US20240172915A1

US20240172915A1 - Robot base station, robot system, base module, and functional parts of base station

Info

Publication number: US20240172915A1
Application number: US18/430,579
Authority: US
Inventors: Hua Huang; Yingyin ZHANG; Chao Chen; Zhou Wu; Lihui Wu; Zhiwei Zong; Zhenya Dai
Original assignee: Ecovacs Robotics Suzhou Co Ltd
Current assignee: Ecovacs Robotics Suzhou Co Ltd
Priority date: 2021-08-05
Filing date: 2024-02-01
Publication date: 2024-05-30
Also published as: WO2023011170A1; DE112022003821T5; CN113545718B; CN113545718A; CN116898354A

Abstract

This application provides a robot base station, robot system, pedestal module, and functional components of the base station. The robot base station includes: a pedestal for docking the robot and multiple functional components, each with at least one functional module, providing various services to the robot. Any of these functional components can be combined with the pedestal, and at least some of the functional components can be assembled together and then combined with the pedestal, forming a base station with various functional combinations and quantities. The robot base station is designed modularly. By combining various functional components with the pedestal according to the actual needs of users, a base station that meets diverse needs of different users can be obtained.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a Continuation Application of International Patent Application No. PCT/CN2022/106604, filed on Jul. 20, 2022, which is based on and claims priority to and benefits of Chinese Patent Application No. 202110898511.X, titled “Robot Base Station, Robot System, Pedestal Module, and Functional Components of the Robot Base Station,” filed on Aug. 5, 2021. All of the above-referenced applications are incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This application relates to the technical field of electrical equipment, especially to a robot base station, robotic system, pedestal module, and functional components of the robot base station.

BACKGROUND

Currently, various types of base stations have emerged in the market to serve different types of robots, each with different functions. As the functionality of robot base stations becomes more comprehensive, an increasing number of functional modules are integrated into these base stations. This integration of multiple functional modules results in large size and high cost for robot base stations. Such large, all-inclusive, and high-cost products have not received an ideal market response. Different users have different needs, and even with the use of these comprehensive base stations, some functional modules may remain idle.

SUMMARY

This application provides a robot base station, robotic system, pedestal module, and functional components of the base station.
In one embodiment of this application, a robot base station is provided, including:

- a pedestal for docking the robot;
- multiple functional components, each component equipped with at least one functional module, providing different services to the robot,
- wherein any one of the functional components can be combined with the pedestal, and at least some of the functional components can be assembled together before being combined with the pedestal, to form a base station with different functional combinations and different quantity of functions.

In another embodiment of this application, a robotic system is provided. This system includes:

- a robot and a robot base station;
- a pedestal for docking the robot;
  - multiple functional components, each component equipped with at least one functional module, providing different services to the robot,
- wherein, any one of the functional components can be combined with the pedestal, and at least some of the functional components can be assembled together before being combined with the pedestal, to form a base station with different functional combinations and different quantity of functions, adapting to different robot models.

In yet another embodiment, a pedestal module for the base station is provided, including:

- a module shell with a docking cavity for docking the robot;
- a first connection structure on the module shell, used to connect at least one functional component, resulting in a base station with different functional quantities and combinations;
- multiple docking devices, used to dock with different functional components.

In yet another embodiment, a functional component of the base station is provided, including:

- a shell equipped with a first and a second connection structure, wherein the second connection structure is used to connect to the base station's pedestal module, and the first connection structure is used to connect to a second functional component;
- at least one functional module inside the shell, with different functional modules providing different services to the robot.

The embodiments of this application provide a modular design for a robot base station. The base station can be assembled according to the user's actual needs, much like building blocks. Users can combine various functional components on the base station's pedestal to create a customized base station. Additionally, this modular design offers high flexibility in the production line for manufacturers. For instance, if there is an improvement in the structure of a specific functional component, only the production line of that component needs adjustment, leaving other components unaffected. This approach results in lower costs and higher efficiency for product updates and upgrades.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings herein are provided to further understand this application, constituting a part of this application. The illustrative embodiments and their descriptions are intended to explain this application and do not improperly limit the scope of this application. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 shows an overall structure of a robot base station in an embodiment of this application.

FIG. 2 shows an exploded view of the robot base station in an embodiment of this application.

FIG. 3 presents another exploded view of the robot base station.

FIG. 4 illustrates an overall structure of the robot base station and a drying module.

FIG. 5 depicts a schematic view the combination of a pedestal and a second functional component.

FIG. 6 shows the structure of a first functional component.

FIG. 7 shows the structure of a storage module.

FIG. 8 shows the structure of a dust collection drawer.

FIG. 9 illustrates the structure of the pedestal.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the pedestal.

