; a first vacuum cleaner flow path, which is arranged inside the cover body and connected to the dust collecting bucket of the first vacuum cleaner; a second vacuum cleaner flow path, which is arranged inside the cover body and connected to the dust collecting bucket of the second vacuum cleaner; a dust collecting flow path, the inlet of the dust collecting flow path is selectively connected to any one of the first vacuum cleaner flow path and the second vacuum cleaner flow path, and the outlet of the dust collecting flow path is connected to the dust collecting part; and a flow path switching module, which is arranged between the dust collecting flow path and the first vacuum cleaner flow path and the second vacuum cleaner flow path, so that the dust collecting flow path is selectively connected to the first vacuum cleaner flow path or the second vacuum cleaner flow path, and can be detachably combined with the cover body.

The flow path switching module may include a flange protruding radially along the direction of air flow, and at least any one of the first vacuum cleaner flow path, the second vacuum cleaner flow path, and the dust collection flow path may include a flange groove for inserting at least a portion of the flange.

The vacuum cleaner base station may further include a flow path switching module cover, which is disposed on one side of the flow path switching module and combined with the cover body to shield at least a portion of the flow path switching module. At this time, one side of the flow path switching module cover may be rotatably combined with the cover body.

The flow path switching module may include: a housing, including a first vacuum cleaner flow path connection part connected to the first vacuum cleaner flow path, a second vacuum cleaner flow path connection part connected to the second vacuum cleaner flow path, and a dust collecting flow path connection part connected to the dust collecting flow path; a connecting hose, the inlet of the connecting hose moves along the inner circumferential surface of the housing and selectively combines with any one of the first vacuum cleaner flow path connection part and the second vacuum cleaner flow path connection part, and the outlet of the connecting hose combines with the dust collecting flow path connection part; and a first connecting rod, one side of the first connecting rod is rotatably combined with the housing, and the other side of the first connecting rod is combined with the connecting hose. At this time, at least a portion of the flow path switching module cover can be in close contact with the first connecting rod.

The flow path switching module cover may include: a rotating shaft, which is arranged at the joint between the flow path switching module cover and the cover body; a lower cover, which extends upward from the rotating shaft and includes an inclined surface; and an upper cover, which extends upward from the upper end of the lower cover and includes a vertical surface perpendicular to the ground, and one side of the upper cover can be detachably fixed to the cover body.

The connecting hose and the first connecting rod are combined with the housing to form an assembly, and the assembly can be integrally combined with the cover or integrally separated from the cover.

The first connecting rod may include: a gear portion connected to the driving cam and formed with gear teeth; and a partition wall arranged on the back of the gear portion and extending radially outward from the gear portion. In this case, the partition wall may cover a portion of the gear teeth of the gear portion. Alternatively, the driving cam may include a gear portion meshing with the gear portion of the first connecting rod, and the partition wall may be arranged so as not to overlap with the gear portion of the driving cam when the flow path switching module is separated.

The flow path switching module is detachably coupled to the cover body, and can be detached when connected to any one of the first cleaner flow path and the second cleaner flow path.

In order to achieve the above-mentioned purpose, the vacuum cleaner base station of the present invention comprises:

A cover body forms an outer shape, and at least one of the first vacuum cleaner and the second vacuum cleaner is combined with the cover body, and a space is formed inside the cover body; a first vacuum cleaner flow path is arranged inside the cover body and connected to the dust collecting bucket of the first vacuum cleaner; a second vacuum cleaner flow path is arranged inside the cover body and connected to the dust collecting bucket of the second vacuum cleaner; a dust collecting flow path, an inlet of the dust collecting flow path is selectively connected to any one of the first vacuum cleaner flow path and the second vacuum cleaner flow path, and an outlet of the dust collecting flow path is connected to the dust collecting part; a flow path switching module is arranged between the dust collecting flow path and the first vacuum cleaner flow path and the second vacuum cleaner flow path, so that the dust collecting flow path is selectively connected to the first vacuum cleaner flow path or the second vacuum cleaner flow path; and a flow path switching module cover is arranged on one side of the flow path switching module and combined with the cover body to shield at least a part of the flow path switching module.

The flow path switching module can be detachably combined with the cover body.

The flow path switching module may include: a shell, which is detachably connected to the cover body; a connecting hose, which is connected to the shell and communicates with the flow path; and a first connecting rod, one side of which is rotatably connected to the shell, and the other side of which is connected to the connecting hose to move the connecting hose.

Detailed information regarding other embodiments is included in the detailed description and drawings.

Effects of the Invention

The vacuum cleaner base station according to the present invention has one or more of the following effects.

First, one side of the flow path switching module is rotatably connected to the shell and the other side is connected to the connecting hose, and the rotation axis of the first connecting rod is separated from the rotation axis of the second connecting rod. Therefore, even if the user does not reassemble the connecting hose by hand, the first connecting rod and the second connecting rod can move the connecting hose to connect with the first vacuum cleaner flow path connection part or the second vacuum cleaner flow path connection part.

Second, the flow path switching module can be detachably connected to the cover body. Specifically, the flange is slidably moved to be inserted into the flange groove for connection or separation. Therefore, there is also an advantage that the flow path switching module can be easily separated for easy cleaning.

Third, the flow path switching module cover is combined with the cover body and shields at least a portion of the flow path switching module, thereby also having the advantage of preventing dust remaining in the flow path switching module from escaping and scattering to the outside of the housing.

Fourthly, the flow path switching module cover includes at least one supporting member supporting one side of the first connecting rod, so there is also an advantage that the first connecting rod can operate stably without deviating from its track.

The effects of the present invention are not limited to the above-mentioned effects, and those skilled in the art can more clearly understand other effects not mentioned through the description of the attached claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG1 is a perspective view of a vacuum cleaner system composed of a vacuum cleaner base station and a vacuum cleaner according to the present invention,

FIG2 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the vacuum cleaner system of the present invention,

FIG3 is a perspective view of the vacuum cleaner base station with a portion of the cover opened and showing the flow path switching module,

FIG4 is an enlarged view of the flow path switching module in FIG3 ,

FIG5 is an exploded view of the flow path switching module of the present invention,

FIG6 is an enlarged view of a portion of the vacuum cleaner base station incorporating a flow path switching module,

FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of the flow path switching module after the first connecting rod in FIG. 6 is processed by dashed lines,

FIG8 is an enlarged view of the flow path switching module after the connecting hose in FIG7 is processed by dashed lines.

9 is a diagram showing a state in which the connecting hose in FIG. 6 moves a predetermined distance toward the second cleaner flow path connecting portion.

10 is a diagram showing a state in which the connecting hose in FIG. 9 is further moved toward the second cleaner flow path connecting portion by a predetermined distance.

FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of a portion of the vacuum cleaner base station in which the flow path switching module is combined, and is a view showing a state in which the connecting hose is combined with the second vacuum cleaner flow path connecting portion. FIG.

12 and 13 are diagrams showing a first trajectory and a second trajectory in a flow path switching module,

FIG. 14 is an enlarged view of a chamber in which a flow path switching module is disposed when the flow path switching module is separated.

FIG15 is a perspective view of a flow path switching module of the present invention,

16 to 18 are enlarged views of the flange and flange groove portion of FIG. 6 ,

19 is a diagram showing a signal generated by the position sensor during the movement of the connecting hose from the first cleaner flow path connecting portion toward the second cleaner flow path connecting portion,

20 is a diagram showing a signal generated by the position sensor during the movement of the connection hose from the second cleaner flow path connection portion toward the first cleaner flow path connection portion,

21 to 23 are diagrams showing the steps of separating the flow path switching module from the cover body.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

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

The present invention can be modified in various ways and can have various embodiments, so specific embodiments are shown in the drawings and are specifically described in the detailed description. This is not intended to limit the present invention to specific embodiments, but should be interpreted as including all changes, equivalents and substitutes within the scope of the present invention.

The terms used in this application are only used to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention. Unless otherwise clearly stated in the context, a singular expression may include a plural expression.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, may have the same meaning as that commonly understood by ordinary technicians in the technical field to which the present invention belongs. Terms defined in commonly used dictionaries may be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with the meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and unless clearly defined in this application, cannot be interpreted as an ideal or overly formal meaning.

1 shows a three-dimensional view of a vacuum cleaner system 10 composed of a vacuum cleaner base station 100 , a first vacuum cleaner 200 , and a second vacuum cleaner 300 according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 shows a schematic diagram of the structure of the vacuum cleaner system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

In addition, Figure 3 is a three-dimensional view of the vacuum cleaner base station with a portion of the cover opened and the flow path switching module shown, Figure 4 is an enlarged view of the flow path switching module in Figure 3, Figure 5 is an exploded view of the flow path switching module of the present invention, Figure 6 is an enlarged view of the portion of the vacuum cleaner base station combined with the flow path switching module, Figure 7 is an enlarged view of the flow path switching module after the first connecting rod in Figure 6 is processed with dotted lines, Figure 8 is an enlarged view of the flow path switching module after the connecting hose in Figure 7 is processed with dotted lines, Figure 9 is a view of the state in which the connecting hose in Figure 6 moves a specified distance toward the second vacuum cleaner flow path connecting portion, Figure 10 is a view of the state in which the connecting hose in Figure 9 is further moved a specified distance toward the second vacuum cleaner flow path connecting portion, and Figure 11 is an enlarged view of the portion of the vacuum cleaner base station combined with the flow path switching module, 12 and 13 are diagrams showing the first track and the second track in the flow path switching module, Figure 14 is an enlarged diagram of the chamber in which the flow path switching module is set when the flow path switching module is separated, Figure 15 is a three-dimensional diagram of the flow path switching module of the present invention, Figures 16 to 18 are enlarged diagrams of the flange and flange groove parts of Figure 6, Figure 19 is a diagram showing the signal generated by the position sensor during the movement of the connecting hose from the first vacuum cleaner flow path connection part toward the second vacuum cleaner flow path connection part, Figure 20 is a diagram showing the signal generated by the position sensor during the movement of the connecting hose from the second vacuum cleaner flow path connection part toward the first vacuum cleaner flow path connection part, and Figures 21 to 23 are diagrams showing the steps of separating the flow path switching module from the cover body.

