Clothing processing device

By integrating washing machines, dryers, and garment care machines into a single garment processing unit, the problems of inconvenience and high costs caused by scattered configurations are solved, achieving efficient garment processing and space utilization.

CN115404638BActive Publication Date: 2026-03-10LG ELECTRONICS INC
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2022-04-01
Publication Date
2026-03-10

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing garment processing devices (washing machines, dryers, and garment care machines) are scattered in different spaces, which makes it inconvenient for users to operate and complicated to manage clothes. Furthermore, the independent setting of each device leads to high system costs, increased energy consumption, and reduced clothing storage space.

Method used

Design a garment handling device that integrates a washing machine, dryer, and garment care machine in the same space, sharing a heating and steam generation unit, optimizing air and steam flow paths, reducing pipe length, managing condensate with a single drain pump, reducing vibration, and expanding garment storage space.

Benefits of technology

It enables washing, drying, and care to be completed in the same space, reducing user operation routes, lowering system costs and energy consumption, expanding clothing storage space, and improving operational convenience and clothing management efficiency.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

A garment processing apparatus is provided. The garment processing apparatus of the present invention includes: a first garment processor including a first housing and a first roller rotatably disposed inside the first housing; a second garment processor including a second housing disposed vertically to the first housing and a second roller rotatably disposed inside the second housing; a third garment processor including a third housing disposed to one side of the first housing and the second housing and having a space for accommodating garments formed therein; and a heating device disposed vertically to the first roller and the second roller to one side of the third housing, for heating air to be supplied to the interior space of the third housing. Thus, garment management can be performed centrally in a single space.
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Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to a laundry treating apparatus, and more particularly, to a laundry treating apparatus including a plurality of laundry treating apparatuses. BACKGROUND

[0002] Washing machines, drying machines, and care machines that treat laundry are respectively disposed in different spaces such as a kitchen, a utility room, a living room, and an outdoor space according to their use in a living space.

[0003] A washing machine is disclosed in Korean Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 10-2020-0109194. The washing machine supplies water and detergent to an outer tub and a drum and washes laundry by rotating the drum that accommodates the laundry. The washing machine supplies water to the outer tub or the drum through an external water source, circulates water in the outer tub to the drum using a pump, or discharges water in the outer tub to the outside. Generally, the washing machine is disposed in a kitchen or a utility room for water supply and discharge.

[0004] The washing machine separately provides a heater that heats air, a blowing fan, and a steam generating device, so that laundry can be dried or sterilized.

[0005] A drying machine is disclosed in Korean Registered Patent No. 10-2120993. The drying machine supplies air heated using a heating device and a blowing fan to the inside of a drum, thereby drying laundry accommodated in the inside of the drum. Generally, the drying machine is disposed adjacent to the washing machine so as to dry laundry that has finished washing and easily put the laundry containing moisture into the drying machine.

[0006] The drying machine can use a steam generating device that generates steam and sprays the generated steam to the inside of the drum to sterilize or remove wrinkles of laundry. In order to generate the steam, water can be supplied into the drying machine, and un-evaporated water can be reused or discharged to the outside. In addition, in order to remove odor of laundry that is dried, a deodorization function that filters circulating air can be additionally provided to the drying machine.

[0007] A care machine is disclosed in Korean Registered Patent No. 10-2254903. The care machine dries, deodorizes, removes wrinkles, removes static electricity, and / or sterilizes (hereinafter, also referred to as "care") laundry by supplying hot air and steam to a space that accommodates the laundry.

[0008] The care machine is mainly used for caring for clothes that a user frequently uses after washing, such as a suit, a coat, etc. Generally, a user stores clothes such as a suit, a coat, etc. in a closet. Accordingly, unlike a washing machine, the care machine can be disposed adjacent to the closet in a space such as a closet, a living room, a bedroom, or can replace the closet. On the other hand, the care machine can not only care for clothes or garments, but also care for all objects capable of performing washing, including objects that a person can wear, such as shoes, socks, gloves, hats, and scarves, and objects that a person frequently uses, such as a doll, a towel, and a quilt.

[0009] However, the existing clothes treatment apparatuses disposed in different spaces have a problem in that a user needs to transport classified clothes to each clothes treatment apparatus that cares for the clothes, and thus a work route becomes long and clothes management becomes inconvenient.

[0010] In addition, it is troublesome to transport washed, wet clothes or dried clothes to a space in which the care machine is disposed, since the care machine is disposed in a space different from a washing machine and a dryer.

[0011] In addition, in the existing clothes treatment apparatuses that treat clothes using hot air and steam, there is a problem in that a clothes accommodation space becomes small since each apparatus needs to be separately provided with a water supply device, a drain device, an air heating device, a steam generating device, a pump, a blowing fan, an air flow path, a steam flow path, etc. In addition, there is a problem in that the overall cost and energy consumption of the system increase since each apparatus is separately provided with a heating device, a steam generating device, etc. SUMMARY

[0012] An object of the present application is to solve the foregoing problems and other problems.

[0013] Still another object of the present application can be to provide a clothes treatment apparatus having a plurality of clothes treatment apparatuses.

[0014] Still another object of the present application can be to provide a clothes treatment apparatus having a washing machine, a dryer, and a care machine.

[0015] Still another object of the present application can be to provide a clothes treatment apparatus that performs washing, drying, and caring for clothes in the same space.

[0016] Still another object of the present application can be to minimize a work route of a user required for clothes treatment.

[0017] Still another object of the present application can be to provide a clothes treatment apparatus that can also treat clothes that cannot be dried at a high temperature in a space in which washing and drying are performed.