FIG. 11 shows a schematic of the robotic system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

To clarify the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application, the technical solutions will be described clearly and completely, in conjunction with the drawings in this application. It is evident that the described embodiments are part of, but not all, of the examples of this application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort based on these examples fall within the scope of protection of this application.
FIG. 1 shows an overall structure of a robot base station in one embodiment of this application; FIG. 2 shows an exploded view of a robot base station in an embodiment of this application. Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2 , the embodiment provides a robot base station, which includes: a pedestal (1) and multiple functional components (such as components labeled 4, 5, and 6). Pedestal 1 is used for docking the robot. Each functional component is equipped with at least one functional module, providing different services to the robot. Any of the functional components can be combined with pedestal 1, and at least some of the functional components can be assembled together and then combined with pedestal 1 to form a base station with various functional quantities and combinations.
Specifically, robots can be cleaning robots, such as those with floor washing, sweeping functions, or specialized robots for collecting wastewater. In this application, they are collectively referred to as robots. After working for a while, the robot needs to return to the robot base station, where it receives services like replenishment of cleaning water, wastewater disposal, charging, and cleaning of its components (like the sweeping parts of a sweeper, the mopping parts of a floor washing robot, or the combined mopping and sweeping parts). Additionally, the base station provides services like replacing these cleaning components.
The robot base station model provided in this application allows for the combination of different types and quantities of functional components with the pedestal of the robot station. Each functional component can integrate at least one functional module, thus forming a robot base station with various functionalities to meet the service needs of robots. Users can select different functional components based on their needs and assemble them onto the pedestal to create the desired robot base station.
It is important to note that the functional modules integrated into each functional component can also be achieved through assembly. For instance, a functional component may have an integrated frame onto which one or more desired functional modules can be installed. This integrated frame may have one or more electrical interfaces that can be connected to an electrical grid or to the pedestal of the base station via cables. Similarly, it may have one or more waterway interfaces that can be connected to a sewer system or the pedestal through pipes. Functional modules that require electrical connection can be connected to electrical ports on the integrated frame, and those requiring a waterway connection can be connected to waterway interfaces.
This solution allows users or designers to simply assemble and combine, similar to building blocks, to create a personalized base station. When purchasing the required robot base station, users only need to buy modules (functional components) with the desired functions. Upgrading the robot base station also only involves purchasing necessary modules and assembling them onto an existing base station, offering convenience, practicality, and cost savings. For manufacturers, this modular design offers high flexibility in a production line. For example, if there is an improvement in the structure of a particular functional component, only the production line for that component needs to be adjusted, reducing the cost and increasing the efficiency of product updates and upgrades.
Further detailed introduction of the technical solution provided in this embodiment is as follows:

- The embodiment of this application provides a robot base station, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , equipped with a first connection structure (2) on the pedestal (1). Each functional component among the multiple functional components is equipped with the first connection structure (2) and a second connection structure (3) at different positions. The first connection structure (2) is configured to match to the second connection structure (3) for connecting two components. These two components can be either two functional components or a functional component and the base.

