Patent Publication Number: US-2023132447-A1

Title: Cleaner station

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present disclosure relates to a cleaner station and more particularly to a cleaner station has a function of sucking dust by causing a hand vacuum cleaner and a robotic vacuum cleaner to be combined simultaneously therewith. 
     BACKGROUND ART 
     In general, a holder of a cleaner may be used for storing a cordless cleaner. The cordless cleaner is driven by using the power of a built-in battery. According to these characteristics, it is common to use a holder also capable of charging the power of the battery when the cordless cleaner is mounted. 
     A cordless vacuum cleaner includes a hand vacuum cleaner and a robotic vacuum cleaner. In the hand vacuum cleaner, a user grips a handle and moves directly to suck dust or foreign substances on the floor. The robotic vacuum cleaner performs autonomously cleaning while moving based on set movement information or movement information collected by a sensor. 
     After cleaning by operating the vacuum cleaner, the user must remove the dust and foreign substances that the vacuum cleaner has sucked. In the process of separating a dust bin from the vacuum cleaner or carrying the vacuum cleaner outside to remove dust, the user is exposed to fine dust that scatters again from the dust bin. 
     In addition, the hand vacuum cleaner is generally sold as a separate product from the robotic vacuum cleaner. Accordingly, there is an inconvenience of having to install different cleaner stations included in the respective products. In this case, it is inconvenient to connect different power sources to respective holders, and a space occupied by the holder increases. As a result, these cause inconvenience. 
     DISCLOSURE 
     Technical Problem 
     The present invention includes a cleaner station with which a hand vacuum cleaner and a robot vacuum cleaner can be combined simultaneously. Dust sucked by the two different devices can be managed by using one dust storage box. 
     Also, different cleaner stations are integrated into one cleaner station, so that it is possible to increase space efficiency and make it convenient to install the cleaner station. 
     Also, a plurality of flow paths can be selectively opened and closed, thereby preventing dust scattering and improving cleaning efficiency. 
     Technical Solution 
     In order to achieve the above-objectives, the cleaner station according to embodiments may have a structure in which a hand vacuum cleaner and a robotic vacuum cleaner can be combined simultaneously. 
     The cleaner station according to the embodiments includes stations with which the hand vacuum cleaner and the robotic vacuum cleaner can be combined respectively. The hand vacuum cleaner can be combined with an upper portion of the cleaner station, and the robotic vacuum cleaner can be combined with a lower portion of the cleaner station. 
     The cleaner station according to the embodiments enables the hand vacuum cleaner and the robotic vacuum cleaner to be combined therewith. The cleaner station may include a first station which is disposed on an upper portion of the cleaner station and is combined with the hand vacuum cleaner and a second station which is disposed on a lower portion of the cleaner station and is combined with the robotic vacuum cleaner. The first station may include a first suction portion which sucks dust from a dust bin of the hand vacuum cleaner. The second station may include a second suction portion which sucks dust from a dust bin of the robotic vacuum cleaner. 
     The cleaner station according to the embodiments may include a dust inlet where the dust sucked by the first suction portion and the second suction portion communicates, and may include a dust storage box which receives the dust sucked by the first suction portion and the second suction portion. 
     The cleaner station according to the embodiments may include a suction motor which sucks dust through at least one of the first suction portion and the second suction portion. 
     The cleaner station according to the embodiments may include a first flow path which communicates with the first suction portion; a second flow path which communicates with the second suction portion; a third flow path where the first flow path and the second flow path join and which communicates with the dust inlet. 
     The first flow path and the second flow path of the cleaner station according to the embodiments may be selectively opened and closed in response to a combined state of the hand vacuum cleaner and the robotic vacuum cleaner. 
     The first station of the cleaner station according to the embodiments may include a separated space where a suction tube of the hand vacuum cleaner is placed. Also, a first dust bin and a second dust bin included in the hand vacuum cleaner may be coupled to both ends of the separated space of the first station. 
     According to the embodiments, the first suction portion may be positioned at both ends of the first station respectively. The first dust bin and the second dust bin included in the hand vacuum cleaner may be coupled to a place where the first suction portion is located. 
     Also, the first flow path may include a Y-shaped flow path. Both ends of the Y-shaped flow path may be provided respectively in the first suction portion to which the first dust bin and the second dust bin are coupled. 
     The dust storage box of the cleaner station according to the embodiments may include a dust bag that is attachable and detachable. The dust bag may communicate with the dust inlet. The dust bag may include a filter that filters dust from air introduced into the dust inlet. The dust bag may store the filtered dust therein. 
     Also, the cleaner station according to the embodiments may further include an exhaust portion which exhausts dust-filtered air. 
     Also, within an opening closing area provided on one side of the cleaner station, the cleaner station may include a space to which the dust storage box can be coupled. 
     According to the embodiments, at least one of the dust inlet, the first suction portion, and the second suction portion may include a sealing member. 
     The cleaner station according to the embodiments may include a first charger which provides power to the hand vacuum cleaner; and a second charger which provides power to the robotic vacuum cleaner. 
     Meanwhile, the flow path switching portion of the cleaner station according to a first embodiment may include an opening closing portion which includes a communication hole and is movable slidingly. When the first flow path is opened, the opening closing portion may be disposed such that the communication hole is located between the first flow path and the third flow path. 
     Here, the communication hole may be formed to correspond to an end of the first flow path. 
     Meanwhile, when the second flow path is opened, the opening closing portion may be disposed such that a position of the communication hole moves in one direction out of between the first flow path and the third flow path. 
     Meanwhile, the flow path switching portion of the cleaner station according to a second embodiment may include a sealing portion which is selectively coupled to the first flow path and the second flow path and closes the flow path; and a link portion which is connected to the sealing portion and rotates the sealing portion. The sealing portion may be formed to have a cross-section larger than those of ends of the first flow path and the second flow path. 
     Here, the sealing portion may maintain a state of being coupled to any one of the first flow path and the second flow path, during the operation of the suction motor. 
