This application relates to the field of electrical equipment technology, and in particular, to a robot, a robot base station, and a robot system.
At present, the level of intelligence in robotic vacuum cleaners is continuously increasing, and there is a growing demand to reduce the need for user intervention and maintenance.
However, the functionality of the base station that accompany robotic vacuum cleaners is relatively limited and unable to meet the diverse functional requirements of robotic vacuum cleaners. This limitation also prevents the robotic vacuum cleaners from meeting the demand for minimal user intervention and hinders the enhancement of base station intelligence.
According to some embodiments, this application provides a robot base station, which comprises:
Correspondingly, in another embodiment, this application provides a robot base station, which comprises:
According to some embodiments, the application provides a base stand module for a base station, which comprises:
Similarly, in another embodiment, the application provides a robot, which comprises:
In another embodiment, the application provides a robot system, which comprises:
Correspondingly, according to another embodiment, the application provides a robot system comprising:
In some embodiments of the application, the robot base station integrates multiple functions to provide various services for the robot. It meets the robot's needs for automatic berthing, cleaning, charging, water replenishment, and dust collection. This integration reduces the degree of user intervention, enhances the robot's level of automation, and improves the efficiency of the robot's cleaning process.
In order to provide a clear explanation of the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, a brief introduction to the drawings of the embodiments or prior art is presented below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this application, and for those ordinarily skilled in the art, other drawings are obtainable according to these drawings, without creative efforts.
In the prior art, the functionality of a robot base station is relatively limited. For example, some base stations only have a single charging function, meeting only the charging needs of robotic vacuum cleaners. Some base stations only have a mopping cleaning function, fulfilling only the mopping cleaning requirements of robotic vacuum cleaners. Additionally, some base stations with only an automatic dust collection function, addressing only the dust collection needs of robotic vacuum cleaners. These base stations mentioned above cannot fully satisfy the demand for minimal user intervention and the desire to enhance the intelligence of the base stations.
To address or improve at least some of the issues mentioned above, various embodiments are provided in this application. In order to help those skilled in the art better understand the solutions presented in this application, the following detailed description of the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application is provided in conjunction with the drawings.
In the description, claims, and drawings of this application, the use of terms such as “first,” “second,” etc., is employed to distinguish between different components, sections, modules, devices, etc. These terms do not imply any chronological order and do not restrict “first” and “second” to different types. Furthermore, the embodiments described below are merely a portion of the embodiments of this application and not exhaustive. Based on the embodiments disclosed in this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this application.
In an embodiment of this application, a robot base station 100 comprises a base stand 110, a cleaning device, a water supply device, a dust collection device, and a power supply device. The cleaning device, the water supply device, the dust collection device, and the power supply device are not shown in the figure. The base stand 110 is used for docking with the robot 200. The cleaning device is used for cleaning the robot 200. The water supply device is used for supplying water to the robot 200 and/or the cleaning device. The dust collection device is used for collecting dust from the robot 200. The power supply device is used for charging the robot 200.
The base stand 110 is equipped with various devices for docking with the robot 200, including a berthing device 111, a charging docking device 112, a dust collection docking device 113, a docking water supply docking device 114, and a wastewater retrieval docking device 115.
The embodiments of this application integrate multiple functions into the robot base station 100, which can be abbreviated as the base station 100, providing different services for the robot 200. This satisfies the robot 200's needs for automatic berthing, cleaning, charging, water supply, and dust collection, reducing user intervention, increasing the automation level of the robot 200, and improving its cleaning efficiency.
In an embodiment of this application, referring to
Once the robot 200 and the base station 100 are docked, the berthing device 111 ensures the robot 200's precise docking for positioning and docking. The charging docking device 112 connects the robot 200 to the power supply device, utilizing the power supply device within the base station 100 to meet the charging needs of the robot 200. The dust collection docking device 113 connects the robot 200 to the dust collection device, using the dust collection device carried by the base station 100 to extract debris from inside the robot 200. The water supply docking device 114 connects the robot 200 to the water supply device, using the water supply device within the base station 100 to meet the water addition needs of the robot 200. Simultaneously, the cleaning device can wash the mop of the robot 200, and the wastewater from the cleaning can be discharged through the wastewater retrieval docking device 115, meeting the self-cleaning needs of the robot 200.
In an embodiment of this application, referring to
In some implementations, the charging docking device 112 includes a docking signal transmission device and charging contact springs. The docking signal transmission device sends a docking signal to the robot 200, prompting the robot 200 to return to the base station 100 for docking. Subsequently, the charging contact springs connect with the docking interface 201b on the robot 200, allowing the base station 100 to charge the robot 200.
In an embodiment of this application, the water supply device includes, but not limited to, a water tank located within the base station 100, as shown in
In an embodiment of this application, the dust collection device includes a dust collection bin and a suction device. The dust collection device is directly connected to the dust collection docking device 113 through an airflow channel. The dust collection docking device 113 includes a dust collection port. After the robot 200 docks in place, the dust collection port is connected to the docking interface 201c on the robot 200. The docking interface 201c can be referred to as an exhaust port of the robot 200. When the dust collection port is connected to the exhaust port, the suction device inside the base station 100 generates a negative pressure to extract garbage from the exhaust port of the robot 200, cleaning the interior of the robot 200.