In a specific implementation, to reduce the footprint of the base station, one or more functional components can be assembled along a height direction on the pedestal. As shown in FIG. 2 , a top surface of pedestal (1) has a first connection structure (labeled as structure (2)). Correspondingly, a bottom surface of the functional component has a second connection structure (labeled as structure (3)), and the top surface has a first connection structure (structure (2)). As illustrated in FIG. 3 , the second connection structure (3) is located on the bottom surface of the functional component, and it aligns with the first connection structure (2) for connecting to another functional component.
In another embodiment of this application, the first connection structure can be set on both the side and top surfaces of the pedestal. This allows for the assembly of functional components on the top, right, left, and rear sides of the pedestal. It is important to note that the left, right, and rear sides are determined relative to the position of the robot docking entrance. The side of the pedestal with the docking entrance is considered the front of the base station, and the opposite side is the rear. The left and right sides can be easily determined accordingly.
Additionally, besides the top and bottom surfaces of the functional components being connectable to other components or the base station, their left, right, and rear sides can also be connected to other functional components or the base station, without specific limitations in this implementation.
As shown in a specific example in FIG. 2 , the first connection structure (2) on the pedestal includes a first guiding structure (21) and a first connection hole (22). The first guiding structure (21) is a guiding groove, and the first connection hole (22) is located on the edge of the pedestal (1). Similarly, the first connection structure (2) on the functional component also includes the first guiding structure (21) and the first connection hole (22), with the first connection hole (22) located on the edge of the functional component. The second connection structure (3) includes a second guiding structure (31) and a second connection hole (32); the second guiding structure (31) includes a guiding protrusion that fits into the guiding groove, and the second connection hole (32) corresponds to the position of the first connection hole (22) for connection via a connecting piece, such as a screw, that passes through both holes. The first and second guiding structures can be interchangeable, and the specific design can vary based on actual product structure requirements.
When connecting the pedestal (1) and a functional component, the first guiding structure (21) and second guiding structure (31) first align to position the pedestal and functional component (or two functional components) correctly. The first connection hole (22) and second connection hole (32) then align, allowing a connecting piece like a screw to pass through both holes and connect the pedestal to the functional component. When multiple functional components are assembled on the pedestal, the first guiding structure on the pedestal and the second guiding structure on the functional components are used to align and connect them, with the same method applied for additional components. This arrangement ensures that the connection holes on the components (including both first and second connection holes) align with the first connection holes on the pedestal, making the connection of the base station to multiple functional components simple, convenient, and efficient.
It should be noted that in the aforementioned scheme, the functional components are equipped with both the first and second connection structures. If the first connection structure includes the first guiding structure and the first connection hole, the second connection structure may not include a second connection hole, but include only the second guiding structure. A connecting piece like a screw passing through the first connection hole in the first connection structure of the functional component and the first connection hole on the pedestal completes the connection.
In one embodiment provided by this application, both the first connection hole (22) and the second connection hole (32) are located on the edge of the pedestal (1) or the functional component. This design facilitates the use of connecting pieces for connection. Additionally, the number of first guiding structures (21) and second guiding structures (31) on the pedestal (1) or functional component is not limited to specific quantities, such as 2, 3, 4, etc. Similarly, the number of first connection holes (22) and second connection holes (32) on the pedestal (1) or functional component can vary, such as 4, 6, 8, etc., without specific limitations.
In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 4 , multiple functional components include: the first functional component (4), the second functional component (5), and the third functional component (6). The first functional component (4) is equipped with at least one of the following modules: wastewater collection, water supply, storage, and sterilization. There are various implementation schemes for the first functional component (4), which can be equipped with a single module or any combination of the aforementioned four modules. For example, when the robot is a wastewater collection robot, the robot base station serving it is equipped with a wastewater collection module to collect wastewater from the robot's wastewater tank, eliminating the need for users to manually empty it.
When the robot is a mopping robot, the serving base station is equipped with both wastewater collection and water supply modules. The wastewater collection module collects wastewater produced during the robot's operation and from cleaning the mopping robot, while the water supply module provides the necessary cleaning solution for the robot's operation and/or for cleaning the mopping robot.
Further, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 , the second functional component (5) is equipped with a dust collection module, and the third functional component (6) is equipped with a drying module. The dust collection module is used for collecting dust and impurities from the robot's dust box or dust bin. The drying module is used for drying the robot or the base station.
A specific embodiment shown in FIG. 6 details the first functional component (4) having a hollow cavity, within which at least one of the wastewater collection module, water supply module, and sterilization module can be selectively installed. The water supply module includes a clean water tank (10) with a water outlet at the bottom, connected to the pedestal (1) via a water pipe to supply cleaning liquid to the pedestal (1) and/or the robot. The wastewater collection module includes a wastewater tank (101) with an inlet at the bottom, connected to the pedestal (1) via a wastewater pipe for recovering wastewater from the pedestal (1) and/or collected by the robot. The sterilization module produces sterilizing agents to sterilize the clean water tank, the pedestal, and/or the robot docked at the pedestal. For instance, when the first functional component (4) is equipped only with the water supply module, the clean water tank (10) is placed inside the hollow cavity and removably connected to the first functional component (4). Users can fill the clean water tank (10) with water and reconnect it to the functional component, then connect the water outlet of the tank 10 to the pedestal (1) via a pipe, enabling the first functional component (4) to supply clean water to the pedestal (1) and/or the robot. Specifically, the robot base station's base has a washing trough with multiple spray nozzles connected to the water outlet of the clean water tank (10) to spray liquid onto the cleaning components (like cloths) of the robot docked at the pedestal. Additionally, the robot's base can be equipped with a water docking device, one end of which is connected to the water outlet of the clean water tank (10), and the other end to the water inlet of the docked robot, allowing the liquid from the clean water tank (10) to be injected into the robot's water tank.
