KR102182087B1 - Information displaying apparatus of vacuum cleaner - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to an information display device for a robot cleaner.
An information display device of a robot cleaner according to an aspect includes: a communication unit for receiving information from the robot cleaner, an image irradiation unit for irradiating an image including information of the robot cleaner received by the communication unit to the outside, and the image irradiation unit And a display device including a control unit for controlling the unit.

Description

Information displaying apparatus of robot vacuum cleaner

The present specification relates to an information display device of a robot cleaner.

In general, a robot cleaner is a cleaner that performs cleaning while traveling by itself.

Korean Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 10-2013-0092729 (published on August 21, 2013), a prior document, discloses a robot cleaner and a control method thereof.

The robot cleaner disclosed in the prior literature includes: a main body having a traveling unit; A recognition unit provided in the main body to recognize information on an area to be cleaned; A storage unit provided in the main body to store information on an area to be cleaned; A display unit provided in the main body to display cleaning-related information; And a control unit for recognizing information on the previously stored cleaning area and information on the current cleaning area, comparing the information, and controlling the current cleaning progress state to be displayed on the display unit.

However, even if the robot cleaner of the prior literature can display the current cleaning progress status on the display unit, since the robot cleaner is located on the floor, the user can check the current cleaning progress status. There is a problem that it is necessary to check the display unit in a bent state.

In addition, there is a problem in that it is difficult for a user to intuitively and easily view information displayed on the display unit due to the size limitation of the display unit itself provided in the robot cleaner.

An object of the present invention is to provide an information display device and an information display method of a robot vacuum cleaner by which a user can easily recognize information on a robot cleaner.

An information display device of a robot cleaner according to an aspect includes: a communication unit for receiving information from the robot cleaner, an image irradiation unit for irradiating an image including information of the robot cleaner received by the communication unit to the outside, and the image irradiation unit And a display device including a control unit for controlling the unit.

In addition, the display device may further include a terminal portion for charging a battery provided in the robot cleaner.

In addition, when the terminal portion of the robot cleaner contacts the terminal portion of the display device, the controller may activate the image irradiation unit so that an image is irradiated by the image irradiation unit.

In addition, the control unit may deactivate the image irradiation unit when the image irradiation unit irradiates the image for a predetermined time.

In addition, the display device may further include an activation detection unit configured to detect whether an activation command of the image irradiation unit is input, and when the activation detection unit detects the activation command, the control unit may activate the image irradiation unit.

In addition, the display device may further include a position sensing unit for detecting a relative distance to a wall around the display device.

In addition, the control unit may move the image irradiation unit or change the irradiation type of the image irradiated by the image irradiation unit according to the relative distance of the main wall detected by the position detection unit with the wall.

In addition, the image irradiated by the image irradiator may include a screen that can be distinguished from a wall, and the screen may include an input area for inputting a command.

The input area may include at least one of a selection unit for inputting a cleaning start command, a selection unit for setting a cleaning reservation, and a selection unit for setting a cleaning target area for each cleaning area.

In addition, the display device may further include a command input detection unit for detecting selection of one or more selection units among selection units displayed in the input area.

In addition, the command input detection unit may include a plurality of infrared sensors arranged in a direction parallel to the arrangement direction of the selection units.

In addition, the control unit may control the image irradiation unit or the communication unit may transmit a control command to the robot cleaner such that information included in the screen varies according to the type of command detected by the command input detection unit.

In addition, the image irradiated by the image irradiation unit may include a screen that can be distinguished from a wall, and the screen may include a display area for displaying information on the robot cleaner.

In addition, at least one of cleaning performance information, past cleaning information, dust amount information, dust bin emptying notification information, and cleaning range information may be displayed in the display area.

In addition, the display device further includes a camera for detecting a user's gesture, and according to the user's gesture sensed by the camera, the controller may change the position or size of the screen or the information included in the screen The image irradiation unit may be controlled to be variable.

Further, it further comprises a robot cleaner capable of communicating with the communication unit of the display device, wherein the robot cleaner includes a camera capable of detecting a user's gesture, and the robot cleaner includes a user's gesture detected by the camera. A command corresponding to is transmitted to the display device, and the control unit may control the image irradiation unit such that the position or size of the screen is changed or information included in the screen is changed according to the transmitted command.

A command input device for a robot cleaner according to another aspect includes a communication unit for transmitting and receiving information with the robot cleaner, an image irradiating unit for externally irradiating an image including information for inputting a command to be transmitted to the robot cleaner, and the image It may include a display device including a control unit for controlling the irradiation unit.

In addition, the image irradiated by the image irradiation unit includes a screen that can be distinguished from a wall, and the screen includes a selection unit for inputting a cleaning start command, a selection unit for setting a cleaning reservation, and a cleaning target for each cleaning area. It may include one or more of the selection units for setting the region.

In addition, the display device may further include a command input sensing unit configured to detect that a user selects one or more of the selection units displayed on the screen at the wall or at a position adjacent to the wall.

In addition, the command input detection unit may include a plurality of infrared sensors arranged in a direction parallel to the arrangement direction of the selection units.

In addition, the communication unit may transmit a command corresponding to the command sensed by the command input detection unit to the robot cleaner.

According to the proposed invention, since the user only needs to check the screen irradiated on the wall around the display device without bending his back, there is an advantage in that the user's convenience of checking information is improved.

In addition, since various information of the robot cleaner is irradiated and displayed on the wall around the display device, the size of the screen displayed on the wall around the display device is larger than when the information is displayed by the robot cleaner itself. It has the advantage of being able to easily check.