     Meanwhile, the flow path switching portion may further include: a link housing to which the link portion is fixedly coupled; and a switching motor which provides power for rotating the sealing portion. The sealing portion may include at least one partition member which sets a rotatable region of the link portion. 
     Meanwhile, the cleaner station may further include a second processor which processes foreign substances sucked by the second suction portion. The second processor may be formed in the form of a blade or a saw blade capable of cutting long foreign substances. 
     Advantageous Effects 
     Embodiments provide a cleaner station which is able to increase the convenience of removing dust in a hand vacuum cleaner and a robotic vacuum cleaner and is able to charge and store the devices. 
     The cleaner station according to the embodiments is characterized in that it is possible to mount a hand vacuum cleaner and a robotic vacuum cleaner at the same time. This makes it possible to charge the hand vacuum cleaner and the robotic vacuum cleaner with one power source. Also, two different holders are integrated into one holder, so that it is possible to maximize space efficiency and improve the convenience of installation. 
     Also, the cleaner station according to the embodiments has an advantage of automatically sucking and storing the dust of the vacuum cleaner by using a suction portion. A user does not have to directly empty a dust bin of the vacuum cleaner. In the process of emptying the dust bin, the user may not be exposed to the dust scattering toward the user. 
     Also, the cleaner station according to the embodiments allows the user to manage different dust bins included in the hand vacuum cleaner and the robotic vacuum cleaner through one device. 
     Also, the cleaner station according to the embodiments seals the sucked foreign substances and dust within the holder and provides to the user. Through this, it is possible for the user to conveniently remove the dust within the vacuum cleaner. 
     Also, the cleaner station according to the embodiments may preferentially remove dust of any one of the hand vacuum cleaner and the robotic vacuum cleaner, thereby improving the emptying efficiency of the dust bin. 
     Also, the cleaner station according to the embodiments can prevent dust from scattering again by closing an opposite flow path in the process of removing dust of any one of the hand vacuum cleaner and the robotic vacuum cleaner. 
     Also, the cleaner station according to the embodiments may provide the user with an aesthetic sense by processing long foreign substances that are likely to be caught in the dust bins of the hand vacuum cleaner and the robotic vacuum cleaner. 
     DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS 
       FIG.  1 A  is a perspective view showing that a hand vacuum cleaner and a robotic vacuum cleaner are combined with a cleaner station according to embodiments of the present disclosure; 
       FIG.  1 B  is a front view showing that the hand vacuum cleaner and the robotic vacuum cleaner  600  are combined with the cleaner station according to embodiments of the present disclosure; 
       FIG.  1 C  is a side view showing that the hand vacuum cleaner and the robotic vacuum cleaner are combined with the cleaner station according to embodiments of the present disclosure; 
       FIG.  2 A  is a cross-sectional view of a flow path structure and an exhaust path of the cleaner station according to embodiments of the present disclosure as viewed from the side; 
       FIG.  2 B  is a cross-sectional view of the flow path structure and the exhaust path of the cleaner station according to embodiments of the present disclosure as viewed from the rear; 
       FIG.  3    is a perspective view showing a structure of a state where a flow path switching portion according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure opens a first flow path; 
       FIG.  4    is a perspective view showing a structure of a state where the flow path switching portion according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure opens a second flow path; 
       FIG.  5    is a cross-sectional view of the state where the flow path switching portion according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure opens the first flow path; 
       FIG.  6    is a cross-sectional view of the state where the flow path switching portion according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure opens the second flow path; 
       FIG.  7    is a side view of a state where a flow path switching portion according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure opens the first flow path as viewed from one side; 
       FIG.  8    is a side view showing that some components are disassembled, as viewed from one side, in the state where the flow path switching portion according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure opens the first flow path; 
       FIG.  9    is an exploded perspective view showing that some components are disassembled in the state where the flow path switching portion according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure opens the first flow path; 
       FIG.  10    is a side view of a state where the flow path switching portion according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure opens the second flow path as viewed from one side; 
       FIG.  11    is a side view showing that some components are disassembled, as viewed from one side, in the state where the flow path switching portion according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure opens the second flow path; 
       FIG.  12    is an exploded perspective view showing that some components are disassembled in the state where the flow path switching portion according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure opens the second flow path; 
       FIGS.  13 A and  13 B  are perspective views showing a structure in which the hand vacuum cleaner including a first dust bin and a second dust bin is combined with a first station in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure; 
       FIG.  14 A  is a cross-sectional view of the flow path structure of the cleaner station according to the embodiments of the present disclosure as viewed from the rear; 
       FIG.  14 B  is a cross-sectional view of the cleaner station including a first flow path with a Y-shaped structure according to the embodiments of the present disclosure as viewed from the rear; 
       FIG.  15 A  is a side view showing a state where a dust storage box according to the embodiments of the present disclosure is coupled to the inside of the cleaner station; 
       FIG.  15 B  is a perspective view showing an internal space of the cleaner station with which the dust storage box according to the embodiments of the present disclosure is combined; 
       FIG.  16 A  is a cross-sectional view showing schematically a structure of the dust storage box according to the embodiments of the present disclosure; and 
       FIG.  16 B  is a cross-sectional view showing schematically a structure of a dust bag coupled to the dust storage box according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. 
    
    
     MODE FOR INVENTION 
     Embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings such that the purpose of the present disclosure may be specifically understood and implemented. 
     In this process, the size or shape of the components shown in the drawings may be exaggerated for clarity and convenience of description. Also, terms specifically defined in consideration of the configuration and operation of the present disclosure may vary depending on the intentions or customs of users and operators. 
     Meanwhile, in the present disclosure, while terms such as the first and the second, etc., can be used to describe various components, the components are not limited by the terms mentioned above. The terms are used only for distinguishing between one component and other components. For example, the first component may be designated as the second component without departing from the scope of rights according to the concept of the present invention. Similarly, the second component may be designated as the first component. The term of ‘and/or’ includes a combination or one of a plurality of related items mentioned. 