[0018] Another object of the present invention may be to provide a garment handling apparatus that improves the ease of operation of washing, drying and caring for garments.

[0019] Another object of the present invention may be to provide a garment handling device that reduces vibrations generated throughout the system.

[0020] Another objective of the present invention is to improve user convenience by reducing the height of components that require user operation, such as doors and control panels.

[0021] Another object of the present invention may be to provide a garment processing apparatus having a hot air flow path for supplying air to a washing machine, a dryer, and a garment care machine.

[0022] Another object of the present invention may be to provide a clothing processing device that minimizes the length of the hot air flow path supplying air to a washing machine, dryer, and garment care machine.

[0023] Another object of the present invention is to provide a nursing machine that expands the width in the front-to-back direction.

[0024] Another object of the present invention may be to provide a garment processing device that includes a care machine with an expanded front-to-back width.

[0025] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a clothing handling device that expands the vertical height of the clothing holding space.

[0026] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a clothing handling device that expands the vertical height of the clothing holding space inside a clothing care machine.

[0027] Another object of the present invention is to provide a garment handling device that utilizes the difference between the front-to-back width of a garment care machine and the front-to-back width of a washing machine / dryer.

[0028] Another object of the present invention may be to provide a garment processing apparatus having a steam flow path for supplying steam to a washing machine, a dryer, and a garment care machine.

[0029] Another object of the present invention may be to provide a clothing processing device that minimizes the length of the steam flow path for supplying steam to a washing machine, dryer, and garment care machine.

[0030] Another object of the present invention may be to provide a clothing processing apparatus that uses a single heating device to supply hot air to a plurality of clothing processors.

[0031] Another object of the present invention may be to provide a clothing processing apparatus that uses a single heating device to supply steam to a plurality of clothing processors.

[0032] Another object of the present invention is to provide a clothing treatment device that easily drains condensate generated in a heating device.

[0033] Another object of the present invention may be to provide a clothing treatment device that facilitates the supply and drainage of water required for steam generation.

[0034] Another object of the present invention may be to provide a garment processing device that minimizes the length of the hot air flow path supplying air to the dryer and the care machine.

[0035] Another object of the present invention is to optimize the configuration of the fan used to supply hot air to the dryer and the care machine.

[0036] Another object of the present invention is to minimize the heat loss of the hot air supplied to the nursing machine.

[0037] Another object of the present invention is to minimize the length of the air supply pipe and the exhaust pipe connected to the nursing machine.

[0038] Another object of the present invention is to drain the condensate generated in the heating device without the need for additional pumping equipment.

[0039] Another object of the present invention is to use the drain pump of the washing machine to manage condensate.

[0040] Another object of the present invention is to form hot air supplied to the nursing machine at a temperature lower than that of the dryer.

[0041] Another object of the present invention is to utilize the condensate generated in the heating device.

[0042] Another object of the present invention is to minimize the vibration generated in the washing machine.

[0043] Another objective of the present invention is to reduce the shaking of the washing machine casing.

[0044] Another object of the present invention is to combine a plurality of garment processors together.

[0045] Another object of the present invention is to supply hot air to the upper part of the nursing machine.

[0046] Another object of the present invention is to recover hot air at the top of the nursing machine.

[0047] Another object of the present invention is to reduce the height of the washing machine and dryer doors.

[0048] Another objective of the present invention is to reduce the height of the inlet for adding laundry and the control panel.

[0049] Another object of the present invention is to make it easier to transport laundry after washing.

[0050] Another object of the present invention is to prevent the air heated and dehumidified in the heating device from being directly expelled toward the user.

[0051] Another objective of the present invention is to position the flow path for indoor dehumidification at a high location.

[0052] Another object of the present invention is to provide a garment processing device with an upper end aligned.

[0053] Another object of the present invention is to provide a garment processing device with front-aligned design.

[0054] Another object of the present invention may be to provide a clothing handling device with a constant height along the horizontal direction.

[0055] Another object of the present invention is to provide a garment handling device with a constant width in the front-to-back direction.

[0056] Another objective of the present invention is to prevent the garment handling device from being damaged by collision with surrounding structures when it is installed.

[0057] The subject matter of this invention is not limited to the subject matter mentioned above, and those skilled in the art can clearly understand other subject matters not mentioned through the following description.

[0058] A garment processing apparatus of one aspect of the present invention for achieving the above-mentioned objectives may include a dryer, the dryer including a first housing having a first inlet.

[0059] The dryer may include a first door for opening and closing the first inlet.

[0060] The dryer may include a first drum rotatably disposed inside the first housing.

[0061] The clothing handling device may include a washing machine, and the washing machine includes a second housing configured vertically with respect to the first housing.

[0062] The second housing may include a second inlet.

[0063] The washing machine may include a second door for opening and closing the second inlet.

[0064] The washing machine may include an outer tub disposed inside the second housing.

[0065] The washing machine may include a second drum rotatably disposed inside the outer tub.

[0066] The garment processing device may include a care unit disposed on one side of the dryer.

[0067] The nursing machine can be configured on one side of the washing machine.

[0068] The nursing machine may include a third housing with an opening.

[0069] The nursing machine may include a third door for opening and closing the opening.

[0070] The interior of the care machine can be designed to accommodate clothing.

[0071] The garment handling apparatus may include a piping system connected to the dryer and the care machine.

[0072] The piping system may include a first air supply pipe that supplies air to the interior of the first roller.

[0073] The piping system may include a second air supply pipe that supplies air to the interior space of the nursing machine.

