VACUUM CLEANER STATION

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a cleaner station, including: a housing; a coupling part disposed in the housing and comprising a coupling surface to which at least a part of a cleaner is coupled; a dust collecting part accommodated in the housing, disposed below the coupling part, and configured to store dust in a dust bin of the cleaner; a dust collecting motor accommodated in the housing, disposed below the dust collecting part, and configured to generate a suction force for sucking the dust in the dust bin; a lower portion coupling part disposed closer to a ground surface than is the dust collecting motor and to which the cleaner is coupled; and a flow path part having a flow path that allows an internal space of the dust bin and an internal space of the dust collecting part to communicate with each other, and the flow path part includes: a first flow path communicated with an internal space of the dust bin; and a second flow path disposed to be inclined at a certain angle with respect to the first flow path, thereby minimizing a loss of the flow force for collecting dust.

Claims

1. A cleaner station comprising: a housing; a coupling part disposed in the housing and comprising a coupling surface to which at least a part of a cleaner is coupled; a dust collecting part accommodated in the housing, disposed below the coupling part, and configured to store dust in a dust bin of the cleaner; a dust collecting motor accommodated in the housing, disposed below the dust collecting part, and configured to generate a suction force for sucking the dust in the dust bin; a lower portion coupling part disposed closer to a ground surface than is the dust collecting motor and to which the cleaner is coupled; and a flow path part having a flow path that allows an internal space of the dust bin and an internal space of the dust collecting part to communicate with each other, wherein the flow path part comprises: a first cleaner flow path communicated with a dust passage hole formed in the coupling part; a second cleaner flow path communicated with a dust suction hole formed in the lower portion coupling part; and a dust collecting flow path selectively communicated with the first cleaner flow path or the second cleaner flow path, and communicated with the dust collecting part.

2. The cleaner station of claim 1, wherein the first cleaner flow path comprises: a first flow path communicated with the internal space of the dust collecting part in a state in which a discharge cover of the dust bin is opened; and a second flow path communicated with the first flow path and the dust collecting flow path and formed at certain angle with respect to the first flow path.

3. The cleaner station of claim 2, wherein the second flow path is disposed to be inclined at a certain angle of dust introduction with a perpendicular line perpendicular to a ground surface.

4. The cleaner station of claim 3, wherein the angle of dust introduction is 0 degree or more and 10 degrees or less.

5. The cleaner station of claim 1, wherein the flow path part further comprises: a flow path switching module configured to selectively connect the first cleaner flow path or the second cleaner flow path to the dust collecting flow path.

6. The cleaner station of claim 2, wherein the second flow path is disposed to be inclined at a certain angle of dust introduction with the dust collecting flow path.

7. The cleaner station of claim 2, wherein in a state in which the cleaner is coupled to the cleaner station, an imaginary dust bin through line penetrating the dust bin in a longitudinal direction and an imaginary first cleaner flow path through line penetrating the second flow path in a longitudinal direction intersect each other in the flow path part.

8. The cleaner station of claim 1, wherein in a state in which the cleaner is coupled to the cleaner station, an imaginary dust bin through line penetrating the dust bin in a longitudinal direction and an imaginary dust collecting flow path through line penetrating the dust collecting flow path in a longitudinal direction intersect each other in the flow path part.

9. The cleaner station of claim 1, wherein the second cleaner flow path comprises: a third flow path communicated with the dust suction hole; a fourth flow path communicated with the third flow path and formed along a direction perpendicular to a ground surface; and a fifth flow path communicated with the fourth flow path and formed at a certain angle with respect to the fourth flow path.

10. The cleaner station of claim 9, wherein the flow path further comprises: a flow path switching module configured to selectively connect the first cleaner flow path or the second cleaner flow path to the dust collecting flow path, and wherein one end of the fifth flow path connected to the fourth flow path is disposed farther from a ground surface than is another end of the fifth flow path connected to the flow path switching module.

11. The cleaner station of claim 9, wherein a diameter of the fifth flow path is greater than a diameter of the fourth flow path.

12. The cleaner station of claim 9, wherein the fifth flow path is disposed to be closer to a ground surface than is the first cleaner flow path and farther from a ground surface than is the dust collecting flow path.

13. A cleaner station comprising: a housing; a coupling part disposed in the housing and comprising a coupling surface to which at least a part of a first cleaner is coupled; a lower portion coupling part disposed closer to a ground surface than is the dust coupling part and to which a second cleaner is coupled; a dust collecting part accommodated in the housing, disposed between the coupling part and the lower portion coupling part, and configured to store dust; a flow path part formed inside the housing and having a flow path that allows an internal space of the dust bin of the first cleaner or an internal space of the dust bin of the second cleaner and an internal space of the dust collecting part to communicate with each other, wherein the flow path part comprises: a first cleaner flow path allowing a dust passage hole formed in the coupling part and the internal space of the dust collecting part to communicate with each other; a second cleaner flow path allowing a dust suction hole formed in the lower portion coupling part and the internal space of the dust collecting part to communicate with each other; a dust collecting flow path disposed closer to a ground surface than is the first cleaner flow path and communicated with the internal space of the dust collecting part; and a flow path switching module disposed between the first cleaner flow path and the dust collecting flow path and configured to selectively connect the first cleaner flow path or the second cleaner flow path to the dust collecting flow path.

14. The cleaner station of claim 13, wherein the first cleaner flow path comprises: a first flow path communicated with the dust passage hole and formed to be parallel to a ground surface; and a second flow path disposed between the first flow path and the flow path switching module and formed to be inclined at a certain angle of dust introduction with a perpendicular line perpendicular to a ground surface.

15. The cleaner station of claim 13, wherein the second cleaner flow path comprises: a third flow path communicated with the dust suction hole and formed along a direction parallel to a ground surface; a fourth flow path communicated with the third flow path and formed along a direction perpendicular to a ground surface; and a fifth flow path communicated with the fourth flow path and formed at a certain angle with respect to the fourth flow path.

16. The cleaner station of claim 13, wherein the flow path part further comprises: a connecting hose disposed inside the flow path switching module and has one end connected to the first cleaner flow path or the second cleaner flow path and another end connected to the dust collecting flow path.

17. The cleaner station of claim 16, wherein the one end of the connecting hose is disposed farther from a ground surface than is the another end of the connecting hose.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0062] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cleaner system comprised of a first cleaner and a second cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0063] FIG. 2 is a view for explaining a first cleaner of a cleaner system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0064] FIG. 3 is a view for explaining a weight distribution by using an imaginary plane penetrating a first cleaner of a cleaner system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] FIG. 4 is a view for explaining a lower surface of a dust bin of a first cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0066] FIG. 5 is a perspective view for explaining a dust bin of a second cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0067] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a discharge cover of a second cleaner of FIG. 5.

[0068] FIG. 7 is a view for explaining a weight distribution in a cleaner station and an angle of a flow path by using an imaginary line in a cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0069] FIG. 8 is a view for explaining a coupling part in a cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0070] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view for explaining a fixing unit in a cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0071] FIG. 10 is a view for explaining a state in which a door unit blocks a dust passage hole in a cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0072] FIG. 11 is a view for explaining a state in which a door unit opens a dust passage hole in a cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0073] FIG. 12 is a view for explaining a cover opening unit of a cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0074] FIG. 13 is a view for explaining a flow path switching module in a flow path part of a cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0075] FIG. 14 is a view for explaining an arrangement relationship of a first cleaner flow path and a dust collecting flow path in a flow path part of a cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0076] FIG. 15 is a view for explaining an arrangement relationship of a second cleaner station and a dust collecting flow path in a flow path part of a cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0077] FIG. 16 is a block diagram for explaining a control configuration in a cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0078] Hereinafter, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure with reference to accompanying drawings will be described in detail

[0079] The present disclosure may be variously modified and may have various embodiments, and particular embodiments illustrated in the drawings will be specifically described below. The description of the embodiments is not intended to limit the present disclosure to the particular embodiments, but it should be interpreted that the present disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents and alternatives falling within the spirit and technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0080] The terminology used herein is used for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the present disclosure. Singular expressions may include plural expressions unless clearly described as different meanings in the context.

[0081] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, may have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure pertains. The terms such as those defined in a commonly used dictionary may be interpreted as having meanings consistent with meanings in the context of related technologies and may not be interpreted as ideal or excessively formal meanings unless explicitly defined in the present application.

[0082] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cleaner system comprised of a first cleaner and a second cleaner according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 5 is a view for explaining a weight distribution and an angle of a flow path by using an imaginary line in a cleaner station according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0083] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 5, a cleaner system 10 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may include a cleaner station 100 and cleaners 200 and 300. In this case, the cleaners 200 and 300 may include a first cleaner 200 and a second cleaner 300. Meanwhile, the present embodiment may be carried out without some of the components and does not preclude additional components.

[0084] The cleaner system 10 may include a cleaner station 100. The first cleaner 200 and the second cleaner 300 may be coupled to the cleaner station 100. The first cleaner 200 may be coupled to a lateral surface of the cleaner station 100. Particularly, a main body of the first cleaner 200 may be coupled to the lateral surface of the cleaner station 100. The second cleaner 300 may be coupled to a lower portion of the cleaner station 100. The cleaner station 100 may remove dust in a dust bin 220 of the first cleaner 200. The cleaner station 100 may remove dust in a dust bin 310 of the second cleaner 300.

[0085] Meanwhile, a view for explaining the first cleaner of the cleaner system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated in FIG. 2, a view for explaining a weight distribution of the first cleaner according to the embodiment of the present disclosure by using an imaginary plane and an imaginary plane is illustrated in FIG. 3, and a view for explaining a lower surface of the dust bin of the first cleaner according to the embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated in FIG. 4.

[0086] First, a structure of the first cleaner 200 will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5.

[0087] The first cleaner 200 may mean a cleaner configured to be manually operated by a user.

[0088] For example, the first cleaner 200 may mean a handy cleaner or a stick cleaner.

[0089] The first cleaner 200 may be mounted on the cleaner station 100. The first cleaner 200 may be supported by the cleaner station 100. The first cleaner 200 may be coupled to the cleaner station 100.

[0090] Meanwhile, in the embodiment of the present disclosure, directions may be defined on the basis of a state in which a bottom surface (lower surface) of the dust bin 220 and a bottom surface (lower surface) of a battery housing 230 are placed on a ground surface.

[0091] In this case, a forward direction may mean a direction in which a suction part 212 is disposed based on a suction motor 214, and a rear direction may mean a direction in which a handle 216 is disposed. Further, on the basis of a state in which the suction part 212 is viewed from the suction motor 214, a right direction may refer to a direction in which a component is disposed at the right, and a left direction may refer to a direction in which a component is disposed at the left. In addition, in the embodiment of the present disclosure, upper and lower sides may be defined in a direction perpendicular to the ground surface on the basis of the state in which the bottom surface (lower surface) of the dust bin 220 and the bottom surface (lower surface) of the battery housing 230 are placed on the ground surface.

[0092] The first cleaner 200 may include a main body 210. The main body 210 may include a main body housing 211, the suction part 212, a dust separating part 213, the suction motor 214, an air discharge cover 215, the handle 216, and an operating part 218.

[0093] The main body housing 211 may define an external appearance of the first cleaner 200. The main body housing 211 may provide a space that may accommodate therein the suction motor 214 and a filter (not illustrated). The main body housing 211 may be formed in a shape similar to a cylindrical shape.

[0094] The suction part 212 may protrude outward from the main body housing 211. For example, the suction part 212 may be formed in a cylindrical shape with an opened inside. The suction part 212 may be coupled to an extension tube 250. The suction part 212 may be referred to as a flow path (hereinafter, referred to as a suction flow path) through which air containing dust may flow.

[0095] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, an imaginary line may be defined to penetrate the inside of the suction part 212 having a cylindrical shape. That is, an imaginary suction flow path through line a2 may be formed to penetrate the suction flow path in a longitudinal direction.

[0096] For example, the suction flow path through line a2 may be an imaginary line made by connecting origins of circles made by cutting the cylindrical suction part 212 in the radial direction along the longitudinal direction (axial direction).

[0097] The dust separating part 213 may communicate with the suction part 212. The dust separating part 213 may separate dust introduced into the dust separating part 213 through the suction part 212. A space in the dust separating part 213 may communicate with a space in the dust bin 220.

[0098] For example, the dust separating part 213 may have two or more cyclone parts capable of separating dust using a cyclone flow. Further, the space in the dust separating part 213 may communicate with the suction flow path. Therefore, the air and the dust, which are introduced through the suction part 212, spirally flow along an inner circumferential surface of the dust separating part 213. Therefore, the cyclone flow may be generated in the internal space of the dust separating part 213.

[0099] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, an imaginary cyclone line a4 may be formed to extend in the upward/downward direction of the dust separating part 213 in which the cyclone flow is generated.

[0100] The suction motor 214 may generate a suction force for sucking air. The suction motor 214 may be accommodated in the main body housing 211. The suction motor 214 may include an impeller that generates the suction force by means of a rotation. For example, the suction motor 214 may be formed in a shape similar to a cylindrical shape.

[0101] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, an imaginary suction motor axis al may be formed by extending a rotation shaft of the suction motor 214.

[0102] The air discharge cover 215 may be disposed at one side in an axial direction of the main body housing 211. A filter for filtering air may be accommodated in the air discharge cover 215. For example, an HEPA filter may be accommodated in the air discharge cover 215.

[0103] The air discharge cover 215 may have an air discharge port 215a for discharging the air introduced by the suction force of the suction motor 214.

[0104] A flow guide may be disposed on the air discharge cover 215. The flow guide may guide a flow of the air to be discharged through the air discharge port 215a.

[0105] The handle 216 may be grasped by the user. The handle 216 may be disposed at a rear side of the suction motor 214. For example, the handle 216 may be formed in a shape similar to a cylindrical shape. Alternatively, the handle 216 may be formed in a curved cylindrical shape. The handle 216 may be disposed at a certain angle with respect to the main body housing 211, the suction motor 214, or the dust separating part 213.

[0106] The handle 216 may include a grip portion 216a formed in a column shape so that the user may grasp the grip portion 216a, a first extension portion 216b connected to one end in the longitudinal direction (axial direction) of the grip portion 216a and extending toward the suction motor 214, and a second extension portion 216c connected to the other end in the longitudinal direction (axial direction) of the grip portion 216a and extending toward the dust bin 220.

[0107] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, an imaginary grip portion through line a3 may be formed to extend in the longitudinal direction of the grip portion 216a (the axial direction of the column) and penetrate the grip portion 216a.

[0108] For example, the grip portion through line a3 may be an imaginary line formed in the handle 216 having a cylindrical shape, that is, an imaginary line formed in parallel with at least a part of an outer surface (outer circumferential surface) of the grip portion 216a.

[0109] An upper surface of the handle 216 may define an external appearance of a part of an upper surface of the first cleaner 200. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a component of the first cleaner 200 from coming into contact with the user's arm when the user grasps the handle 216.

[0110] The first extension portion 216b may extend from the grip portion 216a toward the main body housing 211 or the suction motor 214. At least a part of the first extension portion 216b may extend in a horizontal direction.

[0111] The second extension portion 216c may extend from the grip portion 216a toward the dust bin 220. At least a part of the second extension portion 216c may extend in the horizontal direction.

[0112] The operating part 218 may be disposed on the handle 216. The operating part 218 may be disposed on an inclined surface formed in an upper region of the handle 216. The user may input an instruction to operate or stop the first cleaner 200 through the operating part 218.

[0113] The first cleaner 200 may include the dust bin 220. The dust bin 220 may communicate with the dust separating part 213. The dust bin 220 may store the dust separated by the dust separating part 213.

[0114] The dust bin 220 may include a dust bin main body 221, a discharge cover 222, a dust bin compression lever 223, and a compression member (not illustrated).