     These terms should be defined and understood based on what has been described throughout the present specification. 
     As mentioned above, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiment. As can be seen from the appended claims, the present invention can be modified by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains, and such modifications are within the scope of the present invention. 
     Hereinafter, a cleaner station  1  with which a hand vacuum cleaner  500  and a robotic vacuum cleaner  600  can be combined will be described. 
     A vacuum cleaner is a device that sucks dust existing on the floor or in a place that is difficult to reach by using a member such as a pipe. The vacuum cleaner includes a motor and a dust bin. The motor which is rotating forms a vacuum within the dust bin, and thus, an internal pressure of the dust bin is lower than an external pressure of the dust bin, so that foreign substances such as dust, etc., can be sucked in by the pressure difference. 
     The vacuum cleaner can be divided into the hand vacuum cleaner  500  that cleans the floor, etc., while being held and moved by a user and the robotic vacuum cleaner  600  that automatically sets a path and performs cleaning. Both types of vacuum cleaners have a dust bin and a battery therewithin, and the user should separate the dust bin from each vacuum cleaner and remove the dust in the dust bin. 
     The hand vacuum cleaner  500  and the robotic vacuum cleaner  600  may be charged by using a holder connected to a power source. It is common for each device to use a different charging holder. The charging holder has to be connected to a power source and occupies a volume. Therefore, if one or more holders are provided in the house, the efficiency of spatial use is degraded and a plurality of power sources is required. 
     The cleaner station  1  according to the embodiments has a function of simultaneously being combined with two types of vacuum cleaners. By using this, it is possible to simultaneously charge different types of vacuum cleaners with only one power source. Also, it is possible to increase the efficiency of spatial use. 
     The cleaner station  1  has a flow path structure and a dust storage box  300  therein, so that interior materials of the dust bin included in each vacuum cleaner can be sucked. At least one dust bin included in different types of cleaners can be managed by using one dust bin  300 . 
     Hereinafter, with reference to  FIG.  1   , components included in the cleaner station  1  according to embodiments and a combining structure between the components will be described. 
       FIG.  1 A  is a perspective view showing that the hand vacuum cleaner  500  and the robotic vacuum cleaner  600  are combined with the cleaner station  1  according to embodiments.  FIG.  1 B  is a front view showing that the hand vacuum cleaner  500  and the robotic vacuum cleaner  600  are combined with the cleaner station  1  according to embodiments.  FIG.  1 C  is a side view showing that the hand vacuum cleaner  500  and the robotic vacuum cleaner  600  are combined with the cleaner station  1  according to embodiments. 
     The cleaner station  1  according to the embodiments may allow the hand vacuum cleaner  500  and the robotic vacuum cleaner  600  to be combined therewith. Specifically, it is possible that only one of the hand vacuum cleaner  500  and the robotic vacuum cleaner  600  may be combined with the cleaner station  1  or two types of cleaners may be combined with the cleaner at the same time. 
     An upper portion of the cleaner station  1  may include a first station  100  with which the hand vacuum cleaner  500  is combined. The first station  100  may include a first suction portion  110  that sucks dust from the dust bin of the hand vacuum cleaner  500 . The dust bin included in the hand vacuum cleaner  500  may be connected to the first suction portion  110 , and dust and foreign substances within the dust bin can be discharged to the outside of the dust bin by a suction force acting on the first suction portion  110 . 
     A lower portion of the cleaner station  1  may include a second station  200  with which the robotic vacuum cleaner  600  is combined. The second station  200  may include a second suction portion  210  that sucks dust from the dust bin of the robotic vacuum cleaner  600 . The dust bin included in the robotic vacuum cleaner  600  may be connected to the second suction portion  210 , and dust and foreign substances within the dust bin can be discharged to the outside of the dust bin by a suction force acting on the second suction portion  210 . 
     Specifically, when the hand vacuum cleaner  500  is combined, a portion where the dust bin of the hand vacuum cleaner  500  is located may be seated in the first station  100 . Here, a suction tube  520  may be disposed in a longitudinal direction of the cleaner station  1 . The second station  200  includes a flat structure protruding forward from the lower portion of the cleaner station  1 , and the robotic vacuum cleaner  600  may be seated thereon. 
     Hereinafter, with reference to  FIG.  2   , an internal structure of the cleaner station  1  for sucking dust will be described. 
       FIG.  2 A  is a cross-sectional view of a flow path structure and an exhaust path P of the cleaner station  1  according to embodiments as viewed from the side, and  FIG.  2 B  is a cross-sectional view of the flow path structure and the exhaust path P of the cleaner station  1  according to embodiments as viewed from the rear. 
     The cleaner station  1  according to the embodiments may include the dust storage box  300  and a dust inlet  310 . The dust storage box  300  stores the sucked dust. The dust inlet  310  discharges the dust sucked by the first suction portion  110  and/or the second suction portion  210 . The dust storage box  300  communicates with the dust inlet  310 , and the dust sucked by the first suction portion  110  and the second suction portion  210  is received within the dust storage box  300 . 
     The cleaner station  1  according to embodiments may include a suction motor  800  that provides power for sucking dust. 
     Specifically, the suction motor  800  may be a fan motor. The suction motor  800  receives power to rotate the fan, and the flow of air generated by the rotation of the fan may function to reduce the pressure inside the dust storage box  300 . 
     The cleaner station  1  according to the embodiments may include a first flow path  111  communicating with the first suction portion  110  and a second flow path  211  communicating with the second suction portion  210 . Also, the cleaner station  1  may further include a third flow path  311  where the first flow path  111  and the second flow path  211  join. The third flow path  311  communicates with the dust inlet  310 . 
     Specifically, one end of the first flow path  111  communicates with the first suction portion  110 , and may suck the dust of the hand vacuum cleaner  500 . The other end of the first flow path  111  may be connected to one end of the third flow path  311 . In addition, one end of the second flow path  211  communicates with the second suction portion  210 , and the dust of the robotic vacuum cleaner  600  may be sucked. The other end of the second flow path  211  may be connected to one end of the third flow path  311 . The dust sucked along the first flow path  111  and the second flow path  211  joins at one end of the third flow path  311 . The other end of the third flow path  311  communicates with the dust inlet  310 , and the sucked dust passes through the dust inlet  310  and is received into the dust storage box  300 . 