Furthermore, to ensure airtightness between the dust collection port and the exhaust port, a docking sealing element is provided at the dust collection port. This ensures that, after the robot 200 docks in place, the dust collection port connects to the exhaust port on the robot 200. The docking sealing element is designed to seal the connection, ensuring airtightness and guaranteeing the efficiency of the dust collection device in extracting garbage.
In an embodiment of this application, the wastewater retrieval docking device 115 includes, but is not limited to, a wastewater discharge trough and a wastewater discharge hole on the base stand 110. After cleaning the robot 200, the wastewater can flow out of the base station 100 through the wastewater discharge trough, wastewater discharge hole, etc., such as draining into a sewer. Alternatively, there may be a wastewater tank below the base stand 110, where wastewater flows into the tank through the wastewater discharge trough and hole. Another option is that the base station 100 has a collection bucket connected to a suction pump, which uses the pump to collect wastewater into the collection bucket, completing the wastewater collection.
With the cleaning device, water supply device, dust collection device, and power supply device on the robot base station 100, together with the corresponding docking devices such as berthing device 111, charging docking device 112, dust collection docking device 113, water supply docking device 114, and wastewater retrieval docking device 115, the base station 100 is equipped to charge the robot 200, clean the mop, automatically add water, and automatically collect dust. For example, when the water in the mop water tank of robot 200 is depleted, there is no need for the user to manually refill it. Upon returning to the base station 100, the water supply device and water supply docking device 114 automatically replenish the water in the mop water tank. Similarly, when the dustbin of robot 200 is full, the user does not need to manually clean it. Upon returning to the base station 100, the dust collection device and dust collection docking device 113 automatically collect the garbage in the dustbin. The multi-functional capabilities integrated into the base station 100 provide various services for the robot 200, reducing user intervention, increasing the automation level of the robot 200, and improving its cleaning efficiency.
Furthermore, the berthing device 111, charging docking device 112, dust collection docking device 113, and water supply docking device 114 can simultaneously dock with the robot 200. When the robot 200 docks on the base station 100, the various docking interfaces 201 on the robot 200 can simultaneously dock with the corresponding docking devices. This means that the robot 200 can simultaneously dock with each docking device on the base station 100, achieving automatic charging, automatic water replenishment, automatic dust collection, and automatic cleaning all at once. This avoids the need for multiple actions or multiple docking cycles, thus improving the efficiency of using the robot 200.
Still referring to
Furthermore, in some embodiments of this application, the dust collection docking device 113 and the water supply docking device 114 are symmetrically positioned on both sides of the berthing device 111. This symmetrical arrangement allows for the efficient utilization of the space within the docking cavity and the side wall of the upper cover 1102. Simultaneously, by placing the dust collection docking device 113 and the water supply docking device 114 symmetrically, they are at a certain distance from each other, avoiding mutual interference during water supply and dust collection operations and preventing contamination.
Furthermore, concerning the pedestal 1101, the height of the dust collection docking device 113 and the water supply docking device 114 is greater than the height of the berthing device 111. The berthing device 111 has a lower height, making it easier to dock with the berthing interface 201a located at the lower edge of the robot 200's tail. The water supply docking device 114 has a relatively higher height, facilitating docking with the docking interface 201d on the robot 200. The higher height of the docking interface 201d helps prevent leakage from the robot 200's water tank. The dust collection docking device 113 has a height positioned relatively in the middle, making it convenient to dock with the docking interface 201c on the robot 200. The space around the dust collection docking device 113 allows for the accommodation of scaling structures between the dust collection docking device 113 and the docking interface 201c, preventing dust leakage.
Furthermore, referring to
Furthermore, still referring to
The angle ranges of both angle A and angle B are not excessively large or small. Taking the dust collection docking device 113 as an example, along the circumference direction of the robot 200, when the angle A range is too large, meaning the distance between the dust collection docking device 113 and the berthing device 111 is relatively large, the docking force between the robot 200 and the berthing device 111 is directed upward along L3. If angle A is too large, the dust collection docking device 113 is more biased towards the right side of the robot 200. As a result, the force applied to the dust collection docking device 113 by the robot 200 is smaller, making it difficult for the dust collection docking device 113 to tightly dock with the docking interface 201c, which can lead to dust leakage. Therefore, setting the angle ranges of A and B between 20-50 degrees can keep the dust collection docking device 113, water supply docking device 114, and berthing device 111 separate from each other while ensuring sufficient docking force, enabling them to dock tightly with the robot 200. In some embodiments of this application, the angle values for A and B can be set to 35 degrees.
Furthermore, another way to ensure sufficient docking force, allowing the docking devices to tightly dock with the various docking interfaces 201 on the robot 200, is to have a distance range between the dust collection docking device 113 and the berthing device 111, as well as between the water supply docking device 114 and the berthing device 111, along the width direction of the side wall, both falling within the range of 50 to 150 mm. Taking the orientation in
Furthermore, referring to
Furthermore, referring to
After the cleaning operation, the mop on the robot 200 will be covered with a lot of dust, lint, and hair. After cleaning in the cleaning groove 1103, these dirt and debris may settle and adhere to the interior of the cleaning groove 1103, affecting the next cleaning operation. To ensure the cleanliness of the cleaning groove 1103, in some embodiments of this application, referring to
In an embodiment of this application, referring to
Referring to
Still referring to
By incorporating the anti-fouling film 1104 into the cleaning groove 1103, users are relieved from the labor-intensive task of scrubbing the cleaning groove 1103 with brushes or other cleaning tools, saving labor and enhancing the user experience. Additionally, when cleaning the cleaning groove 1103, there is no need for water, thus conserving water and reducing cleaning costs. Furthermore, the anti-fouling film 1104 gathers dirt and hair in one place, leading to a cleaner cleaning effect. The flexible usage of the multi-layered anti-fouling film 1104 allows users to peel off only one layer at a time.