[0115] The dust bin main body 221 may provide a space capable of storing the dust separated from the dust separating part 213. For example, the dust bin main body 221 may be formed in a shape similar to a cylindrical shape.

[0116] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, an imaginary dust bin through line a5 may be formed to penetrate the inside (internal space) of the dust bin main body 221 and extend in the longitudinal direction of the dust bin main body 221 (that means the axial direction of the cylindrical dust bin main body 221).

[0117] In this case, the dust bin through line a5 may be an imaginary line formed to be perpendicular to a plane and including a point on the plane made by cutting the dust bin 220 in the radial direction and in the longitudinal direction (the axial direction of the cylindrical dust bin main body 221).

[0118] For example, the dust bin through line a5 may be an imaginary line formed to be perpendicular to circles and passing through origins of the circles made by cutting the dust bin 220 in the radial direction and in the longitudinal direction.

[0119] A part of a lower side (bottom side) of the dust bin main body 221 may be opened. In addition, a lower extension portion 221a may be formed at the lower side (bottom side) of the dust bin main body 221. The lower extension portion 221a may be formed to block a part of the lower side of the dust bin main body 221.

[0120] The dust bin 220 may include a discharge cover 222. The discharge cover 222 may be disposed at a lower side of the dust bin 220. The discharge cover 222 may selectively open or close the lower side of the dust bin 220 which is opened downward.

[0121] The discharge cover 222 may include a cover main body 222a and a hinge part 222b. The cover main body 222a may be formed to block a part of the lower side of the dust bin main body 221. The hinge part 222b may be disposed adjacent to the battery housing 230. A torsion spring 222d may be provided to the hinge part 222b. Therefore, when the discharge cover 222 is separated from the dust bin main body 221, the cover main body 222a may be supported while being rotated by above a certain angle about the hinge part 222b from the dust bin main body 221, by an elastic force of the torsion spring 222d.

[0122] The discharge cover 222 may be coupled to the dust bin 220 by a hook engagement.

[0123] Meanwhile, the dust bin may further include a coupling lever 222c. The discharge cover 222 may be separated from the dust bin 220 by means of the coupling lever 222c. The coupling lever 222c may be disposed at a front side of the dust bin. Specifically, the coupling lever 222c may be disposed on an outer surface at the front side of the dust bin 220. When external force is applied to the coupling lever 222c, the coupling lever 222c may elastically deform a hook extending from the cover main body 222a in order to release the hook engagement between the cover main body 222a and the dust bin main body 221.

[0124] When the discharge cover 222 is closed, the lower side of the dust bin 220 may be blocked (sealed) by the discharge cover 222 and the lower extension portion 221a.

[0125] The dust bin 220 may further include the dust bin compression lever 223. The dust bin compression lever 223 may be disposed outside the dust bin 220 or the dust separating part 213. The dust bin compression lever 223 may be disposed outside the dust bin 220 or the dust separating part 213 so as to be movable upward and downward. The dust bin compression lever 223 may be connected to the compression member (not illustrated). When the dust bin compression lever 223 is moved downward by external force, the compression member (not illustrated) may also be moved downward. Therefore, it is possible to provide convenience for the user. The compression member (not illustrated) and the dust bin compression lever 223 may return back to original positions by an elastic member (not illustrated). Specifically, when the external force applied to the dust bin compression lever 223 is eliminated, the elastic member may move the dust bin compression lever 223 and the compression member (not illustrated) upward.

[0126] The compression member (not illustrated) may be disposed in the dust bin main body 221. The compression member may move in the internal space of the dust bin main body 221.

[0127] Specifically, the compression member may move upward and downward in the dust bin main body 221. Therefore, the compression member may compress the dust in the dust bin main body 221. In addition, when the discharge cover 222 is separated from the dust bin main body 221 and thus the lower side of the dust bin 220 is opened, the compression member may move from an upper side of the dust bin 220 to the lower side of the of the dust bin 220, thereby removing foreign substances such as residual dust in the dust bin 220. Therefore, it is possible to improve the suction force of the cleaner by preventing the residual dust from remaining in the dust bin 220. Further, it is possible to remove an offensive odor caused by the residual dust by preventing the residual dust from remaining in the dust bin 220.

[0128] The first cleaner 200 may include the battery housing 230. A battery 240 may be accommodated in the battery housing 230. The battery housing 230 may be disposed at a lower side of the handle 216. For example, the battery housing 230 may have a hexahedral shape opened at a lower side thereof. A rear surface of the battery housing 230 may be connected to the handle 216.

[0129] The battery housing 230 may include an accommodation portion opened at a lower side thereof. The battery 230 may be attached or detached through the accommodation portion of the battery housing 220.

[0130] The first cleaner 200 may include the battery 240.

[0131] For example, the battery 240 may be separably coupled to the first cleaner 200. The battery 240 may be separably coupled to the battery housing 230. For example, the battery 240 may be inserted into the battery housing 230 from the lower side of the battery housing 230. The above-mentioned configuration may improve portability of the first cleaner 200.

[0132] Otherwise, the battery 240 may be integrally provided in the battery housing 230. In this case, a lower surface of the battery 240 is not exposed to the outside.

[0133] The battery 240 may supply power to the suction motor 214 of the first cleaner 200. The battery 240 may be disposed on a lower portion of the handle 216. The battery 240 may be disposed at a rear side of the dust bin 220. That is, the suction motor 214 and the battery 240 may be disposed so as not to overlap each other in the upward/downward direction and disposed at different disposition heights. On the basis of the handle 216, the suction motor 214, which is heavy in weight, is disposed at a front side of the handle 216, and the battery 240, which is heavy in weight, is disposed at the lower side of the handle 216, such that an overall weight of the first cleaner 200 may be uniformly distributed. Therefore, it is possible to prevent stress from being applied to the user's wrist when the user grasps the handle 216 and performs a cleaning operation.

[0134] In a case in which the battery 240 is coupled to the battery housing 230 in accordance with the embodiment, the lower surface of the battery 240 may be exposed to the outside.

[0135] Because the battery 240 may be placed on the floor when the first cleaner 200 is placed on the floor, the battery 240 may be immediately separated from the battery housing 230. In addition, because the lower surface of the battery 240 is exposed to the outside and thus in direct contact with air outside the battery 240, performance of cooling the battery 240 may be improved.

[0136] Meanwhile, in a case in which the battery 240 is fixed integrally to the battery housing 230, the number of structures for attaching or detaching the battery 240 and the battery housing 230 may be reduced, and as a result, it is possible to reduce an overall size of the first cleaner 200 and a weight of the first cleaner 200.

[0137] The first cleaner 200 may include the extension tube 250. The extension tube 250 may communicate with a cleaning module 260. The extension tube 250 may communicate with the main body 210. The extension tube 250 may communicate with the suction part 212 of the main body 210. The extension tube 250 may be formed in a long cylindrical shape.

[0138] 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 the suction force by means of the suction motor 214 and provide the suction force to the cleaning module 260 through the extension tube 250. The outside dust may be introduced into the main body 210 through the cleaning module 260 and the extension tube 250.

[0139] The first cleaner 200 may include the cleaning module 260. The cleaning module 260 may communicate with the extension tube 260. Therefore, the outside air may be introduced into the main body 210 of the first cleaner 200 via the cleaning module 260 and the extension tube 250 by the suction force in the main body 210 of the first cleaner 200.

[0140] The dust in the dust bin 220 of the first cleaner 200 may be stored into a dust collecting part 170 of the cleaner station 100 by gravity and a suction force of a dust collecting motor 191. Therefore, it is possible to remove the dust in the dust bin without the user's separate manipulation, thereby providing convenience for the user. In addition, it is possible to remove inconvenience caused because the user needs to empty the dust bin all the time. In addition, it is possible to prevent the dust from scattering when emptying the dust bin.

[0141] The first cleaner 200 may be coupled to a lateral surface of a housing 110. Specifically, the main body 210 of the first cleaner 200 may be mounted on a coupling part 120. More specifically, the dust bin 220 and the battery housing 230 of the first cleaner 200 may be coupled to a coupling surface 121, an outer circumferential surface of the dust bin main body 221 may be coupled to a dust bin guide surface 122, and the suction part 212 may be coupled to a suction part guide surface 126 of the coupling part 120. In this case, a central axis of the dust bin 220 may be disposed in a direction parallel to the ground surface, and the extension tube 250 may be disposed in a direction perpendicular to the ground surface.

[0142] Meanwhile, FIG. 5 is a perspective view for explaining the dust bin of the second cleaner according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the discharge cover of the second cleaner of FIG. 5.

[0143] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 7, the second cleaner 300 will be described below.

[0144] The cleaner system 10 may include the second cleaner 300. The second cleaner 300 may mean a robot cleaner. The second cleaner 300 may automatically clean a zone to be cleaned by sucking foreign substances such as dust from the floor while autonomously traveling in the zone to be cleaned. The second cleaner 300, that is, the robot cleaner may include a distance sensor configured to detect a distance from an obstacle such as furniture, office supplies, or walls installed in the zone to be cleaned, and left and right wheels for moving the robot cleaner. The second cleaner 300 may be coupled to the cleaner station 100. The dust in the second cleaner 300 may be stored into the dust collecting part 170 through a second cleaner flow path 182.

[0145] The second cleaner 300 may include the dust bin 310. The dust bin 310 may store foreign substances such as dust. For example, the dust bin 310 may be formed in a cylindrical shape. At this time, a bottom surface (lower surface) may be selectively opened and closed. For example, a dust bin cover 340 may be hingedly coupled to a lower surface of the dust bin 310, and when the dust bin cover 340 is opened, the internal space of the dust bin 310 may be opened. With this configuration, it is possible that the user opens the dust bin cover 340 firsthand to empty dust stored in the dust bin 310.

[0146] Though not illustrated, a dust separating part may be disposed in the dust bin 310. For example, the dust separating part may have two or more cyclone parts capable of separating dust using a cyclone flow. Therefore, the air and the dust, which are introduced into the inside of the dust bin, may be separated from each other while spirally flowing along an inner circumferential surface of the dust separating part.

[0147] Meanwhile, the second cleaner 300 may be coupled to a lower portion coupling part 160 of the cleaner station 100. The dust sucked into the inside of the dust bin 310 of the second cleaner 300 may be collected in the dust collecting part 170 through the second cleaner flow path 182.

[0148] The second cleaner 300 may include a dust discharge hole 320. At this time, the dust discharge hole 320 may be disposed on a lateral surface (circumferential surface) of the dust bin 310 of the second cleaner 300, and by doing so, the dust bin 310 of the second cleaner 300 and the second cleaner flow path 182 may be communicated. For example, the dust discharge hole 320 may be a quadrangular hole.

[0149] The second cleaner 300 may include a second cleaner discharge cover 330. At this time, the second cleaner discharge cover 330 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the dust discharge hole 320 so as to close the dust discharge hole 320. To this end, the second cleaner discharge cover 330 may be disposed in the dust discharge hole 320.

[0150] In addition, the second cleaner discharge cover 330 may be hingedly coupled to the dust bin 310 so that the second cleaner discharge cover 330 can open or close the dust discharge hole 320 according to a rotation about a hinge pin 331. In this case, a torsion spring 332 is provided in the hinge pin 331 so that a restoration force may be applied to the second cleaner discharge cover 330 when the second cleaner discharge cover 330 is opened.

[0151] With this configuration, when the dust collecting motor 191 generates the suction force, the dust discharge hole 320 may be opened as the second cleaner discharge cover 330 is rotated toward the outside of the dust bin 310.

[0152] In addition, when the dust collecting motor 191 stops operation, the second cleaner discharge cover 330 is rotated toward a direction of the dust bin 310 by the restoration force so as to block the dust discharge hole 320 again. As described above, the second cleaner discharge cover 330 may allow the dust bin 310 of the second cleaner 330 and the second cleaner flow path 182 to communicate with each other, or block the communication therebetween according to a rotation of the second cleaner discharge hole 320 according to the operation of the dust collecting motor 191.

[0153] Meanwhile, a sealer 333 may be provided in the dust bin 310. The sealer 333 may be disposed along a circumference of the dust discharge hole 320. The sealer 333 may be in contact with the discharge cover 330. By doing so, the sealer 333 may prevent dust from being leaked, by providing an airtight sealing between the dust bin 310 and the discharge cover 330 in a state in which the discharge cover 330 closed the dust discharge hole 320.

[0154] In addition, in a state in which the second cleaner 300 is coupled to the lower portion coupling part 160, the sealer 333 may be in contact with a side wall of the lower portion coupling part 160. Therefore, an outer circumferential surface of the dusts bin 330 of the second cleaner 300 and the lower portion coupling part may be airtightly sealed by the sealer 333. With this configuration, dust introduced into a dust suction hole 162 after passing through the dust discharge hole 320 may be prevented from scattering to the outside.

[0155] The second cleaner 300 may include a counterpart terminal (not illustrated) for charging the battery in a state in which the second cleaner is coupled to the lower portion coupling part 160. The corresponding terminal may be disposed at a location that allows the counterpart terminal to be connected to a charging terminal (not illustrated) of the lower portion coupling part 160 in a state in which the second cleaner 300 is coupled to the lower portion coupling part 160. For example, the counterpart terminal may be provided as a pair on an upper surface of the second cleaner 300. When the counterpart terminal and the charging terminal (not illustrated) are electrically connected, the second cleaner 300 may be charged as the power is supplied to the second cleaner 300.

[0156] With reference to FIGS. 1 to 7, the cleaner station 100 according to the present disclosure will be described below.

[0157] The first cleaner 200 and the second cleaner 300 may be disposed on the cleaner station 100. The first cleaner 200 may be coupled to the lateral surface of the cleaner station 100.

[0158] Specifically, the main body of the first cleaner 200 may be coupled to the lateral surface of the cleaner station 100. The second cleaner 300 may be coupled to the lower portion of the cleaner station 100. The cleaner station 100 may remove the dust from the dust bin 220 of the first cleaner 200. The cleaner station 100 may remove the dust from the dust bin 310 of the second cleaner 300.

[0159] The cleaner station 100 may include the housing 110. The housing 110 may define an external appearance of the cleaner station 100. Specifically, the housing 110 may be formed in the form of a column including one or more outer wall surfaces. For example, the housing 110 may be formed in a shape similar to a quadrangular column.

[0160] The housing 110 may have a space capable of accommodating the dust collecting part 170 configured to store dust therein, and a dust suction module 190 configured to generate a flow force for collecting the dust from the dust collecting part 170.

[0161] The housing 110 may include a bottom surface 111, an outer wall surface 112, and an upper surface 113.

[0162] The bottom surface 111 may support a lower side in a gravitational direction of the dust suction module 190. That is, the bottom surface 111 may support a lower side of the dust collecting motor 191 of the dust suction module 190.

[0163] In this case, the bottom surface 111 may be disposed toward the ground surface. The bottom surface 111 may also be disposed in parallel with the ground surface or disposed to be inclined at a certain angle with respect to the ground surface. The above-mentioned configuration may be advantageous in stably supporting the dust collecting motor 191 and maintaining the balance of an overall weight even in a case in which the first cleaner 200 is coupled.

[0164] Meanwhile, the lower portion coupling part 160 may be coupled to a lower side of the bottom surface 111. The second cleaner 300 may be coupled to the lower portion coupling part 160. An inclined portion 161 to which a lower surface of the second cleaner 300 is coupled may be provided in the lower portion coupling part 160. The lower portion coupling part will be described below.

[0165] The outer wall surface 112 may mean a surface formed in the gravitational direction or a surface connected to the bottom surface 111. For example, the outer wall surface 112 may mean a surface connected to the bottom surface 111 so as to be perpendicular to the bottom surface 111. As another embodiment, the outer wall surface 112 may be disposed to be inclined at a certain angle with respect to the bottom surface 111.