     Air P, which is also sucked together in order to suck dust, may be exhausted through one side of the cleaner station  1  after the included dust is filtered. 
     The first flow path  111  and the second flow path  211  according to embodiments may be selectively opened and closed in response to the combined state of the hand vacuum cleaner  500  and the robotic vacuum cleaner  600 . 
     Specifically, when the hand vacuum cleaner  500  and the robotic vacuum cleaner  600  suck dust simultaneously, there is a possibility that a suction force of the cleaner station  1  may be reduced. If a sufficient suction force is not provided to the dust bin of the vacuum cleaner, dust and foreign substances may remain within the dust bin even after the suction process is completed. 
     As the first flow path  111  and the second flow path  211 , or, in other words, the first suction portion  110  and the second suction portion  210  are selectively opened and closed, the suction force provided by the suction motor  800  can be focused on one side. Hereinafter, the description of opening and closing the first flow path  111  has the same meaning as the description of opening and closing the first suction portion  110 , and may be used interchangeably. Similarly, the description of opening and closing the second flow path  211  has the same meaning as the description of opening and closing the second suction portion  210 , and may be used interchangeably. 
     Specifically, when the cleaner station  1  closes the second suction portion  210  and sucks dust of the hand vacuum cleaner  500 , air may be introduced more quickly from the first suction portion  110 . Conversely, when the cleaner station  1  closes the first suction portion  110  and sucks dust of the robotic vacuum cleaner  600 , air may be introduced more quickly from the second suction portion  210 . 
     Therefore, when only the hand vacuum cleaner  500  is combined, the cleaner station  1  may suck the dust of the hand vacuum cleaner  500  with the first suction portion  110  open and the second suction portion  210  closed. Also, when only the robotic vacuum cleaner  600  is combined, the cleaner station  1  may suck the dust of the robotic vacuum cleaner  600  with the second suction portion  210  open and the first suction portion  110  closed. 
     Also, when both the hand vacuum cleaner  500  and the robotic vacuum cleaner  600  are combined with the cleaner station  1 , the cleaner station  1  may, in accordance with a user&#39;s selection, suck the dust of the hand vacuum cleaner  500  with the first suction portion  110  open and the second suction portion  210  closed or may suck the dust of the robotic vacuum cleaner  600  with the second suction portion  210  open and the first suction portion  110  closed. 
     A backflow phenomenon may occur in the process in which the cleaner station  1  sucks the dust. In this case, some of the dust moving along the flow path may be discharged to the external space. Also, there is a possibility that the dust remaining within the flow path is blown to the external space by convection. In order to prevent dust from scattering in the indoor space, the cleaner station  1  may include a sealing member  350  that closes the flow path. 
     Specifically, at least one of the dust inlet  310 , the first suction portion  110 , and the second suction portion  210  may include the sealing member  350  that prevents the dust from passing therethrough. The sealing member  350  may be made of a rubber material. In the state where the hand vacuum cleaner  500  is combined, the sealing member  350  of the first suction portion  110  may be opened, and in the state where the robotic vacuum cleaner  600  is combined, the sealing member  350  of the second suction portion  210  may be opened. 
     Also, the cleaner station  1  may include a flow path switching portion capable of opening and closing the first flow path  111  and the second flow path  211 . The flow path switching portion  400  may be provided together with the sealing member  350  described above, and both the components may be selectively provided according to the embodiment. Hereinafter, the configuration of the flow path switching portion  400  will be described in detail with reference to  FIGS.  3  to  12   . 
     
       
     
       FIG.  3    is a perspective view showing a structure of a state where the flow path switching portion  400  according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure opens the first flow path.  FIG.  4    is a perspective view showing a structure of a state where the flow path switching portion  400  according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure opens the second flow path.  FIG.  5    is a cross-sectional view of the state where the flow path switching portion  400  according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure opens the first flow path.  FIG.  6    is a cross-sectional view of the state where the flow path switching portion  400  according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure opens the second flow path. 
     First, referring to  FIGS.  3  to  6   , the flow path switching portion  400  according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure may selectively open and close the first flow path  111  and the second flow path  211  through forward and backward movement, that is, sliding. Here, the forward may mean a direction in which the hand vacuum cleaner  500  or the robotic vacuum cleaner  600  enters the cleaner station  1 . Also, the backward has a relative concept to the forward and may be defined as a direction in  FIG.  3    from a point where the flow path switching portion  400  is connected to the second flow path to a point where the flow path switching portion  400  is connected to the first flow path  111 . However, depending on a design in which the first flow path  111 , the second flow path  211 , the third flow path  311 , and the flow path switching portion  400  are arranged, the movement direction may be changed, and such a changed embodiment is also included in the scope of the present disclosure. 
     The flow path switching portion  400  may include a housing  410 , an opening closing portion  420 , a rotating disk  430 , a micro switch  480 , and a switching motor  490 . 
     The housing  410  may form a predetermined internal space by coupling an upper housing  411  and a lower housing  412 . Accordingly, in the internal space of the housing  410 , the components of the flow path switching portion  400  can be disposed without external interference. 
     A communication hole  421  for opening the first flow path  111  may be formed in the opening closing portion  420  according to the first embodiment. 
     The shape of the communication hole  421  may be formed to correspond to the first flow path  111  and the third flow path  311  such that they can communicate with each other. For example, referring to  FIG.  3   , the communication hole  421  may be formed in an approximate circular shape to correspond to the shape of the end of the first flow path  111 . Also, if the shape of the first flow path  111  is changed, the shape of the communication hole  421  may be changed correspondingly. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the leakage of the gas which is guided from the first flow path  111  to the third flow path  311 . 