1 and 2 , a vacuum cleaner system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a vacuum cleaner base station 100 and vacuum cleaners 200 and 300. At this time, the vacuum cleaners 200 and 300 may include a first vacuum cleaner 200 and a second vacuum cleaner 300. On the other hand, in this embodiment, some of the components may be omitted for implementation, and additional components are not excluded.

The vacuum cleaner system 10 may include a vacuum cleaner base station 100. The vacuum cleaner base station 100 may be combined with a first vacuum cleaner 200 and a second vacuum cleaner 300. The first vacuum cleaner 200 may be combined with the side of the vacuum cleaner base station 100. Specifically, the body of the first vacuum cleaner 200 may be combined with the side of the vacuum cleaner base station 100. The second vacuum cleaner 300 may be combined with the lower part of the vacuum cleaner base station 100. The vacuum cleaner base station 100 may remove dust from the dust collection bucket 220 of the first vacuum cleaner 200. The vacuum cleaner base station 100 may remove dust from the dust collection bucket (not shown) of the second vacuum cleaner 300.

First, the structure of the first vacuum cleaner 200 will be described with reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 .

The first vacuum cleaner 200 may be a vacuum cleaner manually operated by a user. For example, the first vacuum cleaner 200 may be a handheld vacuum cleaner or a stick vacuum cleaner.

The first vacuum cleaner 200 may be placed on the vacuum cleaner base station 100. The first vacuum cleaner 200 may be supported by the vacuum cleaner base station 100. The first vacuum cleaner 200 may be combined with the vacuum cleaner base station 100.

The first cleaner 200 may include a main body 210 . The main body 210 may include a main body cover 211 , a suction part 212 , a dust separation part 213 , a suction motor 214 , an air discharge cover 215 , a handle 216 , and an operation part 218 .

The main body cover 211 may constitute the appearance of the first vacuum cleaner 200. The main body cover 211 may provide a space capable of accommodating the suction motor 214 and the filter (not shown) inside. The main body cover 211 may be configured in a shape similar to a cylinder.

The suction part 212 may protrude outward from the main housing 211. As an example, the suction part 212 may be formed in a cylindrical shape with an opening inside. The suction part 212 may be combined with the extension pipe 250. The suction part 212 may provide a flow path (hereinafter, referred to as "suction flow path") through which air containing dust may flow.

On the other hand, in this embodiment, a virtual line penetrating the interior of the cylindrical suction portion 212 may be formed. That is, a virtual suction flow path penetrating line A2 penetrating the suction flow path in the longitudinal direction may be formed.

The dust separation part 213 may be communicated with the suction part 212. The dust separation part 213 may separate the dust sucked into the inside via the suction part 212. The space inside the dust separation part 213 may be communicated with the space inside the dust collecting bucket 220.

For example, the dust separation unit 213 may include at least two cyclone units capable of separating dust by cyclone flow. In addition, the space inside the dust separation unit 213 may be communicated with the suction flow path. Therefore, the air and dust sucked in via the suction unit 212 flow in a spiral along the inner circumference of the dust separation unit 213. Therefore, a cyclone flow may be generated in the internal space of the dust separation unit 213.

The dust separator 213 is communicated with the suction part 212 and is configured by applying the principle of a dust collector using centrifugal force to separate dust sucked into the body 210 through the suction part 212 .

The suction motor 214 can generate suction force for sucking air. The suction motor 214 can be accommodated in the main body cover 211. The suction motor 214 can generate suction force by rotating. As an example, the suction motor 214 can be configured to be similar to a cylindrical shape.

On the other hand, in the present embodiment, a virtual suction motor axis A1 extending the rotation axis of the suction motor 214 may be formed.

The air outlet cover 215 may be disposed on one axial side of the main housing 211. A filter for filtering air may be accommodated in the air outlet cover 215. As an example, a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter may be accommodated in the air outlet cover 215.

The air discharge cover 215 may be formed with an air discharge port (not shown) for discharging the air sucked by the suction force of the suction motor 214 .

The handle 216 can be held by the user. The handle 216 can be arranged behind the suction motor 214. As an example, the handle 216 can be formed in a cylindrical shape. Alternatively, the handle 216 can be formed in a curved cylindrical shape. The handle 216 can be arranged to form a specified angle with the main cover 211, the suction motor 214, or the dust separation unit 213.

On the other hand, in this embodiment, an imaginary handle axis A3 extending along the length direction of the handle 216 (the axial direction of the cylinder) may be formed.

The operation unit 218 may be disposed on the handle 216. The operation unit 218 may be disposed on an inclined surface formed in an upper region of the handle 216. The user may input an operation or stop command of the first cleaner 200 through the operation unit 218.

The first cleaner 200 may include a dust collecting bucket 220. The dust collecting bucket 220 may be in communication with the dust separating portion 213. The dust collecting bucket 220 may store dust separated from the dust separating portion 213.

The dust bucket 220 may include a dust bucket body 221 and a discharge cover 222 .

The dust collecting bucket body 221 may provide a space capable of storing dust separated from the dust separating portion 213. As an example, the dust collecting bucket body 221 may be formed in a cylindrical shape.

The dust collecting bucket 220 may include a discharge cover 222. The discharge cover 222 may be disposed on the lower side of the dust collecting bucket 220.

The discharge cover 222 may be configured to open and close one end portion of the length direction of the dust collecting bucket body 221. Specifically, the discharge cover 222 may selectively open and close the lower portion of the dust collecting bucket 220 that is open downward.

The discharge cover 222 can be combined with the dust collecting bucket body 221 by hooking. On the other hand, the discharge cover 222 can be separated from the dust collecting bucket body 221 by a coupling rod (not shown).

The first vacuum cleaner 200 may include a battery cover 230. The battery cover 230 may contain a battery 240. The battery cover 230 may be disposed on the lower side of the handle 216. As an example, the battery cover 230 may be in a hexahedral shape with an open lower portion. The back of the battery cover 230 may be connected to the handle 216.

The battery cover 230 may include a receiving portion that is open downward. The battery 240 may be coupled or separated through the receiving portion of the battery cover 230 .

The first cleaner 200 may include a battery 240 .

For example, the battery 240 may be detachably coupled to the first vacuum cleaner 200. The battery 240 may be detachably coupled to the battery cover 230. As an example, the battery 240 may be inserted into the battery cover 230 from below. By configuring as described above, the portability of the first vacuum cleaner 200 may be improved.

Alternatively, the battery 240 may be integrally formed with the battery cover 230 inside the battery cover 230. In this case, the bottom surface of the battery 240 is not exposed to the outside.

The battery 240 may supply power to the suction motor 214 of the first cleaner 200 .

The first cleaner 200 may include an extension pipe 250. The extension pipe 250 may be in communication with the cleaning module 260. The extension pipe 250 may be in communication with the main body 210. The extension pipe 250 may be in communication with the suction part 212 of the main body 210. The extension pipe 250 may be formed in a long cylindrical shape.

The main body 210 may be connected to the extension tube 250. The main body 210 may be connected to the cleaning module 260 through the extension tube 250. The main body 210 may generate suction using the suction motor 214, and may provide suction to the cleaning module 260 through the extension tube 250. External dust may flow into the main body 210 via the cleaning module 260 and the extension tube 250.

The first cleaner 200 may include a cleaning module 260. The cleaning module 260 may be in communication with the extension tube 250. Therefore, external air may flow into the main body 210 of the first cleaner 200 via the cleaning module 260 and the extension tube 250 under the effect of the suction force generated by the main body 210 of the first cleaner 200.

The dust in the dust collecting bucket 220 of the first vacuum cleaner 200 can be captured in the dust collecting unit 170 of the vacuum cleaner base station 100 under the action of gravity and the suction force of the dust collecting motor 191. Thus, the dust in the dust collecting bucket can be removed without the user's additional operation, thereby improving the user's convenience. In addition, the trouble of the user needing to empty the dust collecting bucket every time can be eliminated. In addition, the scattering of dust when the dust collecting bucket is emptied can be prevented.

The first vacuum cleaner 200 may be coupled to the side of the housing 110. Specifically, the main body 210 of the first vacuum cleaner 200 may be placed on the coupling portion 120. In this case, the central axis of the dust collecting bucket 220 is arranged in a direction parallel to the ground, and the extension tube 250 may be arranged in a direction perpendicular to the ground (see FIG. 2 ).

The dust removal system 10 may include a second vacuum cleaner 300. The second vacuum cleaner 300 may refer to a sweeping robot. The second vacuum cleaner 300 may automatically clean the area to be cleaned by sucking in foreign matter such as dust from the ground while driving on its own in the area to be cleaned. The second vacuum cleaner 300, i.e., the sweeping robot, may include a distance sensor for detecting the distance from obstacles such as furniture, office supplies, or walls disposed in the cleaning area, and left and right wheels for the movement of the sweeping robot. The second vacuum cleaner 300 may be combined with a vacuum cleaner base station. The dust in the second vacuum cleaner 300 may be captured in the dust collecting unit 170 via the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182.

1 and 2 , a vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to the present invention will be described.

The vacuum cleaner base station 100 may be configured with a first vacuum cleaner 200 and a second vacuum cleaner 300. The first vacuum cleaner 200 may be combined with the side of the vacuum cleaner base station 100. Specifically, the main body of the first vacuum cleaner 200 may be combined with the side of the vacuum cleaner base station 100. The second vacuum cleaner 300 may be combined with the lower part of the vacuum cleaner base station 100. The vacuum cleaner base station 100 may remove dust from the dust collection bucket 220 of the first vacuum cleaner 200. The vacuum cleaner base station 100 may remove dust from the dust collection bucket (not shown) of the second vacuum cleaner 300.