Referring to
Furthermore, to improve the cleaning efficiency of the mop, the protrusions 11031 are equipped with a cleaning liquid outlet 1142 for dispensing cleaning liquid onto the mop. The cleaning liquid outlet 1142 is connected to the water supply device, providing either clean water or a cleaning solution. As the protrusions 11031 rotate relative to the mop, the cleaning liquid is dispensed, enhancing the cleaning effect of the mop through the degreasing and sterilizing properties of the cleaning liquid.
To avoid interference with the protrusions 11031 caused by the anti-fouling film 1104, referring to
Referring to
Referring to
Furthermore, in some embodiments, referring to
Furthermore, the cleaning groove cleaning device 120 is equipped with an anti-stuck device designed for use with the robot 200, which prevents the robot 200 from using the cleaning groove cleaning device 120 for mopping the floor. It also provides a user reminder function. One implementation of the anti-stuck device is to have a magnetic component 1202 on the cleaning plate 1201, which can be a magnet. The robot 200 is internally equipped with a Hall sensor. When the Hall sensor inside the robot 200 detects that the cleaning plate 1201 is installed and the user places the robot 200 on the floor, the robot 200 can issue a reminder and stop working. In this state, if the user places the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 into the base station 100, the base station 100 will automatically start a self-cleaning program to clean the cleaning groove 1103. The self-cleaning program involves the robot 200 driving the cleaning plate 1201, which can rotate in either direction, and is assisted by the water flow within the base station 100 to clean the cleaning groove 1103. Simultaneously, the wastewater is discharged through the wastewater retrieval docking device 115 on the base station 100. This process can be repeated several times until the cleaning groove 1103 is thoroughly cleaned. This anti-stuck mechanism ensures that the cleaning groove cleaning device 120 is used for its intended purpose and provides a user-friendly reminder and automation feature for maintaining cleanliness.
Furthermore, another method for identifying the type of component installed on the robot 200 is to equip the robot 200 with a brush-type detection sensor. This sensor can detect whether the installed component on the robot 200 is the cleaning groove cleaning device 120 or a mop. When the brush-type detection sensor detects that the component is the cleaning groove cleaning device 120, and the user places the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 on the floor, the robot 200 can issue a reminder and stop working. In this state, if the user places the robot 200 into the base station 100, the base station 100 will automatically start a self-cleaning program to clean the cleaning groove 1103.
By installing the cleaning groove cleaning device 120 on the robot 200, users are relieved from manually cleaning the cleaning groove 1103 with brushes or other tools, reducing labor efforts and enhancing user experience. Additionally, when combined with the functionality of the base station 100, it can automatically trigger the self-cleaning program, improving operational convenience. Moreover, the anti-stuck device or brush-type detection sensor can serve as a reminder to users and prevent undesirable consequences resulting from the incorrect installation of the brush. It also allows for the automatic activation of the base station 100's self-cleaning mode to complete the cleaning of the cleaning groove 1103.
Furthermore, to enable the autonomous movement of robot 200, it typically features wheels. The base station 100 correspondingly has wheel slots to accommodate the wheels. During the robot daily cleaning, its wheels may roll over dirty surfaces or wet areas, leading to water stains on the wheels. Consequently, when the wheels are positioned in the wheel slots, water accumulates in the slots, causing dirt. When the robot 200 enters and exits the base station 100, this can result in secondary pollution to the base station 100 and the floor.
To address the issue of the wheels getting dirty when entering and exiting the base station 100, referring to
When the robot 200 enters the base station 100, the base station 100 may splash water onto the brush when cleaning the robot's mop. To prevent contact between the brush and wastewater, the base station 100 is equipped with the water drainage structure 1152 around the brush end cover 1105. This structure helps drain the water around the brush end cover 1105, reducing the risk of secondary pollution to the brush.
Building on the embodiments above, referring to
In some embodiments, a multifunctional base station 100 that integrates various functions. Through docking devices, the functional units connect with the robot 200, providing different services to meet various needs of the robot 200. This reduces user intervention, enhances the robot 200's level of automation, and improves its cleaning efficiency.
Furthermore, referring to
Referring to
For example, once the robot 200 docks with the base station 100, the berthing device 111 facilitates the robot's precise positioning and docking. The charging docking device 112 establishes a connection for charging with the power supply device in the base station 100, utilizing the power supply of the base station 100 to recharge the robot 200. The dust collection docking device 113 connects with the dust collection device in the base station 100, extracting debris from the interior of the robot 200. The water supply docking device 114 establishes a connection with the water supply device in the base station 100, utilizing the water source within the base station 100 to meet the robot 200's water supply needs. Simultaneously, the cleaning device can clean the robot's mop, and the wastewater generated during cleaning can be discharged using the wastewater retrieval docking device 115, meeting the robot's self-cleaning requirements.