     A catching groove  422  which is opened with a predetermined width and extends may be formed in one side of the opening closing portion  420 . The catching groove  422  is a space to which a catching protrusion  432  of the rotating disk  430  to be described later is fitted and coupled, and details thereof will be described later. 
     The opening closing portion  420  may be coupled to the lower housing  412 . A sliding guide  413  which enables the opening closing portion  420  coupled to the lower housing  412  to slide may be formed on one side of the lower housing  412 . The opening closing portion  420  is coupled with being fitted, thereby being prevented from separating. Also, the opening closing portion  420  is movable forward and backward with being coupled to the sliding guide  413 . 
     Referring to  FIGS.  3  to  6   , the opening closing portion  420  can slide forward and backward. Specifically, when the state where the first flow path  111  is opened (see  FIGS.  3  and  5   ) is switched to the state where the second flow path  211  is opened (refer to  FIGS.  4  and  6   ), the opening closing portion  420  can slide forward. Conversely, when the state where the second flow path  211  is opened is switched to the state where the first flow path  111  is opened, the opening closing portion  420  can slide backward. Accordingly, the opening closing portion  420  can selectively open and close the first flow path  111  or the second flow path  211 . 
     In another embodiment, the communication hole  421  may be formed to open the second flow path  211 . In this case, the second flow path  211  and the communication hole  421  may meet in a state where the opening closing portion  420  has moved to the rear to the maximum degree. Accordingly, the gas sucked through the second flow path  211  may be guided to the third flow path  311 . Here, the opening closing portion excluding the communication hole  421  may seal the first flow path  111  and the third flow path  311 . 
     The rotating disk  430  may change the position of the opening closing portion  420 . Specifically, the rotating disk  430  may be connected to the opening closing portion  420  to move the position of the opening closing portion  420  forward and backward through rotation. To this end, the rotating disk  430  is arranged to be able to rotate and can be rotated by a rotational force of the switching motor  490  to be described later. 
     Referring to  FIG.  3   , the rotating disk  430  may include a disk body  431  and a catching protrusion  432 . 
     The disk body  431  may be provided in the form of a disk having a substantially circular cross-section and extending to a predetermined height. However, in an embodiment where the rotation does not cause interference with surrounding components, the disk body may be provided in another form. 
     The catching protrusion  432  may be formed to protrude to a predetermined height from the top surface of the disk body  431 . The catching protrusion  432  may be fitted into the catching groove  422  of the opening closing portion  420 . Accordingly, when the rotating disk  430  rotates, the catching protrusion  432  may move the opening closing portion  420  by catching and pulling the opening closing portion  420 . That is, the catching protrusion  432  may perform a function of converting a rotational motion of the rotating disk  430  into a linear motion of the opening closing portion  420 . 
     Specifically, when the disk body  431  rotates, the catching protrusion  432  rotates together with the disk body along the rotation direction of the disk body  431 . Here, since the catching protrusion  432  is in a state of being coupled to the catching groove  422 , the catching protrusion may pull and move the opening closing portion  420  while rotating in the circumferential direction of the disk body  431 . Through this, the opening closing portion  420  can perform a linear motion, and moreover, can selectively open and close the first flow path  111  and the second flow path  211 . 
     The micro switch  480  may be disposed to determine the rotation and position state of the opening closing portion  420  and the rotating disk  430 . In the embodiment of  FIG.  3   , the micro switch is provided on the opening closing portion  420  and the rotating disk  430 . Also, the arrangement position of the micro switch  480  may be changed according to a design change. 
     The micro switch  480  may recognize the position of the opening closing portion  420 . Specifically, one end of the micro switch  480  may include a cantilever-shaped fixed handle  481 . Accordingly, when the handle  481  is pressed, the position of the opening closing portion is changed, and the micro switch  480  can recognize the change of the position. 
     The micro switch  480  may turn on/off the power of the switching motor  490  to be described later. When the above-described handle  481  moves more than a certain distance, the micro switch  480  may turn on/off the power of the switching motor  490 . 
     Since the detailed configuration of the micro switch  480  is known to those skilled in the art, detailed description thereof will be omitted. In other words, the micro switch  480  may be provided by selectively employing a device capable of controlling the power of the switching motor  490  through the recognition of the position of the opening closing portion  420 . Such a modified embodiment is also within the scope of the present invention. 
     In the first embodiment, the switching motor  490  may be provided below the lower housing  412 . The switching motor  490  is configured to provide power that can move the opening closing portion  420 , and may include a shaft  491  and a motor housing  493 . 
     The shaft  491  is a rotation shaft of the switching motor  490 , and may rotate in one direction when the switching motor  490  is operated. In addition, when the switching motor  490  operates in the opposite direction, the shaft may rotate in the other direction. Here, the one direction and the other direction may mean a clockwise direction and a counter-clockwise direction, respectively, and they may mean vice versa. 
     The motor housing  493  can protect the switching motor  490  from external interference. The motor housing  493  may be coupled below the lower housing  412 . Accordingly, the switching motor  490  can be provided below the lower housing. 
     The switching motor  490  may be coupled to the rotating disk  430 . Specifically, the shaft  491  provided in the switching motor  490  may be coupled to the rotating disk  430 . When the switching motor  490  is operated, the shaft  491  may rotate the coupled rotating disk  430  together while rotating. 
     The rotational operation of the switching motor  490  may be controlled by the micro switch  480 . Specifically, the switching motor  490  may rotated in one direction, and the rotating disk  430  may rotate together to move the opening closing portion  420 . Accordingly, when the position of the opening closing portion  420  reaches a one-way limit point, the catching protrusion may come into contact with the handle of the micro switch  480 . When the micro switch  480  recognizes that pressure is applied through the handle  481 , the micro switch may determine that the opening closing portion  420  has moved to a limited area. Here, the micro switch  480  may end the operation of the switching motor  490 . A method for controlling the switching motor  490  and the micro switch  480  for moving the opening closing portion  420  in the opposite direction can also be performed in the same manner. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  5  and  6   , the first flow path  111  and the second flow path may selectively communicate with the third flow path  311  by the opening closing portion  420 . 