The vacuum cleaner base station 100 may include a cover 110 . The cover 110 forms the outer shape of the vacuum cleaner base station 100 , and at least one of the first vacuum cleaner 200 or the second vacuum cleaner 300 is combined with the cover 110 , and a space is formed inside the cover 110 .

The cover 110 may form the appearance of the vacuum cleaner base station 100. Specifically, the cover 110 may be formed in a cylindrical shape including at least one outer wall surface. As an example, the cover 110 may be formed in a shape similar to a quadrangular prism.

At least one of the first vacuum cleaner 200 and the second vacuum cleaner 300 is combined with the cover body 110. For example, only the first vacuum cleaner 200 may be combined with the cover body 110, or only the second vacuum cleaner 300 may be combined with the cover body 110, or the first vacuum cleaner 200 and the second vacuum cleaner 300 may be combined with the cover body 110.

A space capable of accommodating a dust collecting portion 170 for storing dust and a dust suction module 190 for generating a flow force for collecting dust into the dust collecting portion 130 may be formed inside the cover body 110 .

The cover body 110 may include a bottom surface 111 , an outer wall surface 112 , and an upper surface 113 .

The bottom surface 111 may support the lower side of the dust suction module 190 in the gravity direction. That is, the bottom surface 111 may support the lower side of the dust collecting motor 191 of the suction module 190.

At this time, the bottom surface 111 can be arranged toward the ground. The bottom surface 111 can be arranged not only parallel to the ground, but also inclined at a predetermined angle to the ground. With such a structure, the dust collecting motor 191 can be stably supported, and when combined with the first vacuum cleaner 200, the overall weight balance can be maintained.

The outer wall surface 112 may refer to a surface formed along the gravity direction, or may refer to a surface connected to the bottom surface 111. For example, the outer wall surface 112 may refer to a surface vertically connected to the bottom surface 111. In a different embodiment, the outer wall surface 112 may also be arranged to be inclined at a predetermined angle to the bottom surface 111.

The upper surface 113 may form the upper appearance of the vacuum cleaner base station. That is, the upper surface 113 may refer to a surface that is disposed at the uppermost side in the gravity direction of the vacuum cleaner base station and exposed to the outside.

For reference, in the present embodiment, the upper side and the lower side may respectively refer to the upper side and the lower side along the gravity direction (the direction perpendicular to the ground) when the vacuum cleaner base station 100 is set on the ground.

At this time, the upper surface 113 may be arranged not only parallel to the ground but also inclined at a predetermined angle to the ground.

A display unit may be disposed on the upper surface 113. For example, the display unit 410 may display the status of the vacuum cleaner base station 100, the status of the first vacuum cleaner 200, and the status of the second vacuum cleaner 300, and may also display information such as the cleaning progress and a map of the cleaning area.

On the other hand, according to an embodiment, the upper surface 113 can be configured to be detachable from the outer wall surface. At this time, if the upper surface 113 is detached, the inner space surrounded by the outer wall surface can accommodate the battery detached from the vacuum cleaner 200, 300, and can be provided with a terminal (not shown) capable of charging the detached battery.

The vacuum cleaner base station 100 may include a coupling portion 120 for coupling with the first vacuum cleaner 200. Specifically, the coupling portion 120 may be configured on the outer wall surface, and the main body 210, the dust collection bucket 220 and the battery cover 230 of the first vacuum cleaner 200 may be coupled to the coupling portion 120. Specifically, the coupling portion 120 may be configured on the front side of the outer wall surface.

The first cleaner 200 may be coupled to the coupling portion 120 .

The vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention may include a fixing unit (not shown). The fixing unit (not shown) may be configured on the cover 110. In addition, the fixing unit (not shown) may be configured on the back of the coupling portion (not shown). The fixing unit (not shown) may be fixedly coupled to the first vacuum cleaner 200 of the coupling portion 120. Specifically, the fixing unit (not shown) may be fixedly coupled to the dust bucket 220 and the battery cover 230 of the first vacuum cleaner 200 of the coupling portion 120.

The vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention may include a door unit (not shown). The door unit (not shown) may be configured to be able to open and close the first cleaner flow path 181.

The vacuum cleaner base station 100 of the present invention may include a cover opening unit (not shown). The cover opening unit (not shown) is disposed at the coupling portion (not shown) and can open a discharge cover (not shown) of the first vacuum cleaner 200 .

The vacuum cleaner base station 100 may include a dust collecting unit 170. The dust collecting unit 170 may be disposed inside the cover body 110. The dust collecting unit 170 may be disposed on the lower side of the coupling unit 120 in the direction of gravity.

As an example, the dust collecting unit 170 may be a dust bag that collects dust sucked from the inside of the dust collecting container 220 of the first vacuum cleaner 200 by the dust collecting motor 191 .

The dust collecting portion 170 may be detachably coupled to the cover body 110 .

Therefore, the dust collecting part 170 may be discarded after being separated from the cover body 110, and a new dust collecting part 170 may be combined with the cover body 110. That is, the dust collecting part 170 may be defined as a consumable part.

The dust bag can be configured to contain dust inside while increasing in volume when the dust collecting motor 191 generates suction. To this end, the dust bag can be formed of a material that allows air to pass through but does not allow foreign matter such as dust to pass through. As an example, the dust bag can be formed of a non-woven fabric material and can be in a hexahedral shape based on the increased volume.

Therefore, the user does not need to additionally bundle a bag or the like that collects the dust, and thus the user's convenience can be improved.

On the other hand, the vacuum cleaner base station 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention may further include a sterilization module (not shown).

A sterilization module (not shown) may be disposed on the flow path portion 180 , or at least one sterilization module may be disposed around the dust collecting portion 170 .

The sterilization module (not shown) is a structure for sterilizing the dust collected in the dust collecting part 170 .

The cleaner base station 100 may include a flow path unit 180 . The flow path unit 180 may connect the dust collecting unit 170 to the first cleaner 200 or the second cleaner 300 .

The flow path portion 180 may include a first cleaner flow path 181 , a second cleaner flow path 182 , a dust collection flow path 184 , and a flow path switching module 183 .

The first cleaner flow path 181 is disposed inside the housing 110 and is connected to the dust collecting container 220 of the first cleaner 200 .

The first cleaner flow path 181 may connect the dust bucket 220 and the dust collecting part 170 of the first cleaner 200. The first cleaner flow path 181 may be disposed at the rear side of the joint (not shown). The first cleaner flow path 181 may refer to the space between the dust bucket 220 and the dust collecting part 170 of the first cleaner 200.

The first cleaner flow path 181 may extend rearward from the coupling portion 120 and may be bent and extend downward.

The dust in the dust collecting bucket 220 of the first cleaner 200 may move to the dust collecting portion 170 via the first cleaner flow path 181 .

The second cleaner flow path 182 is disposed inside the housing 110 and is connected to a dust collecting container (not shown) of the second cleaner 300 .

The second cleaner flow path 182 may connect the second cleaner 300 and the dust collecting part 170 . The dust in the second cleaner 300 may move to the dust collecting part 170 via the second cleaner flow path 182 .

The inlet of the dust collecting passage 184 is selectively connected to any one of the first cleaner passage 181 and the second cleaner passage 182 , and the outlet of the dust collecting passage 184 is connected to the dust collecting unit.

The inlet of the dust collecting passage 184 is connected to the dust collecting passage connection portion 1831 d of the housing 1831 .

As shown in Fig. 6, when the inlet 1832a of the connection hose 1832 is combined with the first cleaner flow path connection part 1831b, the dust collection flow path 184 is connected to the first cleaner flow path 181, so that air can flow. Differently, as shown in Fig. 9, when the inlet 1832a of the connection hose 1832 is combined with the second cleaner flow path connection part 1831c, the dust collection flow path 184 is connected to the second cleaner flow path 182, so that air can flow.

The outlet of the dust collecting passage 184 is coupled to the inlet of the dust collecting portion 170 , thereby communicating with the internal space of the dust collecting portion 170 .

The flow path switching module 183 is a component that selectively connects the dust collection flow path 184 to the first cleaner flow path 181 or the second cleaner flow path 182 .

The flow path switching module 183 selectively connects the dust collecting portion 170 disposed in the housing 110 to the first cleaner flow path 181 or the second cleaner flow path 182 .

The flow path switching module 183 is disposed between the dust collecting portion 170 and the first cleaner flow path 181 and the second cleaner flow path 182 .

The flow path switching module 183 may be disposed between the dust collecting unit 170 and the first and second cleaner flow paths 181 and 182. The flow path switching module 183 may selectively open and close the first and second cleaner flow paths 181 and 182 connected to the dust collecting unit 170. Thus, a decrease in suction force caused by opening of the plurality of flow paths 181 and 182 may be prevented.

For example, when only the first cleaner 200 is coupled to the cleaner base station 100 , the flow path switching module 183 may connect the first cleaner flow path 181 and the dust collecting portion 170 , and may disconnect the connection between the second cleaner flow path 182 and the dust collecting portion 170 .

Another way of saying that the first cleaner flow path 181 is connected to the dust collecting part 170 is as follows: The connecting hose 1832 is connected to the first cleaner flow path connecting part 1831 b. The connecting hose 1832 is connected to the first cleaner flow path 181. The first cleaner flow path 181 is in communication with the dust collecting part 170.

Another way of saying that the second cleaner flow path 182 is connected to the dust collecting part 170 is as follows: The connecting hose 1832 is connected to the second cleaner flow path connecting part 1831 c. The connecting hose 1832 is connected to the second cleaner flow path 182. The second cleaner flow path 182 is connected to the dust collecting part 170.

The cleaner base station 100 may include a dust suction module 190. The dust suction module 190 may include a dust collecting motor 191, a first filter 192, and a second filter (not shown).

The dust collecting motor 191 may be disposed at the lower portion of the dust collecting unit 170. The dust collecting motor 191 may generate suction force in the first cleaner flow path 181 and the second cleaner flow path 182. Thus, the dust collecting motor 191 may provide suction force capable of sucking dust in the dust collecting bucket 220 of the first cleaner 200 and dust in the second cleaner 300.