[0074] The piping system may include a heat exchange channel connected to the first gas supply pipe and the second gas supply pipe.

[0075] The garment processing device may include a heating device for heating the air passing through the heat exchange channel.

[0076] The garment processing device may include a first garment processor, which includes a housing having a laundry inlet and a door for opening and closing the laundry inlet.

[0077] The first garment processor may include a roller rotatably disposed inside the housing.

[0078] The clothing processing device may include a second clothing processor, which includes a housing with a clothing inlet and a door for opening and closing the clothing inlet.

[0079] The interior of the second clothing processor can be configured to hold clothing.

[0080] The piping system may include a first air supply pipe that supplies air to the inside of the drum of the first garment processor.

[0081] The piping system may include a second air supply pipe that supplies air to the interior space of the second clothing processor.

[0082] The piping system may include a heat exchange channel connected to the first gas supply pipe and the second gas supply pipe.

[0083] The heat exchange channel may have an inlet end for air to flow in and an outlet end for air to exit.

[0084] The garment processing device may include a combined frame having a first inlet and a second inlet spaced apart along the vertical direction and a horizontal partition wall disposed in the middle.

[0085] A drying chamber may be formed between the upper panel of the combined frame and the horizontal partition wall.

[0086] The first roller may be disposed inside the drying chamber.

[0087] A washing chamber may be formed between the lower panel of the combined frame and the horizontal partition wall.

[0088] The outer tub and the second roller can be configured inside the washing chamber.

[0089] The garment handling device may include a side frame disposed on one side of the combined frame.

[0090] The second air supply pipe can supply air into the interior of the side frame.

[0091] The garment handling device may include a single frame with vertical partition walls inside.

[0092] A horizontal partition wall may be configured between the vertical partition wall and one side panel of the single frame.

[0093] With the horizontal partition wall as a reference, the washing chamber and the drying chamber can be formed between the side panel and the vertical partition wall in a manner that divides them along the vertical direction.

[0094] A care room for garment care can be formed between the vertical partition wall and the other side panel of the single frame.

[0095] The dryer can be configured horizontally on one side of the washing machine.

[0096] The care machine can be configured on top of the dryer and the washing machine.

[0097] The garment processing device may include an air supply pipe connecting the heating device and the care machine.

[0098] The air supply pipe can supply air heated in the heating device to the interior space of the nursing machine.

[0099] The heating device can be configured on the lower side of the first drum.

[0100] The washing machine can be configured above the dryer.

[0101] The heating device can be configured between the first roller and the outer barrel.

[0102] The heating device may have a heat exchange unit that heats the air to be supplied to the nursing machine.

[0103] The garment handling device may include a drawer located on the lower side below the heat exchange unit.

[0104] The drawer may have a space inside for storing water.

[0105] The gas supply pipe can extend downwards from the heating device.

[0106] The air supply pipe can be connected to the air supply port formed at the lower part of the nursing machine.

[0107] The garment handling device may include an exhaust duct extending upwards from the heating device.

[0108] The exhaust pipe can be connected to an exhaust port formed on the upper part of the nursing machine.

[0109] The heating device can be configured on the upper side of the dryer.

[0110] The gas supply pipe can extend upwards from the heating device.

[0111] The air supply pipe can be connected to the air supply port formed on the upper part of the nursing machine.

[0112] The garment handling device may include an exhaust pipe extending downwards from the heating device.

[0113] The exhaust pipe can be connected to an exhaust port formed at the bottom of the nursing machine.

[0114] The dryer can be configured above the washing machine.

[0115] The washing machine may include a drain pump for draining water from the outer tub.

[0116] The heating device can be configured on the lower side of the outer barrel.

[0117] The garment handling device may include a drain tray disposed on the lower side of the heat exchange unit.

[0118] The garment handling device may include a discharge pipe connecting the drain pan and the drain pump.

[0119] The washing machine may include a top panel that is connected to the lower part of the dryer.

[0120] The washing machine may include a suspension system that connects the washing machine housing and the outer tub.

[0121] The washing machine housing may include a side panel disposed between the outer tub and the housing of the care machine.

[0122] The side panel can face the housing of the nursing machine.

[0123] The side panel can be integrated with the housing of the nursing machine.

[0124] The heating device can be configured on the upper side of the first drum.

[0125] The garment handling device may include a storage box disposed between the heating device and the housing of the care machine.

[0126] The heating device can be configured on an upper side that is higher than the first roller and the second roller.

[0127] The second drum may open toward the second inlet so that the laundry contained therein may be drawn out through the second inlet.

[0128] The first roller may be located below the second roller.

[0129] The first drum may open toward the first inlet so that laundry drawn from the second drum can be fed into the first inlet.

[0130] The garment processing device may include a dehumidification duct that discharges air heated in the heating device to the outside of the garment processing device.

[0131] The dehumidification duct can be located on the upper side, higher than the door of the dryer and the door of the washing machine.

[0132] The upper part of the front of the garment processing device can be aligned in the horizontal direction.

[0133] The upper part of the front of one of the dryers, washing machines, and heating devices located on the uppermost side can be aligned with the upper part of the front of the nursing machine.

[0134] Detailed descriptions of other embodiments are provided in the accompanying drawings.

[0135] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, a clothing processing apparatus having a plurality of clothing processors can be provided.

[0136] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, a garment processing apparatus comprising a washing machine, a dryer, and a garment care machine can be provided.

[0137] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, a garment processing apparatus may be provided in which a washing machine, a dryer and a care machine are arranged in the same space, thereby enabling washing, drying and care to be performed in the same space.