     For convenience of description, the state of  FIG.  5    may be referred to as an open state of the first flow path  111 , and the state of  FIG.  6    may be referred to as an open state of the second flow path  211 . 
     In the open state of the first flow path  111 , by the suction force generated by the suction motor  800 , the air including dust may pass sequentially through the first flow path  111  and the third flow path  311  from the dust bin of the hand vacuum cleaner  500  and may be guided to the dust storage box  300 . Here, the opening closing portion  420  blocks the second flow path  211  and the third flow path  311  to prevent the air from flowing from the second flow path  211  into the third flow path  311 . 
     In the open state of the second flow path  211 , by the suction force generated by the suction motor  800 , the air including dust may pass sequentially through the second flow path  211  and the third flow path  311  from a dust bin  610  of the robotic vacuum cleaner  600  and may be guided to the dust storage box  300 . Here, the opening closing portion  420  blocks the first flow path  111  and the third flow path  311  to prevent the air from flowing from the first flow path  111  into the third flow path  311 . 
     Accordingly, the first flow path  111  and the second flow path  211  are opened simultaneously with the third flow path  311 , so that it is possible to prevent a problem that the dust removal operation is not performed correctly by an insufficient suction force of the suction motor  800 . 
     Hereinafter,  FIGS.  7  to  12    show the flow path switching portion  400  according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. 
       FIG.  7    shows a state where the flow path switching portion  400  opens the first flow path  111  as viewed from one side.  FIG.  8    shows that some components are disassembled, as viewed from one side, in the state where the flow path switching portion  400  opens the first flow path  111 .  FIG.  9    shows that some components are disassembled in the state where the flow path switching portion  400  opens the first flow path  111 .  FIG.  10    shows a state where the flow path switching portion  400  opens the second flow path  211 .  FIG.  11    shows that some components are disassembled, as viewed from one side, in the state where the flow path switching portion  400  opens the second flow path  211 .  FIG.  12   . shows that some components are disassembled in the state where the flow path switching portion  400  opens the second flow path  211 . 
     Referring to  FIGS.  7  to  12   , the flow path switching portion  400  according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure may be selectively coupled to the first flow path  111  and the second flow path  211  and may open and close them. 
     The flow path switching portion  400  according to the second embodiment may include a sealing portion  450 , a link portion  460 , a link housing  470 , the micro switch  480 , and the switching motor  490 . 
     The sealing portion  450  may be coupled to the first flow path  111  or the second flow path  211  to close the flow path in order not to communicate with the third flow path  311 . That is, the flow path switching portion  400  selectively couples the sealing portion  450  to the first flow path  111  or the second flow path  211 , thereby opening another flow path to which the sealing portion  450  is not coupled. 
     The sealing portion  450  may be provided in a shape corresponding to the cross-sections of the first flow path  111  and the second flow path  211  in such a way as to close the first flow path  111  and the second flow path  211 . That is, in order to prevent the air including dust from flowing into the first flow path  111  and the second flow path  211 , the sealing portion may be provided in the corresponding shape. 
     One side of the sealing portion  450  may be connected to a second link  462  to be described later and may moves rotationally. Accordingly, the sealing portion  450  may be positioned at an end of the first flow path  111  on the third flow path  311  side and at an end of the second flow path  211  on the third flow path  311  side by rotation. 
     The link portion  460  is configured to change the position of the sealing portion  450 , and may include a first link  461 , a second link  462 , and a link rod  463 . 
     The first link  461  may be rotatably coupled to the shaft  491  of the switching motor  490 . 
     One side of the second link  462  is connected to the sealing portion  450  and the other side is connected to the link rod  463 . The second link  462  may be rotatably provided. 
     The link rod  463  is configured to connect between the first link  461  and the second link  462 . Specifically, one side of the link rod  463  is coupled to the first link  461  and the other side is coupled to the second link  462 . Thus, when the first link  461  moves rotationally, the link rod moves together and performs a function of rotating the second link  462 . 
     That is, when the first link  461  rotates together with the shaft  491 , the link rod  463  connected to the first link  461  moves together, and the second link  462  connected to the link rod  463  rotates. The second link  462  rotates, and may rotate the sealing portion  450 . 
     The components such as the first link  461  and the micro switch  480  are coupled to the link housing  470 . The link housing  470  may function to protect the coupled components from external interference. 
     The link housing  470  may include partition members  471  and  472  which protrude at a certain angle so as to set a rotation limit of the first link  461 . The partition members  471  and  472  may be provided in the form of a pair in order to partition a rotation region of the first link  461 . 
     When the state of  FIG.  7    is changed to the state of  FIG.  10   , the first link  461  may rotate clockwise. Here, when the first link  461  comes into contact with the partition member  472 , the first link is restricted not to rotate any more. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the first link  461  from being excessively rotated. 
     Conversely, when the state of  FIG.  10    is changed to the state of  FIG.  7   , the first link  461  may rotate counterclockwise. Here, the first link  461  comes into contact with the left partition member  471 , thereby being restricted not to rotate any more. That is, the rotatable region of the first link  461  may be defined as a region between the two partition members  471  and  472 . 
     In the second embodiment of the present disclosure, the flow path switching portion  400  may include the micro switch  480  and the switching motor  490 . The basic configuration has been described in the first embodiment, arrangement with differences will be described. Other descriptions can be replaced with the description of the first embodiment. 
     In the second embodiment of the present disclosure, the micro switch  480  may be provided in an internal space of the link housing  470 . The micro switches of a pair of micro switches  480  may be arranged to have a predetermined angle with each other. Also, the micro switch  480  may be coupled to the switching motor  490 . 
     A contact end  464  connected to the first link  461  may come into contact with the handle  481  of the micro switch  480 . When the position of the handle moves beyond a reference position by the contact end  464 , the micro switch  480  may turn on/off the power of the switching motor  490 . Accordingly, the rotation of the link portion  460  may start or end. 