1 is a schematic view showing an information display device of a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.
2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a charger according to an embodiment of the present invention.
3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention.
4 is a diagram illustrating various examples in which an activation detection unit detects an activation command according to an embodiment of the present invention.
5 is a view showing various examples of detecting a state position between a display device and a wall around the display device by a position detection unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.
6 is a view showing various examples of varying an irradiation type of an image irradiated by an image irradiating unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.
7 is a view showing a state in which an information display device of a robot cleaner displays an image according to an embodiment of the present invention.
8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen included in an image irradiated by an image irradiating unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.
9 is a view showing past cleaning information is displayed on the screen of FIG. 8.
10 is a view showing cleaning range information displayed on the screen of FIG. 8;
FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating how dust amount information is displayed on the screen of FIG. 8;
FIG. 12 is a view showing information on a dust bin emptying notification displayed on the screen of FIG. 8;
13 is a diagram illustrating a process of detecting that a user selects a selection unit of an input area.
14 is a view showing a screen displayed when a cleaning map selection unit is selected on the screen of FIG. 8;
15 is a view showing a state in which some selection units are selected on the screen of FIG. 14;
16 is a view showing a state in which a camera of a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention detects a user's gesture.
17 is a view showing an information display device of a robot cleaner according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Hereinafter, some embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail through exemplary drawings. In adding reference numerals to elements of each drawing, it should be noted that the same elements are assigned the same numerals as possible even if they are indicated on different drawings. In addition, in describing an embodiment of the present invention, if it is determined that a detailed description of a related known configuration or function interferes with the understanding of the embodiment of the present invention, the detailed description thereof will be omitted.

In addition, in describing the constituent elements of the embodiment of the present invention, terms such as first, second, A, B, (a), (b) may be used. These terms are only used to distinguish the component from other components, and the nature, order, or order of the component is not limited by the term. When a component is described as being "connected", "coupled" or "connected" to another component, that component may be directly connected or connected to that other component, but another component between each component It should be understood that may be “connected”, “coupled” or “connected”.

1 is a schematic view showing an information display device of a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a charger according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. A block diagram showing the configuration of a robot cleaner according to an embodiment.

1 to 3, the information display device 1 of a robot cleaner according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention may include a display device 20 provided with an image irradiation unit 240.

The display device 20 may be, for example, a charger that serves to charge the battery 130 of the robot cleaner 10 by docking the robot cleaner 10. The display device 20 is not limited to a charger as long as information on operation information or status of the robot cleaner 10 can be checked or an operation command for the robot cleaner can be input. For example, the display device 20 may be an article provided in a separate configuration from the charger, and information on the robot cleaner may be checked.

Hereinafter, it is assumed that the display device 20 is a charger.

The image irradiation unit 240 may irradiate an image including information related to the robot cleaner to a wall around the display device 20. The image irradiation unit 240 may be, for example, a projector.

The display device 20 includes a base 210, a body part 220 extending upward from the base 210, and an extension part 230 extending in a horizontal direction from the body part 220 can do. Depending on the shape of the display device 20, the base 210 and the extension 230 may be omitted.

The extension part 230 may include an inclined part 232. The image irradiation unit 240 may be provided on the inclined portion 232. The inclined portion 232 may be inclined upward toward a direction away from the body portion 220 from the extension portion 230, but is not limited thereto.

Although not limited, when the display device 20 functions as a charger, the display device 20 may be placed on the floor around the wall with the body part 220 positioned close to the wall.

In this case, the image irradiation unit 240 may be spaced apart from the wall by the extension unit 230 and is located on the inclined portion 232, so that the image irradiation unit 240 can irradiate the image toward the wall. As a result, the size of the image irradiated on the wall may increase, so that the user can check the image displayed on the wall.

However, when the display device 20 includes only the body part 220, the image irradiation part 240 may be disposed above the body part 220. Even in this case, an inclined portion may be formed on the upper side of the body portion 220, and the image irradiating portion 240 may be positioned on the inclined portion.

The display device 20 includes a charger terminal unit 260 for contacting the robot cleaner 10 and a charger communication unit 262 for communication with the robot cleaner 10 (may also be referred to as a “first communication unit”). ) May be further included.

The charger terminal part 260 may be provided on the body part 220 or the extension part 230. In a state in which the cleaner terminal part 120 of the robot cleaner 10 contacts the charger terminal part 260, power for charging the battery 130 of the robot cleaner 10 is supplied from the charger terminal part 260 to the cleaner terminal part ( 120) can be supplied.

As another example, the charger terminal unit 260 and the cleaner terminal unit 120 may be omitted, and the robot cleaner 10 may be wirelessly charged (non-contact charging).

In the present specification, in order to charge the battery 130, a state in which the cleaner terminal unit 120 is in contact with the charger terminal unit 260 is a state in which the robot cleaner 10 is docked with the display device 20. I will explain.

The charger communication unit 262 may perform wireless communication or wired communication with the robot cleaner 10. In this specification, as long as the charger communication unit 262 communicates with the robot cleaner 10 to receive information on the robot cleaner and transmit a command to the robot cleaner, it is noted that there is no limitation on the communication method of the charger communication unit 262. .

The display device 20 may include a position detection unit 272 for detecting a relative position between the display device 20 and a wall.

The position detection unit 272 may detect at least one of a distance and an angle between the display device 20 and the wall adjacent to the display device 20.