[0166] The outer wall surface 112 may include at least one surface. For example, the outer wall surface 112 may include a first outer wall surface 112a, a second outer wall surface 112b, a third outer wall surface 112c, and a fourth outer wall surface 112d.

[0167] In this case, in the present embodiment, the first outer wall surface 112a may be disposed on the front surface of the cleaner station 100. In this case, the front surface may mean a surface on which the first cleaner 200 or the second cleaner 300 is coupled. Therefore, the first outer wall surface 112a may define an external appearance of the front surface of the cleaner station 100.

[0168] Meanwhile, the directions are defined as follows to understand the present embodiment. In the present embodiment, the directions may be defined in the state in which the first cleaner 200 is mounted on the cleaner station 100.

[0169] In a state in which the first cleaner 200 is mounted on the cleaner station 100, a direction in which the first cleaner 200 is exposed to the outside of the cleaner station 100 may be referred to as a forward direction.

[0170] In another point of view, in a state in which the first cleaner 200 is coupled to the cleaner station 100, a direction in which the suction motor 214 of the first cleaner 200 is disposed may be referred to as a forward direction. In addition, a direction that is opposite to a direction in which the suction motor 214 is disposed on the cleaner station 100 may be referred to as a rearward direction.

[0171] Further, on the basis of the internal space of the housing 110, a surface facing the front surface may be referred to as a rear surface of the cleaner station 100. Therefore, the rear surface may mean a direction in which the second outer wall surface 112b is formed.

[0172] Further, on the basis of the internal space of the housing 110, a left surface when viewing the front surface may be referred to as a left surface, and a right surface when viewing the front surface may be referred to as a right surface. Therefore, the left surface may mean a direction in which the third outer wall surface 112c is formed, and the right surface may mean a direction in which the fourth outer wall surface 112d is formed.

[0173] The first outer wall surface 112a may be formed in the form of a flat surface, or the first outer wall surface 112a may be formed in the form of a curved surface as a whole or formed to partially include a curved surface.

[0174] The first outer wall surface 112a may have an external appearance corresponding to the shape of the first cleaner 200. In detail, the coupling part 120 may be disposed on the first outer wall surface 112a. With this configuration, the first cleaner 200 may be coupled to the cleaner station 100 and supported by the cleaner station 100. The specific configuration of the coupling part 120 will be described below.

[0175] Meanwhile, a structure for mounting various types of cleaning modules 290 used for the first cleaner 200 may be additionally provided on the first outer wall surface 112a.

[0176] In the present embodiment, the second outer wall surface 112b may be a surface facing the first outer wall surface 112a. That is, the second outer wall surface 112b may be disposed on the rear surface of the cleaner station 100. In this case, the rear surface may be a surface facing the surface to which the first cleaner 200 or the second cleaner 300 is coupled. Therefore, the second outer wall surface 112b may define an external appearance of the rear surface of the cleaner station 100.

[0177] For example, the second outer wall surface 112b may be formed in the form of a flat surface. With this configuration, the cleaner station 100 may be in close contact with a wall in a room, and the cleaner station 100 may be stably supported.

[0178] As another example, the structure for mounting various types of cleaning modules 260 used for the first cleaner 200 may be additionally provided on the second outer wall surface 112b.

[0179] In the present embodiment, the third outer wall surface 112c and the fourth outer wall surface 112d may mean surfaces that connect the first outer wall surface 112a and the second outer wall surface 112b. In this case, the third outer wall surface 112c may be disposed on the left surface of the station 100, and the fourth outer wall surface 112d may be disposed on the right surface of the cleaner station 100. Otherwise, the third outer wall surface 112c may be disposed on the right surface of the cleaner station 100, and the fourth outer wall surface 112d may be disposed on the left surface of the cleaner station 100.

[0180] The third outer wall surface 112c or the fourth outer wall surface 112d may be formed in the form of a flat surface, or the third outer wall surface 112c or the fourth outer wall surface 112d may be formed in the form of a curved surface as a whole or formed to partially include a curved surface.

[0181] Meanwhile, the structure for mounting various types of cleaning modules 260 used for the first cleaner 200 may be additionally provided on the third outer wall surface 112c or the fourth outer wall surface 112d.

[0182] The upper surface 113 may form an upper exterior of the cleaner station. That is, the upper surface may mean a surface disposed on the highest side in the gravitational direction on the cleaner station and exposed to the outside.

[0183] For reference, the upper side and the lower side in the present embodiment may mean an upper side and a lower side according to the gravitational direction (a direction perpendicular to the ground surface) in a state in which the cleaner station 100 is mounted on the ground surface.

[0184] In this case, the upper surface 113 may be disposed to be perpendicular to the ground surface, or disposed to be inclined at a certain angle with respect to the ground surface.

[0185] The operating part 218 may be disposed on the upper surface 113. For example, the operating part 218 may display states of the cleaner station 100, the first cleaner 200, and the second cleaner 300, and information on a state of cleaning progress, a map of areas to be cleaned, and the like.

[0186] Meanwhile, according to the embodiment, the upper surface 113 may be provided to be separable from the outer wall surface 112. In this case, when the upper surface 113 is separated therefrom, the battery which is separated from the cleaner 200 may be accommodated and a terminal (not illustrated) for charging the separated battery may be provided in the internal space surrounded by the outer wall surface 112.

[0187] FIG. 8 is a view for explaining the coupling part in the cleaner station according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 9 is a view for explaining an arrangement of the coupling part and a fixing unit in the cleaner station according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0188] The coupling part 120 of the cleaner station 100 according to the present disclosure will be described below with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9.

[0189] The cleaner station 100 may include the coupling part 120 to which the first cleaner 200 is coupled. Specifically, the coupling part 120 may be disposed on the first outer wall surface 112a, and the main body 210, the dust bin 220, and the battery housing 230 of the first cleaner 200 may be coupled to the coupling part 120.

[0190] The coupling part 120 may include the coupling surface 121. The coupling surface 121 may be disposed on the lateral surface of the housing 110. For example, the coupling surface 121 may mean a surface formed in the form of a groove which is concave toward the inside of the cleaner station 100 from the first outer wall surface 112a. That is, the coupling surface 121 may mean a surface formed to have a stepped portion with respect to the first outer wall surface 112a.

[0191] The first cleaner 200 may be coupled to the coupling surface 121. For example, the coupling surface 121 may be in contact with the lower surface of the dust bin 220 and the lower surface of the battery housing 230 of the first cleaner 200. In this case, the lower surface may mean a surface directed toward the ground surface when the user uses the first cleaner 200 or places the first cleaner 200 on the ground surface.

[0192] For example, an angle of the coupling surface 121 with respect to the ground surface may be a right angle. Therefore, it is possible to minimize a space of the cleaner station 100 when the first cleaner 200 is coupled to the coupling surface 121.

[0193] As another example, the coupling surface 121 may be disposed to be inclined at a certain angle with respect to the ground surface. Therefore, the cleaner station 100 may be stably supported when the first cleaner 200 is coupled to the coupling surface 121.

[0194] The coupling surface 121 may have a dust passage hole 121a through which air outside the housing 110 may be introduced into the housing 110. The dust passage hole 121a may be formed in the form of a hole corresponding to the shape of the dust bin 220 so that the dust in the dust bin 220 may be introduced into the dust collecting part 170. The dust passage hole 121a may be formed to correspond to the shape of the discharge cover 222 of the dust bin 220.

[0195] The dust passage hole 121a may be formed to communicate with a first cleaner flow path part 181 to be described below. In addition, in a state in which the first cleaner 200 and the cleaner station 100 are coupled to each other and the discharge cover 222 is opened, the dust passage hole 121a may be formed to communicate with an internal space of the dust bin 220.

[0196] Meanwhile, a door 141 may be rotated in the dust passage hole 121a. The door 141 may be a rotating body which is hingedly coupled to the housing 110 and configured to rotate in a hinge engagement to the housing 110. Therefore, according to a rotation of the door 141, the dust passage hole 121a may be selectively opened or closed. In addition, the discharge cover 222 may be rotated in the dust passage hole 121a in a state in which the first cleaner 200 and the cleaner station 100 are coupled to each other. The discharge cover 222 may be rotated together with the door 141 in association with a rotation of the door 141, in a state in which the first cleaner 200 and the cleaner station 100 are coupled to each other. Therefore, according to the rotation of the discharge cover 222, the dust passage hole 121a may be selectively opened or closed.

[0197] The coupling part 120 may include the dust bin guide surface 122. The dust bin guide surface 122 may be disposed on the first outer wall surface 112a. The dust bin guide surface 122 may be connected to the first outer wall surface 112a. In addition, the dust bin guide surface 122 may be connected to the coupling surface 121.

[0198] The dust bin guide surface 122 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the outer surface of the dust bin 220. A front outer surface of the dust bin 220 may be coupled to the dust bin guide surface 122. With this configuration, the dust bin guide surface 122 may support the dust bin 220 by coupling to the dust bin 220 of the first cleaner.

[0199] The coupling part 120 may include guide protrusions 123. The guide protrusions 123 may be disposed on the coupling surface 121. The guide protrusions 123 may protrude upward from the coupling surface 121. Two guide protrusions 123 may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other. A distance between the two guide protrusions 123, which are spaced apart from each other, may correspond to a width of the battery housing 230 of the first cleaner 200. With this configuration, the guide protrusion 123 may guide a coupling direction of the first cleaner 200.

[0200] In addition, the battery housing 230 and the battery 240 may be accommodated between the pair of the guide protrusions 123.

[0201] The coupling part 120 may include sidewalls 124. The sidewalls 124 may mean wall surfaces disposed on two lateral surfaces of the coupling surface 121 and may be perpendicularly connected to the coupling surface 121. The sidewalls 124 may be connected to the first outer wall surface 112a. In addition, the sidewalls 124 may be connected to the dust bin guide surface 122. That is, the sidewalls 124 may define surfaces connected to the dust bin guide surface 122. Therefore, the first cleaner 200 may be stably accommodated.

[0202] The coupling part 120 may include a coupling sensor 125. The coupling sensor 125 may detect whether the first cleaner 200 is physically coupled to the coupling part 120.

[0203] The coupling sensor 125 may include a contact sensor. For example, the coupling sensor 125 may include a micro-switch (see FIG. 16). In this case, the coupling sensor 125 may be disposed on the guide protrusion 123. Therefore, when the battery housing 230 or the battery 240 of the first cleaner 200 is coupled between the pair of guide protrusions 123, the battery housing 230 or the battery 240 comes into contact with the coupling sensor 125, such that the coupling sensor 125 may detect that the first cleaner 200 is physically coupled to the cleaner station 100.

[0204] Meanwhile, the coupling sensor 125 may include a non-contact sensor. For example, the coupling sensor 125 may include an infrared (IR) sensor. In this case, the coupling sensor 125 may be disposed on the sidewall 124. Therefore, when the dust bin 220 or the main body 210 of the first cleaner 200 passes the sidewall 124 and then reaches the coupling surface 121, the coupling sensor 125 may detect the presence of the dust bin 220 or the main body 210.

[0205] The coupling sensor 125 may face the dust bin 220 or the battery housing 230 of the first cleaner 200.

[0206] The coupling sensor 125 may be a mean for determining whether the first cleaner 200 is coupled and power is applied to the battery 240 of the first cleaner 200.

[0207] The coupling part 120 may include the suction part guide surface 126. The suction part guide surface 126 may be disposed on the first outer wall surface 112a. The suction part guide surface 126 may be connected to the dust bin guide surface 122. The suction part 212 may be coupled to the suction part guide surface 126. A shape of the suction part guide surface 126 may correspond to the shape of the suction part 212. Therefore, it is possible to provide convenience when coupling the main body 210 of the first cleaner 200 to the coupling surface 121.

[0208] The coupling part 120 may include fixing member entrance holes 127. The fixing member entrance hole 127 may be formed in the form of a long hole along the sidewall 124 so that a fixing member 131 may enter and exit the fixing member entrance hole 127. For example, the fixing member entrance hole 127 may be a rectangular hole formed along the sidewall 124. The fixing member 131 will be described below in detail.

[0209] With this configuration, when the user couples the first cleaner 200 to the coupling part 120 of the cleaner station 100, the main body 210 of the first cleaner 200 may be stably disposed on the coupling part 120 by the dust bin guide surface 122, the guide protrusions 123, and the suction part guide surface 126. Therefore, it is possible to provide convenience when coupling the dust bin 220 and the battery housing 230 of the first cleaner 200 to the coupling surface 121.

[0210] The fixing unit 130 of the cleaner station 100 according to the present disclosure will be described below with reference to FIG. 9.

[0211] The cleaner station 100 according to the present disclosure may include the fixing unit 130. The fixing unit 130 may be disposed on the sidewall 124. In addition, the fixing unit 130 may be disposed on a back surface to the coupling surface 121. The fixing unit 130 may fix the first cleaner 200 coupled to the coupling surface 121. Specifically, the fixing unit 130 may fix the dust bin 220 and the battery housing 230 of the first cleaner 200 coupled to the coupling surface 121.

[0212] The fixing unit 130 may include the fixing members 131 configured to fix the dust bin 220 and the battery housing 230 of the first cleaner 200, and a fixing part motor 133 configured to operate the fixing members 131. In addition, the fixing unit 130 may further include a fixing part link 135 configured to transmit power from the fixing part motor 133 to the fixing members 131.

[0213] The fixing members 131 may be disposed on the sidewall 124 of the coupling part 120 and provided on the sidewall 124 so as to reciprocate in order to fix the dust bin 220. Specifically, the fixing members 131 may be accommodated in the fixing member entrance holes 127.

[0214] The fixing members 131 may be disposed at both sides of the coupling part 120, respectively. For example, a pair of two fixing members 131 may be symmetrically disposed with respect to the coupling surface 121.

[0215] The fixing part motor 133 may provide power for moving the fixing members 131. (see FIG. 16)

[0216] The fixing part link 135 may convert a rotational force of the fixing part motor 133 into reciprocating motions of the fixing members 131.

[0217] A stationary sealer 136 may be disposed on the dust bin guide surface 122 so as to seal the dust bin 220 when the cleaner 200 is coupled. With this configuration, when the dust bin 220 of the cleaner 200 is coupled, the cleaner 200 may press the stationary sealer 136 by its own weight, such that the dust bin 220 and the dust bin guide surface 122 may be sealed.

[0218] The stationary sealer 136 may be disposed in an imaginary extension line of the fixing members 131. With this configuration, when the fixing part motor 133 operates and the fixing members 131 press the dust bin 220, a circumference of the dust bin 220 at the same height may be sealed.

[0219] According to the embodiment, the stationary sealer 136 may be disposed on the dust bin guide surface 122 and formed in the form of a bent line corresponding to an arrangement of a cover opening unit 150 to be described below.

[0220] Therefore, when the main body 210 of the first cleaner 200 is disposed on the coupling part 120, the fixing unit 130 may fix the main body 210 of the first cleaner 200. Specifically, when the coupling sensor 125 detects that the main body 210 of the first cleaner 200 is coupled to the coupling part 120 of the cleaner station 100, the fixing part motor 133 may move the fixing members 131 to fix the main body 210 of the first cleaner 200.

[0221] With this configuration, it is possible to improve a suction force of the cleaner by preventing residual dust from remaining in the dust bin. In addition, it is possible to remove offensive odor caused by residual dust by allowing no residual dust to remain in the dust bin.

[0222] In FIGS. 10 and 11, views for explaining a motion of a door unit to open or close the door in the cleaner station according to the embodiment of the present disclosure are illustrated.

[0223] The door unit 140 according to the present disclosure will be described below with reference to FIGS. 7 to 11.

[0224] The cleaner station 100 according to the present disclosure may include the door unit 140. The door unit 140 may be configured to open or close the dust passage hole 121a.