The robot base station generates a certain amount of wastewater during washing the robots. Additionally, the robot may collect wastewater after completing its cleaning tasks. This wastewater, collected by the robot base station, can be discharged through external pipes, such as into the sewer. When it is inconvenient for the robot base station to connect to external wastewater pipes, a wastewater collection module can be set up inside the hollow cavity of the first functional module. This module includes a wastewater tank (101) and a wastewater pump. The pump can extract wastewater located under the first functional module in the pedestal (1) and pump it into the wastewater tank (101). The wastewater tank (101) is detachably connected to the first functional component (4) via a connecting structure. Once the wastewater tank (101) is full, users can remove and empty it. Furthermore, to ensure that the robot base station does not produce excessive bacteria after prolonged operation, a sterilization module is installed on the first functional component (4). This module sterilizes at least one item among the water tank (such as a freshwater tank), the pedestal (1) (for example, the pedestal's cleaning trough), or the robot docked at the station (like its cloth).
Further, as seen in FIGS. 6 and 7 , the first functional component (4) includes a storage module; there is a gap between the freshwater tank (10) and the wastewater tank (101); the storage module is placed within this gap. As shown in FIG. 7 , the storage module has rails on its sides, and corresponding guide slots are provided within the hollow cavity of the first functional component (4), allowing the storage module to move up and down for extraction. Placing the storage module in the gap between the freshwater tank (10) and the wastewater tank (101) not only fully utilizes the internal space of the hollow cavity of the first functional module but also neatly stores various accessories or cleaning items of the robot base station, resulting in a more streamlined appearance. As illustrated in FIG. 6 , one feasible configuration is to arrange the freshwater tank (10) and the wastewater tank (101) side by side, with the storage module positioned between them. The storage module can be pulled out vertically, saving space and aligning with user habits.
Additionally, as shown in FIG. 7 , the storage module comprises a storage bracket (120) with multiple compartments for organizing various accessories, such as cleaning fluids and brushes. For instance, as depicted in FIG. 7 , the storage bracket (120) includes a cleaning fluid compartment (13), a cloth compartment (14), an other-accessories compartment (15), and a brush compartment (16). The cleaning fluid compartment (13) is designed to hold bottled cleaning fluids for easy access. Alternatively, in another embodiment of this application, the cleaning fluid compartment (13) has a cleaning fluid storage structure, a cleaning fluid pump, and a pump liquid pipe. The cleaning fluid pump dispenses a set amount of cleaning fluid, which is then channeled to the base station's cleaning trough or freshwater tank through the pump liquid pipe. When the robot is equipped with a mopping function, the cloth compartment (14) can store spare cloths used by the robot. The other-accessories compartment (15) is designated for storing other functional accessories used by the robot, without specific limitations on the type of accessories.
Robots of different models or types come with various additional accessories, such as spare charging cables and drainage pipes. The brush compartment (16) is intended for storing brushes, allowing users to clean the base station's cleaning trough with them. The storage bracket (120), featuring multiple compartments, not only organizes a variety of items into distinct sections to prevent cross-contamination but also maximizes the use of the internal space within the first functional component (4), making its structure more compact.
Moreover, to ensure the storage bracket (120) fits snugly in the gap between the freshwater tank (10) and the wastewater tank (101) without occupying excessive space, the height and width of the storage bracket (120) are at least the same as one of these tanks. The width of the storage bracket (120) can be adjusted to fit the width of the gap, without specific constraints. This configuration allows the storage bracket (120) to fit perfectly within the gap without protruding or receding, thus making efficient use of the space between the freshwater tank (10) and the wastewater tank (101), and maximizing the volume of the storage bracket (120) for optimal organization of accessories.
Further, continuing with FIG. 7 , an embodiment of this application illustrates a storage bracket (120) consisting of a top plate (1201), a bottom plate (1202), and multiple vertical plates (1203) positioned between the top and bottom plates. The top plate (1201), bottom plate (1202), and vertical plates (1203) enclose a storage space within which various accessories are organized. This arrangement ensures that multiple accessories are stored within the designated space, thereby maintaining the compactness of the base station without expanding its volume.
As shown in FIG. 7 , in some realizable embodiments of this application, the storage bracket (120) is a rectangular structure tailored to fit the gap. Near the top plate (1201) area of the rectangular structure, there is a hanging mechanism (1204). The central area of the rectangular structure features a support frame (1205), which constitutes the cleaning fluid placement area (13), suitable for placing cleaning fluid and other accessories. Once the cleaning fluid is placed within the support frame (1205), the sidewalls of the support frame on either side securely hold the cleaning fluid container in place, ensuring stability.
The sidewalls of the support frame (1205), along with at least one vertical plate (1203), create a holding space. This holding space, in conjunction with the hanging mechanism (1204), forms the brush placement area (16). The hanging mechanism (1204) is used for suspending brushes, with the brush handle held within the holding space. The sidewalls of the support frame (1205) and at least one vertical plate (1203) clamp the handle of the brush, ensuring its stable positioning.
To increase the storage capacity of the storage bracket (120), at least one horizontal partition (1206) is set between at least one pair of opposite vertical plates (1203). This partition creates multiple storage areas within the space between the vertical plates, such as a cloth placement area (14) and an area for other-accessories (15). By efficiently utilizing the storage space and arranging accessories logically, variously shaped items can be neatly stored within the rectangular structure of the storage bracket (120).
Furthermore, to prevent any residual liquid on brushes from remaining in the storage space, the bottom plate is equipped with a leakage hole (1207). This hole is connected to the wastewater recovery system. The liquid dripping from the brushes can flow out through the leakage hole (1207) and be collected by the wastewater recovery system, ensuring the dryness of the storage space and reducing the growth of bacteria and the production of odors.
In one embodiment of the application, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 8 , the second functional unit (5) includes a casing (51), a dust collection pump (not shown in the figure), a dust bag (52), a dust drawer (53), a drawer pop-up mechanism (54), and a drawer lock (55). The casing (51) houses a drawer chamber in which the dust drawer (53) is installed. The dust drawer (53) features a dust connection hole (56), connecting the dust bag (52) placed inside the drawer. The dust connection hole (56) is connected to the dust collection pump through a dust pipe. The drawer pop-up mechanism (54) exerts a popping force on the dust drawer (53). The drawer lock (55) maintains the dust drawer (53) in a closed position within the casing (51). The dust bag (52) inside the drawer chamber primarily filters dust and impurities from the air, collecting them within the bag. When users combine the second functional unit (5) with other units, the dust drawer (53) is located at the front of the unit for easy front-and-back access. In other words, along the height of the base station, the second functional unit is positioned above, with the dust drawer's direction of pulling perpendicular to this height direction.