The display device 20 may further include an activation detection unit 270. The activation detection unit 270 detects an activation command of the image irradiation unit 240 in an inactive state.

In the present specification, when the image irradiation unit 240 is in an inactive state, the image irradiation unit 240 is in an off state, and when the activation detection unit 270 detects an activation command, the image irradiation unit 240 is turned on and the image The image may be irradiated by the irradiation unit 240.

The display device 20 may further include a command input detection unit 280 for detecting a user's command input. For example, the command input detection unit 280 may detect whether a user selects a selection unit for inputting a command included in the image irradiated by the image irradiation unit 240. The command input detection unit 280 may detect a motion of a user or a position of a hand, for example.

In addition, the display device 20 may further include an input unit 264 for inputting a user's command. The input unit 264 may include a touch screen or a command input button for inputting a touch command. The input part 264 may be provided in the body part 220 or the extension part 230.

The display device 20 further includes a charger control unit 250 (or may also be referred to as a “first control unit”) that controls the charging of the robot cleaner 10 and controls the operation of the image irradiation unit 240. Can include.

The charger controller 250 may store information received from the robot cleaner 10. Alternatively, although not shown, the display device 20 may include a memory for storing information received from the robot cleaner 10.

The information display device 1 of the robot cleaner may further include a robot cleaner 10 capable of transmitting information to the display device 20 and receiving commands from the display device 20.

The robot cleaner 10 may include a battery 130, a cleaner terminal unit 120, and a cleaner communication unit 122 (which may also be referred to as a “second communication unit”).

The cleaner communication unit 122 may perform wireless communication or wired communication with the charger communication unit 262. In the present specification, as long as the cleaner communication unit 122 communicates with the charger communication unit 122 to transmit information on the robot cleaner and receives information related to charging or an operation command, the communication method of the cleaner communication unit 122 It should be noted that there are no restrictions.

The robot cleaner 10 may further include a camera 140. The camera 140 may be used to perform mapping by photographing an area for cleaning, or may detect an obstacle.

In addition, the camera 140 may detect a user's motion. As will be described later, when the camera 140 detects a specific motion of the user while the image is being irradiated by the image irradiating unit 240, information included in the image irradiated by the image irradiating unit 240 may be changed.

When the charger terminal portion 260 is provided on the extension portion 230 of the display device 20, the cleaner terminal portion 120 may be provided on an upper portion of the robot cleaner 10. In this case, the camera 140 of the robot cleaner 10 may be covered while the robot cleaner 10 is docked to the display device 20. Accordingly, an opening 233 through which the camera 140 is exposed to the outside may be provided in the extension part 230 of the display device 20.

The robot cleaner 10 may further include a memory 150.

The memory 150 may store state information of the robot cleaner 10 and operation information of the robot cleaner 10.

As an example, the state information of the robot cleaner 10 may include one or more of a remaining charge amount of the battery 130 and an amount of dust sucked into a dust bin (not shown).

The operation information of the robot cleaner 10 includes at least one of information on an area in which the robot cleaner 10 has traveled or a cleaning area, a cleaning time required, a cleaning start time, a cleaning end time, and a cleaning date. can do.

The operation information of the robot cleaner 10 may be information measured by a sensor or information processed by the cleaner control unit 110 (also referred to as a “second control unit”) based on the information measured by the sensor. have.

For example, the information processed by the cleaner control unit 110 may include a ratio or a difference in area of a cleaned area (or a non-cleaned area) among the total cleaning areas.

The robot cleaner 10 may further include a dust amount detection unit 160 for detecting the amount of dust sucked into the dust bin. The cleaner control unit 110 may determine whether the dust bin needs to be emptied based on the amount of dust detected by the dust amount detection unit 160.

The robot cleaner 10 may further include a notification unit 162 for notifying information.

The notification unit 162 may notify various types of information such as a cleaning start notification, a cleaning completion notification, a battery charging need notification, and a dust bin emptying notification.

The charger control unit 250 may activate the image irradiation unit 240 in a state in which the robot cleaner 10 is docked or not docked with the display device 20.

Depending on whether the robot cleaner 10 is docked, a method for activating the image irradiation unit 240 or information included in an image irradiated by the image irradiation unit 240 may be different.

In addition, when the charger control unit 250 detects that the robot cleaner 10 is docked on the display device 20, the image irradiation unit 240 may be activated for a predetermined time.

After the robot cleaner 10 is docked to the display device 20 and the image irradiation unit 240 is activated for a predetermined time, the charger control unit 250 may deactivate the image irradiation unit 240. In addition, when the activation detection unit 270 detects an activation command in a state in which the image irradiation unit 240 is deactivated, the charger control unit 250 may reactivate the image irradiation unit 240.

Hereinafter, various examples in which the activation detection unit 270 detects an activation command will be described.

4 is a diagram illustrating various examples in which an activation detection unit detects an activation command according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 4A, the display device 20 may include a button 291 that can be pressed or selected by a user, and the activation detection unit 270 presses the button 291. Or you can detect the choice.

When the activation detection unit 270 detects the pressing or selection of the button 291, the charger control unit 250 determines that the activation command of the image irradiation unit 240 has been input, and the image irradiation unit 240 Can be activated.

As another example, referring to FIG. 4B, the activation detection unit 270 may be a sensor that detects vibration.

When a user strikes or moves the display device 20, the activation detection unit 270 may detect the vibration of the display device 20. When the vibration value of the display device 20 sensed by the activation detection unit 270 exceeds the reference vibration value, the charger control unit 250 determines that the activation command of the image irradiation unit 240 has been input, The image irradiation unit 240 may be activated.