[0225] The door unit 140 may include a door 141, a door motor 142, and a door arm 143.

[0226] The door 141 may be hingedly coupled to the coupling surface 121 and may open or close the dust passage hole 121a. The door 141 may include a door main body 141a.

[0227] The door main body 141a may be formed in a shape capable of blocking the dust passage hole 121a. For example, the door main body 141a may be formed in a shape similar to a circular plate shape.

[0228] On the basis of a state in which the door main body 141a blocks the dust passage hole 121a, a hinge part may be disposed at an upper side of the door main body 141a, and the arm coupling part 141b may be disposed at a lower side of the door main body 141a.

[0229] The door main body 141a may be formed in a shape capable of sealing the dust passage hole 121a. For example, an outer surface of the door main body 141a, which is exposed to the outside of the cleaner station 100, is formed to have a diameter corresponding to a diameter of the dust passage hole 121a, and an inner surface of the door main body 141a, which is disposed in the cleaner station 100, is formed to have a diameter greater than the diameter of the dust passage hole 121a. In addition, a level difference may be defined between the outer surface and the inner surface. Meanwhile, one or more reinforcing ribs may protrude from the inner surface in order to connect the hinge part and the arm coupling part 141b and reinforce a supporting force of the door main body 141a.

[0230] The hinge part may be a means by which the door 141 is hingedly coupled to the coupling surface 121. The hinge part may be disposed at an upper end of the door main body 141a and coupled to the coupling surface 121.

[0231] The arm coupling part 141b may be a means to which the door arm 143 is rotatably coupled. The arm coupling part 141b may be disposed at a lower side of the door main body 141a, and the door arm 143 may be rotatably coupled to the arm coupling part 141b.

[0232] With this configuration, when the door arm 143 pulls the door main body 141a in the state in which the door 141 closes the dust passage hole 121a, the door main body 141a is rotated about the hinge part toward the inside of the cleaner station 100, such that the dust passage hole 121a may be opened. Meanwhile, when the door arm 143 pushes the door main body 141a in the state in which the dust passage hole 121a is opened, the door main body 141a is rotated about the hinge part toward the outside of the cleaner station 100, such that the dust passage hole 121a may be closed.

[0233] Meanwhile, in a state in which the cleaner 200 is coupled to the cleaner station 100 and the discharge cover 222 is separated from the dust bin main body 210, the door 141 may be in contact with the discharge cover 222. In addition, the discharge cover 222 may be rotated in association with the door 141 according to the rotation.

[0234] The door motor 142 may provide power for rotating the door 141. Specifically, the door motor 142 may rotate the door arm 143 in a forward direction or a reverse direction. In this case, the forward direction may mean a direction in which the door arm 143 pulls the door 141. Therefore, when the door arm 143 is rotated in the forward direction, the dust passage hole 121a may be opened. In addition, the reverse direction may mean a direction in which the door arm 143 pushes the door 141. Therefore, when the door arm 143 is rotated in the reverse direction, at least a part of the dust passage hole 121a may be closed. The forward direction may be opposite to the reverse direction.

[0235] The door arm 143 may connect the door 141 and the door motor 142 and open or close the door 141 using the power generated from the door motor 142.

[0236] For example, the door arm 143 may include a first door arm 143a and a second door arm 143b. One end of the first door arm 143a may be coupled to the door motor 142. The first door arm 143 a may be rotated by the power of the door motor 142. The other end of the first door arm 143a may be rotatably coupled to the second door arm 143b. The first door arm 143a may transmit a force transmitted from the door motor 142 to the second door arm 143b. One end of the second door arm 143b may be coupled to the first door arm 143a. The other end of the second door arm 143 b may be coupled to the door 141. The second door arm 143b may open or close the dust passage hole 121a by pushing or pulling the door 141.

[0237] The door unit 140 may further include door opening/closing detecting parts 144. The door opening/closing detecting parts 144 may be provided in the housing 100 and may detect whether the door 141 is in an opened state. (see FIG. 16)

[0238] For example, the door opening/closing detecting parts 144 may be disposed at both ends in a rotation region of the door arm 143, respectively. As another example, the door opening/closing detecting parts 144 may be disposed at both ends in a movement region of the door 141, respectively.

[0239] Therefore, when the door arm 143 is moved to a certain opened position DP1 or when the door 141 is opened to a certain position, the door opening/closing detecting parts 144 may detect that the door is opened. In addition, when the door arm 143 is moved to a certain closed position DP2 or when the door 141 is moved to a certain position, the door opening/closing detecting parts 144 may detect that the door is closed.

[0240] The door opening/closing detecting part 144 may include a contact sensor. For example, the door opening/closing detecting part 144 may include a micro-switch.

[0241] Meanwhile, the door opening/closing detecting part 144 may also include a non-contact sensor. For example, the door opening/closing detecting part 144 may include an infrared (IR) sensor.

[0242] With this configuration, the door unit 140 may selectively open or close at least a part of the coupling surface 121, thereby allowing the outside of the first outer wall surface 112a to communicate with the flow path part 180 and/or the dust collecting part 170.

[0243] The door unit 140 may be opened when the discharge cover 222 of the first cleaner 200 is opened. In addition, when the door unit 140 is closed, the discharge cover 222 of the first cleaner 200 may also be closed in association with the closing of the door unit 140.

[0244] When the dust in the dust bin 220 of the first cleaner 200 is removed, the door motor 142 may rotate the door 141, thereby coupling the discharge cover 222 to the dust bin main body 221. Specifically, the door motor 142 may rotate the door 141 to rotate the door 141, and the door 141 rotated may push the discharge cover 222 toward the dust bin main body 221.

[0245] With reference to FIGS. 7 to 12, the cover opening unit 150 according to the present disclosure will be described below.

[0246] The cleaner station 100 according to the present disclosure may include the cover opening unit 150. The cover opening unit 150 may be disposed in the coupling part 120 and may open the discharge cover 222 of the first cleaner 200.

[0247] The cover opening unit 150 may include a push protrusion 151, a cover opening motor 152, cover opening gears 153, a support plate 154, and a gear box 155.

[0248] The push protrusion 151 may move to press the coupling lever 222c when the first cleaner 200 is coupled.

[0249] The push protrusion 151 may be disposed on the dust bin guide surface 122. Specifically, a protrusion moving hole may be formed in the dust bin guide surface 122, and the push protrusion 151 may pass through the protrusion moving hole and be exposed to the outside.

[0250] When the first cleaner 200 is coupled, the push protrusion 151 may be disposed at a position at which the push protrusion 151 may push the coupling lever 222c. That is, the coupling lever 222c may be disposed on the protrusion moving hole. In addition, the coupling lever 222c may be disposed in a movement region of the push protrusion 151.

[0251] The push protrusion 151 may rectilinearly reciprocate to press the coupling lever 222c. Specifically, the push protrusion 151 may be coupled to the gear box 155, such that the rectilinear movement of the push protrusion 151 may be guided. The push protrusion 151 may be coupled to the cover opening gears 153 and moved together with the cover opening gears 153 by the movements of the cover opening gears 153.

[0252] The cover opening motor 152 may provide power for moving the push protrusion 151. Specifically, the cover opening motor 152 may rotate a motor shaft (not illustrated) a in a forward direction or a reverse direction. In this case, the forward direction may mean a direction in which the push protrusion 151 pushes the coupling lever 222c. In addition, the reverse direction may mean a direction in which the push protrusion 151, which has pushed the coupling lever 222c, returns back to an original position. The forward direction may be opposite to the reverse direction.

[0253] The cover opening gears 153 may be coupled to the cover opening motor 152 and may move the push protrusion 151 using the power from the cover opening motor 152. Specifically, the cover opening gears 153 may be accommodated in the gear box 155. An opening driving gear 153a of the cover opening gears 153 is coupled to the motor shaft of the cover opening motor 152, such that the opening driving gear 153a may receive rotational power from the cover opening motor 152. An opening driven gear 153b may engage with the push protrusion 151, thereby moving the push protrusion 151. For example, the opening driven gear 153b may be formed in the form of a rack gear so as to engage with the opening driving gear 153a and receive power from the opening driving gear 153a.

[0254] In this case, the discharge cover 222 may have the torsion spring 222d. The discharge cover 222 may be rotated by a certain angle or more and supported in the rotated position by an elastic force of the torsion spring 222d. Therefore, the discharge cover 222 may be opened, and allow the dust passage hole 121a and the inside of the dust bin 220 to communicate with each other.

[0255] The gear box 155 may be provided in the housing 110 and disposed at the lower side of the coupling part 120 in the gravitational direction, and may accommodate the cover opening gears 153.

[0256] A cover opening detecting parts 155f may be provided in the gear box 155. The cover opening detecting part 155f may include a contact sensor. For example, the cover opening detecting part 155f may include a micro-switch. Meanwhile, the cover opening detecting part 155f may also include a non-contact sensor. For example, the cover opening detecting part 155f may include an infrared (IR) sensor.

[0257] At least one cover opening detecting part 155f may be disposed on an inner surface or an outer surface of the gear box 155. For example, one cover opening detection part 155f may be disposed on the inner surface of the gear box 155. In this case, the cover opening detecting part 155f may detect that the push protrusion 151 has returned back to the original position.

[0258] As another example, two cover opening detecting parts 155f may be disposed on the outer surface of the gear box 155. In this case, the cover opening detecting parts 155f. In this case, the cover opening detecting parts 155f may detect the original position and a cover opening position of the push protrusion 151.

[0259] Therefore, according to the present disclosure, it is possible to improve convenience since opening of the dust bin 220 is possible thanks to the cover opening unit 150 without additional manipulation of the user to open the discharge cover 222 of the first cleaner.

[0260] In addition, it is possible to prevent dust from scattering since the discharge cover 222 is opened in a state in which the first cleaner 200 is coupled to the cleaner station 100.

[0261] Referring to FIG. 7, the cleaner station 100 according to the present disclosure may include the lower portion coupling part 160. The first cleaner 200 and the second cleaner 300 may be coupled to the lower portion coupling part 160. Specifically, the second cleaner 300 may be coupled to the lower portion coupling part 160. In a state in which the second cleaner 300 is coupled the lower portion coupling part 160, dust stored in the dust bin of the second cleaner 300 may be collected by the cleaner station 100.

[0262] The lower portion coupling part 160 may include the inclined portion 161 that the second cleaner 300 climbs to be coupled thereto. The inclined portion 161 may be comprised of a plurality of inclined surfaces, each of which having a different gradient, and each gradient of them may be determined according to an appearance of the bottom part of the second cleaner 300.

[0263] The lower portion coupling part 160 may include the dust suction hole 162 provided in a position corresponding to a position in which the dust bin 310 of the second cleaner 300 is disposed in a state in which the second cleaner 300 is coupled. More specifically, the dust suction hole 162 may be formed in a side wall of the lower portion coupling part 160. In this case, the side wall may be formed along a direction perpendicular to the ground surface, and may be disposed to face the dust bin 310 of the second cleaner 300. Therefore, the dust suction hole 162 may be disposed in a position facing the dust discharge hole 320 in a state in which the second cleaner 300 is coupled. For example, the dust suction hole 162 may be disposed farther from the ground surface than is the inclined portion 161.

[0264] The dust suction hole 162 may be formed in a shape corresponding to the dust discharge hole 320. For example, the dust suction hole 162 may have a quadrangle shape. In this case, the dust suction hole 162 may receive at least a part of the second cleaner discharge cover 330 if the second cleaner discharge cover 330 is opened. With this configuration, even if the dust collecting motor 191 is operated and the second cleaner discharge cover 330 is opened, the dust discharge hole 320 and the dust suction hole 162 are disposed to be close to each other and communicate with each other.

[0265] In addition, the lower portion coupling part 160 may include the charging terminal (not illustrated) which is electrically connected to the second cleaner 300 and supplies power so that the second cleaner 300 can be charged. When the second cleaner 300 is coupled, the counterpart terminal of the second cleaner 300 and the charging terminal (not illustrated) of the lower portion coupling part 160 may be electrically connected to each other, and the power is supplied from the lower portion coupling part 160 to the second cleaner 300 so that the second cleaner 300 can be charged.

[0266] Meanwhile, the second cleaner flow path 182 may be formed in the lower portion coupling part 160. The second cleaner flow path 182 may be formed so as to communicate with the dust suction hole 162.

[0267] Meanwhile, the dust collecting part 170 will be described below with reference to FIGS. 7 and 16.

[0268] The cleaner station 100 may include the dust collecting part 170. The dust collecting part 170 may be disposed in the housing 110. The dust collecting part 170 may be disposed at a lower side in the gravitational direction of the coupling part 120.

[0269] For example, the dust collecting part 170 may mean a dust bag that collects dust suctioned from the inside of the dust bin 220 of the first cleaner 200.

[0270] Therefore, the dust collecting part 170 may be separably coupled to the housing 110.

[0271] Therefore, the dust collecting part 170 may be separated from the housing 110 so as to be discarded, and a new dust collecting part 170 may be coupled to the housing 110. That is, the dust collecting part 170 may be defined as a consumable part.

[0272] The dust bag may be provided such that a volume of the dust bag expands to accommodate the dust on the inside of the dust bag as the suction force occurs by the dust collecting motor 191.

[0273] To this end, the dust bag may be formed of a material that allows penetration of the air, but does not allow penetration of foreign substances such as dust. For example, the dust bag may be formed of a non-woven fabric, and may have a shape of a hexahedron on the basis of the state in which the volume expands.

[0274] Therefore, it is possible to improve convenience of the user since the user need not bind the dust bag in which dust is collected.

[0275] Otherwise, the dust bag may be formed of a non-transparent material. For example, the dust bag may include a roll vinyl film (not illustrated). In this case, the dust bag may be bonded by using a bonder (not illustrated). With this configuration, it is possible to prevent the collected dust or an offensive odor from the dust bag from being leaked to the outside of the dust bag when the dust bag is sealed or bonded. In this case, the dust bag may be mounted to the housing 110 through a dust bag cartridge (not illustrated). As needed, the dust bag may be replaced through the dust bag cartridge.

[0276] Meanwhile, the cleaner station 100 according to the present disclosure may further include a sterilization module (not illustrated).

[0277] At least one or more sterilization modules (not illustrated) may be provided in the flow path part 180, or around the dust collecting part 170.

[0278] The sterilization module (not illustrated) is a component configured to sterilize dust collected in the dust collecting part 170. The sterilization module (not illustrated) may include a light source configured to emit sterilization light and a protection panel disposed in a lower portion of the light source and configured to protect the light source.

[0279] In this case, the light source may include at least one or more light emitting diodes (LED) that may emit sterilization light having sterilizing power capable of eliminating germs. The sterilization light being emitted by the light source may have a wavelength that varies according to kinds of light emitting diodes.

[0280] For example, the light source may be a light emitting diode that emits infrared light having a UV-C wavelength range. Or, as another example, the light source may be a light emitting diode that emits visible light having a 405nm wavelength.

[0281] The protection panel may be disposed by being spaced apart at a certain interval from the light source at a lower portion of the light source so as to prevent damage to the light source. In this case, the protection panel may be formed of a material allowing the transmittance of the light source to be maximized. For example, the protection panel may be made of quartz.

[0282] The cleaner station 100 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may hygienically manage the dust collecting part 170 that stores sucked dust for long time by having the sterilization module (not illustrated) that sterilizes germs in the dust collecting part 170, thereby preventing germs from spreading.

[0283] FIG. 13 is a view for explaining a flow path switching module in the flow path part of the cleaner station according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 14 is a view for explaining an arrangement relationship of the first cleaner flow path and the dust collecting flow path in the flow path part of the cleaner station according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 15 is a view for explaining an arrangement relationship of the second cleaner station and the dust collecting flow path in the flow path part of the cleaner station according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0284] The flow path part 180 will be described below with reference to FIGS. 7 to 15.