[0138] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, clothing can be cared for in the same space regardless of its type.

[0139] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, when performing washing, drying and care operations, the burden (workload, route, etc.) required for users to transport clothes can be reduced.

[0140] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, clothing that cannot be dried at high temperatures can be cared for by a care machine within the space where washing and drying are performed.

[0141] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, by configuring the washing machine and the care machine to share a common side, it is possible to reduce vibrations generated in the washing machine.

[0142] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, by arranging a heating device for the care machine between the washing machine and the dryer, it is possible to expand the height of the clothing storage space inside the care machine.

[0143] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, by configuring a hot air flow path in the rear space of the nursing machine, the front-to-back width of the entire system can be uniformly matched.

[0144] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, by arranging the heating device at the middle height of the care machine, the length of the hot air supply path for supplying hot air to each of the washing machine, dryer and care machine can be minimized.

[0145] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, by arranging the steam generator at the middle height of the care machine, the length of the steam supply path for supplying steam to each of the washing machine, dryer and care machine can be minimized.

[0146] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, hot air can be supplied to each of the washing machine, dryer, and care machine using a single heating device.

[0147] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, steam can be supplied to each of the washing machine, dryer and care machine using a single steam generator.

[0148] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, the condensate generated in the evaporator can be drained by the drain pump of the washing machine, thereby making the management of condensate easy.

[0149] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, the water required to generate steam can be supplied through the water supply pipe of the washing machine, thereby making steam generation easy.

[0150] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, by arranging a heating device that supplies hot air to the nursing machine on the lateral side, the height of the internal space of the nursing machine can be increased.

[0151] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, by utilizing the heating device of the dryer to supply hot air to the nursing machine, the volume of the internal space of the nursing machine can be increased.

[0152] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, by arranging a heating device at the lower part of the garment processing device, the length of the hot air flow path connected to the dryer and the care machine can be minimized.

[0153] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, by reducing the length of the air supply pipe connecting the heating device and the nursing machine, the heat loss of the hot air supplied to the nursing machine can be minimized.

[0154] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, the condensate generated in the evaporator can be drained by the drain pump of the washing machine, thereby making the management of condensate easy.

[0155] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, by utilizing a single drain pump to drain the water in the outer tank and the condensate generated in the heating device, the number of components required for drainage can be reduced.

[0156] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, by combining the casing of the washing machine and the casing of the care machine, it is possible to reduce vibrations generated in the washing machine.

[0157] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since a heating device is arranged on the upper side of the washing machine and dryer, it is easy to supply hot air to the upper part of the care machine.

[0158] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the heating device is arranged on the upper side of the dryer and washing machine, the height of the doors of the dryer and washing machine can be reduced.

[0159] According to at least one embodiment of the invention, since the washing machine is positioned above the dryer, heavy laundry that has finished washing is lowered into the dryer's inlet, thereby enabling easy transport of the laundry.

[0160] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, since the dehumidification duct is arranged on the upper side of the dryer and the washing machine, it is possible to prevent the high-temperature dry air discharged through the dehumidification duct from being directly discharged toward the user.

[0161] According to at least one embodiment of the invention, the combination of multiple garment processors can be facilitated by aligning the upper ends of the garment processing device.

[0162] The effects of this invention are not limited to those mentioned above. Those skilled in the art can more clearly understand other effects not mentioned through the description in the claims. Attached Figure Description

[0163] FIG. 1 This is a perspective view of a clothing processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0164] FIG. 2 This is a longitudinal sectional view of a clothing processing apparatus according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0165] FIG. 3 This is another longitudinal sectional view of a clothing processing apparatus according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0166] FIG. 4 This is a conceptual diagram of the piping system of a garment processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0167] FIG. 5 This is a perspective view of a heating device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0168] FIG. 6 This is yet another perspective view of a heating device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0169] FIG. 7 This is yet another perspective view of a heating device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0170] FIG. 8 This is an operational illustration of a heating device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0171] FIG. 9 This is a diagram showing a portion of the back of a garment handling apparatus according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0172] FIG. 10 This is a diagram illustrating the assembly of a garment processing apparatus according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0173] FIG. 11 This is a rear perspective view of a clothing processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0174] FIG. 12 This is a top view of a clothing processing apparatus according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0175] FIG. 13 This is a rear perspective view of a clothing processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0176] FIG. 14 This is an enlarged view of the support block according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0177] FIG. 15 This is a cross-sectional view of a support block according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0178] FIG. 16 This is an example diagram of the operation of an auxiliary panel according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0179] FIG. 17 This is an example diagram of the operation of an auxiliary panel according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0180] FIG. 18 This is a front view of a clothing processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0181] FIG. 19 This is a perspective view of a clothing processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0182] FIG. 20 This is a conceptual diagram of the piping system of a garment processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0183] FIG. 21 This is a rear perspective view of a clothing processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0184] FIG. 22 This is a bottom perspective view of a clothing processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0185] FIG. 23 This is a rear perspective view of a clothing processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0186] FIG. 24 This is a perspective view of a clothing processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0187] FIG. 25 This is a longitudinal sectional view of a clothing processing apparatus according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0188] FIG. 26 This is a conceptual diagram of the piping system of a garment processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0189] FIG. 27 This is an enlarged view of a portion of the back of a garment handling apparatus according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0190] FIG. 28This is an exploded view of a clothing processing apparatus according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0191] FIG. 29 This is a rear perspective view of a clothing processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0192] FIG. 30 This is a rear perspective view of a clothing processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0193] FIG. 31 This is a perspective view of a clothing processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0194] FIG. 32 This is a conceptual diagram of the piping system of a garment processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0195] FIG. 33 This is a perspective view of a heating device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0196] FIG. 34 This is a rear perspective view of a clothing processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0197] FIG. 35 This is a bottom perspective view of a clothing processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0198] FIG. 36 This is a rear perspective view of a clothing processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0199] FIG. 37 This is a perspective view of a clothing processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0200] FIG. 38 This is a longitudinal sectional view of a clothing processing apparatus according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0201] FIG. 39 This is a conceptual diagram of the piping system of a garment processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0202] FIG. 40 This is a perspective view of a heating device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0203] FIG. 41 This is a rear perspective view of a clothing processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0204] FIG. 42 This is a perspective view of a clothing processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0205] FIG. 43 This is a rear perspective view of a clothing processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0206] FIG. 44 This is a rear view of a clothing processing apparatus according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0207] FIG. 45 This is a perspective view of a clothing processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0208] FIG. 46 This is a conceptual diagram of the piping system of a garment processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0209] FIG. 47 This is a rear perspective view of a clothing processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0210] FIG. 48 This is a perspective view of a clothing processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0211] FIG. 49 This is a rear perspective view of a clothing processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0212] FIG. 50 This is a perspective view of a clothing processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0213] FIG. 51 This is a perspective view of a clothing processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0214] FIG. 52 This is a perspective view of a clothing processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0215] FIG. 53 This is a perspective view of a clothing processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0216] FIG. 54 This is a conceptual diagram of a clothing processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention.