The dust collecting motor 191 may generate suction by rotating. As an example, the dust collecting motor 191 may be formed in a shape similar to a cylinder.

The first filter 192 may be disposed between the dust collecting portion 170 and the dust collecting motor 191. The first filter 192 may be a pre-filter.

The second filter (not shown) may be disposed between the dust collecting motor 191 and the outer wall surface 112. The second filter (not shown) may be a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter.

On the other hand, the vacuum cleaner base station 100 may further include a charging unit (not shown). The charging unit (not shown) may be electrically connected to the first vacuum cleaner 200 or the second vacuum cleaner 300. The charging unit (not shown) may supply power to the battery of the first vacuum cleaner 200 or the second vacuum cleaner 300.

In addition, the vacuum cleaner base station 100 may further include a side door (not shown). The side door may be disposed on the cover body 110. The side door may selectively expose the dust collecting unit 170 to the outside. Thus, the user may easily remove the dust collecting unit 170 from the vacuum cleaner base station 100.

3 to 12 , the detailed structure of the flow path switching module 183 will be described.

First, define directions with reference to Figure 6. Figure 6 is a front view of the flow path switching module 183. With the shell 1831 as the center, the direction where the second vacuum cleaner flow path 182 is located is defined as the left side. With the shell 1831 as the center, the direction where the drive cam 1836 is located is defined as the right side. With the shell 1831 as the center, the direction where the first vacuum cleaner flow path 181 is located is defined as the top. With the shell 1831 as the center, the direction where the dust collecting part 170 is located is defined as the bottom. With the shell 1831 as the center, the direction where the first connecting rod 1833 is located is defined as the front. With the shell 1831 as the center, the direction where the second connecting rod 1834 is located is defined as the rear.

4 , the flow path switching module 183 is disposed inside the housing 110 .

4 , the flow path switching module 183 is disposed inside the left cover of the housing 110 and can be exposed to the outside when the left cover of the housing 110 is opened. Alternatively, unlike FIG4 , the flow path switching module 183 can also be disposed inside the right cover.

4 , the flow path switching module 183 is disposed inside the flow path switching module cover 185 , and when the flow path switching module cover 185 is opened, the flow path switching module 183 may be exposed to the outside.

The flow path switching module 183 includes a housing 1831 , a connecting hose 1832 , a first connecting rod 1833 , a second connecting rod 1834 , a switching motor 1835 , and a driving cam 1836 .

The flow path switching module 183 includes a housing 1831. The housing 1831 is a component that forms an outer shape and a frame to which other components can be coupled or supported.

The housing 1831 is formed in a cylindrical shape with a space inside, and has a first cleaner flow path connection portion 1831b connected to the first cleaner flow path 181 and a second cleaner flow path connection portion 1831c connected to the second cleaner flow path 182. In addition, the housing 1831 has a dust collection flow path connection portion 1831d connected to the dust collection flow path 184.

The inner circumference of the housing 1831 may form an arc. The inner circumference of the housing 1831 forms a part of an imaginary circle centered on the central axis. Referring to Fig. 6, the central axis 1831a of the housing is arranged along the front-rear direction.

The first cleaner flow path connection part 1831b may be formed to protrude radially outward from the housing 1831. Referring to Fig. 6, the first cleaner flow path connection part 1831b may be formed to protrude upward. A flange 1831ba is formed at the end of the first cleaner flow path connection part 1831b, and the flange 1831ba can be fixed by being inserted into the groove 181c formed in the first cleaner flow path 181.

The second cleaner flow path connection part 1831c may be formed to protrude radially outward from the housing 1831. Referring to Fig. 6, the second cleaner flow path connection part 1831c may be formed to protrude to the left. A flange 1831ca is formed at the end of the first cleaner flow path connection part 1831c, and the flange 1831ca may be fixed by being inserted into the groove 182a formed in the second cleaner flow path 182.

The dust collecting flow path connection part 1831d may be formed to protrude radially outward from the housing 1831. Referring to Fig. 6, the dust collecting flow path connection part 1831d may be formed to protrude downward. A flange 1831da is formed at the end of the dust collecting flow path connection part 1831d, and the flange 1831da may be fixed by being inserted into the groove 184a formed in the dust collecting flow path 184.

The housing 1831 can be detachably coupled to the housing 110. The housing 1831 moves backward and is inserted into the housing 110 from the back, and the flanges 1831ba, 1831ca, and 1831da formed on the first cleaner flow path connection part 1831b, the second cleaner flow path connection part 1831c, and the dust collection flow path connection part 1831d are inserted into the grooves 181c, 182a, and 184a of the first cleaner flow path 181, the second cleaner flow path 182, and the dust collection flow path 184 to be fixed. Then, the housing 1831 can be screwed to the housing 110 by at least one screw.

The flow path switching module 183 includes a connection hose 1832 . The connection hose 1832 is a component that selectively connects the dust collection flow path 184 with the first cleaner flow path 181 or the second cleaner flow path 182 .

The inlet 1832a of the connection hose 1832 is selectively connected to any one of the first cleaner flow path connection part 1831b and the second cleaner flow path connection part 1831c while moving along the inner circumference of the housing 1831. The outlet 1832b of the connection hose is connected to the dust collection flow path connection part 1831d.

The connecting hose 1832 may be formed of a material having elasticity. For example, the connecting hose 1832 may be made of rubber or resin. Thus, the connecting hose 1832 may be deformed in shape during movement.

Alternatively, a corrugation may be formed at least in a portion of the connection hose 1832. Thus, the structure of the connection hose 1832 may be deformed.

The inlet 1832a of the connecting hose 1832 is selectively combined with any one of the first cleaner flow path connection part 1831b and the second cleaner flow path connection part 1831c. As shown in FIG6, the connecting hose 1832 can be combined with the first cleaner flow path connection part 1831b, so that the first cleaner flow path 181 and the dust collecting part 170 are connected. Alternatively, as shown in FIG9, the connecting hose 1832 can be combined with the second cleaner flow path connection part 1831c, so that the second cleaner flow path 182 and the dust collecting part 170 are connected.

The inlet 1832a of the connection hose 1832 moves along the inner circumferential surface of the housing 1831. Specifically, the inlet 1832a of the connection hose 1832 moves along the inner circumferential surface of the housing 1831 at a distance greater than a predetermined distance from the housing 1831. Therefore, there is an effect that the seal 1832c disposed at the inlet 1832a of the connection hose 1832 is not damaged while the connection hose 1832 moves along the inner circumferential surface of the housing 1831.

The outlet 1832b of the connecting hose 1832 is connected to the dust collecting flow path connecting portion 1831d. The outlet 1832b of the connecting hose 1832 is fixedly connected to the dust collecting flow path connecting portion 1831d and is always connected to the dust collecting portion 170.

The flow path switching module 183 includes a first connecting rod 1833. The first connecting rod 1833 is a component that transmits the power of the motor to the connecting hose 1832 to move the connecting hose 1832.

One side of the first link 1833 is rotatably coupled to the housing 1831 , and the other side thereof is coupled to the connecting hose 1832 .

The first link 1833 rotates around a rotation shaft 1833a disposed at one side. The first link 1833 is rotatably coupled to the housing 1831 via the rotation shaft 1833a of the first link 1833. Referring to FIG. 6 , the first link 1833 is rotatably coupled to the housing 1831 on the right side of the connection hose 1832.

The rotation axis 1833a of the first link is a rotation center for rotating the first link 1833. The rotation axis 1833a of the first link extends from the first link 1833 toward the housing 1831. The rotation axis 1833a of the first link is rotatably coupled to the housing 1831.

The first link 1833 extends in one direction from a rotation axis 1833 a of the first link, and a connection portion 1833 b with the connection hose 1832 is disposed at an end portion.

The connection portion 1833b of the first link is hingedly coupled to the inlet 1832a of the connection hose 1832. The first link 1833 is connected to the connection hose 1832 through the connection portion 1833b of the first link. Therefore, when the first link 1833 rotates, the connection hose 1832 may move.

6 , the first link 1833 extends to the left from the rotation shaft 1833a. The connection portion 1833b of the first link is disposed at the left end of the first link 1833. The connection portion 1833b of the first link may be connected to the left end of the inlet 1832a of the connection hose 1832.

The first link 1833 includes a gear portion 1833c.

6 , the first link 1833 may extend from the first link's rotation axis 1833a to the opposite direction of the connection portion 1833b, and the gear portion 1833c of the first link is disposed at the end.

Gear teeth are formed at the end of the gear portion 1833c of the first link. The gear portion 1833c of the first link is connected to the gear portion 1836c of the driving cam. Specifically, the gear portion 1833c of the first link is meshed with the gear portion 1836c of the driving cam.

The first link includes a partition wall 1833d.

The partition wall 1833d of the first connecting rod is a component that prevents the flow path switching module 183 from being separated when the connecting hose 1832 is located at a specific position. Specifically, when the connecting hose 1832 is not connected to the first cleaner flow path connecting portion 1831b and the connecting hose 1832 is being connected to the second cleaner flow path portion 1831c, or when the connecting hose 1832 is located between the first cleaner flow path portion 1831b and the second cleaner flow path portion 1831c, the flow path switching module 183 is blocked from being separated.

The partition wall 1833d of the first link is disposed on the back surface of the gear portion 1833c of the first link, and extends radially outward of the gear portion 1833c of the first link.

The partition wall 1833d of the first link is disposed on the back of the gear portion 1833c of the first link. Therefore, the assembly including the housing 1831 and the first link 1833 separates as it moves forward toward the driving cam 1836, but the partition wall 1833d is stuck to the gear portion 1836c of the driving cam, so that the assembly cannot be separated.

The partition wall 1833d of the first link is disposed on a portion of the gear portion 1833c of the first link. The partition wall 1833d of the first link covers a portion of the gear portion 1833c.