[0285] The cleaner station may include the flow path part 180. The flow path part 180 may connect the dust bins 220 and 310 of the cleaners 200 and 300 to the dust collecting part 170. That is, the flow path part 180 may connect the dust bin 220 of the first cleaner 200 or the dust bin 310 of the second cleaner 300 to the dust collecting part 170.

[0286] The flow path part 180 may include the first cleaner flow path 181, the second cleaner flow path 182, the flow path switching module 183, and a dust collecting flow path 184.

[0287] The first flow path 181 is disposed inside the housing 110, and is connected to the dust bin 220 of the first cleaner 200 as a passage.

[0288] The first cleaner flow path 181 may connect the dust bin 220 of the first cleaner 200 to the dust collecting part 170. The first flow path 181 may be disposed at a rear side of the coupling surface 121. The first cleaner flow path 181 may mean a space between the dust bin 220 of the first cleaner 200 and the dust collecting part 170.

[0289] The first flow path 181 may be formed to extend rearward from the coupling part 120, be bent and then, extend downward.

[0290] Specifically, the first cleaner flow path 181 includes the first flow path 181a. The first flow path 181a communicates with the dust passage hole 121a, and may be formed at a rear side of the coupling part 120 along forward and backward directions of the cleaner station 100.

[0291] In a state in which the first cleaner 200 is coupled to the cleaner station 100 and the door 141 and the discharge cover 222 are opened, the internal space of the dust bin 220, the dust passage hole 121a, and the first flow path 181a may communicate with one another.

[0292] As the first flow path 181a is formed along the forward and backward directions of the cleaner station 100, it is possible to provide a sufficient space for air and foreign substances inside the dust bin 220 to be introduced into the inside of the cleaner station 100.

[0293] In addition, the first cleaner flow path 181 includes a second flow path 181b. The second flow path 181b may communicate with the first flow path 181a, and may be formed along the upward/downward direction of the cleaner station 100.

[0294] In this case, compared with a length of the firs flow path 181a in the forward and backward directions, a length of the second flow path 181b in the upward/downward direction may be formed longer. With this configuration, it is possible to minimize a loss of the flow path.

[0295] A diameter of an upper portion of the second flow path 181b may be formed to be greater than a diameter of a lower portion thereof. That is, the second flow path 181b may be formed in a shape having a diameter that is narrower from the upper portion toward the lower portion. With this configuration, the air and foreign substances introduced from the inside of the dust bin 220 may collect and be sucked into the dust collecting part 170, and flow velocity may be increased toward a lower portion of the second flow path 181b, thereby increasing the suction force.

[0296] Meanwhile, in the cleaner station 100 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the second flow path 181b may be formed to be perpendicular to the ground surface, or may be formed to have a certain angle with respect to the ground surface.

[0297] Particularly, an imaginary line penetrating an inside of the second flow path 181b may be formed in the present embodiment. That is, the cleaner station 100 of the present disclosure may include an imaginary first cleaner flow path through line P1 penetrating the second flow path 181b in a longitudinal direction.

[0298] The first cleaner flow path through line P1 may be formed along the longitudinal direction (axial direction) of the second flow path 181b, and formed to penetrate the inside of the second flow path 181b.

[0299] Meanwhile, a lower portion of the first cleaner flow path 181 may be connected to the flow path switching module 182. Specifically, the lower portion of the first cleaner flow path 181 may communicate with a connecting hose 1832 provided in the flow path switching module 183. That is, the lower portion of the first cleaner flow path 181 may communicate with a flow path formed at an inside of the connecting hose 1832. (hereinafter, referred to as a connecting flow path)

[0300] With this configuration, dust inside the first cleaner 200 may pass through the connecting flow path and the dust collecting flow path 184 and move to the dust collecting part 170, through the first cleaner flow path 181.

[0301] The second flow path 182 is disposed on an inside of the housing 110, and is connected to the dust bin 310 of the second cleaner 300.

[0302] The second cleaner flow path 181 may connect the dust bin 310 of the second cleaner 300 to the dust collecting part 170.

[0303] The second cleaner flow path 181 may be formed at a rearward position from the lower portion coupling part 160, and may be bent and run upward.

[0304] Specifically, the second cleaner flow path 182 includes the third flow path 182a. The third flow path 182a may communicate with the dust suction hole 162, and may be formed at a rearward position from the dust suction hole 162 along forward and rearward directions. For example, the third flow path 182a may be formed at a rearward position along a direction parallel to the ground surface from the dust suction hole 162.

[0305] The internal space of the dust bin 310 of the second cleaner 300, the dust suction hole 162, and the third flow path 182a may communicate with one another. That is, when the dust collecting motor is operated, the second cleaner discharge cover 330 may be opened by the suction force of the dust collecting motor 191. In this case, the internal space of the dust bin 310 of the second cleaner 200, the dust suction hole 162, and the third flow path 182a communicate with one another, and the dust stored inside the dust bin 310 may pass through the dust suction hole 162 and the third flow path 182a.

[0306] In addition, the second cleaner flow path 182 includes a fourth flow path 182b. The fourth flow path 182b communicates with the third flow path 182a, and may be formed along the upward/downward direction of the cleaner station 100. That is, the fourth flow path 182b may be bent upward from the third flow path 182a, along a direction perpendicular to the ground surface. When the dust collecting motor 191 is operated, the dust stored inside the dust bin 310 may flow upward while defying the gravity by the suction force of the dust collecting motor 191.

[0307] In addition, the second cleaner flow path 182 includes a fifth flow path 182c. The fifth flow path 182c may communicate with the fourth flow path 182b, and may be formed to have a certain angle with respect to the ground surface.

[0308] The fifth flow path 182c may be disposed between the first flow path 181a and the dust collecting flow path 184.

[0309] Since the fifth flow path 182c is disposed farther from the ground surface than is the dust collecting flow path 184, it is possible to prevent foreign substances (dust) introduced into the dust collecting flow path 184 from flowing backward to the second cleaner flow path 181. Further, since the fifth flow path 182c is disposed closer to the ground surface than is the first flow path 181a, it is advantageous that a distance by which foreign substances inside the dust bin 310 of the second cleaner 300 ascends and flows while defying the gravity may be minimized.

[0310] The fifth flow path 182c may mean a path that is bent by a certain angle from the fourth flow path 182b.

[0311] One end in an axial direction of the fifth flow path 182c is connected to the fourth flow path 182b. In addition, the other end in the axial direction of the fifth flow path 182c may be connected to the connecting hose 1832 provided in the flow path switching module 183.

[0312] In this case, at least a part of the one end of the fifth flow path 182c may be disposed at a higher position than is the other end thereof. With this configuration, air and foreign substances that have passed through the fourth flow path 182b may be moved to the dust collecting flow path 184 by gravity.

[0313] Meanwhile, an imaginary line penetrating an inside of the fifth flow path 182c may be formed in the present embodiment. That is, the cleaner station 100 of the present disclosure may include an imaginary second cleaner flow path through line P2 penetrating the fifth flow path 182c in a longitudinal direction.

[0314] The second cleaner flow path through line P2 is formed along a longitudinal direction (axial direction) of the fifth flow path 182c, and is formed to penetrate the inside of the fifth flow path 182c.

[0315] Meanwhile, a diameter of the fourth flow path 182b may be formed to be greater than a diameter of the fifth flow path 182c. In this case, flow velocity of air and foreign substance flowing through the fourth flow path 182b may be faster than flow velocity of air and foreign substances flowing through the fifth flow path 182c. Therefore, dust stored in the dust bin 310 of the second cleaner 300 may ascend and flow along the fourth flow path 182b while defying the gravity, and then, may flow downward along the fifth flow path 182c.

[0316] With this configuration, the second cleaner flow path 182 may collect dust stored in the second cleaner 300 which is disposed closer to the ground surface than is the dust collecting part 170.

[0317] The fifth flow path 182c may communicate with the fourth flow path 182b and the dust collecting flow path 184.

[0318] Meanwhile, a lower portion of the fifth flow path 182c may be connected to the flow path switching module 182. Specifically, the lower portion of the fifth flow path 182c may communicate with the connecting hose 1832 provided in the flow path switching module 183. That is, the lower portion of the fifth flow path 182c may communicate with the flow path formed at the inside of the connecting hose 1832. (hereinafter, referred to as the connecting flow path)

[0319] With this configuration, dust inside the second cleaner 300 may pass through the connecting flow path and the dust collecting flow path 184 and move to the dust collecting part 170, through the second cleaner flow path 182.

[0320] The flow path switching module 183 is configured to selectively connect the dust collecting flow path 184 to the first cleaner flow path 181 or the second cleaner flow path 182.

[0321] The flow path switching module 183 selectively connects the dust collecting part 170 disposed in the housing 110 to the first cleaner flow path 181, or the second cleaner flow path 182.

[0322] The flow path switching module 183 may be disposed between the dust collecting part 170, the first cleaner flow path 181, and the second cleaner flow path 182. The flow path switching module 183 may selectively open or close the first cleaner flow path 181 or the second cleaner flow path 182. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a decrease in suction force caused when the plurality of flow paths 181 and 182 are opened simultaneously.

[0323] For example, in a case in which only the first cleaner 200 is coupled to the cleaner station 100, the flow path switching module 183 may connect the first flow path 181 to the dust collecting part 170 and disconnect the second flow path 182 from the dust collecting part 170.

[0324] In addition, in a case in which only the second cleaner 300 is coupled to the cleaner station 100, the flow path switching module 183 may connect the second flow path 182 to the dust collecting part 170 and disconnect the first flow path 181 from the dust collecting part 170

[0325] To help understanding the directions, directions of the flow path switching module 183 will be defined below. On the basis of a case 1831, a direction in which the second cleaner flow path 182 positions may be defined as a rearward direction. On the basis of the case 1831, a direction in which a drive cam 1836 positions may be defined as a forward direction. On the basis of the case 1831, a direction in which the first cleaner flow path 181 positions may be defined as an upward direction. On the basis of the case 1831, a direction in which the dust collecting part 170 positions may be defined as a downward direction.

[0326] The flow path switching module 183 is disposed inside the housing 110.

[0327] The flow path switching module 183 includes the case 1831, the connecting hose 1832, a first link 1833, a second link 1834, a switching motor 1835, and the drive cam 1836.

[0328] The flow path switching module 183 includes the case 1831. The case 1831 is configured to form an outer appearance, and forms a frame to which other components are coupled, or supported.

[0329] The case 1831 is formed in a shape of a container having a space inside, and includes a first cleaner flow path connecting portion 1831b connected to the first cleaner flow path 181, and a second cleaner flow path connecting portion 1831c connected to the second cleaner flow path 182. In addition, the case 1831 includes a dust collecting flow path connecting portion 1831d connected to the dust collecting flow path 184.

[0330] The case 1831 may form a circular arc on an inner circumferential surface. The inner circumferential surface of the case 1831 configures a part of an imaginary circle about a central axis. Referring to FIG. 11, a central axis 1831a of the case is disposed along left and right directions of the cleaner station 100.

[0331] The first cleaner flow path connecting portion 1831b may protrude radially outward from the case 1831. The first cleaner flow path connecting portion 1831b may protrude upward. A flange is formed on an end of the first cleaner flow path connecting portion 1831b, and inserted into a groove formed in the first cleaner flow path 181 to be connected to the first cleaner flow path 181.

[0332] The second cleaner flow path connecting portion 1831c may protrude radially outward from the case 1831. The second cleaner flow path connecting portion 1831c may protrude rearward from the case 1831. A flange is formed on an end of the second cleaner flow path connecting portion 1831c, and inserted into a groove formed in the second cleaner flow path 182 to be connected to the first cleaner flow path 182.

[0333] The dust flow path connecting portion 1831d may protrude radially outward from the case 1831. The dust flow path connecting portion 1831d may protrude downward. A flange is formed on an end of the dust collecting flow path connecting portion 1831d, and inserted into a groove formed in the dust collecting flow path 184 to be connected to the dust collecting flow path 184.

[0334] The case 1831 may be separably coupled to the housing 110. The case 1831 is inserted into the housing 110, and fixed as the flanges formed in the first cleaner flow path connecting portion 1831b, the second cleaner flow path connecting portion 1831c, and the dust collecting flow path 184 are inserted into grooves of the first cleaner flow path 181, the second cleaner flow path 182, and the dust collecting flow path 184. After that, by at least one or more screws, the case 1831 may be treaded into the housing 110.

[0335] The flow path switching module 183 may include the connecting hose 1832. The connecting hose 1832 is configured to allow the dust collecting flow path 184 to selectively communicate with the first cleaner flow path 181 or the second cleaner flow path 182.

[0336] The connecting hose 1832 is selectively coupled to any one among the first cleaner flow path connecting portion 1831b and the second cleaner flow path connecting portion 1831c as an entrance 1832a moves along an inner circumferential surface of the case 1831. An exit 1832b of the connecting hose is coupled to the dust collecting flow path connecting portion 1831d.

[0337] That is, the connecting hose 1832 may be disposed inside the flow path switching module 183, and one end of the connecting hose 1832 may be connected to the first cleaner flow path 181 or the second cleaner flow path 182, and the other end of the connecting hose 1832 may be connected to the dust collecting flow path 184.

[0338] The entrance 1832a of the connecting hose 1832 may be disposed at a higher position than is the exit 1832b of the connecting hose 1832. That is, the one end of the connecting hose 1832 may be disposed farther from the ground surface than is the other end of the connecting hose 1832.

[0339] With this configuration, air and dust introduced into the entrance 1832a of the connecting hose 1832 may be accelerated by gravity, and may be discharged to the exit 1832b of the connecting hose 1832. Therefore, even if the connecting hose 1832 is bent at a certain angle, it is possible to prevent a loss of the flow path from occurring.

[0340] The connecting hose 1832 may be formed of an elastic material. For example, the connecting hose 1832 may be made of a rubber or a resin material. Accordingly, the connecting hose 1832 may be deformed during traveling.

[0341] Alternatively, the connecting hose 1832 may have a crease in at least a part thereof. Accordingly, the connecting hose 1832 may be structurally deformed.

[0342] The entrance 1832a of the connecting hose 1832 may be selectively coupled to one among the first cleaner flow path connecting portion 1832b and the second cleaner flow path connecting portion 1831c. The connecting hose 1832 may be coupled to the first cleaner flow path connecting portion 1832b to allow communication between the first cleaner flow path 181 and the dust collecting part 170. Alternatively, the connecting hose 1832 may be coupled to the second cleaner flow path connecting portion 1831c to allow communication between the second cleaner flow path 182 and the dust collecting part 170.

[0343] The entrance 1832a of the connecting portion 1832 moves along the inner circumferential surface of the case 1831. Specifically, the entrance 1832a of the connecting portion 1832 moves along the inner circumferential surface of the case 1831, while being spaced apart from the case 1831 by a certain distance. Therefore, over the course that the entrance 1832a of the connecting portion 1832 moves along the inner circumferential surface of the case 1831, it is advantageous that a sealer 1832c disposed at the entrance 1832a of the connecting hose is not damaged.

[0344] The exit 1832b of the connecting hose 1832 is coupled to the dust collecting flow path connecting portion 1831d. The exit 1832b of the connecting hose 1832 is fixedly coupled to the dust collecting flow path connecting portion 1831d, thereby communicating with the dust collecting part 170 all the time.

[0345] The flow path switching module 183 includes the first link 1833. The first link 1833 is configured to transmit power of the motor to the connecting hose 1832 to move the connecting hose 1832.

[0346] One side of the first link 1833 is rotatably coupled to the case 1831, and the other side thereof is coupled to the connecting hose 1832.