     The switching motor  490  may have a shaft  492  and a motor housing  493 . 
     The shaft  492  is coupled to the first link  461  and may rotate when the switching motor  490  is operated. Accordingly, the first link  461  is rotatable in the circumferential direction of the shaft  492 . 
     The motor housing  493  may be coupled to the link housing  470 . An area opened with a predetermined width may exist in an area where the link housing  470  and the motor housing  493  are coupled. Through the open area, the first link  461  and the shaft  492  may be coupled. 
     In particular, a structure in which the flow path is switched in the second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described through the comparison of  FIGS.  8  and  11   . 
     For convenience of description, the state of  FIG.  8    may be referred to as an open state of the first flow path  111 , and the state of  FIG.  11    may be referred to as an open state of the second flow path  211 . 
     In the open state of the first flow path  111 , by the suction force generated by the suction motor  800 , the air including dust may pass sequentially through the first flow path  111  and the third flow path  311  from the dust bin  511  and  512  of the hand vacuum cleaner  500  and may be guided to the dust storage box  300 . Here, the sealing portion  450  may be coupled to the second flow path  211  to block the second flow path  211  and the third flow path  311 . Accordingly, the air is prevented from flowing from the second flow path  211  into the third flow path  311 . 
     In the open state of the second flow path  211 , by the suction force generated by the suction motor  800 , the air including dust may pass sequentially through the second flow path  211  and the third flow path  311  from a dust bin  610  of the robotic vacuum cleaner  600  and may be guided to the dust storage box  300 . Here, the opening closing portion  420  blocks the first flow path  111  and the third flow path  311  to prevent the air from flowing from the first flow path  111  into the third flow path  311 . 
     Meanwhile, a power source of the hand vacuum cleaner  500  may have a horizontal cyclone structure. Also, the dust bin of the hand vacuum cleaner  500  may have a structure in which the first dust bin  511  and the second dust bin  512  are provided on both sides of the suction tube  520 , respectively. 
     Hereinafter, an embodiment of the cleaner station  1  with which the hand vacuum cleaner  500  having two different dust bins is combined will be described with reference to  FIG.  13   . 
       FIGS.  13 A and  13 B  are perspective views showing a structure in which the hand vacuum cleaner  500  including the first dust bin  511  and the second dust bin  512  is combined with the first station  100  in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. 
     The first station  100  according to embodiments may include a separated space in which the suction tube  520  of the hand vacuum cleaner  500  can be placed. In the first station  100 , the first dust bin  511  and the second dust bin  512  may be mounted respectively on both ends of a portion where the separated space is located. Also, the suction tube  520  may be seated in the separated space, that is, between the first dust bin  511  and the second dust bin  512 . 
     In addition, both ends of the separated space located in the first station  100  may include the first suction portion  110 . The first suction portion  110  provided at both ends of the first station  100  may suck dust inside the first dust bin  511  and the second dust bin  512 , respectively. 
     The first station  100  according to embodiments may include a separated space in which the suction tube  520  of the hand vacuum cleaner  500  can be located. In the first station  100 , both ends of a portion where the separated space is located may include a first holder  121  and a second holder  122  on which the hand vacuum cleaner can be mounted. The first holder  121  and the second holder  122  may be disposed to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance. When the hand vacuum cleaner  500  is combined, the first dust bin  511  is seated on the first holder  121 , and the second dust bin  512  is seated on the second holder  122 . The suction tube  520  may be seated between the separated spaces. 
     In addition, each of the first holder  121  and the second holder  122  may include the first suction portion  110 . The first suction portion  110  provided on both sides of the first station  100  may suck dust inside the first dust bin  511  and the second dust bin  512 , respectively. 
     The first flow path  111  according to embodiments may have a Y-shaped structure. An end of the first flow path  111  having a Y-shape may be connected to the first suction portion  110  provided on both sides of the separated space included in the first station  100 . The other end of the first flow path  111  may be connected to the third flow path  311 . Dust sucked by each end of the first flow path  111  having a Y-shape flows along one flow path, and may be discharged from the first flow path  111  and may flow along the third flow path  311 . 
     In addition, the end of the first flow path  111  having a Y-shape may be connected to the first suction portion  110  provided in the first holder  121  and the second holder  122 , respectively. The other end of the first flow path  111  may be connected to the third flow path  311 . Dust sucked by each end of the first flow path  111  having a Y-shape flows along one flow path, and may be discharged from the first flow path  111  and may flow along the third flow path  311 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  5   , in other embodiments, the first flow path  111  may be substantially formed linearly or formed in a streamlined shape. In this case, one side end of the first flow path  111  may be connected to the first suction portion  110 , and the other side end may be connected to the third flow path  311 . 
     The cleaner station  1  according to the embodiment may include a first processor  112  and a second processor  212 . The first processor  112  and the second processor  212  may be simultaneously provided according to the embodiment, or only one of them may be selectively provided. 
     In the process in which the cleaner station  1  sucks dust from the dust bin of the hand vacuum cleaner or the robotic vacuum cleaner, there may occur a problem that foreign substances remain. Accordingly, there may occur sanitary problems such as microbial propagation or aesthetic problems that foreign substances are visible to the user. 
     Specifically, fine dust remaining without being sucked into the first suction portion  110  from the dust bins  511  and  512  of the hand vacuum cleaner  500  may exist. In addition, foreign substances such as long hair or thread may be caught and remain between the first suction portion  110  and the dust bins  511  and  512 . Accordingly, there may occur a problem that covers of the dust bins  511  and  512  are not properly closed. 
     Also, fine dust remaining without being sucked into a second suction portion  212  from the dust bin  610  of the robotic vacuum cleaner  600  may exist. In addition, foreign substances such as long hair or thread may be caught and remain between the second suction portion  212  and the dust bin  610  of the robotic vacuum cleaner  600 . 
     The first processor  112  and the second processor  212  may be provided in the first suction portion  110  and the second suction portion  210  in order to remove such dust or foreign substances. 