When the flow path switching module 1833 is separated, the partition wall 1833d of the first connecting rod and the gear portion 1836c of the driving cam are not overlapped. Referring to FIG6 , the partition wall 1833d overlaps with the gear portion 1836c of the driving cam behind the gear portion 1836c of the driving cam, so that the partition wall 1833d of the first connecting rod is stuck to the gear portion 1836c of the driving cam and cannot be separated. On the contrary, referring to FIG9 , the partition wall 1833d of the first connecting rod and the gear portion 1836c of the driving cam are not overlapped, so the flow path switching module 183 can be easily separated.

When the connecting hose 1832 is combined with the first cleaner flow path connection part 1831b, the partition wall 1833d of the first connecting rod and the driving cam 1836 are not arranged in front-to-back overlapping arrangement, when the connecting hose 1832 is combined with the second cleaner flow path connection part 1831c, the partition wall 1833d of the first connecting rod and the driving cam 1836 are arranged in front-to-back overlapping arrangement, and when the connecting hose 1832 is arranged between the first cleaner flow path connection part 1831b and the second cleaner flow path connection part 1831c, the partition wall 1833d of the first connecting rod and the driving cam 1836 are arranged in front-to-back overlapping arrangement. Therefore, the flow path switching module 183 can only be separated in the state where the first cleaner flow path connection part 1831b is closed, thereby having the effect of preventing dust falling through the first cleaner flow path 181 during the combination or separation from being scattered.

The flow path switching module 183 includes a second link 1834. The second link 1834 is a component that moves the connection hose 1832 together with the first link 1833.

One side of the second connecting rod 1834 is rotatably coupled to the housing 1831 , and the other side thereof is coupled to the connecting hose 1832 .

The second connecting rod 1834 rotates around a rotating shaft 1834a disposed on one side. One side of the second connecting rod 1834 is rotatably coupled to the housing 1831. The second connecting rod 1834 rotates around a rotating shaft 1834a disposed on one side. The rotating shaft 1834a of the second connecting rod may be disposed at an end of the second connecting rod 1834. Referring to FIG. 6 , the second connecting rod 1834 is rotatably coupled to the housing 1831 at the rear of the connecting hose 1832.

The rotation axis 1834a of the second link is the rotation center for rotating the second link 1834. The rotation axis 1834a of the second link extends from the second link 1834 toward the housing 1831. The rotation axis 1834a of the second link is rotatably coupled to the housing 1831.

The second link 1834 extends in one direction from a rotation axis 1834 a of the second link, and a connection portion 1834 b with the connection hose 1832 is disposed at an end portion.

The connection portion 1834b of the second link is hingedly coupled to the inlet 1832a of the connection hose 1832. The second link 1834 is connected to the connection hose 1832 through the connection portion 1834b of the second link. Therefore, when the second link 1834 rotates, the connection hose 1832 can move.

One side of the second link 1834 is coupled to the housing 1831, and the other side of the second link 1834 is coupled to the connection hose 1832. Specifically, one end of the second link 1834 becomes a rotation axis 1834a and is coupled to the housing 1831. The other end of the second link 1834 becomes a connection portion 1834b and is hingedly coupled to the inlet 1832a of the connection hose 1832.

6 , the second connecting rod rotation axis 1834a is disposed at the lower end of the second connecting rod 1834 and is rotatably coupled to the housing 1831. The second connecting rod 1834 extends upward from the second connecting rod rotation axis 1834a, and a second connecting rod connection portion 1834b is disposed at the upper end thereof. The second connecting rod connection portion 1834b can be connected to the right side end of the inlet 1832a of the connecting hose 1832.

12 and 13, the rotation axis 1833a of the first connecting rod is separated from the rotation axis 1834a of the second connecting rod. As a result, the rotation axis 1833a of the first connecting rod and the rotation axis 1834a of the second connecting rod become two focal points, and the connecting hose 1832 can move along an elliptical trajectory. As shown by the double-dotted line in FIG. 12 and FIG. 13, the elliptical trajectory of the connecting hose 1832 is the trajectory through which the center point of the inlet 1832a of the connecting hose passes. Therefore, during the movement of the inlet 1832a of the connecting hose 1832, the inlet 1832a of the connecting hose 1832 can be separated from the housing 1831 by a specified distance to move.

When combined with any one of the first vacuum cleaner flow path connection part 1831b and the second vacuum cleaner flow path connection part 1831c, the connecting hose 1832 is in close contact with the inner circumferential surface of the shell 1831, and when moving from any one of the first vacuum cleaner flow path connection part 1831b and the second vacuum cleaner flow path connection part 1831c to the other, the connecting hose 1832 is separated from the inner circumferential surface of the shell 1831.

As shown in Fig. 6, in the first position, the connection hose 1832 is in close contact with the first cleaner flow path connection part 1831b. As shown in Fig. 9 and Fig. 10, while the connection hose 1832 moves between the first cleaner flow path connection part 1831b and the second cleaner flow path connection part 1832c, the connection hose 1832 is separated from the inner circumferential surface of the housing 1831. As shown in Fig. 11, in the second position, the connection hose 1832 is in close contact with the second cleaner flow path connection part 1831c.

Therefore, the seal 1832c of the connecting hose 1832 can be prevented from being damaged due to friction or the like while moving between the first cleaner flow path connecting portion 1831b and the second cleaner flow path connecting portion 1831c.

At least one of the rotation axis 1833 a of the first link and the rotation axis 1834 a of the second link is disposed apart from the central axis 1831 a of the housing 1831 .

12, the rotation axis 1833a of the first link is arranged on the right side of the central axis 1831a of the housing 1831, and the rotation axis 1834a of the second link is arranged below the central axis 1831a of the housing 1831. With such an arrangement, the trajectory of movement of the connecting portion 1833b of the first link and the trajectory of movement of the connecting portion 1834b of the second link are misaligned, so that the inlet 1832a of the connecting hose moves in an elliptical trajectory. Therefore, the inlet 1832a of the connecting hose can be separated from the inner circumferential surface of the housing 1831 by a predetermined distance or more during movement.

The first trajectory C1 formed by the movement of the connection point between the first link 1833 and the connection hose 1832 intersects at least twice with the virtual reference circle C0 which is a concentric circle of the inner circumference of the housing 1831. At this time, the connection point between the first link 1833 and the connection hose 1832 refers to the connection portion 1833b of the first link.

12 and 13, the first track C1 and the reference circle C0 intersect at two points. Referring to FIG12, the connection portion of the first connecting rod 1833b is arranged at the right intersection, at which time, as shown in FIG6, the connecting hose 1832 is connected to the first cleaner flow path 181. In addition, referring to FIG13, the connection portion 1833b of the first connecting rod is arranged at the left intersection, at which time, as shown in FIG11, the connecting hose 1832 is connected to the second cleaner flow path 182.

A second trajectory C2 formed by the movement of the connection point between the second link 1834 and the connection hose 1832 intersects a virtual reference circle C0 that is a concentric circle with the inner peripheral surface of the housing 1831 at least twice.

12 and 13, the second track C2 and the reference circle C0 intersect at two points. Referring to FIG12, the connecting portion 1834b of the second connecting rod is arranged at the right intersection, at which time, as shown in FIG6, the connecting hose 1832 is connected to the first cleaner flow path 181. In addition, referring to FIG13, the connecting portion 1834b of the second connecting rod is arranged at the left intersection, at which time, as shown in FIG11, the connecting hose 1832 is connected to the second cleaner flow path 182.

In the flow path switching module 183, the radius of curvature of the inner circumference of the shell 1831 may be smaller than the radius of curvature formed by the trajectory of the inlet 1832a of the connecting hose 1832. The trajectory of the movement of the inlet 1832a of the connecting hose 1832 is formed into a shape similar to an ellipse, and the radius of curvature of the ellipse may be larger than the radius of curvature of the inner circumference of the shell 1831. Referring to Figures 12 and 13, the inner circumference of the shell 1831 is concentric with the reference circle C0, and the radius of curvature of the inner circumference of the shell 1831 may also be considered as R0. Referring to Figures 12 and 13, the trajectory of the inlet 1832a of the connecting hose 1832 is an ellipse with the rotation axis 1833a of the first connecting rod and the rotation axis 1833b of the second connecting rod as the focus, so that the radius of curvature formed by the trajectory of the inlet 1832a of the connecting hose 1832 is necessarily larger than the radius of curvature of the inner circumference of the shell 1831.

The radius of curvature of the ellipse is formed to be larger than the radius of curvature of the inner circumference of the housing 1831 , so that when the inlet 1832 a of the connection hose 1832 moves along the inner circumference of the housing 1831 , it can be spaced toward the inside of the inner circumference of the housing 1831 .

The flow path switching module 183 includes a plurality of connecting rods rotatably coupled to the housing 1831 on one side and coupled to the connecting hose 1832 on the other side. The connecting rods may be a first connecting rod 1833 and a second connecting rod 1834.

At least any one of the plurality of connecting rods may be formed such that the radius of curvature of the trajectory of movement of the end portion connected to the housing 1831 is greater than the radius of curvature of the inner circumferential surface of the housing 1831. Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13 , the radius of curvature R2 of the second trajectory may be greater than the radius of curvature of the inner circumferential surface of the housing 1831, and the radius of curvature R1 of the first trajectory may be greater than the radius of curvature R2 of the second trajectory and the radius of curvature of the inner circumferential surface of the housing 1831.

The connection portion 1833 b of the connection hose 1834 and the first link 1833 is disposed on the opposite side of the connection portion 1834 b of the connection hose 1832 and the second link 1834 , with reference to an imaginary line extending in the longitudinal direction of the connection hose 1832 .

12 or 13 , with an imaginary line extending in the longitudinal direction of the connecting hose 1832 as a reference, the connecting portion 1833 b of the first link is disposed on the left side of the imaginary line, and the connecting portion 1834 c of the second link 1834 is disposed on the right side.