[0347] The first link 1833 rotates about a rotation shaft 1833a disposed on one side. The first link 1833 is rotatably coupled to the case 1831 through the rotation shaft 1833a of the first link 1833. The first link 1833 is rotatably coupled to the case 1831.

[0348] The rotation shaft 1833a of the first link 1833 serves as a rotation center for rotating the first link 1833. The rotation shaft 1833a of the first link 1833 is rotatably coupled to the case 1831.

[0349] A connecting portion 1833b of the first link 1833 extends in one direction from the rotation shaft 1833a of the first link, is connected to the connecting hose 1832, and is disposed at an end of the first link 1833.

[0350] The connecting portion 1833b of the first link 1833 is hingedly coupled to the entrance 1832a of the connecting hose 1832. The first link 1833 is connected to the connecting hose 1832 through the connecting portion 1833b of the first link. Therefore, when the first link 1833 rotates, the connecting hose may move.

[0351] The first link 1833 extends from the rotation shaft 1833a. The connecting portion 1833b of the first link is disposed at a rear end of the first link 1833. The connecting portion 1833b of the first link may be connected to a rear side of the entrance 1832a of the connecting hose 1832.

[0352] The first link 1833 includes a gear portion 1833c.

[0353] A gear portion 1833c of the first link 1833 may extend in a direction opposite to the connecting portion 1833b from the rotation shaft 1833a of the first link. The first link 1833 may extend forward from the rotation shaft 1833a of the first link, and the gear portion 1833c of the first link is disposed at a forward end of the first link 1833.

[0354] The gear portion 1833c of the first link has gear tooth formed at the end. The gear portion 1833c of the first link 1833 is connected to a gear portion 1836c of the drive cam 1836. Specifically, the gear portion 1833c of the first link engages with the gear portion 1836c of the drive cam.

[0355] The first link includes side walls 1833d.

[0356] The side walls 1833d of the first link is configured to prevent separation of the flow path switching module 183 when the connecting hose 1832 is at a certain location. Specifically, in case in which the connecting hose 1832 is not coupled to the first cleaner flow path connecting portion 1831b and is coupled to the second cleaner flow path connecting portion 1831c, or the connecting hose 1832 is positioned between the first cleaner flow path connecting portion 1831b and the second cleaner flow path connecting portion 1831c, the side walls 1833d may prevent separation of the flow path switching module 183.

[0357] The side walls 1833d of the first link extends radially outward of the gear portion 1833c of the first link.

[0358] That is, the side walls 1833d of the first link is disposed in a portion of the gear portion 1833c of the first link. That is, one portion of the gear portion 1833c of the first link overlap the side walls 1833d, and the remaining portion thereof does not overlap the side walls 1833d. In addition, a portion of the gear portion 1836 of the drive cam engaged with the gear portion 1833c of the first link may overlap the side walls 1833d according to a rotation of the drive cam 1846.

[0359] Therefore, over the course of an assembly including the case 1831 and the first link 1833 being moved to a lateral surface of the cleaner station 100, the gear portion 1836c of the drive cam and the side walls 1833d of the first link are caught by each other, thereby restricting the separation of the assembly.

[0360] Specifically, when the gear portion 1836c of the drive cam and the side walls 1833d are disposed at a location in which they overlap each other according to the rotation of the drive cam 1836, the side walls 1833d are caught by the gear portion 1836c of the drive cam and the assembly may not be separated. To the contrary, the gear portion 1836c of the drive cam and the side walls 1833d are disposed at a location in which they do not overlap each other, the flow path switching module 183 may be easily separated.

[0361] More specifically, when the connecting hose 1832 is coupled to the first cleaner flow path 181, the side walls 1833d of the first link and the drive cam 1836 are not disposed to overlap each other in forward and rearward directions. Further, when the connecting hose 1832 is coupled to the second cleaner flow path 182, the side walls 1833d of the first link and the drive cam 1836 are disposed to overlap each other in forward and rearward directions. In addition, when the connecting hose 1832 is disposed between the first cleaner flow path 181 and the second cleaner flow path 182, the side walls 1833d of the first link and the drive cam 1836 are disposed to overlap each other in forward and rearward directions. Therefore, since the flow path switching module 183 can be separated only in a case in which the connecting hose 1832 is coupled to the first cleaner flow path 181, it is advantageous that dust that falls through the first cleaner flow path 181 can be prevented from scattering during coupling or separation.

[0362] The flow path switching module 183 includes the second link 1834. The second link 1834 is configured to move the connecting hose 1832 along with the first link 1833.

[0363] One side of the second link 1834 is rotatably coupled to the case 1831, and the other side thereof is coupled to the connecting hose 1832.

[0364] The second link 1834 rotates about a rotation shaft 1834a disposed on one side. One side of the second link 1834 is rotatably coupled to the case 1831. The second link 1834 rotates about the rotation shaft 1834a disposed on one side. The rotation shaft 1834a of the second link may be disposed at an end of the second link 1834. The second link 1834 is rotatably coupled to the case 1831.

[0365] The rotation shaft 1834a of the second link serves as a rotation center for rotating the second link 1834. The rotation shaft 1834a of the second link extends toward the case 1831 from the second link 1834. The rotation shaft 1834a of the second link is rotatably coupled to the case 1831.

[0366] The second link 1834 extends in one direction from the rotation shaft 1834a of the second link, and a connecting portion 1834b connected to the connecting hose 1832 is disposed at an end thereof.

[0367] The connecting portion 1834b of the second link is hingedly coupled to the entrance of the connecting hose 1832. The second link 1834 is connected to the connecting hose 1832 through the connecting portion 1834b of the second link. Therefore, when the second link 1834 rotates, the connecting hose 1832 may move.

[0368] One side of the second link 1834 is coupled to the case 1831, and the other side of the second link 1834 is coupled to the connecting hose 1832. Specifically, one end of the second link 1834 is the rotation shaft 1834a, and is coupled to the case 1831. The other end of the second link 1834 is the connecting portion 1834b, and is hingedly coupled to the entrance 1832a of the connecting hose 1832.

[0369] The rotation shaft 1834a the second link 1834 is disposed at a lower portion of the second link 1834, and is rotatably coupled to the case 1831. The second link 1834 extends upward from the rotation shaft 1834a the second link 1834. At an upper portion of the second link 1834, the connecting portion 1834b of the second link is disposed. The connecting portion 1834b of the second link may be connected to the entrance of the connecting portion 1832.

[0370] Therefore, over the course that the entrance of the connecting hose 1832 moves, the entrance of the connecting hose 1832 may move with a spacing from the case 1831 by a certain distance.

[0371] At least one among the rotation shaft 1833a of the first link or the rotation shaft 1834a of the second link is disposed to be spaced apart from the central axis 1831a of the case 1831.

[0372] The rotation shaft 1833a of the first link may be disposed at a forward position of the center shaft 1831a of the case 1831. The rotation shaft 1834a of the second link may be disposed below the center shaft 1831a of the case 1831. The rotation shaft 1833a of the first link may be disposed to be spaced apart from the rotation shaft 1834a of the second link.

[0373] Through this arrangement, the rotation shaft 1833a of the first link and the rotation shaft 1834a of the second link serve as two focuses, and the connecting hose 1832 may move while drawing a trajectory of an oval. That is, a trajectory in which the connecting portion 1833b of the first link moves and a trajectory in which the connecting portion 1834b of the second link moves are dislocated, and the entrance 1832a of the connecting hose moves while having an oval trajectory.

[0374] Therefore, the entrance 1832a of the connecting hose may be spaced apart from the inner circumferential surface of the case 1831 by a certain distance or more.

[0375] The connecting hose 1832 comes into close contact with the inner circumferential surface of the case 1831 when the connecting hose 1832 is coupled to one among the first cleaner flow path 181 or the second cleaner flow path 182, and the connecting hose 1832 is spaced apart from the inner circumferential surface of the case 1831 when the connecting hose 1832 moves from one among the first cleaner flow path 181 or the second cleaner flow path 182 to the other one.

[0376] Therefore, the sealer 1832c of the connecting hose 1832 may not be damaged by friction and the like while moving between the first cleaner flow path connecting portion 1831b and the second cleaner flow path connecting portion 1831c.

[0377] When it comes to the flow path switching module 183, a radius of curvature of the inner circumferential surface of the case 1831 may be formed to be smaller than a radius of curvature formed by the trajectory formed by the entrance 1832a of the connecting hose 1832. The trajectory in which the entrance 1832a of the connecting hose 1832 moves is formed similar to an oval, and a radius of curvature of the oval may be greater than the radius of curvature of the inner circumferential surface of the case 1831.

[0378] The trajectory of the entrance 1832a of the connecting hose 1832 is an oval having focuses that are the rotation shaft 1833a of the first link and the rotation shaft 1833b of the second link, and a radius of curvature formed by the trajectory of the entrance 1832a of the connecting hose 1832 is formed, of course, to be greater than the radius of curvature of the inner circumferential surface of the case 1831.

[0379] Since the radius of curvature of the oval is formed to be greater than the radius of curvature of the inner circumferential surface of the case 1831, when moving along the inner circumferential surface of the case 1831, the entrance 1832a of the connecting hose 1832 may be spaced apart inward of the inner circumferential surface of the case 1831.

[0380] The flow path switching module 183 includes a plurality of links, each of which having one side rotatably coupled to the case 1831, and the other side thereof coupled to the connecting hose 1832. The links may be the first link 1833 and the second link 1834.

[0381] An end, which is connected to the case 1831, of at least one among the plurality of links has a radius of curvature of the trajectory in which the end connected to the case 1831 that may be greater than a radius of curvature of the inner circumferential surface of the case 1831. A radius of curvature R2 of a second trajectory may be greater than the radius of curvature of the inner circumferential surface of the case 1831, and a radius of curvature R1 of a first trajectory may be greater than the radius of curvature R2 of the second trajectory and the inner circumferential surface of the case 1831.

[0382] A length of the first link 1833 may be formed to be longer than a length of the second link 1834.

[0383] When viewing the flow path switching module 183 from one side, the first link 1833 may intersect the second link 1834.

[0384] Since the length of the first link 1833 and the length of the second link 1834 are formed to be different, and the first link 1833 and the second link 1834 intersect each other, the entrance 1832a of the connecting hose 1832 may be spaced apart from the inner circumferential surface of the case 1831. While moving between the first cleaner flow path connecting portion 1831b and the second cleaner flow path connecting portion 1831c.

[0385] The flow path switching module 183 includes the switching motor 1835 and the drive cam 1836.

[0386] The switching motor 1835 is disposed on one side of the case 1831 and is configured to generate power for moving the connecting hose 1832.

[0387] The switching motor 1835 may be a bidirectional motor capable of rotating in two directions. That is, the switching motor 1835 may rotate in a clockwise direction or a counter-clockwise direction. For example, when the switching motor 1835 rotates in the clockwise direction, the connecting hose 1832 is connected to the second cleaner flow path 182. To the contrary, when the switching motor 1835 rotates in the counter-clockwise direction, the connecting hose 1832 is connected to the first cleaner flow path 181.

[0388] The drive cam 1836 is coupled to the switching motor 1835 and is configured to transmit power of the switching motor 1935 to the first link 1833.

[0389] The drive cam 1836 is coupled to the switching motor 1835, includes a sensing unit 1836b that protrudes toward one side, and is configured to transmit power of the switching motor 1835 to the connecting hose 1832.

[0390] The drive cam 1836 is coupled to a shaft of the switching motor 1835. Accordingly, the drive cam 1836 integrally rotates with the shaft of the switching motor 1835.

[0391] The drive cam 1836 includes the gear portion 1836c. The gear portion 1836c of the drive cam may be formed in a shape that protrudes radially outward of the drive cam.

[0392] The gear portion 1836c of the drive cam is connected to the gear portion 1833c of the first link. That is, the gear portion 1836c of the drive cam and the gear portion 1833c of the first link are gear-connected. Therefore, when the drive cam 1836 rotates in the clockwise direction, the first link 1833 rotates in the counter-clockwise direction, and when the drive cam 1836 rotates in the counter-clockwise direction, the first link 1833 rotates in the clockwise direction.

[0393] The flow path switching module 183 includes the sensing unit 1836b and a location sensor 1837, and may determine a location of the connecting hose 1832.

[0394] The sensing unit 1836b is formed in the drive cam 1836, and protrudes radially outward of the shaft of the switching motor 1835.

[0395] The location sensor 1837 is disposed on one side of the sensing unit 1836b, is turned on and off by the sensing unit 1836b, and detects a location of the connecting hose 1832.

[0396] For example, the location sensor 1837 includes a micro-switch. The micro-switch is disposed on one side of the sensing unit 1836b. Therefore, when the micro-switch is pressed by the sensing unit 1836b (ON), the micro-switch produces a signal. To the contrary, when the micro-switch is not pressed by the sensing unit 1836b (OFF), the micro-switch does not produce a signal.

[0397] The signal is transmitted to the control unit 400, and the control unit 400 may determine a location of the connecting hose 1832 on the basis of whether a signal is produced and a transmission time of the signal.

[0398] The sensing unit 1836b may be comprised of a plurality of surfaces. The plurality of surface may be outer circumferential surfaces formed on a radially outside about the rotation shaft 1836a of the drive cam 1836, and each of the plurality of surfaces may have a radius that is different from one another about the rotation shaft of the drive cam 1836.

[0399] Specifically, among the sensing unit 1836b, when a surface having a relatively greater radius contacts a switch of the location sensor 1837, the surface presses the switch of the location sensor 1837 to turn on the location sensor, and the location sensor 1837 transmits the ON signal to the control unit 400. To the contrary, among the location sensor 1837, a surface having a relatively smaller radius faces the switch of the location sensor 1837, the surface does not press the switch of the location sensor 1837, and turns off the location sensor 1837, and the location sensor 1837 does not transmit the OFF signal to the control unit 400 or does not transmit a signal to the control unit 400.

[0400] The flow path switching module 183 may further include an elastic member 1838. The elastic member 1838 is configured to help moving of the entrance of the connecting hose 1832.

[0401] The elastic member 1838 has one side connected to the case 1831, and the other side connected to the second link 1834.

[0402] The elastic member 1838 may be a torsion spring.

[0403] The elastic member 1838 is stretched when the connecting hose 1832 is connected to the first cleaner flow path 181. In addition, the elastic member 1838 is pressed when the connecting hose 1832 is connected to the second cleaner flow path 182.

[0404] In a state the connecting hose 1832 is connected to the second cleaner flow path 182, the elastic member 1838 helps the connecting hose 1832 to move to the first cleaner flow path 181. The first link 1833 may easily guide the connecting hose 1832 connected to the first cleaner flow path 181 to the second cleaner flow path 182 by pulling the connecting hose 1832 rearward.

[0405] Unlike the above, the first link 1833 guides the connecting hose 1832 connected to the second cleaner flow path 182 to the first cleaner flow path 181 by pushing the connecting hose 1832 forwardly upward, however, there may occur a problem in that a part of the connecting hose 1832 is caught on a path on which the connecting hose moves 1832. In this case, as the elastic force of the elastic member 1838 pulls the connecting portion 1834b of the second link 1834, the connecting hose 1832 may be easily separated from the second cleaner flow path 182.

[0406] The flow path switching module 183 includes a stop sensor 1839 and a stopper 1836d, and accordingly, may prevent the connecting hose 1832 from moving beyond a certain limit position.

[0407] The stopper 1836d is disposed on one side of the drive cam 1836. The stopper 1836d protrudes radially outward from the drive cam 1835.

[0408] The stop sensor 1839 may be disposed adjacent to the drive cam 1836.

[0409] The stop sensor 1839 may be an infrared sensor or a contact sensor. In case in which the stopper 1836d is disposed adjacent to the stop sensor 1839, the stop sensor 1839 may detect a location of the stopper 1836d and produce a signal. Further, the signal produced by the stop sensor 1839 is transmitted to the control unit 400.