As another example, referring to FIG. 4C, the activation detection unit 270 may include one or more optical sensors 292. Although not limited, the optical sensor 292 may be an infrared sensor or an ultrasonic sensor.

When a user approaches a portion of the display device 20 where the activation detection unit 270 is provided, the activation detection unit 270 detects the user's access, and the user's access from the activation detection unit 270 When this is detected, the charger control unit 250 may determine that the activation command of the image irradiation unit 240 has been input and activate the image irradiation unit 240.

In order to effectively detect a user's approach, the activation detector 270 may include a plurality of optical sensors 292. When the activation detection unit 270 includes a plurality of optical sensors 292, the plurality of optical sensors 292 may be disposed to be spaced apart in a horizontal direction or a vertical direction. And, when at least one of the plurality of optical sensors 292 detects the user's approach, the charger control unit 250 determines that the activation command of the image irradiation unit 240 has been input, and the image irradiation unit 240 Can be activated.

As another example, referring to FIG. 4D, the activation detection unit 270 may include one or more illuminance sensors 293.

The at least one illuminance sensor 293 may sense the brightness around the display device 20, and when a user approaches the display device 20, the surroundings of the display device 20 may become dark.

Therefore, when the illuminance value sensed by the at least one illuminance sensor 293 becomes less than the reference value, the charger controller 250 recognizes that the user has approached the display device 20 and commands the image irradiation unit 240 to activate When it is determined that this is input, the image irradiation unit 240 may be activated.

As another example, referring to FIG. 4E, the activation detection unit 270 may include one or more microphones 294.

When a user approaches the display device 20, a sound (for example, a footstep sound) may be generated when the user approaches, and the one or more microphones 294 may sense the sound generated when the user approaches.

When the at least one microphone 294 detects the sound generated when the user approaches, the charger controller 250 recognizes that the user has approached the display device 20, and the activation command of the image irradiator 240 is It is determined that the input is input, and the image irradiation unit 240 may be activated.

As another example, the one or more microphones 294 may receive an activation voice command from a user. The charger control unit 250 may determine whether the input voice is an activation voice command, and when the input voice is an activation voice command, the image irradiation unit 240 may be activated.

As shown in FIG. 4, after the activation detection unit 270 detects an activation command, or when the charger control unit 250 detects the docking of the robot cleaner 10, or the input unit 264 detects a position When input is received, or when the plug of the display device 20 (not shown) is connected to an outlet, the position detection unit 272 is a relative between the display device 20 and the wall around the display device 20 The location can be detected.

According to the distance or angle between the display device 20 and the wall around the display device, or the height from the bottom surface of the display device 20 or the image irradiation unit 240 itself, the image irradiation unit 240 to the wall When this is irradiated, a case may occur that the image irradiated on the wall does not have a certain shape and is distorted.

Accordingly, the charger control unit 250 adjusts the pattern of the image irradiated by the image irradiation unit 240 according to the relative position between the display device 20 detected by the position detection unit 272 and the wall around the display device. Or you can adjust the size of the image or adjust the height at which the image is irradiated.

5 is a view showing various examples of detecting a state position between a display device and a wall around the display device by a position detection unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

In the present specification, the wall around the display device may be understood to be a wall itself or include all walls having a surface of a certain area, such as a pillar, a side wall of a home appliance, and a storage cabinet.

Referring to FIG. 5A, the position detection unit 272 may include a plurality of optical sensors 273 spaced apart in a horizontal direction. The optical sensor 273 is not limited, but may include an ultrasonic sensor or an infrared sensor.

According to the information detected by each of the plurality of optical sensors 273, the charger control unit 250 may check a relative position including a distance and an angle between the display device 20 and a wall around the display device.

As another example, referring to (b) of FIG. 5, the position detection unit 272 may include one optical sensor 274 and a moving mechanism (not shown) for moving the optical sensor 274. I can.

For example, the moving mechanism may move the optical sensor 274 in a horizontal direction. Therefore, the charger controller 250 displays the display based on a value detected by the optical sensor 274 or a value continuously detected by the optical sensor 274 at a plurality of points where the optical sensor 274 is moved. The relative position between the device 20 and the wall around the display device can be checked.

As another example, referring to (c) of FIG. 5, one or more optical sensors 275 may be provided on an inclined portion or an extension portion of the display device 20, and detected by the optical sensor 275. Based on the value, the charger controller 250 may check the relative position of the display device 20 and a wall around the display device.

6 is a diagram illustrating various examples of varying an irradiation type of an image irradiated by an image irradiating unit according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 6A, the charger controller 250 determines the type of irradiation of the image S irradiated by the image irradiation unit 240 according to the relative position of the display device 20 and the wall around the display device. Can be adjusted.

In the present specification, the type of irradiation of an image may be described as including the size, position, and shape of the image.

The image irradiation unit 240 may irradiate an image having a certain shape or an image distorted from the certain form according to a relative position between the display device 20 and a wall around the display device.

6A shows an example in which an image S having a distorted shape is irradiated by the image irradiating unit 240. Even if the image S having a distorted shape is irradiated by the image irradiation unit 240, when the image S meets the wall around the display device, the image S is further distorted and a certain shape is generated on the wall around the display device It can be expressed as an image having.

As another example, referring to FIG. 6B, the display device 20 may include a moving mechanism 242 for rotating or moving the image irradiation unit 240. In this case, since the image irradiating unit 240 can be rotated or moved by the moving mechanism 242, the position or size of the image irradiated by the image irradiating unit 240 can be adjusted.