The drawer pop-up mechanism (54), located at the bottom of the drawer cavity, primarily functions to exert a popping force on the dust drawer (53), facilitating its extraction by users. This mechanism can be a spring that is deformed, such as compressed, when the dust drawer (53) is closed. Upon releasing the drawer lock, the dust drawer (53) pops out of the casing's drawer cavity due to the spring's restoring force. When the dust collection bag (52) in the robot base station is full, or the user checks and finds it full of dust and impurities, they simply need to release the drawer lock (55) either manually or through a control device (not shown in the diagram). Under the action of the drawer pop-up mechanism (54), the dust drawer pops out, allowing the user to easily grab and fully extract the dust drawer (53). Then, the dust bag (52) can be removed from the top of the dust drawer (53) for replacement. This embodiment changes the traditional method of removing the dust bag (52) from the top of a dust-collecting robot, facilitating modular design for the second functional unit (5) and making it more convenient for users to replace the dust bag (52).
Further details, as illustrated in FIG. 8 , pertain to the dust drawer lock (55), which comprises a drawer latch (551), an elastic rotating swing arm (552), and a drawer release button (553). The drawer latch (551) is located on the dust drawer (53), and one end of the elastic rotating swing arm (552) is connected to the latch (551), while the other end is connected to the release button (553). The release button (553) can actuate the elastic rotating swing arm (552) to disconnect it from the drawer latch (551).
In a specific, feasible embodiment, the drawer latch (551) is mounted on the lower end face of the dust drawer (53) and features a stop arm (5511). As depicted in FIG. 8 , the stop arm (5511) has a first side facing the elastic rotating swing arm (552) and a second side opposite the first, possibly with an inclined surface (5512). When the dust drawer (53) is locked, the first side of the latch (551) contacts one end of the swing arm (552). To open the drawer (53), pressing the release button moves the swing arm (552) downwards, breaking its contact with the latch (551). This causes the dust drawer (53) to be ejected a certain distance from the drawer cavity under the action of the pop-up mechanism (54), allowing the user to easily extract the drawer (53). The elastic rotating swing arm (552) is positioned at the bottom of the casing (51), with a corresponding through-hole where one end of the swing arm (552) protrudes into the casing to contact the stop arm (5511). The end of the swing arm (552) features a stop protrusion (5521). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8 , the stop protrusion (5521) includes a second inclined surface (5523) and a stop face (5522), the latter being curved in cross-section. During the closing process of the dust drawer (53), the first inclined surface (5512) of the latch (551) contacts the second inclined surface (5523) of the swing arm (552), pushing the stop protrusion (5521) downwards. Once the drawer (53) is pushed to a certain position in the cavity, surpassing the stop protrusion (5521) of the swing arm (552), the arm springs up due to its elasticity, causing the protrusion (5521) to contact the latch (551) and lock the dust drawer (53) in place.
In one embodiment of this application, as seen in FIGS. 2, 9, and 10 , the pedestal (1) includes a bottom base (11) and a top cover (12). The top cover (12) is mounted on the bottom base (11), creating a space for docking a robot. A wind duct (71) is integrated on the top cover (12), which connects to the air outlet (7) of the drying module, allowing the flow of drying air into this space. The presence of the wind duct (71) on the top cover (12) not only ensures the even dispersion of the drying air from the drying module throughout the space inside pedestal (1) but also directs the airflow to areas requiring drying, thereby enhancing the efficiency of the drying module. In another embodiment provided in this application, the top cover (12) is equipped with a ventilation pipe (not shown in the diagrams), which connects to the air outlet (7) of the drying module. The ventilation pipe aids in evenly distributing the drying air across the required drying areas.
Further detailed in FIGS. 9 and 10 , the bottom base (11) is equipped with a first guide channel (8) and a second guide channel (9), both of which are connected to the wind duct (71). The drying air flows through the first guide channel (8) towards the upper surface of the bottom base (11) to dry both the upper surface of the bottom base (11) and the bottom of the robot. The drying air also flows through the second guide channel (9) towards the lower surface of the bottom base (11) to dry both the lower surface of the bottom base (11) and the floor. When cleaning the robot at the robot base station, water inevitably splashes underneath the bottom base (11), accumulating in the area below and around the bottom base (11). If not dried promptly, this can create slip hazards for people passing through the area and can also lead to bacterial growth due to the pooled water. By incorporating the second guide channel (9) on the bottom base (11)—one end connecting to the wind duct (71) and the other to the guide channel of the top cover of the bottom base—the drying module's air can flow through the second guide channel (9) and the guide channel of the top cover to effectively dry the area underneath and around the bottom base (11).
In one of the embodiments provided in this application, each functional module of the robot base station is equipped with electrical equipment. When these functional modules are integrated into corresponding functional components, they are electrically connected to the components via wires. If a single functional component integrates multiple functional modules, these modules can be electrically connected to the electrical interface on the component via wires. Each functional component is then electrically connected to the pedestal through wires. In another embodiment offered in this application, metal conductive elements are incorporated within the first guide structure (21) and the second guide structure (31). When multiple functional components are combined and connected to pedestal (1), they are electrically connected to the main control board within pedestal (1) through the first and second guide structures. Adjacent functional components can also be electrically connected through these guide structures. This way, the electrical connection is passed on from one level to the next, eventually connecting all to the main control board of the pedestal. Each functional component is equipped with wires for electrical connection through the first and second guide structures, and any function module within a component that requires electricity is connected via wires between the first and second guide structures or to either one of them.
Additionally, the embodiments of this application provide a robotic system, including a robot and a robot base station. The robot base station in this embodiment can be realized using the base station structure provided in the above embodiments, which is not elaborated here further. FIG. 11 shows a cross-sectional view of the bottom base (11) and top cover (12) of the robot base station, along with an overhead view of robot (100) docked on the pedestal.