[0217] FIG. 55 This is a conceptual diagram of a clothing processing device according to at least one embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0218] The embodiments disclosed in this specification will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Regardless of the drawing numbers, the same or similar constituent elements are given the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0219] The suffixes “module” and “section” used in the following description are only for the purpose of making the instruction manual easier, and have no meaning or function that distinguishes them from each other.

[0220] Furthermore, in describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, if it is determined that the specific description of related well-known technologies would obscure the main idea of ​​the embodiments disclosed in this specification, detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted. Additionally, the accompanying drawings are only for aiding understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification; the technical concepts disclosed in this specification are not limited by the drawings and should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions encompassed within the concept and technical scope of this specification.

[0221] Terms such as "first," "second," etc., which include ordinal numbers, can be used to describe various constituent elements, but the constituent elements are not limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one constituent element from another.

[0222] When a constituent element is referred to as being "connected" or "linked" to another constituent element, it should be understood that it may be directly connected or linked to that other constituent element, but there may also be other constituent elements between them. Conversely, when a constituent element is referred to as being "directly connected" or "directly linked" to another constituent element, it should be understood that there are no other constituent elements between them.

[0223] Unless otherwise stated, singular expressions include plural expressions.

[0224] The laundry treating apparatus of this invention includes one or more laundry treating machines. The laundry treating machine refers to a device that performs washing, drying, and / or care on objects (e.g., clothing, towels, blankets, etc.).

[0225] A garment processing device may include a plurality of garment processors of the same type. For example, a garment processing device may include two or more dryers 1. For example, a garment processing device may include two or more washing machines 2. For example, a garment processing device may include two or more garment care machines 3.

[0226] Clothing processing devices may include different types of clothing processors. For example, clothing processing devices may include a dryer 1, a washing machine 2, and a garment care machine 3.

[0227] A garment processing apparatus may include a plurality of garment processors of the same type and garment processors of different types. For example, a garment processing apparatus may include two or more washing machines, a dryer, and a garment care machine.

[0228] The garment processing apparatus of the present invention is not limited by the type and number of garment processors, and can include various combinations thereof. Hereinafter, an example garment processing apparatus comprising a dryer 1, a washing machine 2, and a care machine 3 will be described, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0229] Dryer 1, washing machine 2, and garment care machine 3 can be referred to as one of the following: first garment processor, second garment processor, and third garment processor. For example, dryer 1 can be referred to as the "first garment processor", washing machine 2 can be referred to as the "second garment processor", and garment care machine 3 can be referred to as the "third garment processor".

[0230] The terms "first," "second," and "third," which include ordinal numbers, are used only to distinguish constituent elements and do not limit the constituent elements. The names of the constituent elements are not limited to the ordinal numbers and may include other ordinal numbers. The names of the constituent elements may be used independently without including the ordinal number. For example, the names of the constituent elements of dryer 1 may include the ordinal number "first," the names of the constituent elements of washing machine 2 may include the ordinal number "second," and the names of the constituent elements of care machine 3 may include the ordinal number "third." However, the names of the constituent elements of dryer 1, washing machine 2, and care machine 3 are not limited to the ordinal numbers mentioned above and may include other ordinal numbers or may be used independently without including the ordinal number.

[0231] The garment handling apparatus may include a controller 81 that controls the drives of the dryer 1, washing machine 2, garment care machine 3, and heating device 50. The controller 81 may be mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB). The controller 81 can control the dryer 1, washing machine 2, garment care machine 3, and heating device 50 based on electrical signals received from the control panel 8. The controller 81 can communicate with the control panel 8.

[0232] The dryer 1 and washing machine 2 can be configured one above the other. A control panel 8 can be configured between the dryer 1 and washing machine 2. The control panel 8 can also be configured one above the care machine 3.

[0233] Users can input commands to the garment handling device via control panel 8. Users can operate the dryer 1, washing machine 2, and garment care machine 3 via control panel 8. Users can control the operation of heating device 50 via control panel 8. Control panel 8 can transmit electrical signals input by the user to controller 81.