Still referring to
Referring to
Furthermore, to ensure the airtightness between the dust collection port and the dust discharge port, a docking sealing element is provided at the dust collection port. This element ensures a sealed connection when the robot 200 is docked, maintaining airtightness and ensuring the efficiency of the dust collection device in extracting debris.
Referring to
In another embodiment of this application, the water supply docking device 114 includes at least a cleaning fluid outlet 1142. The cleaning fluid outlet 1142 is located on the pedestal 1101 of the base stand 110. After the robot 200 is docked in place, the cleaning fluid outlet 1142 is positioned beneath the part of the robot 200 that requires cleaning. This part to be cleaned includes, but is not limited to, the mop of the robot 200. When cleaning the mop, the water supply docking device 114 can provide cleaning fluid to the mop through the cleaning fluid outlet 1142. This ensures that the mop is cleaned more thoroughly based on the cleaning and disinfecting effects of the cleaning fluid.
Referring to
After completing the cleaning operation, the mop on the robot 200 will have accumulated a lot of dust, lint, and dirt. After the mop goes through the cleaning groove 1103, these dirt and impurities will settle and adhere inside the cleaning groove 1103, affecting the cleanliness for the next cleaning operation. To ensure the cleanliness of the cleaning groove 1103, in some embodiments of this application, referring to
In some embodiments, referring to
Referring to
Still referring to
By installing the anti-fouling film 1104 in the cleaning groove 1103, users are relieved from the need to laboriously scrub the cleaning groove 1103 with brushes or other cleaning tools, saving effort and enhancing the user experience. Additionally, cleaning the cleaning groove 1103 doesn't require water, reducing water consumption and lowering cleaning costs. Moreover, after the anti-fouling film 1104 adsorbs dirt and hair, it centralizes the collection of contaminants, resulting in a cleaner cleaning process. The flexible usage of the anti-fouling film 1104 is demonstrated by its layered structure; users can peel off one layer at a time, and the overlapping design enhances efficiency.
Referring to
Furthermore, to enhance the cleaning efficiency of the mop, the protrusion 11031 is equipped with a cleaning fluid outlet 1142, which is used to deliver cleaning fluid to the cleaning components. The cleaning component includes, but is not limited to, the mop of the robot 200. In an embodiment, the cleaning fluid outlet 1142 is connected to the water supply device, which can provide either clean water or cleaning fluid. While the protrusion 11031 rotates relative to the mop on the robot 200, the cleaning fluid outlet 1142 releases cleaning fluid. This contributes to a more effective cleaning of the mop due to the decontaminating and sterilizing effects of the cleaning fluid.
To prevent the anti-fouling film 1104 from obstructing the protrusion 11031, referring to
Referring to
Referring to
Furthermore, in some embodiments, referring to
By installing the cleaning groove cleaning device 120 on the robot 200, users are relieved from the laborious task of manually wiping the cleaning groove 1103 with brushes or other cleaning tools, saving effort and enhancing user experience. Simultaneously, in conjunction with the functional modules on the base station 100, the automatic triggering of the self-cleaning program on the base station 100 can be initiated, improving operational convenience. Additionally, the use of an anti-stuck device or brush type detection sensor serves to alert users and prevent adverse consequences resulting from the incorrect installation of the brush. Through these mechanisms, the anti-stuck device or brush type detection sensor can automatically activate the self-cleaning mode of the base station 100, completing the cleaning process for the cleaning groove 1103.
It should be noted that the implementation of the robot base station 100 provided in an embodiment can be referenced or adapted as long as it does not conflict with the structure outlined in the above embodiments.
Furthermore, in some embodiments, referring to
The module shell has a docking cavity for docking with the robot 200. The assembly structure is set on the module shell to assemble at least one functional unit, obtaining a base station 100 with different numbers and combinations of functionalities. The berthing device 111 is set on the module shell for docking with the robot 200 docked on the base station 100. Multiple reserved docking devices are used to respectively dock with different functional units.
In some embodiment, the functional units include but are not limited to at least one of the cleaning devices, water supply device, dust collection device, and power supply device. The docking devices include but are not limited to the charging docking device 112, dust collection docking device 113, water supply docking device 114, and wastewater retrieval docking device 115. The base stand 110 docks with the robot 200 through the berthing device 111. The cleaning device is used to clean the robot 200. The water supply device is used to supply water to the robot 200 and/or the cleaning device. The dust collection device is used to collect dust from the robot 200. The power supply device is used to charge the robot 200.
Users can install different functional units on the module shell through the assembly structure according to their specific needs. The robot 200 can dock with the base stand 110 through the berthing device 111, completing the connection with the base station 100.
For instance, when the robot 200 needs to recharge, the charging device can be installed on the module shell, and the robot 200 can connect to the power supply device through the charging docking device 112, utilizing the power supply device within the base station 100 to meet the charging needs of the robot 200.
Similarly, when the robot 200 requires dust collection, the dust collection device can be installed on the module shell. The robot 200 can connect to the dust collection device through the dust collection docking device 113, utilizing the dust collection device carried by the base station 100 to extract debris from the interior of the robot 200.
When the robot 200 requires water addition, the water supply device can be installed on the module shell. The robot 200 can connect to the water supply device through the water supply docking device 114, utilizing the water in the water supply device within the base station 100 to meet the robot 200 water addition needs.