In the embodiments provided by this application, the pedestal and various functional components of the robot base station can be sold as separate products or modules. Users have the option to purchase only the pedestal for charging the robot or choose to buy individual or multiple functional components to assemble a customized base station. Therefore, these embodiments offer separate embodiments for the base station's pedestal module and its functional components. The pedestal module includes a module shell, a first connection structure, and multiple reserved docking devices. The module shell has a docking cavity for the robot. The first connection structure is placed on the module shell to connect at least one functional component, thus forming a base station with various numbers and combinations of functions. The multiple reserved docking devices are used to dock different functional components. The structure of the module shell can be referred to in the structures shown in the above embodiments and some figures in the specification (such as FIGS. 2 and 3 ). Simply put, the module shell may include a bottom base (11) and a top cover (12), with the top cover (12) connected to the bottom base (11) to form a docking space for the robot. The first connection structure can be referred to in the corresponding content of the above embodiments.
The multiple reserved docking devices may include, but not limited to, at least two of the following:
Dust collection docking device (121), water supply docking device (122), wastewater recovery docking device and charging docking device (123) for powering the functional components. To ensure the stability of docking between the robot and the base station, a docking device (124) is also set up on the base station.
For example, robots may include but not limited to sweeping robots. To achieve docking with various docking devices on the base station, robots are equipped with corresponding docking ports that align with each station's docking devices. After completing a phase of cleaning, the robot can automatically return to the base station and dock with the base station's various docking devices through its ports. Once docked, the robot's positioning and docking needs are met by the docking device (124). The docking device (124) establishes an electrical connection between the robot and the base station, using the base station's power supply to charge the robot. The dust collection docking device (121) connects the robot to the base station's dust collection device, which extracts trash from inside the robot. The water supply docking device (122) connects the robot to the base station's water supply, using the water from this device to meet the robot's water-adding needs. Additionally, the base station's cleaning device can be used to wash the robot's mopping cloth, with the wastewater being discharged through the wastewater recovery docking device, thus fulfilling the robot's self-cleaning requirements.
Continuing with FIG. 11 , one implementation of the dust collection docking device (121) is that it includes a dust collection inlet. In this embodiment, the dust collection device includes a dust collection bucket and a suction device, directly connected to the dust collection docking device (121) via a fluid channel. After the robot docks, the dust collection inlet connects with the robot's dust exhaust port. Once connected, the base station's suction device creates a vacuum to extract trash from the robot's dust exhaust port, cleaning the robot's interior.
To ensure airtightness between the dust collection inlet and the dust exhaust port, the inlet is equipped with a docking seal. This ensures that when the robot is properly docked, the dust collection inlet and the robot's dust exhaust port are connected and sealed by the docking seal, ensuring airtightness and the efficiency of the trash extraction.
Further, as shown in FIG. 11 , one implementation of the water supply docking device (122) includes at least a water supply telescoping tube. Once the robot is properly docked, the position of the telescoping tube corresponds with the robot's water inlet port, and the telescoping tube extends into the inlet. In this embodiment, the water supply device includes, but is not limited to, a water tank within the base station, with the telescoping tube connected to the tank. Once the robot is docked, the position of the telescoping tube corresponds with the robot's water inlet port, which is connected to the robot's mopping water tank. After the telescoping tube and water inlet port are aligned, the tube extends into the inlet, and the water supply docking device is activated, allowing water from the tank to flow into the robot's water inlet, automatically adding water to the robot's mopping tank.
Users can install different functional components on the module shell according to their needs, and then establish connections between the robot and these components using the appropriate docking devices. For example, robots can dock at the base station using the docking device, completing the docking with the station.
When the robot needs charging, a charging device can be installed on the module shell. The robot is connected to the power supply device through the charging docking device, utilizing the base station's power supply to meet the robot's charging needs.
If the robot requires dust collection, a dust collection device can be installed on the module shell. The robot connects to the dust collection device through the dust collection docking device, utilizing the base station's built-in dust collection device to extract trash from inside the robot.
For water-adding needs, a water supply device can be installed on the module shell. The robot connects to the water supply device through the water supply docking device, using water from the base station's water supply device to meet its water-adding requirements.
When the robot needs cleaning, cleaning and water supply devices can be installed on the module shell. The cleaning device can be used to wash the robot's mopping cloth, with the wastewater being discharged through the wastewater recovery docking device, fulfilling the robot's self-cleaning needs. In this embodiment, the base station module is equipped with assembly structures and multiple reserved docking devices. Users can install different functional components on the module shell as per their requirements, thereby fulfilling various needs of the robot and creating a base station with diverse functionalities and combinations. This integrated approach allows the base station to provide various services to the robot, including automatic docking, cleaning, charging, water-adding, and dust collection. This reduces user intervention, enhances the robot's autonomy, and improves its cleaning efficiency.
In the embodiment of this application, various functional components are provided that can be used as separate accessories for users to choose from. For instance, users can select at least one of the cleaning device, water supply device, dust collection device, and power supply device based on their different needs. They can independently install these different functional components on the module shell to create a base station with varied functionalities, catering to diverse requirements.
It should be noted that the implementation method for the base station's pedestal module provided in this embodiment can refer to, and take inspiration from, the implementation method of the base station's base in the aforementioned examples, where structural conflicts do not arise. This aspect is not reiterated here in detail.
Another embodiment in this application provides functional components for the base station. These components include a shell with at least one functional module. The shell is equipped with a first connection structure for connecting to the pedestal module of the base station and a second connection structure for connecting to a second functional component. Each functional module, installed within the shell, offers different services to the robot.
The aforementioned functional components may include the first, second, and third functional components mentioned in the previous examples, and their specific structures can be referenced from the corresponding content described earlier. Similarly, the specific implementation structures of the aforementioned first and second connection structures can also be referred to from the examples described above.
The application scenarios of the various embodiments provided in this application are described below:

Application Scenario One

A user has a cleaning robot at home, equipped with mopping and vacuuming functions. The robot has a water tank and a water supply component. The water supply component either supplies a fixed amount of cleaning fluid from the tank or according to the robot controller's commands to the mopping cloth. The user has a large bathroom or kitchen space, which is conveniently located near a faucet and a drain, making it suitable for placing a robot base station. In this case, the user doesn't need to install the first functional component, which integrates wastewater collection and water supply modules. The user can purchase the pedestal along with the second functional component that includes a dust collection module. The pedestal is placed in the kitchen, and then the second functional component is installed on it and connected electrically. The user can then plug the pedestal into an electrical socket. The water supply docking device on the pedestal can be connected to the faucet using a water pipe; the wastewater outlet on the pedestal can be directed to the kitchen drain using a drainage pipe. Once installed, the base station is ready to use. For instance, after the robot has been working for a while, its mopping cloth gets dirty, and the dust box is full. The robot needs to enter the robot base station for maintenance. It follows a planned route to the base station and docks into the pedestal. The robot's dust outlet connects with the dust docking device on the pedestal, linking it to the dust collection module of the second functional component. The robot's water inlet connects with the water supply docking device on the pedestal. When the base station is activated, the second functional component extracts dust and impurities from the dust box; the valve of the water inlet and water supply docking device opens, allowing water from the faucet to enter the robot's water tank through the water inlet. The robot then starts its self-cleaning mode, where the mopping cloth either rotates or moves back and forth, making contact with the cleaning structure inside the pedestal's washing trough. While the robot's water tank continuously supplies water to the cloth, the cloth is cleaned by rubbing against the cleaning structure, and the wastewater is squeezed out. This wastewater is then discharged through the wastewater outlet of the pedestal to the drain. Additionally, once the robot docks into the pedestal, the charging terminal on the robot electrically connects to the charging port on the pedestal, allowing the pedestal to power the robot.

Application Scenario Two

A user, not wanting to spend much, only purchases the pedestal module of the base station. This pedestal module has capabilities for charging and washing mopping cloths.

Application Scenario Three

A user who had previously bought the pedestal module of the base station realizes after some time that they want to enhance its functionalities. They purchase several functional components with different features from an online or physical store. Once home, the user simply assembles these functional components sequentially onto the pedestal using the standard guiding structures (such as the first and second guiding structures mentioned earlier). They then secure these components to the pedestal using multiple bolts through the connecting holes in the functional components and the pedestal. This process upgrades the base station, eliminating the need to buy a brand-new, latest model of the entire base station to replace the existing one.

Application Scenario Four

The base station provided in this embodiment is suitable for various types of robot base stations, such as household vacuuming robots, household mopping robots, and commercial cleaning robots (for malls, hotels, restaurants, etc.). For commercial cleaning robots, the corresponding base station can adopt the design concept of this embodiment, which is a modular design incorporating the pedestal and various optional functional components.
In summary, the modular design of the robot base station as proposed in these embodiments allows users to assemble the base station according to their specific needs, much like building blocks. Users can choose which functional components they need and combine them on the pedestal of the base station to create a personalized station. This modular design also offers high production line flexibility for manufacturers. For instance, if there is an improvement in a particular functional component, only the production line for that component needs to be adjusted, without affecting the others. This results in lower costs and higher efficiency for product upgrades and iterations.
It should be noted that the above examples are provided to illustrate the technical solutions of this application and are not intended to be limiting. Despite the detailed description of the application with reference to the preceding examples, those skilled in the art should understand that they can modify the technical solutions recorded in the foregoing examples or equivalently replace some of their technical features. Such modifications or replacements do not depart from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the examples in this application.