[0410] In case in which the control unit receives the signal from the stop sensor 1839, the control unit 400 determines that the connecting hose 1832 is fully coupled to the first cleaner flow path 181, and may stop an operation of the switching motor 1835.

[0411] The flow path switching module 183 according to the present embodiment may be separably coupled to the housing 110. A chamber in which the flow path switching module 183 can be disposed is formed in the housing 110, and the flow path switching module 183 is disposed in the chamber and is connected to the first cleaner flow path 181, the second cleaner flow path 182, and the dust collecting flow path 184.

[0412] Since dust along with air flows in the flow path switching module 183, the flow path switching module 183 may get dirty by dust or may malfunction because of the trapped dust. Therefore, there is a need to be capable of separating and easily washing the flow path switching module 183. According to the present disclosure, since the flow path switching module 183 may be easily coupled to or separated from the housing 110, there is an advantage that the separation and washing is easy.

[0413] The connecting hose 1832 and the first link 1833 are coupled to the case 1831 to form one assembly, and the assembly may be integrally coupled to or separated from the housing 110. The case 1831, the connecting hose 1832, the first link 1833, and the second link 1834 may form one assembly. The assembly may be assembled before being coupled to the housing 110, and may be handled as one component that can be coupled to or separated from the housing 110.

[0414] The assembly may be coupled to the housing 110 as each of the flanges is slidingly inserted into the flange grooves. After the assembly is coupled to the housing 110, the assembly may be fixed more strongly by a screw and the like.

[0415] The flow path switching module 183 may be separably coupled to the housing 110, and may be separated from the housing 110 when the flow path switching module 183 is connected to one among the first cleaner flow path 181 and the second cleaner flow path 182. For example, the flow path switching module 183 may be separated when the connecting hose 1832 is connected to the first cleaner flow path 181, but the separation may be restricted as the side walls 1833d are caught by the gear portion 1836c of the drive cam when the connecting hose 1832 is connected to the second cleaner flow path 182.

[0416] One side of the dust collecting flow path 184 is selectively connected to the first cleaner flow path 181 or the second cleaner flow path 182, and the other side thereof is connected to the dust collecting part 170. For example, an upper end of the dust collecting flow path 184 is selectively connected to one among the first cleaner flow path 181 or the second cleaner flow path 182, and a lower end thereof is connected to the dust collecting part 170.

[0417] Meanwhile, an imaginary line penetrating the dust collecting flow path 184 may be formed in the present embodiment. That is, the cleaner station 100 of the present disclosure may include an imaginary dust collecting flow path through line P3 penetrating the dust collecting flow path 184 in the longitudinal direction.

[0418] The dust collecting flow path through line P3 is formed along the longitudinal direction (axis direction) of the dust collecting flow path 184, and is formed to penetrate an inside of the dust collecting flow path 184. The dust collecting flow path through line P3 may be disposed to be parallel to a perpendicular line V.

[0419] An entrance of the dust collecting flow path 184 is coupled to the case 1831, and communicates with the connecting hose 1832 coupled to the case 1831.

[0420] As seen in FIG. 14 above, in case in which the connecting hose 1832 is connected to the first cleaner flow path 181, the dust collecting flow path 184 is connected to the first cleaner flow path 181, thereby air may flow therein. Unlike this, as seen in FIG. 15, in case in which the connecting hose 1832 is connected to the second cleaner flow path 182, the dust collecting flow path 184 is connected to the second cleaner flow path 182, thereby air may flow therein.

[0421] Meanwhile, the dust suction module 190 will be described below with reference to FIGS. 7 and 16.

[0422] The cleaner station 100 may include the dust suction module 190. The dust suction module 190 may include the dust collecting motor 191, a first filter 192 (not illustrated), and a second filter (not illustrated).

[0423] The dust collecting motor 191 may be disposed below the dust collecting part 170. The dust collecting motor 191 may generate the suction force in the flow path part 180. Therefore, the dust collecting motor 191 may provide the suction force capable of sucking the dust in the dust bin 220 of the first cleaner 200.

[0424] The dust collecting motor 191 may generate the suction force by means of the rotation. For example, the dust collecting motor 191 may be formed in a shape similar to a cylindrical shape.

[0425] Meanwhile, an imaginary dust collecting motor shaft line C that extends a rotation shaft of the dust collecting motor 191 may be formed in the present embodiment.

[0426] The first filter (not illustrated) may be disposed between the dust collecting part 170 and the dust collecting motor 191. The first filter may be a prefilter.

[0427] The second filter (not illustrated) may be disposed between the dust collecting motor 191 and the outer wall surface 112. The second filter (not illustrated) may be an HEPA filter.

[0428] Meanwhile, the cleaner station 100 may further include a charging part 128. The charging part 128 may be disposed on the coupling part 120. The charging part 128 may be electrically connected to the first cleaner 200 coupled to the coupling part 120. The charging part 128 may supply power to the battery of the first cleaner 200 coupled to the coupling part 120.

[0429] In addition, the cleaner station 100 may include a lateral door (not illustrated). The lateral door may be disposed in the housing 110. The lateral door may selectively expose the dust collecting part 170 to the outside. Therefore, the user may easily remove the dust collecting part 170 from the cleaner station 100.

[0430] Meanwhile, FIG. 16 is a block diagram for explaining a control configuration of the cleaner station according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0431] The control configuration according to the present disclosure will be described below with reference to FIG. 16.

[0432] The cleaner station 100 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may further include a control unit 400 configured to control the coupling part 120, the fixing unit 130, the door unit 140, the cover opening unit 150, the lower portion coupling part 160, the dust collecting part 170, the flow path part 180, and the dust suction module 190.

[0433] The control unit 400 may include a printed circuit board, and elements mounted on the printed circuit board.

[0434] When the coupling sensor 125 detects the coupling of the first cleaner 200, the coupling sensor 125 may transmit a signal indicating that the first cleaner 200 is coupled to the coupling part 120. In this case, the control unit 400 may receive the signal from the coupling sensor 125 and determine that the first cleaner 200 is coupled to the coupling part 120.

[0435] In addition, when the charging part 128 supplies power to the battery 240 of the first cleaner 200, the control unit 400 may determine that the first cleaner 200 is coupled to the coupling part 120.

[0436] When the control unit 400 determines that the first cleaner 200 is coupled to the coupling part 120, the control unit 400 may operate the fixing part motor 133 to fix the first cleaner 200.

[0437] When the fixing members 131 or the fixing part links 135 are moved to a certain fixing point FP1, the fixing detecting part 137 may transmit a signal indicating that the first cleaner 200 is fixed. The control unit 400 may receive the signal, which indicates that the first cleaner 200 is fixed, from a fixing detecting part 137, and determine that the first cleaner 200 is fixed. When the control unit 400 determines that the first cleaner 200 is fixed, the control unit 400 may stop the operation of the fixing part motor 133.

[0438] Meanwhile, when the operation of emptying the dust bin 200 is ended, the control unit 400 may rotate the fixing part motor 133 in the reverse direction to release the first cleaner 200.

[0439] When the control unit 400 determines that the first cleaner 200 is fixed to the coupling part 120, the control unit 400 may operate the door motor 142 to open the door 141 of the cleaner station 100.

[0440] When the door 141 or the door arm 143 reaches the certain opened position DP1, the door opening/closing detecting part 144 may transmit a signal indicating that the door 141 is opened. The control unit 400 may receive the signal, which indicates that the door 141 is opened, from the door opening/closing detecting part 137 and determine that the door 141 is opened. When the control unit 400 determines that the door 141 is opened, the control unit 400 may stop the operation of the door motor 142.

[0441] Meanwhile, when the operation of emptying the dust bin 200 is ended, the control unit 400 may rotate the door motor 142 in the reverse direction to close the door 141.

[0442] When the control unit 400 determines that the door 141 is opened, the control unit 400 may operate the cover opening motor 152 to open the discharge cover 222 of the first cleaner 200.

[0443] When the control unit 400 receives a signal, which indicates that the discharge cover 222 is opened, from the cover opening detecting part 155f, the control unit 400 may determine that the discharge cover 222 is opened. When the control unit 400 determines that the discharge cover 222 is opened, the control unit 400 may stop the operation of the cover opening motor 152.

[0444] When the second cleaner 300 is coupled to the lower portion coupling part 160, power is applied to the second cleaner 300 through the charging terminal (not illustrated), and the control unit 400 may determine that the second cleaner 300 is coupled to the lower portion coupling part 160.

[0445] The control unit may control the sterilization module 175. For example, the control unit may operate the sterilization module 175 at a certain interval after dust is collected in the dust collecting part 170 so as to sterilize viruses or microorganisms on the inside or the outside of the dust collecting part 170.

[0446] The control unit may control the flow path switching module 183 of the flow path part 180. The control unit may control the switching motor 1835 to move the connecting hose 1832. The connecting hose 1832 may be selectively connected to the first cleaner flow path 181 or the second cleaner second cleaner flow path 182. Therefore, the control unit may selectively open or close the first cleaner flow path 181 or the second cleaner second cleaner flow path 182 by moving the connecting hose 1832.

[0447] The control unit 400 may operate the dust collecting motor 191 to suck the dust in the dust bin 220.

[0448] The control unit 400 may operate a display unit 500 to display a dust bin emptied situation and a charged situation of the first cleaner 200 or the second cleaner 300.

[0449] Meanwhile, the cleaner station 100 according to the present disclosure may include the display unit 500.

[0450] The display unit 500 may be disposed on the housing 110, disposed on a separate display device, or disposed on a terminal such as a mobile phone.

[0451] The display unit 500 may be configured to include at least any one of a display panel capable of outputting letters and/or figures and a speaker capable of outputting voice signals and sound. The user may easily ascertain a situation of a currently performed process, a residual time, and the like on the basis of information outputted through the display unit 500.

[0452] Meanwhile, the cleaner station 100 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may include a memory 430. The memory 430 may include various data for drive and operations of the cleaner station 100.

[0453] Meanwhile, the cleaner station 100 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may include an input unit 440. The input unit 440 generates key input data that the user inputs in order to control operations of the cleaner station 100. To this end, the input unit 440 may be comprised of a key pad, a dome switch, a touch pad (static pressure or capacitance type). Particularly, when the touch pad and the display unit 410 form a layered structure with respect to each other, the touch pad may be referred to as a touch screen.

[0454] An arrangement relationship of the cleaner station and the flow path part in a state in which the first cleaner 200 is mounted on the cleaner station 100 will be described below with reference to FIGS. 7, 14 and 15.

[0455] In the present disclosure, the first cleaner 200 may be mounted on the outer wall surface 112 of the cleaner station 100. For example, the dust bin 220 and the battery housing 230 of the first cleaner 200 may be coupled to the coupling surface 121 of the cleaner station 100. That is, the first cleaner 200 may be mounted on the first outer wall surface 112a.

[0456] In this case, the suction motor axis a1 may be defined to be perpendicular to the first outer wall surface 112 a. That is, the suction motor axis a1 may be defined in parallel with the ground surface. The suction motor axis a1 may be defined on a plane perpendicular to the ground surface. In addition, the suction motor axis a1 may be defined on a plane that perpendicularly intersects the first outer wall surface 112 a. The suction motor axis a1 may mean a direction in which the suction force of the suction motor 214 is applied.

[0457] The suction flow path through line a2 may be defined in parallel with the first outer wall surface 112a. The suction flow path through line a2 may be defined in the gravitational direction. That is, the suction flow path through line a2 may be defined to be perpendicular to the ground surface. In addition, the suction flow path through line a2 may be defined on the plane that perpendicularly intersects the first outer wall surface 112a. The suction flow path through line a2 may mean a direction in which external air is introduced according to the operation of the suction motor 214 or the dust collecting motor 191.

[0458] The grip portion through line a3 may be defined to be inclined at a certain angle with respect to the first outer wall surface 112a. In addition, the grip portion through line a3 may be defined to be inclined at a certain angle with respect to the ground surface. The grip portion through line a3 may be defined on the plane that perpendicularly intersects the first outer wall surface 112a.

[0459] The cyclone line a4 may be defined to be perpendicular to the first outer wall surface 112a. That is, the cyclone line a4 may be defined in parallel with the ground surface. The cyclone line a4 may be defined on the plane perpendicular to the ground surface. In addition, the cyclone line a4 may be defined on the plane that perpendicularly intersects the first outer wall surface 112a. The cyclone line a4 may mean an axis on which the air introduced into the first cleaner 200 cyclonically flows.

[0460] The dust bin through line a5 may be defined to be perpendicular to the first outer wall surface 112a. That is, the dust bin through line a5 may be defined in parallel with the ground surface. The dust bin through line a5 may be defined on the plane perpendicular to the ground surface. In addition, the dust bin through line a5 may be defined on the plane that perpendicularly intersects the first outer wall surface 112a. The dust bin through line a5 may mean a direction in which air and foreign substances pass through the dust bin 220 to be introduced into the first flow path 181a according to the operation of the dust collecting motor 191.

[0461] The dust collecting motor axis C may be defined to be perpendicular to the ground surface. The dust collecting motor axis C may be defined in parallel with at least any one of the first outer wall surface 112a, the second outer wall surface 112b, the third outer wall surface 112c, and the fourth outer wall surface 112d. The dust collecting motor axis C may mean a direction in which the suction force of the dust collecting motor 191 is applied.

[0462] The first cleaner flow path through line P1 may be defined with an angular difference of angles () of a dust inflow in the relationship with the perpendicular line V perpendicular to the ground surface.

[0463] In this case, the perpendicular line V may be an imaginary line formed along a direction perpendicular to the ground surface. Further, the perpendicular line V may be disposed to be parallel to the dust collecting motor axis C. Therefore, the perpendicular line V may mean a direction in which the suction force is applied to the dust collecting flow path 184. In addition, the perpendicular line V may mean a gravitational direction on the basis of a state in which the cleaner station 100 is placed on the ground surface.

[0464] In other words, the second flow path 181b of the first cleaner flow path 181 and the dust collecting flow path 184 may be disposed to be inclined at the above-mentioned angle of a dust inflow.

[0465] Meanwhile, the second cleaner flow path through line P2 may be defined to be inclined at a certain angle () of a dust inflow in the relationship with a horizontal line H perpendicular to the ground surface.

[0466] In this case, the horizontal line H may be an imaginary line formed along a direction perpendicular to the ground surface.

[0467] Meanwhile, the dust collecting flow path through line P3 may be defined to be parallel to the perpendicular line V perpendicular to the ground surface.

[0468] In this case, the dust collecting flow path through line P3 may mean a direction of the air that passes through the first cleaner flow path 181 or the second cleaner flow path 182 and is introduced into the dust collecting part 170.

[0469] Meanwhile, the relationship of the suction flow path axis a1, the suction flow path through line a2, the grip portion through line a3, the cyclone line a4, the dust bin through line a5, the dust collecting motor axis C, the perpendicular line V, the horizontal line H, the first cleaner flow path through line P1, and the second cleaner flow path through line P2 in the cleaner system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below.

[0470] The perpendicular line V may perpendicularly intersect the suction motor axis a1. Alternatively, the perpendicular line V may perpendicularly intersect the cyclone line a4. Alternatively, the perpendicular line V may perpendicularly intersect the dust bin through line a5.

[0471] The horizontal line H may be disposed to be parallel to the suction motor axis a1. Alternatively, the horizontal line H may be disposed to be parallel to the cyclone line a4. Alternatively, the horizontal line H may be disposed to be parallel to the dust bin through line a5.

[0472] The first cleaner flow path through line P1 may be disposed to be inclined at an angle () of dust introduction with the perpendicular line V. In this case, as illustrated in FIG. 12, the angle () of dust introduction may mean an angle at which the first cleaner flow path through line Pl is rotated in the clockwise direction of the counter-clockwise direction with respect to the perpendicular line V.