Similarly, when the robot 200 requires cleaning, the cleaning device and water supply device can be installed on the module shell. The cleaning device can be used to clean the robot 200's mop, and the wastewater from the cleaning process can be discharged based on the wastewater retrieval docking device 115, meeting the robot 200 self-cleaning needs.
In some embodiments, by setting up an assembly structure and multiple reserved docking devices on the base stand module, users can install different functional units on the module shell according to different needs. This allows the creation of a base station 100 with varying numbers and combinations of functionalities. Consequently, the base station 100 can integrate multiple functions to provide different services for the robot 200, meeting various needs such as automatic berthing, cleaning, charging, water supply, and dust collection. This reduces user intervention, enhances the robot 200's automation level, and improves its cleaning efficiency.
In some embodiments, each functional unit can be offered as a separate accessory for users to choose. For example, users can select at least one of the cleaning device, water supply device, dust collection device, and power supply device based on their specific needs. Users can independently install different functional units on the module shell, thus achieving a base station 100 with various functionalities to meet diverse requirements.
It is worth mentioning that the implementation of the base stand 110 module for the base station 100 can refer to and borrow from the implementation of the base stand 110 for the base station 100 in the above-mentioned embodiments, as long as there is no conflict in structure. The details are not reiterated here.
Furthermore, building upon the above-mentioned embodiments, as illustrated in
The robot 200 includes a main body comprises a top surface and a bottom surface arranged opposite to each other, as well as a side surface located between the top and bottom surfaces. The bottom surface is equipped with a cleaning component, including but not limited to a mop tray. The side surface features docking interfaces: berthing interface 201a for docking with the berthing device 111 on the base station 100, charging interface 201b for docking with the charging docking device 112 on the base station 100, dust collection interface 201c for docking with the dust collection docking device 113, and water supply interface 201d for docking with the water supply docking device 114. These interfaces, in conjunction with the cleaning device, water supply device, dust collection device, and power supply device on the base station 100, fulfill the robot's automatic berthing, cleaning, charging, water supply, and dust collection requirements, reducing user intervention and enhancing the robot's automation and cleaning efficiency.
Furthermore, in a specific embodiment of the robot involves a main body with a head region and a rear area along the direction of the robot's movement. As the robot 200 moves, the head region faces forward, and the rear area faces backward. Taking the orientation in
Furthermore, one arrangement for the docking interfaces 201 is as follows: concerning the plane where the bottom surface is located, the berthing interface 201a is positioned close to the bottom surface and below the charging interface 201b. The dust collection interface 201c and the water supply interface 201d are situated on either side of the berthing interface 201a and are positioned higher than the location of the docking interface. In terms of height relative to the bottom surface, the berthing interface 201a is located at the lower edge of the side of the rear area, the water supply interface 201d is positioned near the upper edge of the side, and the dust collection interface 201c is relatively positioned in the middle of the side. The water supply interface 201d is relatively higher to prevent water leakage from the robot's water tank, while the dust collection interface 201c is located in the middle of the side to provide space for accommodating the sealing structure between the dust collection docking device 113 and the dust collection interface 201c, thus preventing dust leakage.
Furthermore, the dust collection interface 201c and the water supply interface 201d are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the berthing interface 201a. This symmetrical arrangement allows for the efficient utilization of the space on the side of the robot 200. Additionally, having the dust collection interface 201c and the water supply interface 201d symmetrically positioned ensures a certain distance between them. This helps prevent interference between the two interfaces during water supply and dust collection operations, avoiding mutual contamination.
Furthermore, referring to
Furthermore, still referring to
The angle ranges for Angle A and Angle B are carefully chosen to avoid being too large or too small. Taking the dust collection interface 201c as an example, along the circumference direction of the robot 200, when the Angle A range is too large, meaning the line distance between the dust collection interface 201c and the berthing interface 201a is large, the docking force exerted by the robot 200 through the berthing interface 201a and the berthing interface 201a towards the docking interface 201c is weakened. If the Angle A range is too large, the dust collection interface 201c tends to be more on the right side of the robot 200. The force applied to the dust collection interface 201c on the robot 200 is smaller, making it difficult for the dust collection interface 201c to tightly dock with the dust collection docking device 113, potentially leading to dust leakage. Therefore, the angle values for Angle A and Angle B are set between 20-50 degrees. This ensures that the dust collection interface 201c, water supply interface 201d, and berthing interface 201a are positioned such that they are separated from each other but still have sufficient docking force, allowing the interfaces on the robot 200 to tightly dock with the corresponding docking devices. In some implementable examples of this application, the angle values for Angle A and Angle B may be set at 35 degrees.
Furthermore, another way to ensure sufficient docking force, allowing the docking device to tightly dock with the interfaces on the robot 200, is to set the distance range between the dust collection interface 201c and the berthing interface 201a, as well as the distance range between the water supply interface 201d and the berthing interface 201a, along the width direction of the robot. The distance ranges are both set at 50-150 mm. Taking the orientation in
Furthermore, the various interfaces 201 on the robot 200 can simultaneously dock with the corresponding docking devices on the base station 100, including the berthing device 111, charging docking device 112, dust collection docking device 113, and water supply docking device 114. When the robot 200 docks on the base station 100, the interfaces 201 on the robot 200 can simultaneously dock with the corresponding docking devices, allowing the robot 200 to dock with all the necessary devices in one go. This enables simultaneous processes such as automatic charging, automatic water supply, automatic dust collection, and automatic cleaning. This eliminates the need for multiple actions or repeated docking, thereby enhancing the efficiency of use for the robot 200.