Claims

1. A robotic base station comprising:

a pedestal for cleaning docked robots, wherein a front side of the pedestal includes a docking entrance;

a second functional unit located above the pedestal, the second functional unit including a cavity with a removable dust bag configured to be horizontally inserted or removed from the cavity; and

a first functional unit positioned above the second functional unit including a wastewater tank and a clean water tank, both being detachable from a top of the robotic base station.

2. The robotic base station of claim 1, wherein the dust bag is configured to be removed or inserted through a front of the second functional unit.

3. The robotic base station of claim 1, wherein the clean water tank and the wastewater tank are arranged side by side, and the first functional unit includes a storage module located between the clean water and wastewater tanks.

4. The robotic base station of claim 3, wherein the storage module includes a cleaning solution placement area for placing a cleaning solution bottle.

5. The robotic base station of claim 3, wherein the storage module includes a cleaning solution pump and a pump liquid pipe, the pump liquid pipe being connected to a cleaning trough on the pedestal or the clean water tank.

6. The robotic base station of claim 3, wherein the storage module includes a leak hole at a bottom of the storage module for wastewater to flow out.

7. The robotic base station of claim 6, wherein the wastewater flowing out of the leak hole is collected by a wastewater recovery device on the pedestal.

8. The robotic base station of claim 1, further comprising a dust collection conduit, wherein one end of the dust collection conduit is connected with a dust collection docking device on the pedestal for interfacing with robots to extract internal waste from the robots, and the other end of the dust collection conduit is connected with the removable dust bag.

9. The robotic base station of claim 8, further comprising a dust collection drawer within the cavity, wherein:

the removable dust bag is placed in the dust collection drawer;

the dust collection drawer has a dust collection connection hole for connecting with a dust bag opening;

when the dust collection drawer is inside the cavity, the connection hole connects with the dust collection conduit; when the dust collection drawer is removed from the second functional unit, the connection with the dust collection conduit is disconnected.

10. The robotic base station of claim 8, further comprising a docking device and a water supply docking device on the pedestal, wherein:

the water supply docking device is connected with the clean water tank for interfacing with robots to add water;

the water supply and dust collection docking devices are located on two sides of the docking device.

11. The robotic base station according to claim 10, further comprising a charging docking device on the pedestal, wherein the charging docking device is located between the water supply docking device and the docking device.

12. The robotic base station according to claim 1, further comprising a third functional unit, wherein:

the third functional unit includes a drying module;

the pedestal includes a top cover, a bottom, a space between the top cover and the bottom for docking robots;

the top cover includes an air duct connected to an outlet of the drying module;

the bottom includes a first and a second diversion channel connected to the air duct, and

wherein a drying airflow passes through the first diversion channel towards an upper surface of the bottom and through the second diversion channel towards a bottom of the bottom and the ground.

13. A robot base station comprising:

a pedestal for docking a robot;

multiple functional components, each having at least one functional module, to provide various services to the robot;

wherein each of the functional components is capable of being combined with the pedestal, and at least some of the functional components are capable of being assembled together and then combined with the pedestal, forming a base station with various functional combinations.

14. The robot base station of claim 13, wherein:

the pedestal includes a first connection structure;

each of the multiple functional components includes a first and a second connection structure at different positions on the functional component; and

the first connection structure is configured to match to the second connection structure for connecting two functional components or for connecting a functional component to the pedestal.

15. The robot base station of claim 14, wherein the pedestal includes the first connection structure at a top surface of the pedestal; and each of the multiple functional components includes the second connection structure at a bottom surface and the first connection structure at a top surface of the function component.

16. The robot base station of claim 14, wherein:

the first connection structure includes: a first guiding structure and a first connection hole, the first guiding structure being a guiding groove, the first connection hole located at an edge of the pedestal or the functional component;

the second connection structure includes: a second guiding structure and a second connection hole, the second guiding structure being a guiding protrusion configured to match to the guiding groove, and the second connection hole corresponding to the position of the first connection hole, allowing connection by a connecting piece passing through both connection holes.

17. The robot base station of claim 13, wherein the multiple functional components include:

a first functional component including at least one of the following modules: a wastewater collection module, a water supply module, a water storage module, and a water sterilization module;

a second functional component including a dust collection module; and

a third functional component including a drying module.

18. The robot base station of claim 17, wherein:

the first functional component has a hollow cavity, selectively equipped with at least one of the wastewater collection, water supply, and sterilization modules;

the water supply module includes a clean water tank with a water outlet at the bottom, connecting to the pedestal through a clean water pipeline for delivering clean liquid to the pedestal and/or the robot;

the wastewater collection module includes a wastewater tank with an inlet at the bottom, connecting to the pedestal through a wastewater pipeline for recovering wastewater from the pedestal and/or robot;

the sterilization module is for generating sterilizing substances, sterilizing at least one of the clean water tank, the pedestal, and the robot docked at the pedestal.

19. The robot base station of claim 18, wherein the first functional component includes a storage module located in a gap between the clean water tank and the wastewater tank.

20. The robot base station of claim 19, wherein the storage module includes a storage rack with multiple placement areas for storing various accessories.