[0473] If the angle () of a dust flow is 0 degree, a direction in which the suction force of the dust suction motor 191 is applied and a direction in which the second flow path 181b is formed are disposed parallel with each other, therefore, it is possible to store air and foreign substances with no loss of the flow path.

[0474] Meanwhile, the more the angle () of dust introduction increases, the more the flow path losses increase. That is, as a folded angle of a portion connecting the second flow path 181b to the dust collecting flow path 184 increases more, the flow path losses may increase more.

[0475] Therefore, it is desirable that the angle () of dust introduction is 0 degree or more and 10 degrees or less. If the angle () of dust introduction is 10 degrees or less, regardless of a diameter of the flow path, a loss of the flow path becomes 5% or less. Therefore, if the angle () of dust introduction is 10 degrees or less, no suction force deterioration is generated with respect to dust.

[0476] Unlike the above, if the angle () of dust introduction exceeds 10 degrees, a loss of the flow path may increase. Particularly, if the diameter of the flow path is mall, a loss of the flow path may dramatically increase. For example, if the angle () of dust introduction exceeds 10 degrees, and the diameter D of the flow path and a curvature radius R of the bent flow path are the same, a loss of the flow path may be 14% or more. Therefore, if the angle () of dust introduction exceeds 10 degrees, the suction force deterioration according to a loss of the flow path is generated.

[0477] Therefore, since the present embodiment implements the angle () of dust introduction to be 0 degree or more and 10 degrees or less, there is an advantage of preventing the suction force deterioration during dust suction.

[0478] Meanwhile, the dust bin through line a5 may intersect the first cleaner flow path through line P1. In this case, the dust bin through line a5 and the first cleaner flow path through line P1 may intersect each other within the flow path part 180. In addition, the dust bin through line a5 may intersect the first cleaner flow path through line P1 with a certain angular difference of a descending angle (a).

[0479] In this case, since the perpendicular line V and the dust bin through line a5 may perpendicularly intersect each other, and the perpendicular line V and the first cleaner flow path through line P1 may intersect with an angular difference of the angle () of dust introduction, the descending angle (a) may have a magnitude of 90-, a dust introduction angle (=90). For example, the descending angle (a) may be 80 degrees or more and 90 degrees or less.

[0480] Therefore, there is an effect of collecting foreign substances by means of the gravity by the suction force of the dust collecting motor 191, in addition to the collection of foreign substances inside the dust bin 220 of the first cleaner 200.

[0481] Further, in the present embodiment, since an upper diameter of the second flow path 181b is formed to be greater than a lower diameter thereof, there is an advantage that the flow velocity gradually increases as the air flows downward.

[0482] Therefore, according to the present disclosure, even though the dust bin through line a5 is perpendicular to the dust collecting motor axis C, there is an advantage of minimizing a loss of the flow path and maximizing the dust collecting capability over the course of collecting the foreign substances inside the dust bin 220.

[0483] Meanwhile, the second cleaner flow path through line P2 may be defined to be inclined at an angle () of dust suction in the relationship with the horizontal line H. In this case, as illustrated in FIG. 13, the angle () of dust suction may mean an angle at which the second cleaner flow path through line P2 is rotated in the clockwise direction or the counter-clockwise direction with respect to the horizontal line H.

[0484] The angle () of dust suction may mean a descending angle of air containing dust that has passed through the fourth flow path 182b. In addition, the angle () of dust suction may mean a backflow angle of air present in the dust collecting flow path 184 or the connecting hose 1832 that flows back to the fourth flow path 182b.

[0485] In this case, the angle () of dust suction may exceed 0 degree.

[0486] With this configuration, even if the operation of the dust collecting motor 191 is ended, the dust that has passed through the fourth flow path 182b may flow to the dust collecting flow path 184 by gravity, without remaining in the fifth flow path 182c. Therefore, according to the present disclosure, there is an advantage of preventing dust in the air from flowing back and scattering, even if the operation of the dust collecting motor 191 is ended.

[0487] In addition, the angle () of dust suction may be disposed to be smaller than the above-mentioned descending angle ().

[0488] This may mean that the fifth flow path 182c is disposed between the first flow path 181a and the dust collecting flow path 184. Therefore, a height of the upper end in the gravitational direction may be disposed closer to the ground surface than is the first flow path 181a. Accordingly, there is an advantage of minimizing a distance by which air that is discharged from the second cleaner 200 ascends and flows along the fourth flow path 182b while defying the gravity.

[0489] Moreover, since the diameter of the fourth flow path 182b is formed to be smaller than the diameter of the fifth flow path 182c in the present embodiment, thereby making the flow velocity of the air that passes through the fourth flow path 182b be faster than that of the air that passes through the fifth flow path 182c, there is an effect of providing a sufficient suction force for the second cleaner 300.

[0490] In the state in which the first cleaner 200 and the cleaner station 100 are coupled, the suction motor axis a1 may intersect the dust collecting motor axis C at a certain angle.

[0491] In addition, in the state in which the first cleaner 200 and the cleaner station 100 are coupled, the suction motor axis a1 may intersect the perpendicular line V to the ground surface at a certain angle.

[0492] Meanwhile, when the first cleaner 200 is coupled to the cleaner station 100, the handle 216 may be disposed to be farther from the ground surface than is the suction motor axis a1.

[0493] With this configuration, when the user grasps the handle 216, the relatively heavy suction motor 214 is positioned at the lower side in the gravitational direction, and the user may couple or separate the first cleaner 200 to/from the cleaner station 100 only by simply moving the first cleaner 200 in the direction parallel to the ground surface. As a result, it is possible to provide convenience for the user.

[0494] The suction flow path through line a2 may intersect the suction flow path axis a1, the grip portion through line a3, the cyclone line a4, or the dust bin through line a5.

[0495] For example, the suction flow path through line a 2 may perpendicularly intersect the suction flow path axis a 1. In addition, the suction flow path through line a2 and the grip portion through line a3 may intersect each other at a certain angle. In addition, the suction flow path through line a2 may perpendicularly intersect the cyclone line a4. In addition, the suction flow path through line a2 may perpendicularly intersect the dust bin through line a5.

[0496] When the first cleaner 200 is coupled to the cleaner station 100, the suction flow path through line a2 may be defined in parallel with the dust collecting motor axis C. With this configuration, it is possible to minimize an occupied space on a horizontal plane in the state in which the first cleaner 200 is coupled to the cleaner station 100.

[0497] In this case, the coupling part 120 may be disposed between the suction flow path through line a2 and the dust collecting motor axis C. The fixing member 131 may be disposed between the suction flow path through line a2 and the dust collecting motor axis C. The cover opening unit 150 may be between the suction flow path through line a2 and the dust collecting motor axis C. With this configuration, the user may couple or separate the first cleaner 200 to/from the cleaner station 100, fix the dust bin 220, and open the dust bin 220 only by simply moving the first cleaner 200 in the direction parallel to the ground surface. As a result, it is possible to provide convenience for the user.

[0498] The grip portion through line a3 may intersect the suction flow path axis a1, the suction flow path through line a2, the cyclone line a4, or the dust bin through line a5.

[0499] When the first cleaner 200 is coupled to the cleaner station 100, a height of an intersection point between the grip portion through line a3 and the suction flow path through line a2 from the ground surface may be equal to or less than a maximum height of the housing 110. With this configuration, it is possible to minimize an overall volume in the state in which the first cleaner 200 is coupled to the cleaner station 100.

[0500] The grip portion through line a3 may intersect the dust collecting motor axis C at a certain angle. In this case, an intersection point P6 between the grip portion through line a3 and the dust collecting motor axis C may be positioned in the housing 110. This configuration is advantageous in that the user may couple the first cleaner 200 to the cleaner station 100 only by simply pushing his/her arm toward the lateral side of the cleaner station 100 in the state in which the user grasps the first cleaner 200. In addition, since the dust collecting motor 191, which is relatively heavy in weight, is accommodated in the housing 110, it is possible to prevent the cleaner station 100 from swaying even though the user strongly pushes the first cleaner 200 into the cleaner station 100.

[0501] The cyclone line a4 may be defined coaxially with the suction motor axis a1 or the dust bin through line a5. With this configuration, there is an effect of reducing a loss of the flow path during a cleaning process.

[0502] Although not illustrated, as another example, the cyclone line a4 may be defined to be parallel to the suction motor axis a1 or the dust bin through line a5 at a certain interval. As still another example, the cyclone line a4 may be defined to be perpendicular to the suction motor axis a1 or the dust bin through line a5.

[0503] When the first cleaner 200 is coupled to the cleaner station 100, the cyclone line a4 may intersect the longitudinal axis of the cleaner station 100. That is, the flow axis of the dust separating part 213 may intersect the longitudinal axis of the cleaner station 100. In this case, the intersection point between the flow axis of the dust separating part 213 and the longitudinal axis of the cleaner station 100 may be positioned in the housing 110, and more particularly, positioned in the flow path part 180.

[0504] When the first cleaner 200 is coupled to the cleaner station 100, the cyclone line a4 may intersect the dust collecting motor axis C. In this case, an intersection point P5 may be present between the cyclone line a4 and the dust collecting motor axis C. The intersection point P5 between the cyclone line a4 and the dust collecting motor axis C may be positioned in the housing 110, and more particularly, positioned in the flow path part 180. With this configuration, the first cleaner 200 may be stably supported on the cleaner station 100 in the state in which the first cleaner 200 is coupled to the cleaner station 100, and a loss of the flow path may be reduced during the operation of emptying the dust bin 220.

[0505] The cyclone line a4 may intersect the dust collecting motor axis C at a certain angle.

[0506] The dust bin through line a5 may be defined coaxially with the suction motor axis a1 or the cyclone line a4. With this configuration, there is an effect of reducing a loss of the flow path during a cleaning process.

[0507] When the first cleaner 200 is coupled to the cleaner station 100, the dust bin through line a5 may intersect the longitudinal axis of the cleaner station 100. That is, the longitudinal axis of the dust bin 220 may intersect the longitudinal axis of the cleaner station 100. In this case, an intersection point between the longitudinal axis of the dust bin 220 and the longitudinal axis of the cleaner station 100 may be positioned in the housing 110, and more particularly, positioned in the flow path part 180.

[0508] The dust bin through line a5 may intersect the dust collecting motor axis C at a certain angle.

[0509] Meanwhile, when the first cleaner 200 is coupled to the cleaner station 100, the handle 216 may be disposed to be farther from the ground surface than is the dust bin through line a5.

[0510] With this configuration, when the user grasps the handle 216, the user may couple or separate the first cleaner 200 to/from the cleaner station 100 only by simply moving the first cleaner 200 in the direction parallel to the ground surface. As a result, it is possible to provide convenience for the user.

[0511] In addition, when the first cleaner 200 is coupled to the cleaner station 100, the battery 240 may be disposed to be farther from the ground surface than is the dust bin through line a5. In this configuration, because the battery 240 pushes the main body 210 of the first cleaner 200 by means of the weight of the battery 240, the first cleaner 200 may be stably supported on the cleaner station 100.

[0512] Meanwhile, the dust bin through line a5 and the dust collecting flow path through line P3 may intersect each other. In this case, the dust bin through line a5 and the dust collecting flow path through line P3 may intersect each other in the flow path part 180.

[0513] In this case, the dust bin through line a5 and the dust collecting flow path through line P3 may perpendicularly intersect each other.

[0514] Therefore, there is an effect of collecting foreign substances by means of the gravity by the suction force of the dust collecting motor 191, in addition to the collection of foreign substances inside the dust bin 220 of the first cleaner 200.

[0515] Meanwhile, in the present embodiment, an imaginary plane S1 may be defined in a direction of a long axis connecting the front side and the rear side of the first cleaner 100, and an overall weight of the first cleaner 100 may be concentrated on the plane S1.

[0516] Specifically, the imaginary plane S1 may include at least two of the suction motor axis a 1, the suction flow path through line a2, the grip portion through line a3, the cyclone line a4, the dust bin through line a5, and the dust collecting motor axis C. That is, the plane S1 may be an imaginary plane defined by connecting two imaginary straight lines and may include an imaginary plane defined by expanding and extending the two imaginary straight lines.

[0517] An imaginary extension surface of the plane S1 may penetrate the first cleaner 200.

[0518] For example, the imaginary extension surface of the plane S1 may penetrate the suction part 212. Alternatively, the imaginary extension surface of the plane S1 may penetrate the dust separating part 213. Alternatively, the imaginary extension surface of the plane S1 may penetrate the suction motor 214. Alternatively, the imaginary extension surface of the plane S1 may penetrate the handle 216. Alternatively, the imaginary extension surface of the plane S1 may penetrate the dust bin 220.

[0519] In addition, when the first cleaner 200 is mounted on the cleaner station 200, the imaginary extension surface of the plane S1 may penetrate at least a part of the cleaner station 100.

[0520] Therefore, when the first cleaner 200 is mounted on the cleaner station 200, the plane S1 may penetrate (pass through) the housing 110.

[0521] The imaginary extension surface of the plane S1 may penetrate the flow path part 180. In this case, it is possible to minimize a loss of the air flow path connected from the dust bin 220 to dust collecting part 170.

[0522] Meanwhile, when the first cleaner 200 is mounted on the cleaner station 100, at least a part of the outer circumferential surface of the dust bin 220 may be surrounded by the dust bin guide surface 122. The first flow path 181a may be disposed at the rear side of the dust bin 220, and the internal space of the dust bin 220 may communicate with the first flow path 181a when the dust bin 220 is opened. Further, the second flow path 181b may be bent downward from the first flow path 181a (toward the ground surface).

[0523] Meanwhile, when the second cleaner 200 is mounted on the cleaner station 100, the dust discharge hole 320 may communicate with the dust suction hole 162 of the lower portion coupling part 160. The third flow path 182a may be disposed at the rear side of the dust bin 310, and the internal space of the dust bin 310 may communicate with the third flow path 182a when the dust collecting motor 191 is operated. Further, the fifth flow path 182c may be bent downward at a certain angle from the fourth flow path 182b.

[0524] In addition, the dust collecting part 170 may be disposed to be closer to the ground surface than is the second flow path 181b. Further, the flow path switching module 183 may be disposed between the second flow path 181b and the dust collecting part 170. Further, the fifth flow path 182c may be disposed between the first flow path 181a and the dust collecting part 170. In addition, the dust suction module 190 may be disposed to be closer to the ground surface than is the dust collecting part 170. Moreover, the third flow path 182a may be disposed to be closer to the ground surface than is the dust suction module 190.

[0525] With this configuration, according to the present disclosure, the first cleaner 200 may be coupled to the upper side of the cleaner station 100, and the second cleaner 300 may be coupled to the lower side of the cleaner station. Therefore, in a state in which both the first cleaner 200 and the second cleaner 300 are coupled to the cleaner station 100, it is possible to minimize an occupied space on a horizontal plane.

[0526] In addition, according to the present disclosure, even if the first cleaner flow path 181 communicated with the dust bin 220 of the first cleaner 200 is formed by bending downward once, it is possible to prevent a loss of a flow force for collecting dust.

[0527] In addition, according to the present disclosure, even if the second cleaner flow path 182 communicated with the dust bin 310 of the second cleaner 300 is disposed at a lower position than is the dust collecting motor 191, and the second cleaner flow path 191 is formed by bending twice, it is possible to prevent a backflow of dust (foreign substances) and sufficiently suck dust

[0528] While the present disclosure has been described with reference to the specific embodiments, the specific embodiments are only for specifically explaining the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments. It is apparent that the present disclosure may be modified or altered by those skilled in the art without departing from the technical spirit of the present disclosure.

[0529] All the simple modifications or alterations to the present disclosure fall within the scope of the present disclosure, and the specific protection scope of the present disclosure will be defined by the appended claims.