Of course, it is also possible to adjust the size of the image irradiated by the image irradiation unit 240 itself. In this case, the image irradiation unit 240 itself may adjust the focus of the lens to adjust the size of the image.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a state in which an information display device of a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention displays an image, and FIG. 8 is a view showing a screen including an image irradiated by an image irradiator according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a diagram showing an example.

FIG. 7 shows, for example, a state in which an image is irradiated by an image irradiator while the robot cleaner is docked to the display device.

7 and 8, as described above, when the robot cleaner 10 is docked on the display device 20, the cleaner communication unit 122 of the robot cleaner 10 is the charger communication unit 262. The information stored in the memory 150 of the robot cleaner 10 may be transmitted.

In addition, when the robot cleaner 10 is docked on the display device 20, the charger control unit 250 activates the image irradiation unit 240.

When the image irradiation unit 240 is activated, an image is irradiated from the image irradiation unit 240 to the wall around the display device.

The image irradiated by the image irradiation unit 240 may include a screen 40 that can be distinguished from a wall around the display device.

The screen 40 may be divided into a plurality of areas. The plurality of regions may include a first region 401, a second region 402 and a third region 403.

The second region 402 may be located between the first region 401 and the third region 403.

The size or shape of the screen 40 may be variable, and even if the size or shape of the screen 40 is changed, the relative positions of the first to third areas 401 to 403 may not be changed. have.

The first area 401 may be an input area displaying a selection unit for inputting a command.

The second area 402 may be a first display area for displaying first information such as information detected by a sensor of the display device 20 or a sensor of the robot cleaner 10.

The third area 403 is a second display area for displaying second information related to cleaning.

In the present specification, it has been described that the screen 40 is divided into three areas, but unlike this, it may be divided into two areas, an input area and a display area. That is, it is possible to have one area in which the second area and the third area are combined.

Alternatively, the screen 40 may include one area, and at least one of the first information and the second information and the selection unit may be displayed in one area.

The first area 401 includes a cleaning start selection unit 410 for inputting a cleaning start command, a cleaning reservation selection unit 412 for inputting a cleaning reservation setting, and a cleaning target area for each cleaning area. It may include at least one of the cleaning map selection unit 414 for.

However, when the robot cleaner 10 cannot generate a cleaning map for each room, the cleaning map selection unit 414 may not be displayed in the first area 401.

The first information displayed in the second area 402 may include one or more of a current time 420, an indoor temperature 422, and an indoor humidity 424. Of course, the number and type of first information displayed on the second area 402 may vary according to the number or type of sensors provided in the display device 20 or the robot cleaner 10.

The second information displayed in the third area 403 may include cleaning performance information 430. That is, when the robot cleaner 20 docks on the display device 20 after cleaning is completed, the cleaning performance information 430 may be displayed in the third area 403.

The cleaning performance information 430 may include at least one of date information, a cleaning start time, a cleaning completion time, and a cleaning required time. Although not limited, the cleaning performance information 430 may be cleaning performance information of the day.

For example, when the robot cleaner 10 is docked to the display device 20 after cleaning is completed, or when the robot cleaner 10 is docked to the display device 20, the image irradiation unit 240 Is deactivated after irradiating the image for a certain period of time at, and when the activation detection unit 270 detects the activation command, when the date when the activation command is detected and the cleaning performed date are the same, the cleaning performance information 430 is It may be displayed on the screen 40.

According to the present embodiment, since the user only needs to check the screen irradiated on the wall around the display device without bending his back, there is an advantage in that the user's convenience of checking information is improved.

In addition, since various information of the robot cleaner is irradiated and displayed on the wall around the display device, the size of the screen displayed on the wall around the display device is larger than when the information is displayed by the robot cleaner itself. It has the advantage of being able to easily check.

In addition, when the user checks the screen of FIG. 8, the user can intuitively and easily check the cleaning start time, cleaning end time, and required time included in the cleaning performance information 430.

The command input detection unit 280 may detect the selection of any one of the selection units displayed in the first area 401, and when a selection of any of the selection units is detected, the screen irradiated by the image irradiation unit 240 is displayed. Included information may vary or the operation of the robot cleaner 10 may be controlled.

For example, when the selection of the cleaning start selection unit 410 is detected, the robot cleaner 10 may start cleaning.

When the cleaning reservation selection unit 412 is selected, a selection unit for selecting a cleaning start time and a cleaning end time for cleaning reservation may be displayed in the third area 403.

Alternatively, a selection unit for selecting a cleaning start time and a cleaning required time for cleaning reservation may be displayed in the third area 403.

Alternatively, the third area 403 may display a selection unit for selecting a cleaning end time and a required cleaning time for cleaning reservation.

When the reservation setting is completed, the robot cleaner may perform cleaning at a reserved start time and end cleaning at the reserved end time.

A method of detecting a command input by the command input detection unit 280 will be described later.

9 is a diagram illustrating past cleaning information displayed on the screen of FIG. 8.

Referring to FIG. 9, past cleaning information 432 may be displayed in the third area 403 of the screen 40.

The past cleaning information 432 may be displayed when a date when the robot cleaner 10 last performs cleaning and a date when the activation detection unit 270 detects an activation command are different.

The past cleaning information 432 may include information on the last cleaning date or the last cleaning time.