Furthermore, based on the embodiments described above and referring to
The robot 200 is equipped with multiple interfaces 201.
The base station 100 comprises a base stand 110, a cleaning device, a water supply device, a dust collection device, and a power supply device. The cleaning device, water supply device, dust collection device, and power supply device are not explicitly shown in the figures. The base stand 110 is used for docking with the robot 200. The cleaning device is used for cleaning the robot 200. The water supply device supplies water to the robot 200 and/or the cleaning device. The dust collection device collects dust from the robot 200. The power supply device charges the robot 200. The base stand 110 is equipped with docking devices for interfacing with the robot 200, including a berthing device 111, a charging docking device 112, a dust collection docking device 113, a water supply docking device 114, and a wastewater retrieval docking device 115.
In some embodiments, the robot base station 100 integrates various functions to provide different services for the robot 200. It meets the needs of the robot 200 for automatic berthing, automatic cleaning, automatic charging, automatic water supply, and automatic dust collection, reducing user intervention and improving the automation level and cleaning efficiency of the robot 200.
It should be noted that the implementation of the robot 200 and the base station 100 can be referenced or borrowed, as long as the structure is not conflicting, from the implementation of the robot 200 and the base station 100 described in the above embodiments. Further details are not reiterated here.
Furthermore, based on the above embodiments and referring to
The robot 200 is equipped with multiple interfaces 201.
The base station 100 comprises a base stand 110 and multiple functional units. The base stand 110 is used for docking with the robot 200. Multiple functional units are arranged on the base stand 110. One functional unit is equipped with at least one functional module. The base stand 110 is equipped with docking devices that interface with at least some of the functional units. Different functional modules provide different services to the robot 200 through the corresponding docking devices.
The docking devices on the base stand 110 include at least two of the following: berthing device 111, charging docking device 112, dust collection docking device 113, water supply docking device 114, and wastewater retrieval docking device 115. The multiple functional units include at least two of the following: cleaning device, water supply device, dust collection device, and power supply device.
After the robot 200 docks with the base station 100, the berthing device 111 meets the robot 200's positioning and docking needs. The charging docking device 112 establishes a connection between the robot 200 and the power supply device, utilizing the power supply device within the base station 100 to meet the charging needs of the robot 200. The dust collection docking device 113 establishes a connection between the robot 200 and the dust collection device, utilizing the dust collection device carried by the base station 100 to extract debris from the interior of the robot 200. The water supply docking device 114 establishes a connection between the robot 200 and the water supply device, utilizing the water within the water supply device in the base station 100 to meet the robot 200's water supply needs. Simultaneously, the cleaning device can clean the mop of the robot 200, and the wastewater after cleaning can be discharged based on the wastewater retrieval docking device 115, meeting the self-cleaning needs of the robot 200.
It should be noted that the implementation methods of the robot 200 and the base station 100 provided in this application, if not conflicting in structure, can referring to and borrow from the implementation methods of the robot 200 and the base station 100 in the above-mentioned examples, and will not be repeated here.
In summary, the first advantage provided in some embodiments of this application is that the robot base station 100 integrates multiple functions to provide different services for the robot 200. This meets the needs of the robot 200 for automatic berthing, automatic cleaning, automatic charging, automatic water supply, and automatic dust collection, reducing user intervention, increasing the automation level of the robot 200, and improving its cleaning efficiency.
The second advantage provided in some embodiments of this application is: by installing an anti-fouling film 1104 in the cleaning groove 1103, users do not need to use brushes or other cleaning tools to wipe the cleaning groove 1103 manually, saving labor and providing a good user experience. At the same time, when cleaning the cleaning groove 1103, there is no need to use water, saving water consumption and reducing cleaning costs. Additionally, after the anti-fouling film 1104 adsorbs dirt and hair, the dirt is centrally collected, resulting in a cleaner cleaning effect. The use of the anti-fouling film 1104 is flexible, and with multiple layers overlapping, only one layer needs to be peeled off at a time.
The third advantage provided in some embodiments of this application is: by installing cleaning components for the cleaning groove 1103 on the robot 200, users do not need to use brushes or other cleaning tools to manually wipe the cleaning groove 1103, saving labor and providing a good user experience. At the same time, in coordination with the functional modules on the base station 100, the self-cleaning program of the base station 100 can be automatically triggered, enhancing operational convenience. Furthermore, through an anti-stuck device or a brush type detection sensor, users can be reminded and avoid the adverse consequences of mistakenly installing a brush. The anti-stuck device or brush type detection sensor can also automatically activate the self-cleaning mode of the cleaning groove 1103 on the base station 100, completing the cleaning of the cleaning groove 1103.
The fourth advantage provided in some embodiments of this application is: both the drive wheel groove and the brush end cover 1105 of the base station 100 are correspondingly equipped with drainage structures 1152. Through the wastewater retrieval drainage groove 1151 of the robot 200's drive wheel, accumulated water in the drive wheel groove can be promptly drained out. The drainage structures 1152 around the brush end cover 1105 can drain water around the brush end cover 1105, reducing the contact of the drive wheel and brush with wastewater. This helps minimize secondary pollution during the robot 200's entry and exit from the base station 100.