With this configuration, the inlet 1832a of the connection hose 1832 can move along an ellipse-like trajectory, and the seal 1832c of the connection hose 1832 can move away from the inner circumference of the housing 1831. Referring to Figures 12 and 13, the trajectory of the inlet 1832a of the connection hose 1832 is shown by a two-dot chain line.

The length of the first link 1833 may be greater than the length of the second link 1834 .

When the flow path switching module 183 is viewed from one side, the first connecting rod 1833 may cross the second connecting rod 1834 .

The length of the first link 1833 is formed to be different from the length of the second link 1834. As the first link 1833 and the second link 1834 are cross-arranged, the inlet 1832a of the connecting hose 1832 can be separated from the inner circumferential surface of the shell 1831 while moving between the first vacuum cleaner flow path connection part 1831b and the second vacuum cleaner flow path connection part 1831c.

The flow path switching module 183 includes a switching motor 1835 and a driving cam 1836 .

The switching motor 1835 is disposed on one side of the housing 1831 , and generates power to move the connection hose 1832 .

The switching motor 1835 may be a bidirectional motor capable of bidirectional rotation. That is, the switching motor 1835 may rotate in a clockwise direction or a counterclockwise direction. For example, when the switching motor 1835 rotates in a clockwise direction from FIG. 6 to FIG. 9 , the connecting hose 1832 moves toward the second cleaner flow path connection portion 1831 c. On the contrary, when the switching motor 1835 rotates in a counterclockwise direction from FIG. 9 to FIG. 6 , the connecting hose 1832 moves toward the first cleaner flow path connection portion 1831 b.

The driving cam 1836 is coupled to the switching motor 1835 and transmits power to the first connecting rod 1833 .

The driving cam 1836 is coupled to the switching motor 1835 , and includes a sensing portion 1836 b protruding toward one side, to transmit power to the connecting hose 1832 .

The driving cam 1836 is coupled to the shaft of the switching motor 1835. Thus, the driving cam 1836 and the shaft of the switching motor 1835 rotate integrally.

The driving cam 1836 includes a gear portion 1836c.

The gear portion 1836c of the driving cam may be formed to protrude radially outward.

The gear portion 1836c of the driving cam is connected to the gear portion 1833c of the first connecting rod. The gear portion 1836c of the driving cam is connected to the gear portion 1833c of the first connecting rod. Therefore, when the driving cam 1836 rotates in the clockwise direction, the first connecting rod 1833 rotates in the counterclockwise direction, and when the driving cam 1836 rotates in the counterclockwise direction, the first connecting rod 1833 rotates in the clockwise direction.

The flow path switching module 183 may include a sensing portion 1836 b and a position sensor 1837 to determine the position of the connecting hose 1832 .

The sensing portion 1836b is formed at the driving cam 1836 and protrudes toward one side.

The sensing portion 1836 b protrudes radially outward from the shaft of the switching motor 1835 , and an end portion thereof is in close contact with the switch of the position sensor 1837 .

The position sensor 1837 is disposed on one side of the sensing portion 1836 b and is turned on or off by the sensing portion 1836 b to detect the position of the connecting hose 1832 .

The position sensor 1837 includes a micro switch. The micro switch is arranged on one side of the sensing portion 1836b. Therefore, when the micro switch is pressed by the sensing portion 1836b and turned on, a signal is generated. On the contrary, when the micro switch is not pressed by the sensing portion 1836b, it is turned off and no signal is generated.

The signal is transmitted to the control unit, and the control unit can determine the position of the connection hose 1832 based on the presence or absence of the signal and the transmission time of the signal.

The sensing portion 1836b may be composed of a plurality of surfaces.

6 , the first surface 1836ba presses and turns on the position sensor 1837. The first surface 1836ba protrudes radially outward more than the second surface 1836bb or the fourth surface 1836bd described later, and thus presses the micro switch of the position sensor 1837 to generate a signal.

9, the second surface 1836bb disconnects the position sensor 1837. The second surface 1836bb is adjacent to the first surface 1836ba. The second surface 1836bb protrudes radially outward less than the first surface 1836ba or the third surface 1836bc, so the micro switch of the position sensor 1837 is not pressed and no signal is generated.

10, the third surface 1836bc presses the position sensor 1837 to turn it on. The third surface 1836bc is arranged between the second surface 1836bb and the fourth surface 1836bd. The third surface 1836bc protrudes radially outward more than the second surface 1836bb or the fourth surface 1836bd, so it presses the micro switch of the position sensor 1837 to generate a signal.

11, the fourth surface 1836bd disconnects the position sensor 1837. The fourth surface 1836bd is adjacent to the third surface 1836bc. The fourth surface 1836bd protrudes radially outward less than the first surface 1836ba or the third surface 1836bc, so the micro switch of the position sensor 1837 is not pressed and no signal is generated.

The first surface 1836ba protrudes radially outward, and the outer end presses the switch of the position sensor 1837 to turn on the position sensor 1837. The second surface 1836bb is arranged on one side of the first surface 1836ba, and protrudes radially outward less than the first surface 1836ba, so that the position sensor 1837 is turned off.

Specifically, the second surface 1836bb and the fourth surface 1836bd protrude radially outward less than the first surface 1836ba or the third surface 1836bc. Therefore, when the first surface 1836ba or the third surface 1836bc contacts the switch of the position sensor 1837, the switch of the position sensor 1837 is pressed, the position sensor 1837 is turned on, and the position sensor 1837 transmits a first signal to the control unit 400. On the contrary, when the second surface 1836bb or the fourth surface 1836bd contacts the switch of the position sensor 1837, the switch of the position sensor 1837 is not pressed, the position sensor 1837 is turned off, and the position sensor 1837 transmits a second signal different from the first signal to the control unit 400 or does not transmit a signal to the control unit 400.

The radial protrusion length of the first surface 1836ba and the radial protrusion length of the third surface 1836bc may be the same. Similarly, the radial protrusion length of the second surface 1836bb and the radial protrusion length of the fourth surface 1836bd may be the same.

The first surface 1836ba protrudes radially outward and extends circumferentially by less than a predetermined length to turn on the position sensor 1837. The third surface 1836bc is disposed on one side of the first surface 1836ba and protrudes radially outward and extends circumferentially by more than a predetermined length to turn on the position sensor 1837.

Specifically, the circumferential length of the first surface 1836ba and the circumferential length of the fourth surface 1836bd are less than a predetermined length, and the circumferential length of the second surface 1836bb and the circumferential length of the third surface 1836bc exceed the predetermined length.

19, when the driving cam 1836 rotates, the first surface 1836ba contacts the position sensor 1837 during the ΔT1 time, the second surface 1836bb contacts the position sensor 1837 during the ΔT2 time, the third surface 1836bc contacts the position sensor 1837 during the ΔT3 time, and the fourth surface 1836bd contacts the position sensor 1837 during the ΔT4 time. At this time, ΔT1 and ΔT3 are less than the prescribed time, and ΔT2 and ΔT4 exceed the prescribed time.

The circumferential length of the second surface 1836bb may be the same as the circumferential length of the third surface 1836bc. That is, ΔT2 and ΔT3 may be the same.

The second surface 1836bb is arranged between the first surface 1836ba and the third surface 1836bc, and is less protruded radially outward than the first surface 1836ba, so as to disconnect the position sensor 1837. The second surface 1836bb extends in the circumferential direction over a predetermined length. With such an arrangement, the position sensor 1837 can send a signal similar to a rectangular wave. The control unit 400 can determine the position of the connection hose 1832 based on the strength and length of the signal.

Referring to FIG. 12 or FIG. 13, with the imaginary line extending along the length direction of the connecting hose 1832 as a reference, the rotation axis 1833a as the connecting portion of the first connecting rod 1833 and the housing 1831 is arranged on the opposite side of the first connecting rod 1833 and the connecting portion 1833b of the connecting hose 1832. At this time, the rotation axis 1833a of the first connecting rod is arranged on the right side of the connecting hose 1832, and the length from the rotation axis 1833a of the first connecting rod to the connecting portion 1833b of the first connecting rod can be greater than the length from the rotation axis 1833a of the first connecting rod to the end of the gear portion 1833c of the first connecting rod. Thus, when the first connecting rod 1833 rotates, the displacement of the connecting portion 1833b of the first connecting rod can be maximized, thereby increasing the moving range of the connecting hose 1832.

The flow path switching module 183 may further include an elastic member 1838. The elastic member 1838 is a component that helps the inlet 1832a of the connection hose 1832 to move.

One side of the elastic member 1838 is connected to the housing 1831 , and the other side is connected to the second link 1834 .

The elastic member 1838 may be a torsion spring.

6, the elastic member 1838 is stretched when the connection hose 1832 is connected to the first cleaner flow path connection part 1831b. In addition, referring to FIG11, the elastic member 1838 is compressed when the connection hose 1832 is connected to the second cleaner flow path connection part 1831c.

The elastic member 1838 helps the connecting hose 1832 to move from the second cleaner flow path connection part 1831c to the first cleaner flow path connection part 1831b. Referring to FIG6, the first connecting rod 1833 can be easily guided to the second cleaner flow path connection part 1831c by pulling the left end of the connecting hose 1832 toward the left side. Different from this, referring to FIG11, the first connecting rod 1833 guides the first cleaner flow path connection part 1831b by pushing the left end of the connecting hose 1832 toward the right side, but in this process, the problem of the right end of the connecting hose 1832 being stuck in the second cleaner flow path connection part 1831c may occur. At this time, the elastic member 1838 pulls the connecting part 1834b of the second connecting rod toward the right side, so that the right end of the connecting hose 1832 is easily separated toward the right side of the second cleaner flow path connection part 1831c.

The flow path switching module 183 includes a stop sensor 1839 and a stopper 1836d to prevent the connection hose 1832 from moving beyond a limit position.

6 , the stopper 1836d is disposed on one side of the driving cam 1836. Specifically, the stopper 1836d may be disposed adjacent to one side of the first surface 1836ba of the sensing portion 1836b.

The stopper 1839 protrudes in the radial direction.

The stop sensor 1839 may be disposed adjacent to the drive cam 1836 .