[0234] The control panel 8 may have a space for configuring a printed circuit board (PCB, not shown). The control unit may be mounted on the PCB. The control unit may be a controller 81.

[0235] Alternatively, the control unit can be located on the back of the control panel 8. A space for configuring a PCB can be formed on the back of the control panel 8. The controller 81 can be mounted on the PCB.

[0236] Alternatively, at least a portion of the dryer 1, washing machine 2, care machine 3, and machine room S may include controllers for controlling their respective drives. In this case, each controller may be mounted on a PCB. The controllers may communicate with each other. Depending on the situation, at least one controller may be a higher-level controller capable of controlling other controllers and devices.

[0237] Control panel 8 displays the operating status of the garment processing device. Users can check the operating status information of the garment processing device through control panel 8.

[0238] The garment handling apparatus may include a heating element 50. The heating element 50 may supply hot air to the dryer 1. The heating element 50 may supply hot air to the care unit 3. The heating element 50 may supply hot air to the washing machine 2. The hot air supplied to each garment handler may recirculate by flowing back into the heating element 50.

[0239] However, the garment handling apparatus of the present invention can also exhaust the hot air supplied to the dryer 1, washing machine 2, and care machine 3 respectively to the outside of the garment handling apparatus without recirculation. That is, the garment handling apparatus of the present invention can exhaust the hot air supplied to the outer tub 23 of the washing machine 2 to the outside of the washing machine 2, exhaust the hot air supplied to the first drum 13 of the dryer 1 to the outside of the dryer 3, and exhaust the hot air supplied to the internal space 33 of the care machine 3 to the outside of the care machine 3.

[0240] The garment handling apparatus may include a machine room S (refer to...) FIG. 2 The machine room S provides space for arranging the heating device 50. The machine room S can be a concept encompassing the space for arranging the heating device 50 and other components besides the heating device 50. Within the machine room S, pumps, blower fans, airflow paths, steam generators, steamflow paths, dehumidifiers, controllers, motors, and fan housings, including the heating device 50, can be arranged. The machine room S provides space for arranging the aforementioned operating elements (pumps, blower fans, airflow paths, steam generators, steamflow paths, dehumidifiers, controllers, motors, and fan housings).

[0241] In this invention, the machine room S may refer to the space in which the heating device 50 is configured as described above, or it may be a higher-level concept that includes the heating device 50.

[0242] The machine room S may include a separate housing (not shown). When the machine room S includes a separate housing (not shown), the machine room S may be separate from the first housing 10 and the second housing 20. Alternatively, the machine room S may be disposed inside one of the first housing 10, the second housing 20, and the third housing 30. If the machine room S is disposed inside one of the first housing 10, the second housing 20, and the third housing 30, then the machine room S may refer to the concept of a space containing various constituent elements, including the heating device 50. That is, if the machine room S is disposed inside one of the first housing 10, the second housing 20, and the third housing 30, then the machine room S may refer to a portion of the internal space of the first housing 10, the second housing 20, and the third housing 30.

[0243] The machine chamber S can be configured vertically above the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2. The machine chamber S can also be configured above the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2. The machine chamber S can also be configured between the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2. The machine chamber S can also be configured below the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2. In contrast, the machine chamber S can be configured vertically above the care machine 3. The machine chamber S can be configured above or below the care machine 3.

[0244] The heating device 50 can supply hot air to the dryer 1. The heating device 50 can also recover the hot air supplied to the dryer 1.

[0245] The heating device 50 can supply hot air to the washing machine 2. The heating device 50 can also recover the hot air supplied to the washing machine 2.

[0246] The heating device 50 can supply hot air to the nursing machine 3. The heating device 50 can also recover the hot air supplied to the nursing machine 3.

[0247] Heating device 50 can supply steam to dryer 1. Heating device 50 can supply steam to washing machine 2. Heating device 50 can supply steam to nursing machine 3.

[0248] Heating device 50 may include a heat pump device. The heat pump device may include a compressor 51, a condenser 52, an evaporator 53, and an expansion device 54 (see reference). FIG. 5 The heating device 50 may include a fan 60 (see reference). FIG. 5 The heat pump device can be referred to as a "heat exchange unit".

[0249] Heating device 50 may include heating in heat exchange channel 42 (see reference) FIG. 5A heat exchange unit for flowing air. The heat exchange unit may be a heat pump connected to a refrigerant flow path. The heat exchange unit may be an electrically powered heater. The heat exchange unit may be a heating element. The heat exchange unit may include the heater and a cooler (not shown). The cooler may be located upstream of the heater. The cooler may be located inside the heat exchange channel 42. The cooler can dehumidify and cool the air passing through the heat exchange channel 42.

[0250] The heating device 50 can be arranged above or below the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2. The heating device 50 can also be arranged on the upper side of the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2, or between the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2, or on the lower side of the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2.

[0251] The heating device 50 can also be configured above or below the nursing machine 3. The heating device 50 can also be configured in the rear space of the nursing machine 3.

[0252] The heating device 50 can be disposed inside the first housing 10. The heating device 50 can be disposed inside the second housing 20. The heating device 50 can be disposed inside the third housing 30.

[0253] The dryer 1, washing machine 2, and heating device 50 (or machine chamber S) can be arranged vertically, and the care machine 3 can be configured to the side of the dryer 1 and washing machine 2. The heating device 50 can be configured to the side of the care machine 3.

[0254] The following is for reference FIG. 1 This describes a clothing processing device A according to one aspect of the present invention.