Alternatively, immediately after the robot cleaner 10 is docked with the display device 20, the cleaning performance information 430 shown in FIG. 8 is displayed on the screen 40, and the image irradiator 240 is deactivated. When the activation detection unit 270 detects an activation command in the state, the screen 40 when the image irradiation unit 240 is activated again and irradiates an image shows past cleaning information 432 as shown in FIG. 9. Can be displayed.

Alternatively, when the activation detection unit 270 detects an activation command while the robot cleaner is currently performing cleaning, past cleaning information 432 may be displayed on the screen 40.

By checking the screen of FIG. 9, the user can intuitively and easily check past cleaning information 432.

10 is a diagram showing cleaning range information displayed on the screen of FIG. 8.

Referring to FIG. 10, after cleaning performance information 430 is displayed on the screen 40 as shown in FIG. 8 or past cleaning information 432 is displayed on the screen 40 as shown in FIG. 9, manually or automatically Cleaning range information 440 and 442 may be displayed on the screen 40.

The cleaning range information 440 and 442 includes ratio information 440 showing the ratio of the cleaned area to the total cleaning area, and the cleaned area 443 and the uncleaned area 444 (areas that have not been cleaned. It may include one or more of the area information 442 that is displayed separately.

The ratio information 440 may be displayed by numbers, letters, or figures.

The area information 442 includes a cleaned area 443 and the uncleaned area 444, and the color, border, or brightness of each of the cleaned area 443 and the uncleaned area 444 are By differently, the cleaned area 443 and the uncleaned area 444 may be separated.

The cleaning completed area 443 and the uncleaned area 444 may be, for example, areas divided into rooms in which a robot cleaner can perform cleaning.

By checking the screen of FIG. 10, the user has the advantage of being able to intuitively and easily check the ratio of the cleaned area or the cleaning completed area in the entire cleaning area.

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating how dust amount information is displayed on the screen of FIG. 8.

Referring to FIG. 11, dust amount information 450 may be displayed in the third area 403 of the screen 40.

The dust amount information 450 may show the amount of dust sucked after one cleaning is completed and the amount of dust at the time of cleaning in the past in a comparable manner.

When cleaning is completed each time, the amount of dust sucked may be detected by the dust amount detection unit 160 provided in the robot cleaner 10, and the information on the amount of dust sucked is displayed by the robot cleaner 10 using the display device 20 When docked on, it may be transmitted to the display device 20. Of course, after the cleaning is complete, the robot cleaner 10 may transmit to the display device 20 before the robot cleaner 10 docks with the display device 20.

The amount of dust in the past cleaning may be the amount of dust inhaled during the last cleaning in the past, or the average amount of the amount of dust inhaled in the past.

By checking the screen of FIG. 10, the user can easily check the amount of dust sucked in the cleaning area during the cleaning, and can intuitively check the comparison information between the amount of dust during the cleaning and the amount of dust in the past.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the display of dust bin emptying notification information on the screen of FIG. 8.

Referring to FIG. 12, as described above, the robot cleaner 10 may detect the amount of dust sucked during the cleaning by the dust amount detection unit, and the detected amount of dust is the memory 150 of the robot cleaner 10. Can be stored in.

The cleaner control unit 110 may determine the accumulated dust amount of the amount of dust stored in the memory 150 and determine whether the dust bin needs to be emptied based on the accumulated dust amount. For example, the cleaner control unit 110 may determine whether the accumulated dust amount has reached the reference amount, and when the accumulated dust amount reaches the reference amount, it may determine that the dust bin needs to be emptied.

In addition, the robot cleaner 10 may generate dust bin emptying notification information from the notification unit 162 during cleaning or after cleaning is completed.

In addition, the robot cleaner 10 may transmit dust bin empty notification information to the display device 20 during cleaning or after cleaning, before docking or when docking with the display device 20.

By checking the screen of FIG. 12, the user can easily check whether the dust bin needs to be empty.

13 is a diagram illustrating a process of sensing that a user selects a selection unit of an input area.

Referring to FIG. 13, the command input detection unit 280 may include a plurality of infrared sensors.

Each of the plurality of infrared sensors may include a light emitting unit 282 for irradiating infrared rays and a light receiving unit 284 for receiving infrared rays.

Although not limited, the plurality of infrared sensors may be provided in the same number as the maximum number of selection units displayed in the first area 401 on the screen 40. In addition, the plurality of infrared sensors may be arranged in a direction parallel to the arrangement direction of the selection units.

When a user's finger touches or directs a specific selection unit displayed on the first area 401 of the screen 40, the infrared rays irradiated from the light emitting unit 282 of any one of the plurality of infrared sensors are transmitted to the user's finger. Alternatively, it may be reflected by a hand and incident on the light receiving unit 284 of any of the above sensors.

Accordingly, the charger control unit 250 may check whether an infrared ray is incident on the light receiving unit of any one of the plurality of infrared sensors, thereby confirming that a specific selection unit is selected from among the plurality of selection units displayed in the first area 401. .

The command input detection unit 280 may detect a user's command input when the robot cleaner 10 is not docked with the display device 20.

In addition, the command input detection unit 280 may detect a user's command input even when the robot cleaner 10 is docked to the display device 20. However, in a state in which the robot cleaner 10 is docked with the display device 20, the first area 401 obtained by the camera 140 of the robot cleaner 10 is The cleaner control unit 110 may determine the finger position information based on the user's finger position at, and transmit the determined finger position information to the display device 20.

Then, the charger control unit 250 may check a command input by the user using the finger position information transmitted from the robot cleaner 10 and information sensed by the command input detection unit 280.