     In one embodiment, the first processor  112  and the second processor  212  may be provided in the form of a blade. In this embodiment, the first processor  112  and the second processor  212  are installed to be movable up and down, so that long foreign substances can be cut. Accordingly, the cut foreign substances can be more easily processed by the first suction portion and the second suction portion. 
     In another embodiment, the first processor  112  and the second processor  212  may be provided in the form of a saw blade. In this embodiment, foreign substances pass through the first processor and the second processor by the suction force and may be cut or decomposed. 
     Hereinafter, with reference to  FIG.  14   , a structure in which the cleaner station  1  sucks dust and exhausts the sucked air will be described. 
       FIG.  14 A  is a cross-sectional view of the flow path structure of the cleaner station  1  according to the embodiments as viewed from the rear.  FIG.  14 B  is a cross-sectional view of the cleaner station  1  including the first flow path  111  with a Y-shaped structure according to the embodiments as viewed from the rear. 
     The cleaner station  1  according to the embodiments may include a suction motor  800  for sucking air including dust. The suction motor  800  may provide a suction force to the first suction portion  110  and/or the second suction portion  210  through a flow path. 
     Specifically, the suction motor  800  may form a low pressure within the dust storage box  300 . When the suction motor  800  is operated in a state where the hand vacuum cleaner  500  and/or the robotic vacuum cleaner  600  are combined, a relatively high pressure is formed within the dust bin of the cleaner, and a relatively low pressure is formed within the dust storage box  300 . Due to the pressure difference, dust and foreign substances present within the dust bin may move into the dust storage box  300  along the flow path. 
     The cleaner station  1  according to embodiments may include an exhaust portion  900  for exhausting filtered air. When the suction motor  800  sucks dust, external air is introduced into the dust storage box  300 . Therefore, it is necessary to provide the exhaust portion  900  for exhausting the air to the outside after the dust included in the sucked air is removed. The exhaust portion  900  may serve as a passage through which air sucked into the cleaner station  1  is discharged to the outside. The air sucked by the vacuum cleaner may include high concentration of fine dust. There is a possibility that such fine dust is not received in the dust storage box  300  and passes through the exhaust portion  900  and then is discharged to the outside of the cleaner station  1 . Accordingly, in the cleaner station  1 , a member that filters dust may be provided in the exhaust path P through which a fluid flows from the dust storage box  300  to the exhaust portion  900 . 
     Specifically, a filter that uses a method of filtering dust by applying a microfiber structure and/or a filter that uses a method of collecting dust on a dust collection plate by electrifying dust may be used as the member that filters dust. Also, the member that filters dust may be provided within the suction motor  800  or in the exhaust portion  900 . 
     Hereinafter, a structure in which the dust storage box  300  is provided within the cleaner station  1  will be described with reference to  FIG.  15   . 
       FIG.  15 A  is a side view showing a state where the dust storage box  300  according to the embodiments is coupled to the inside of the cleaner station  1 .  FIG.  15 B  is a perspective view showing an internal space of the cleaner station  1  with which the dust storage box  300  according to the embodiments is combined. 
     One side of the cleaner station  1  according to the embodiments may include an opening closing area  360 , and the opening closing area  360  may include a space therein, to which the dust storage box  300  can be coupled. As the opening closing area  360  is opened and closed, the dust storage box  300  may be coupled to the inside of the cleaner station  1 , or the dust storage box  300  may be detached from the inside of the cleaner station  1 . 
     Hereinafter, structures of the dust storage box  300  and a dust bag  340  will be described with reference to  FIG.  16   . 
       FIG.  16 A  is a cross-sectional view showing schematically the structure of the dust storage box  300  according to the embodiments.  FIG.  16 B  is a cross-sectional view showing schematically the structure of the dust bag  340  coupled to the dust storage box  300  according to the embodiments of the present disclosure. 
     The dust storage box  300  according to the embodiments may communicate with the dust inlet  310 . The first suction portion  110  and the second suction portion  210  suck dust, and the sucked dust flows along the first flow path  111  and along the second flow path  211 , respectively, and then is collected at one end of the third flow path  311 . The other end of the third flow path  311  communicates with the dust inlet  310 , and the sucked dust is discharged from the third flow path  311  and moves into the dust storage box  300  through the dust inlet  310 . The dust that has moved is stored in the dust storage box  300 . 
     The dust storage box  300  according to the embodiments may include the dust bag  340  therein. In the process of opening the dust storage box  300  and of shaking off the dust within the dust storage box, dust may scatter to the outside. In this case, the user may inhale the air including the dust while removing the dust of the dust storage box  300 , and the dust may be introduced into the human body. 
     Accordingly, the dust bag  340  is provided within the dust storage box  300 , and the dust bag  340  can filter the air passing through the dust inlet  310 . The filtered dust may be stored in the dust bag  340 . When the user intends to remove the dust within the dust storage box  300 , the user may tie or seal the dust bag  340  and then may open the dust storage box  300 . In this case, dust does not scatter to the outside of the dust bag  340 , so that it is possible to cleanly remove the dust. 
     In addition, the dust bag  340  may have a fine fiber material or a vinyl material which does not allow fine dust to pass therethrough. 
     Hereinafter, an embodiment of the cleaner station  1  including a charger will be described. 
     The cleaner station  1  according to the embodiments may include a first charger which provides power to the hand vacuum cleaner  500  and a second charger which provides power to the robotic vacuum cleaner  600 . In addition, the cleaner station  1  may be connected to an outlet that provides power through electric wires and may provide power to the first charger and the second charger. 
     Specifically, the first charger is provided in the first station  100 . When the hand vacuum cleaner  500  is combined, the first charger can provide power to a battery of the hand vacuum cleaner  500  In addition, the second charger is provided in the second station  200 . When the robotic vacuum cleaner  600  is combined, the second charger can provide power to a battery of the robotic vacuum cleaner  600 . 
     As mentioned above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment. As can be seen from the appended claims, the present invention can be modified by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains, and such modifications are within the scope of the present invention.