[0255] FIG. 1 The illustrated garment handling device A can be an embodiment in which a dryer 1 is positioned above the washing machine 2, and a heating device 50 is positioned between the washing machine 2 and the dryer 1. However, the vertical arrangement of the dryer 1, washing machine 2, and heating device 50 is not limited to this.

[0256] The care machine 3 can be configured on one side (later side) of the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2. For example, the care machine 3 can be configured on the right side of the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2. However, the configuration position of the care machine 3 is not limited to the above situation, and the care machine 3 can also be configured on the left side of the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2.

[0257] The front-to-back width of the nursing machine 3 can be smaller than that of the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2.

[0258] A rear housing 310 may be configured at the rear of the nursing machine 3, and the hot air flow path or steam flow path described later may be configured in the rear housing 310.

[0259] The dryer 1 includes: a first housing 10, on the front of which a first inlet 12 is formed (see reference). FIG. 2 ); and the first door 11, which is rotatably connected to the first housing 10.

[0260] Users can open the first inlet 12 by rotating the first door 11, and put the laundry into the first drum 13 through the first inlet 12.

[0261] The washing machine 2 includes: a second housing 20, on the front of which a second inlet 22 is formed (see reference). FIG. 2 ); and a second door 21, which is rotatably connected to the second housing 20.

[0262] Users can open the second inlet 22 by rotating the second door 21, and put the laundry into the second drum 24 through the second inlet 22.

[0263] The nursing machine 3 includes: a third housing 30, which forms a space for storing clothing and has a third inlet 32 ​​(see reference). FIG. 3 ); and a third door 31, rotatably connected to a third housing 30. The third inlet 32 ​​may be referred to as an "opening".

[0264] Users can open the third inlet 32 ​​by rotating the third door 31, and put the laundry into the third compartment 30 through the third inlet 32.

[0265] Each of the first housing 10, the second housing 20, and the third housing 30 may include a top panel, a bottom panel, a front panel, a rear panel, and a side panel. The top panel may be referred to as the "top sidewall." The bottom panel may be referred to as the "bottom sidewall." The front panel may be referred to as the "front wall." The rear panel may be referred to as the "rear sidewall." The side panel may be referred to as the "side wall."

[0266] Each of the first housing 10, the second housing 20, and the third housing 30 may include a pair of side panels. The pair of side panels may be spaced apart from each other horizontally. The side panels may be referred to as "side walls". The first housing 10 may include a first inner side wall 106 facing the care machine 3 and a first outer side wall 105 spaced apart from the first inner side wall 106. The second housing 20 may include a second inner side wall 206 facing the care machine 3 and a second outer side wall 205 spaced apart from the second inner side wall 206. The third housing 30 may include a third inner side wall 306 facing the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2 and a third outer side wall 305 spaced apart from the third inner side wall 306.

[0267] The first housing 10 may include a first upper panel 103, a first lower panel 104, a first front panel 101, a first rear panel 102, and first side panels 105 and 106.

[0268] The second housing 20 may include a second upper panel 203, a second lower panel 204, a second front panel 201, a second rear panel 202, and second side panels 205 and 206.

[0269] The third housing 30 may include a third upper panel 303, a third lower panel 304, a third front panel 301, a third rear panel 302, and third side panels 305 and 306. The third housing 30 may include a third door 31 to replace the third front panel 301.

[0270] The descriptions of the first housing 10, the second housing 20, and the third housing 30 described above are equally applicable to reference. FIG. 1 to FIG. 55 The described garment handling device.

[0271] The spaces between dryer 1 and care machine 3, and between washing machine 2 and care machine 3, may be fitted with plates (not shown). The plates may be made of vibration-damping material. Dryer 1, washing machine 2, and care machine 3 can be connected to each other via these plates.

[0272] The first upper panel 103 of the dryer 1 and the third upper panel 303 of the care machine 3 can be configured on the same horizontal plane. The third upper panel 303 of the care machine 3 and the upper side wall 313 of the rear housing 310 can be configured on the same horizontal plane.

[0273] The dryer 1 may have a first upper side surface 10c. The first upper side surface 10c may be the top surface of the first housing 10. The first upper side surface 10c may be the top surface of the first upper panel 103.

[0274] The nursing machine 3 may have a third upper side 30c. The third upper side 30c may be the top surface of the third housing 30.

[0275] The first upper side 10c and the third upper side 30c can be aligned horizontally. The first upper side 10c and the third upper side 30c can be located on the same horizontal plane. However, the height of the first upper side 10c and the height of the third upper side 30c can be different. In this case, a step can be formed between the first upper side 10c and the third upper side 30c.

[0276] The meaning of "alignment" in the process of describing the garment handling apparatus of the present invention is defined as follows: "Alignment" can refer to the fact that a plurality of constituent elements are substantially arranged on the same plane. That is, even if constituent element A and constituent element B are not arranged on the same plane in a strict sense, but are arranged on two planes with a predetermined interval, it can still be expressed as "alignment". In addition, in the process of describing the garment handling apparatus of the present invention, the meaning of "located on the same plane" includes the case where they are substantially located on the same plane. For example, even if the first plane where constituent element A is located and the second plane where constituent element B is located are parallel to each other, it can be expressed as "A and B are aligned", or it can be expressed as "A and B are located on the same plane".

[0277] The dryer 1 may have a first front surface (10a or 11a). The front surface 10a of the dryer 1 may refer to the front surface of the first housing 10. The first front surface 10a may be the front surface of the first front panel 101.

[0278] The first door 11 may have a first front surface 11a. The front surface 11a of the dryer 1 may refer to the front surface of the first door 11.