When the charger control unit 250 detects that a specific selection unit is selected, the selection unit selected by the user and the selection unit not selected by the user are displayed in a distinguishable manner among the selection units displayed in the first area 401, and then the specific selection unit is selected. The image irradiation unit 240 may be controlled to irradiate an image including a screen corresponding to a command.

For example, the color or the total color or size of the border of a specific selection unit selected by the user may be different from the color or the total color or size of the border of the unselected selection unit.

14 is a diagram illustrating a screen displayed when a cleaning map selection unit is selected on the screen of FIG. 8.

8 and 14, when the cleaning map selection unit 414 is selected on the screen 40 of FIG. 8, the first area 401 includes an individual area selection unit 461 for selecting an individual cleaning area. Wow, an all area selection unit 462 for selecting all areas, a start selection unit 463 for inputting a cleaning start command, and a previous selection unit 464 for displaying a previous screen may be displayed. .

In addition, in the third area 403, the time and date of the last cleaning completion, the cleaning completion area 443 and the non-cleaning area 444 may be divided and displayed.

After confirming the information displayed on the third area 403, the user may select one or more selection units from among the selection units displayed on the first area 401.

15 is a diagram illustrating a state in which some selection units are selected on the screen of FIG. 14.

14 and 15, when, for example, selection units corresponding to rooms 2 and 4 are selected from among the selection units displayed in the first area 401, the selected selection unit is in the third area 403. The cleaning target area 445 corresponding to and may be displayed to be distinguished from the unselected area.

When the user selects the start selection unit 463, the robot cleaner 10 performs cleaning while driving the corresponding cleaning target area 445.

According to the present embodiment, there is an advantage in that the user can intuitively check the cleaning completed area and the uncleaned area, and by selecting the cleaning target area, the robot cleaner can clean the selected cleaning target area.

16 is a diagram illustrating a state in which a camera of a robot cleaner according to an embodiment of the present invention detects a user's gesture.

Referring to FIG. 16, the camera 140 may be activated while the robot cleaner 10 is docked to the display device 20.

The camera 140 may recognize a user's gesture, and a command corresponding to the recognized gesture may be transmitted to the display device 20. The charger controller 250 may adjust a screen included in the image irradiated by the image irradiator 240 based on the transmitted command. For example, the charger controller 250 may change information included on the screen.

For example, as shown in FIG. 16, the camera 140 may detect a gesture in which a hand moves up and down.

The gesture that the hand moves up and down may be, for example, a scroll command for displaying remaining information when information to be displayed in the third region is not displayed at once in the third region. For example, when some of the plurality of pieces of information to be displayed in the third area is displayed in the third area, the user may move his hand up and down to check additional information.

Then, the camera 140 may detect a gesture in which the hand moves up and down, and the robot cleaner 10 may transmit a command corresponding to the gesture in which the hand moves up and down to the display device 20.

Then, the charger control unit 250 may control the image irradiation unit 240 to display additional information other than the currently displayed information in the third area of the screen 40.

The camera 140 may detect a random movement of a hand. The random movement of the hand may be, for example, a deactivation command of the image irradiator 240.

The camera 140 may detect a fisted hand. Maintaining the clenched hand for a certain period of time in a stopped state may be an activation command of the image irradiating unit 240.

The camera 140 may detect the vertical or horizontal movement of the fisted hand. The vertical or horizontal movement of the clenched hand may be a command for adjusting the height of the image to be irradiated by the image irradiating unit or moving left and right.

The camera 140 may detect the left and right movement of the hand while the hand is open. The left and right movement of the hand while the hand is open may be, for example, a command to change information to be displayed in the third area.

For example, if a screen as shown in FIG. 8 (which is a screen including cleaning performance information) is being irradiated, and a left or right movement in an open state is detected, a screen as shown in FIG. 9 (a screen including past cleaning information) Can be displayed.

It should be noted that the hand movement described in this specification is exemplary, and there is no limitation on the hand movement pattern and the type of command corresponding thereto as long as the image irradiator 240 can be controlled by sensing various gestures of the user .

In addition, in the above embodiment, it has been described that the camera 140 of the robot cleaner 10 detects various gestures of the user, but unlike this, a camera is provided in the display device 20 to detect various gestures of the user. It is also possible.

17 is a diagram illustrating an information display device of a robot cleaner according to another embodiment of the present invention.

The present embodiment is the same as the previous embodiment in other parts, but differs in the shape of the display device. Therefore, hereinafter, only the characteristic parts of the present embodiment will be described.

Referring to FIG. 17, the display device 50 may not cover the camera 140 of the robot cleaner 10 while the robot cleaner 10 is docked. In this case, unlike the previous embodiment, the opening does not need to be formed in the extension portion of the display device 50.

In the case of the display device 50 of the present exemplary embodiment, the image irradiation unit 240 may be disposed on the upper side of the display device 50.

In addition, the image irradiation unit 240 of the present embodiment may be installed and moved in a moving mechanism as shown in FIG. 6B.

In the above embodiment, not only can input information of the robot cleaner from the image irradiated by the display device 20, but also input commands to the robot cleaner, the information input device of the robot cleaner inputs a command of the robot cleaner. You can name it device.

