A robot cleaner system for detecting an external recharging apparatus which is
positioned in a non-detectable area by an upper camera thereof, and a docking method
for docking the robot cleaner system with the external recharging apparatus. The
robot cleaner system includes an external recharging apparatus with a power terminal
connected to a utility power supply, a recharging apparatus recognition mark formed
on the external recharging apparatus, and a robot cleaner, having a recognition
mark sensor that detects the recharging apparatus recognition mark, and a rechargeable
battery. The robot cleaner automatically docks to the power terminal to recharge
the rechargeable battery. The recharging apparatus recognition mark is made of
retroreflective material or a metal tape, and the recognition mark sensor may be
a photosensor or a proximity sensor.