The stop sensor 1839 may be an infrared sensor or a contact sensor. When the stopper 1836 d and the stop sensor 1839 are arranged close to each other, the stop sensor 1839 may detect the position of the stopper 1836 d and generate a signal. The generated signal is transmitted to the control unit 400.

When receiving a signal from the stop sensor 1839 , the control unit 400 determines that the connection hose 1832 is completely connected to the first cleaner flow path connection unit 1831 b , and the operation of the switching motor 1835 can be stopped.

The flow path switching module 183 of the present invention can be combined with or separated from the housing 110. The housing 110 is formed with a chamber for the flow path switching module 183 to be disposed. The flow path switching module 183 is disposed in the chamber and connected to the first cleaner flow path 181, the second cleaner flow path 182 and the dust collecting flow path 184.

In the flow path switching module 183, air flows together with dust, so there is a risk of being contaminated by dust or malfunctioning due to the adhesion of dust. Therefore, it is necessary to be easy to separate and clean. According to the present invention, the flow path switching module 183 can be easily combined with the cover body 110 or separated, so it has the effect of being easy to separate and clean.

The flow path switching module 183 can slide to be coupled to or separated from the cover body 110. Taking Figures 21 to 23 as an example, the flow path switching module 183 can move forward and backward from the cover body 110 to be coupled to or separated from the cover body 110.

16 to 18, the flow path switching module 183 includes flanges 1831ba, 1831ca, and 1831da. The first cleaner flow path 181, the second cleaner flow path 182, and the dust collecting flow path 184 include flange grooves 181c, 182a, and 184a. When the flanges 1831ba, 1831ca, and 1831da are inserted into the flange grooves 181c, 182a, and 184a, the flow path switching module 183 is combined with the cover body 110.

The first cleaner flow path connection part 1831b includes a flange 1831ba. The flange 1831ba is formed at the end of the first cleaner flow path connection part 1831b. The flange 1831ba is formed to extend radially outward from the end of the first cleaner flow path connection part 1831b. The flange 1831ba is inserted into the flange groove 181c formed at the end of the first cleaner flow path 181.

A flange groove 181c is formed at the end of the first cleaner flow path 181. Specifically, the flange groove 181c is formed at the lower end of the first cleaner flow path 181. The flange groove 181c is formed by being recessed outward from the inner circumference of the first cleaner flow path 181. The flange groove 181c can be formed in a C-shape with an open front. Thus, the flange 1831ba of the first cleaner flow path connection portion can be moved from the front portion to the rear portion and inserted into the flange groove 181c of the first cleaner flow path.

The second cleaner flow path connection part 1831c includes a flange 1831ca. The flange 1831ca is formed at the end of the second cleaner flow path connection part 1831c. The flange 1831ca is formed to extend radially outward from the end of the second cleaner flow path connection part 1831c. The flange 1831ca is inserted into the flange groove 182a formed at the end of the second cleaner flow path 182.

A flange groove 182a is formed at the end of the second cleaner flow path 182. The flange groove 182a is formed by being recessed outward from the inner circumference of the second cleaner flow path 182. The flange groove 182a can be formed in a C shape with the front open. Thus, the flange 1831ca of the second cleaner flow path connection portion can be moved from the front portion to the rear portion and inserted into the flange groove 182a of the second cleaner flow path.

The dust collecting flow path connection part 1831d includes a flange 1831da. The flange 1831da is formed at the end of the dust collecting flow path connection part 1831d. The flange 1831da is formed to extend radially outward from the end of the dust collecting flow path connection part 1831d. The flange 1831da is inserted into a flange groove 184a formed at the end of the dust collecting flow path 184.

A flange groove 184a is formed at the end of the dust collecting flow path 184. The flange groove 184a is formed by being recessed outward from the inner circumference of the dust collecting flow path 184. The flange groove 184a can be formed in a C shape with the front side open. Thus, the flange 1831da of the dust collecting flow path connection portion can be moved from the front portion to the rear portion and inserted into the flange groove 184a of the dust collecting flow path.

The cleaner base station includes a flow path switching module cover 185 . The flow path switching module cover 185 is a component that shields at least a portion of the flow path switching module 183 .

The flow path switching module cover 185 is disposed on one side of the flow path switching module 183 and is coupled to the housing 110. Specifically, one side of the flow path switching module cover 185 is rotatably coupled to the housing 110.

3 and 21 to 23 , if the cover on one side of the housing 110 is opened, the flow path switching module cover 185 is exposed. Then, if the flow path switching module cover 185 is rotated in one direction to open, the flow path switching module 183 is exposed and can be separated.

The flow path switching module cover 185 prevents dust remaining in the flow path switching module 183 from scattering to the outside of the housing 110 .

14 , the flow path switching module cover 185 may be composed of a rotating shaft 1851 , a lower cover 1852 , and an upper cover 1853 .

The rotation axis 1851 of the flow path switching module cover 185 is disposed at the joint between the flow path switching module cover 185 and the housing 110. The rotation axis 1851 of the flow path switching module cover is disposed at the lower end of the lower cover 1852. The upper end of the flow path switching module cover 185 rotates while moving around its lower end.

The lower cover 1852 of the flow path switching module cover extends upward from the rotation axis 1851 of the flow path switching module cover and includes an inclined surface.

The lower cover 1852 of the flow path switching module cover may be formed as an inclined surface extending upward from the rotation shaft 1851 and directed toward the flow path switching module 183 .

The upper cover 1853 of the flow path switching module cover extends upward from the upper end of the lower cover 1852 and includes a vertical surface perpendicular to the ground, and one side of the upper cover 1853 is detachably fixed to the housing 110 .

The upper cover 1853 of the flow path switching module may cover the open front surface of the housing 1831 .

The flow path switching module cover 185 includes a cover coupling portion 1856. The cover coupling portion 1856 can be coupled to one side of the housing 110 by hooking.

The cover coupling portion 1856 may be disposed at an upper end of one side of the upper cover 1853 .

The flow path switching module cover 185 includes a cover handle 1857. The cover handle 1857 is held by a user.

The cover handle 1857 may be disposed on one side of the cover coupling portion 1856 .

At least a portion of the flow path switching module cover 185 is in close contact with the first link 1833. Specifically, a plurality of support members of the flow path switching module cover 185 are in close contact with the first link 1833, and can support the first link 1833 when the first link 1833 rotates.

The flow path switching module cover 185 includes a first link rotation axis support member 1854. The first link rotation axis support member 1854 supports the rotation axis 1851 of the first link.

The first link rotation shaft support member 1854 protrudes toward the first link 1833 , and an end portion thereof supports the rotation shaft 1851 of the first link.

The first link rotation shaft support member 1854 may be formed in a C-shape with one side open. The first link rotation shaft support member 1854 may extend in a circumferential direction of the rotation shaft 1851 of the first link.

The first link rotation shaft support member 1854 may extend along the gear portion 1833c of the first link.

The first link rotation shaft support member 1854 may be disposed on the lower cover 1852. The first link rotation shaft support member 1854 may be disposed on the lower portion of the first link connection portion support member 1855.

The flow path switching module cover 185 includes a first link connecting portion supporting member 1855. The first link connecting portion supporting member 1855 supports the connecting portion 1833b of the first link.

The first link connecting portion supporting member 1855 protrudes toward the first link 1833 , and an end portion thereof supports the connecting portion 1833 b of the first link.

The first link connecting portion supporting member 1855 extends along a first track C1 formed by the movement of the first link and the connecting portion 1833b of the connecting hose. The first link connecting portion supporting member 1855 may be configured to be concentric with the first track C1. As shown in FIG4 , the first link connecting portion supporting member 1855 may be formed in an arc shape.

The connecting hose 1832 and the first connecting rod 1833 are combined with the housing 1831 to form an assembly, and the assembly can be integrally combined with the housing 110 or separated. Referring to FIG. 12 , the housing 1831, the connecting hose 1832, the first connecting rod 1833, and the second connecting rod 1834 can form an assembly. The assembly can be assembled before being combined with the housing 110, and can be combined with the housing 110 or separated as a single component.

4 , the assembly can be coupled to the cover 110 as the flanges are slidably inserted into the flange grooves. After the assembly is coupled to the cover 110, screws or the like can be used to more securely fix the assembly.

The flow path switching module 183 is detachably coupled to the housing 110, and is detached when connected to either the first cleaner flow path 181 or the second cleaner flow path 182. Referring to FIG6 , the flow path switching module 183 is detached when the connecting hose 1832 is connected to the first cleaner flow path 181. In contrast, referring to FIG9 , when the connecting hose 1832 is connected to the second cleaner flow path 182, the partition wall 1833d is stuck to the gear portion 1836c of the driving cam and cannot be detached.

The control unit 400 may include a printed circuit board and components mounted on the printed circuit board.

The control unit 400 can determine the position of the connection hose 1832 based on the length of the signal from the position sensor 1837. Specifically, the control unit 400 determines whether the connection hose 1832 is accurately connected to any one of the first cleaner flow path connection part 1831b and the second cleaner flow path connection part 1832c. If it is determined to be accurately connected, the dust collection motor 191 can be driven, and if it is determined to be not accurately connected, the driving of the dust collection motor 191 can be stopped.

When the first signal is continuously received from the position sensor 1837 for more than a predetermined time, the control unit 400 may determine that the connection hose 1832 is connected to the first cleaner flow path 181. When the second signal is continuously received from the position sensor 1837 for more than a predetermined time, the control unit 400 may determine that the connection hose 1832 is connected to the second cleaner flow path connection part 1831c.

Here, the strength of the second signal may be smaller than the strength of the first signal, and the strength of the second signal may be zero.

6 , when the first surface 1836ba contacts the position sensor 1837, the position sensor 1837 transmits a first signal to the control unit 400. If the first signal is received continuously for more than a specified time, the control unit 400 may determine that the connecting hose 1832 is connected to the first vacuum cleaner flow path connection part 1831b.