In the above, even if all the constituent elements constituting the embodiments of the present invention have been described as being combined into one or operating in combination, the present invention is not necessarily limited to these embodiments. That is, within the scope of the object of the present invention, all of the constituent elements may be selectively combined and operated in one or more. In addition, terms such as "include", "consist of" or "have" described above mean that the corresponding component may be present unless otherwise stated, excluding other components It should not be construed as being able to further include other components. All terms, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by a person of ordinary skill in the art, unless otherwise defined. Terms generally used, such as terms defined in the dictionary, should be interpreted as being consistent with the meaning of the context of the related technology, and are not interpreted as ideal or excessively formal meanings unless explicitly defined in the present invention.

The above description is merely illustrative of the technical idea of the present invention, and those of ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains will be able to make various modifications and variations without departing from the essential characteristics of the present invention. Accordingly, the embodiments disclosed in the present invention are not intended to limit the technical idea of the present invention, but to explain the technical idea, and the scope of the technical idea of the present invention is not limited by these embodiments. The scope of protection of the present invention should be interpreted by the following claims, and all technical ideas within the scope equivalent thereto should be interpreted as being included in the scope of the present invention.

10: robot cleaner 20: display mechanism
240: image investigation unit

Claims (21)

A base, a body part extending upward from the base, an extension part extending horizontally from the body part, a communication part for receiving information from a robot cleaner equipped with a camera, and the communication part provided in the extension part An image irradiation unit for irradiating the image including information of the robot cleaner received by the outside, and a control unit for controlling the image irradiation unit
It includes a display device provided,
The robot cleaner is located under the extension part,
Information display device of a robot cleaner, characterized in that an opening through which the camera is exposed to the outside is formed in the extension so that the camera can detect a user's gesture while the robot cleaner is docked to the display device. . The method of claim 1,
The display device further comprises a terminal part for charging a battery provided in the robot cleaner. The method of claim 2,
The control unit, when the terminal unit of the robot cleaner contacts the terminal unit of the display device, activates the image irradiation unit so that an image is irradiated by the image irradiation unit. The method of claim 3,
The controller is an information display device of a robot cleaner that deactivates the image irradiation unit when the image irradiation unit irradiates an image for a predetermined time. The method according to claim 2 or 4,
The display device further includes an activation detection unit for detecting whether an activation command of the image irradiation unit is input,
When the activation detection unit detects the activation command, the control unit activates the image irradiation unit. The method of claim 1,
The display device further includes a position detection unit configured to detect a relative distance to a wall around the display device. The method of claim 6,
The control unit is an information display device of a robot cleaner that moves the image irradiation unit or changes an irradiation type of an image irradiated by the image irradiation unit according to a relative distance from the wall of the main wall detected by the position detection unit. The method of claim 1,
The image irradiated by the image irradiation unit includes a screen that can be distinguished from a wall,
The screen is an information display device of a robot cleaner including an input area for inputting a command. The method of claim 8,
The input area includes a selection unit for inputting a cleaning start command,
A selection unit for setting a cleaning reservation,
An information display device of a robot cleaner including at least one of selection units for setting a cleaning target area for each cleaning area. The method of claim 9,
The display device further comprises a command input detection unit configured to detect selection of one or more selection units among selection units displayed in the input area. The method of claim 10,
The information display device of the robot cleaner including a plurality of infrared sensors arranged in a direction parallel to the arrangement direction of the command input detection unit. The method of claim 10,
According to the type of command detected by the command input detection unit,
An information display device of a robot cleaner in which the control unit controls the image irradiation unit or the communication unit transmits a control command to the robot cleaner so that information included in the screen is variable. The method according to claim 1 or 8,
The image irradiated by the image irradiation unit includes a screen that can be distinguished from a wall,
The screen is an information display device of a robot cleaner including a display area for displaying information on the robot cleaner. The method of claim 13,
In the display area, at least one of cleaning performance information, past cleaning information, dust amount information, dust bin emptying notification information, and cleaning range information is displayed. The method of claim 13,
The extension portion further includes an inclined portion formed to incline upward or a moving mechanism rotatably provided,
The image irradiation unit is provided on the inclined portion or the moving mechanism to irradiate the screen information display device of the robot cleaner. The method of claim 13,
The robot cleaner transmits a command corresponding to the user's gesture detected by the camera to the display device,
The controller is an information display device of a robot cleaner that controls the image irradiation unit such that the position or size of the screen is changed or information included in the screen is changed according to a transmitted command. A base, a body part extending upward from the base, an extension part extending in a horizontal direction from the body part, a robot cleaner equipped with a camera, a communication part for transmitting and receiving information, and a communication part provided in the extension part An image irradiation unit for externally irradiating an image including information for inputting a command to be transmitted to the robot cleaner, and a control unit for controlling the image irradiation unit
It includes a display device provided,
The robot cleaner is located under the extension part,
A command input device for a robot cleaner, characterized in that an opening through which the camera is exposed to the outside is formed in the extension portion so that the camera can detect a user's gesture while the robot cleaner is docked to the display device. . The method of claim 17,
The image irradiated by the image irradiation unit includes a screen that can be distinguished from a wall,
The screen includes a selection unit for inputting a cleaning start command,
A selection unit for setting a cleaning reservation,
A command input device for a robot cleaner including at least one of selection units for setting a cleaning target area for each cleaning area. The method of claim 18,
The display device further comprises a command input detection unit configured to detect that a user selects one or more of the selection units displayed on the screen at the wall or a position adjacent to the wall. The method of claim 19,
The command input detection unit of a robot cleaner including a plurality of infrared sensors arranged in a direction parallel to the arrangement direction of the selection units. The method of claim 19,
The communication unit, the command input device of the robot cleaner for transmitting a command corresponding to the command detected by the command input detection unit to the robot cleaner.

Images