Furthermore, based on the embodiments described above, referring to
Specifically, a control method for a robot base station 100 comprises,
Step S101: Obtain docking information for the robot 200.
Based on the arrangement of the interfaces 201 at the rear area of the robot 200, the robot 200 can enter the docking area by backing into it. Docking information includes, but is not limited to, whether the multiple docking devices on the base station 100 are successfully connected to the corresponding interfaces on the robot 200.
Step S102: Determine whether the robot has successfully docked based on the docking information.
When the multiple docking devices on the base station 100 are all successfully connected to the corresponding interfaces on the robot 200, the robot 200 has successfully docked with the base station 100.
Step S103: If the robot 200 has successfully docked, control at least some functional units to provide services for the robot 200.
The base station 100 controls multiple functional units to provide services for the robot 200, including but not limited to automatic berthing, automatic cleaning, automatic charging, automatic water replenishment, and automatic dust collection. The base station 100 integrates multiple functions to provide different services for the robot 200, meeting the needs of the robot 200 for automatic berthing, automatic cleaning, automatic charging, automatic water replenishment, and automatic dust collection, reducing user intervention, increasing the automation level of the robot 200, and improving its cleaning efficiency.
Furthermore, for Step S101, obtaining docking information for the robot 200 includes obtaining docking information for multiple docking devices and the corresponding interfaces 201 on the robot 200. For Step S102, determining whether the robot 200 has successfully docked includes determining whether multiple docking devices are successfully connected to the corresponding interfaces 201 on the robot 200.
In some embodiments, the functional units on the base station 100 include, but are not limited to, a base stand 110, a cleaning device, a water supply device, a dust collection device, and a power supply device. The base stand 110 is used for docking the robot 200. The cleaning device is used to clean the robot 200. The water supply device is used to provide water for the robot 200 and/or for the cleaning device. The dust collection device is used to collect dust from the robot 200. The power supply device is used to charge the robot 200. On the base stand 110, there are docking devices for connecting the above devices to the robot 200: berthing device 111, charging docking device 112, dust collection docking device 113, water supply docking device 114, and wastewater retrieval docking device 115. To achieve docking with the various docking devices on the base station 100, the robot 200 is equipped with corresponding interfaces 201, such as the interface 201b used in conjunction with the charging docking device 112, the interface 201c used in conjunction with the dust collection docking device 113, the interface 201d used in conjunction with the water supply docking device 114, and so on.
Referring to
Furthermore, for step S103, controlling at least some functional units to provide services to the robot includes, but is not limited to, the following:
After the robot 200 and the base station 100 have successfully docked, the berthing device 111 facilitates the robot's 200 precise positioning and docking. The charging docking device 112 establishes a connection between the robot 200 and the power supply device, utilizing the power supply device inside the base station 100 to fulfill the robot 200's charging requirements. The dust collection docking device 113 links the robot 200 to the dust collection device, extracting debris from the interior of the robot 200 using the dust collection apparatus carried by the base station 100. The water supply docking device 114 establishes a connection between the robot 200 and the water supply device, utilizing the water from the water supply device inside the base station 100 to meet the robot 200's water replenishment needs. Simultaneously, the cleaning device can clean the mop of the robot 200. The wastewater produced after cleaning can be discharged based on the wastewater retrieval docking device 115, meeting the self-cleaning requirements of the robot 200.
The docking devices, including berthing device 111, charging docking device 112, dust collection docking device 113, and water supply docking device 114, simultaneously dock with the robot 200. The base station 100 can provide services to the robot 200 by controlling some functional units or multiple functional units simultaneously, achieving processes such as automatic charging, automatic water supply, automatic dust collection, and automatic cleaning without the need for multiple actions or repeated docking, thereby enhancing the efficiency of the robot 200.
Furthermore, referring to
Specifically, a robot control method, comprises:
The base station 100 controls multiple functional units to provide services to the robot 200, including but not limited to automatic berthing, automatic cleaning, automatic charging, automatic water supply, and automatic dust collection. The base station 100 integrates multiple functions to provide different services to the robot 200, reducing user intervention, enhancing the automation of the robot 200, and improving its cleaning efficiency.
Furthermore, for Step S202, obtaining docking information includes obtaining docking information for multiple interfaces 201 and their corresponding docking devices on the base station 100. Determining whether the docking with the base station 100 is successful includes determining whether multiple interfaces 201 are successfully docked with their corresponding docking devices on the base station 100.
In some embodiments, the functional units on the base station 100 include but not limited to the base stand 110, cleaning device, water supply device, dust collection device, and power supply device. The base stand 110 is used for docking the robot 200, the cleaning device is used for cleaning the robot 200, the water supply device is used for supplying water to the robot 200 and/or the cleaning device, the dust collection device is used for collecting dust from the robot 200, and the power supply device is used for charging the robot 200. The base stand 110 is equipped with docking devices, including berthing device 111, charging docking device 112, dust collection docking device 113, water supply docking device 114, and wastewater retrieval docking device 115, for docking with the various interfaces on the robot 200.