On the contrary, referring to Fig. 11, when the fourth surface 1836bd contacts the position sensor 1837, the position sensor 1837 sends a second signal, and if the second signal is continuously received for more than a predetermined time, the control unit 400 can determine that the connection hose 1832 is connected to the second cleaner flow path connection part 1831c. Here, the strength of the second signal can be 0, in which case, if the signal is not continuously received for more than a predetermined time, the control unit 400 can determine that the connection hose 1832 is connected to the second cleaner flow path connection part 1831c.

When receiving any one of the first signal and the second signal, the control unit 400 can determine that it is connected to any one of the first cleaner flow path connection part 1831b and the second cleaner flow path connection part 1831c.

Fig. 19 is a diagram showing a signal generated by the position sensor 1837 during the movement of the connection hose 1832 from the first cleaner flow path connection part 1831b to the second cleaner flow path connection part 1832c, in the order of Fig. 6, Fig. 9, Fig. 10, and Fig. 11. At this time, before the connection hose 1832 is connected to the second cleaner flow path connection part 1831c, when the position sensor 1837 contacts the first surface 1836ba and the third surface 1836bc, the control unit 400 receives the first signal twice from the position sensor 1837, and thus it can be determined that the connection hose 1832 is connected to the second cleaner flow path connection part 1831c.

Fig. 20 is a diagram showing a signal generated by the position sensor 1837 during the movement of the connection hose 1832 from the second cleaner flow path connection part 1831c to the first cleaner flow path connection part 1831b, in the order of Fig. 11, Fig. 10, Fig. 9, and Fig. 6. At this time, before the connection hose 1832 is connected to the first cleaner flow path connection part 1831b, when the position sensor 1837 contacts the fourth surface 1836bd and the second surface 1836bb, the control unit 400 receives two signals from the position sensor 1837, and thus it can be determined that the connection hose 1832 is connected to the first cleaner flow path connection part 1831b.

If the first signal receiving time and the second signal receiving time are the same before receiving the final signal, the control unit 400 can determine that the connecting hose 1832 is connected to any one of the first vacuum cleaner flow path connection part 1831b and the second vacuum cleaner flow path connection part 1831c.

19, when the connection hose 1832 is connected to the second cleaner flow path connection part 1831c, the second signal is generated as a final signal. If the first signal receiving time ΔT3 and the second signal receiving time ΔT2 are the same before receiving the second signal, the control unit 400 may determine that the connection hose 1832 is connected to the second cleaner flow path connection part 1831c.

20, when the connection hose 1832 is connected to the first cleaner flow path connection part 1831b, the first signal is generated as the final signal. If the second signal receiving time ΔT2 and the third signal receiving time ΔT3 are the same before receiving the first signal, the control unit 400 can determine that the connection hose 1832 is connected to the first cleaner flow path connection part 1831b.

If a signal is received from the stop sensor 1839 while a signal is received from the position sensor 1837, the control unit 400 may determine that the connection hose 1832 is coupled to any one of the first cleaner flow path connection portion 1831b and the second cleaner flow path connection portion 1831c.

6 and 20, in the final position, the connection hose 1832 is coupled to the first cleaner flow path connection portion 1831b, and the position sensor 1837 transmits a first signal to the control portion 400. In addition, the stop sensor 1839 detects that the stopper 1836d approaches and transmits a signal to the control portion 400. The control portion 400 receives a signal from the stop sensor 1839 while receiving the first signal from the position sensor 1837, and thus can determine that the connection hose 1832 is coupled to the first cleaner flow path connection portion 1831b.

According to the present invention, it is possible to easily determine the position of the connecting hose 1832 and whether it is connected by using a driving cam 1836 and a micro switch (position sensor) 1837.

The above is a detailed description through the specific embodiments of the present invention, but it is only used to specifically illustrate the present invention, and the present invention is not limited thereto. Obviously, the present invention can be modified or improved by ordinary technicians in the technical field to which the present invention belongs within the scope of the technical idea of the present invention.

Simple modifications or changes of the present invention all belong to the scope of the present invention, and the specific protection scope of the present invention will become more clear through the attached claims.

Claims (20)

1. A vacuum cleaner base station, comprising:

a cover body, wherein at least one of the first dust collector and the second dust collector is combined with the cover body, and a space is formed in the cover body;

A first dust collector flow path which is configured in the cover body and is connected with a dust collection barrel of the first dust collector;

a second dust collector flow path which is arranged in the cover body and is connected with a dust collection barrel of the second dust collector;

A dust collection passage, an inlet of which is selectively connected to one of the first and second cleaner passages, and an outlet of which is connected to a dust collection unit; and

And a flow path switching module disposed between the dust collection flow path and the first and second cleaner flow paths, and configured to selectively connect the dust collection flow path to the first cleaner flow path or the second cleaner flow path, and to detachably couple the dust collection flow path to the cover.

2. The vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, wherein,

The flow path switching module includes a radially protruding flange in a direction of air flow;

at least one of the first cleaner flow path, the second cleaner flow path, and the dust collection flow path includes a flange groove into which at least a part of the flange is inserted.

3. The vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, wherein,

The flow path switching module cover is arranged on one side of the flow path switching module and combined with the cover body, and at least one part of the flow path switching module is shielded.

4. The vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 3, wherein,

One side of the flow path switching module cover is rotatably coupled to the cover.

5. The vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 3, wherein,

The flow path switching module includes:

a housing including a first cleaner flow path connection part connected to the first cleaner flow path, a second cleaner flow path connection part connected to the second cleaner flow path, and a dust collection flow path connection part connected to the dust collection flow path;

A connection hose having an inlet moving along an inner circumferential surface of the housing and selectively coupled to any one of the first and second cleaner flow path connection parts, and an outlet coupled to the dust collection flow path connection part; and

A first link, one side of which is rotatably coupled to the housing, and the other side of which is coupled to the connection hose;

at least a part of the flow path switching module cover is in close contact with the first link.

6. The vacuum cleaner base station of claim 5, wherein,

The flow path switching module cover includes a first link rotation shaft support member that protrudes toward the first link, and an end of the first link rotation shaft support member supports a rotation shaft of the first link.

7. The vacuum cleaner base station of claim 5, wherein,

The flow path switching module cover includes a first link connection part supporting member protruding toward the first link, and an end of the first link connection part supporting member supports a connection part of the first link and the connection hose.

8. The vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 7, wherein,

The first link connection portion supporting member extends along a first track formed by movement of the connection portion of the first link and the connection hose.

9. The vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 3, wherein,

The flow path switching module cover includes:

A rotation shaft disposed at a joint portion between the flow path switching module cover and the cover;

a lower cover extending upward from the rotation shaft and including an inclined surface; and

And an upper cover extending upward from an upper end of the lower cover and including a vertical surface perpendicular to the ground, one side of the upper cover being detachably fixed to the cover.

10. The vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, wherein,

The flow path switching module includes:

a housing including a first cleaner flow path connection part connected to the first cleaner flow path, a second cleaner flow path connection part connected to the second cleaner flow path, and a dust collection flow path connection part connected to the dust collection flow path;

a connection hose disposed in the housing, an inlet of the connection hose being moved along an inner circumferential surface of the housing and selectively coupled to any one of the first and second cleaner flow path connection parts, an outlet of the connection hose being coupled to the dust collection flow path connection part;

A first link, one side of which is rotatably coupled to the housing, and the other side of which is coupled to the connection hose;

A switching motor disposed in the cover to generate power for moving the connection hose; and

And a driving cam coupled to the switching motor to transmit the power to the first link.

11. The vacuum cleaner base station of claim 10, wherein,

The connecting hose and the first connecting rod are combined with the shell to form an assembly;

the assembly is integrally coupled to the cover or integrally decoupled from the cover.

12. The vacuum cleaner base station of claim 10, wherein,

The first link includes:

A gear part connected with the driving cam and formed with gear teeth; and

And a partition wall disposed on the back surface of the gear portion and extending radially outward of the gear portion.

13. The vacuum cleaner base station of claim 12, wherein,

The partition wall covers a portion of the gear teeth of the gear portion.

14. The vacuum cleaner base station of claim 12, wherein,

The driving cam includes a gear portion engaged with the gear portion of the first link;

The partition wall is configured not to overlap with the gear portion of the driving cam when the flow path switching module is separated.

15. The vacuum cleaner base station according to claim 1, wherein,

The flow path switching module is detachably coupled to the housing and is separated when connected to either one of the first and second cleaner flow paths.

16. A vacuum cleaner base station, comprising:

a cover body, wherein at least one of the first dust collector and the second dust collector is combined with the cover body, and a space is formed in the cover body;

A first dust collector flow path which is configured in the cover body and is connected with a dust collection barrel of the first dust collector;

a second dust collector flow path which is arranged in the cover body and is connected with a dust collection barrel of the second dust collector;

A dust collection passage, an inlet of which is selectively connected to one of the first and second cleaner passages, and an outlet of which is connected to a dust collection unit;

A flow path switching module disposed between the dust collection flow path and the first and second cleaner flow paths, and selectively connecting the dust collection flow path to the first or second cleaner flow path; and

And a flow path switching module cover disposed on one side of the flow path switching module and coupled to the cover to shield at least a part of the flow path switching module.

17. The vacuum cleaner base station of claim 16, wherein,

The flow path switching module is detachably coupled to the housing.

18. The vacuum cleaner base station of claim 16, wherein,

The flow path switching module includes:

A housing detachably coupled to the cover;

A connection hose coupled to the housing and communicating with the flow path;

and a first link having one side rotatably coupled to the housing and the other side coupled to the connection hose to move the connection hose.

19. The vacuum cleaner base station of claim 18, wherein,

The flow path switching module includes:

A switching motor disposed in the cover to generate power for moving the connection hose;

And a driving cam coupled to the switching motor to transmit the power to the first link.

20. The vacuum cleaner base station of claim 18, wherein,

The flow path switching module cover includes a support member protruding toward the flow path switching module, and an end of the support member supports one side of the flow path switching module.