Referring to
Furthermore, for Step S204, controlling part of the interfaces 201 to collaborate with the functional units on the base station 100 to provide services to the robot 200 includes at least one of the following: controlling the water supply interface 201d to open, allowing the base station 100 to supply water to the robot 200 through the water supply device; controlling the dust collection interface 201c to open, enabling the base station 100 to collect dust from the robot 200 through the dust collection device; controlling the charging interface 201b to connect, allowing the base station 100 to charge the robot 200 through the power supply device.
After the robot 200 and the base station 100 have completed docking, the berthing device 111 can meet the positioning and docking requirements for the robot 200. The robot 200 connects the charging interface 201b, allowing the base station 100 to establish a connection between the robot 200 and the power supply device through the charging docking device 112, using the power supply device inside the base station 100 to meet the charging needs of the robot 200. The robot 200 opens the dust collection interface 201c, establishing a connection with the dust collection docking device 113 through the dust collection docking device, using the dust collection device carried by the base station 100 to extract debris from inside the robot 200. The robot 200 opens the water supply interface 201d, establishing a connection with the water supply docking device 114 through the water supply docking device, utilizing the water in the water supply device inside the base station 100 to meet the water supply needs of the robot 200.
The following provides specific scenarios to explain some embodiments of this application, using the robotic vacuum cleaner as an example of the robot 200.
After completing a phase of cleaning tasks, the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 autonomously returns to the base station 100.
The guiding groove on the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 docks with the guiding block 1111 on the berthing device 111, ensuring accurate docking between the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 and the base station 100, meeting the positioning and docking requirements of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200.
The charging contact on the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 docks with the charging docking device 112, establishing a connection between the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 and the power supply device, utilizing the power supply device inside the base station 100 to meet the charging needs of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200.
The dust discharge port on the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 docks with the dust collection docking device 113, establishing a connection between the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 and the dust collection device, utilizing the dust collection device carried by the base station 100 to extract debris from inside the robotic vacuum cleaner 200.
The water inlet on the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 docks with the water supply docking device 114, establishing a connection between the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 and the water supply device, utilizing the water in the water supply device inside the base station 100 to meet the water supply needs of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200.
Simultaneously, the base station 100 initiates an automatic cleaning program. Using the cleaning device, it cleans the mop on the robotic vacuum cleaner 200. The wastewater from the cleaning process can be discharged through the wastewater retrieval docking device 115, meeting the self-cleaning needs of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200.
After the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 completes a phase of cleaning tasks, it automatically returns to the base station 100. The base station 100 uses a cleaning device to clean the robotic vacuum cleaner 200's mop. Once the cleaning is done, the cleaning groove 1103 inside the base station 100 accumulates a significant amount of dirt.
Users can simply peel off the top layer of the anti-fouling film 1104 to complete the cleaning of the cleaning groove 1103. The dirt can then be discarded along with the anti-fouling film 1104. Users do not need to use tools such as brushes to manually wipe the cleaning groove 1103, saving labor. Additionally, there is no need to use water to clean the cleaning groove 1103, saving water and reducing cleaning costs.
After the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 completes a phase of cleaning tasks and automatically returns to the base station 100, the base station 100 uses a cleaning device to clean the robotic vacuum cleaner 200's mop. After the cleaning is completed, a significant amount of dirt accumulates inside the cleaning groove 1103 of the base station 100.
The robot 200 can replace the mop, substituting it with a cleaning component 120 for the cleaning groove. Upon the return of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 to the base station 100, in conjunction with the cleaning device and water supply device on the base station 100, the cleaning component 120 is used to clean the accumulated dirt inside the cleaning groove 1103, ensuring the cleanliness of the cleaning groove 1103.
After the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 completes a phase of cleaning tasks and automatically returns to the base station 100, the wheels of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 are accommodated in the wheel groove of the drive wheel. The robotic vacuum cleaner 200's brushes correspond to the position of the brush end cover 1105, and water drips into the wheel groove from the drive wheel. The accumulated water in the wheel groove is promptly drained through the wastewater retrieval drainage groove 1151 of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200's drive wheel, reducing the accumulation of water in the wheel groove and minimizing contact between the drive wheel and wastewater. During the process of the robotic vacuum cleaner 200 entering and leaving the base station 100, the second pollution of the brushes is reduced.
The brush end cover 1105 can block the flow or splashing of liquid onto the brush, and the water drainage structure 1152 around the brush end cover 1105 can promptly drain the accumulated water around the brush end cover 1105, reducing secondary pollution of the brush.
Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are for illustrative purposes only to describe the technical solutions of this application and are not intended to limit them. Although reference has been made to the embodiments for detailed description in the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments or some technical features can be equivalently replaced. Such modifications or substitutions do not depart from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.
The above are only specific implementations of embodiments of this application, but the scope of this application is not limited to this. One of ordinary skill in the art can easily think of various equivalents within the technical scope disclosed in this application. These modifications or replacements shall be included within the scope of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of the present invention shall be subject to the protection scope of the claims.
Number | Date | Country | Kind |
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202110897242.5 | Aug 2021 | CN | national |
This application is a Continuation Application of International Patent Application No. PCT/CN2022/106605, filed on Jul. 20, 2022, which is based on and claims priority to and benefits of Chinese Patent Application No. 202110897242.5, filed on Aug. 5, 2021, entitled “Robot Base Station, Base Station's Base Module, and Robot System.” All of the above-referenced applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.
Number | Date | Country | |
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Parent | PCT/CN2022/106605 | Jul 2022 | US |
Child | 18430621 | US |