[0279] The first door 11 may protrude further forward than the front of the first housing 10. In this case, the front side 11a of the first door 11 may be referred to as the front side 11a of the dryer 1, and the front side 10a of the first housing 10 may also be referred to as the front side 10a of the dryer 1.

[0280] The washing machine 2 may have a second front surface (20a or 21a). The front surface 20a of the washing machine 2 may refer to the front surface of the second housing 20. The second front surface 20a may be the front surface of the second front panel 201.

[0281] The second door 21 may have a second front surface 21a. The front surface 21a of the washing machine 2 may refer to the front surface of the second door 21.

[0282] The second door 21 may protrude further forward than the front of the second housing 20. In this case, the front surface 21a of the second door 21 may be referred to as the front surface 21a of the washing machine 2, or the front surface 20a of the second housing 20 may be referred to as the front surface 20a of the washing machine 2.

[0283] The nursing machine 3 may have a third front surface 31a. The front surface 31a of the nursing machine 3 may refer to the front surface of the third door 31.

[0284] The front surfaces of dryer 1 (10a or 11a) and care machine 3 (31a) can be aligned. The front surfaces of dryer 1 (10a or 11a) and care machine 3 (31a) can be on the same plane. The front surfaces of washing machine 2 (20a or 21a) and care machine 3 (31a) can be aligned. The front surfaces of washing machine 2 (20a or 21a) and care machine 3 (31a) can be on the same plane. The front surfaces of dryer 1 (10a or 11a) and washing machine 2 (20a or 21a) can be aligned. The front surfaces of dryer 1 (10a or 11a) and washing machine 2 (20a or 21a) can be on the same plane.

[0285] The front surface 31a of the nursing machine 3 can be aligned with the front surface 10a of the first housing 10 and the front surface 20a of the second housing 20. The front surface 31a of the nursing machine 3 can be located on the same plane as the front surface 10a of the first housing 10 and the front surface 20a of the second housing 20.

[0286] The front surface 31a of the nursing machine 3 can be aligned with the front surface 11a of the first door 11 and the front surface 21a of the second door 21. The front surface 31a of the nursing machine 3 can be located on the same plane as the front surface 11a of the first door 11 and the front surface 21a of the second door 21.

[0287] The front surface 31a of the nursing machine 3 can be aligned with the front surfaces 11a, 21a of each door 11, 21 in the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2, and can also be aligned with the front surfaces 10a, 20a of each cabinet 10, 20 in the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2. For example... FIG. 12 As shown, when the front faces 11a, 21a of each door 11, 21 in the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2 are on the same plane as the front faces 10a, 20a of the cabinets 10, 20, the front face 31a of the care machine 3 can be simultaneously aligned with the front faces 10a, 11a, 20a, 21a of each door 11, 21 in the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2 and the front faces 10a, 11a, 20a, 21a of the cabinets 10, 20.

[0288] The upper part 107 of the front side 10a of the dryer 1 and the upper part 307 of the front side 31a of the care machine 3 can be aligned. The upper part 107 of the front side 10a of the dryer 1 and the upper part 307 of the front side 31a of the care machine 3 can be located on the same plane.

[0289] The dryer 1 may have a first upper end portion 107. The first upper end portion 107 may refer to the upper end portion of the front face 10a of the first housing 10. The first upper end portion 107 may refer to the upper end portion of the first front panel 101.

[0290] The nursing machine 3 may have a second upper end portion 307. The second upper end portion 307 may refer to the upper end portion of the third door 31.

[0291] The first upper end portion 107 and the second upper end portion 307 can be aligned in the horizontal direction. The first upper end portion 107 and the second upper end portion 307 can be located on the same horizontal plane. The first upper end portion 107 and the second upper end portion 307 can form a step in the horizontal direction, in which case the first upper end portion 107 and the second upper end portion 307 can be aligned in the horizontal direction.

[0292] The first upper side surface 10c may be located on the same horizontal plane as the first upper end portion 107. However, the first upper side surface 10c may be located on a lower side than the first upper end portion 107. The first upper side surface 10c may be aligned with the first upper end portion 107 in the front-back direction.

[0293] The third upper side surface 30c can be located on the same horizontal plane as the second upper end portion 307. However, the third upper side surface 30c can be located on a lower side than the second upper end portion 307. The third upper side surface 30c can be aligned with the second upper end portion 307 in the front-back direction.

[0294] The garment handling device A may include a connector 92 having a width in the horizontal direction and being coupled to a first upper end 107 and a second upper end 307, respectively. The connector 92 may be referred to as the "upper connector".

[0295] The garment handling device A may include: an upper connector 92 for connecting the first housing 10 and the third housing 30; and a lower connector 90 (see reference 1). FIG. 42 The upper connector 92 can connect one of the upper housings 10 and 20 to the third housing 30. The lower connector 90 can connect the other of the lower housings 10 and 20 to the third housing 30.

[0296] Connector 92 can extend rearward from the upper ends 107, 307. Connector 92 can connect the first upper end 107 and the second upper end 307 to each other. Connector 92 can connect the first upper side 10c and the third upper side 30c to each other.

[0297] The garment processing device A may include a tower 9, which may include a dryer 1 and a washing machine 2. The tower 9 may include a heating device 50.

[0298] Tower 9 can be a combination of dryer 1 and washing machine 2 arranged vertically. When heating device 50 is arranged on one side of care machine 3, tower 9 can be a combination of dryer 1, washing machine 2 and heating device 50 arranged vertically.

[0299] The dryer 1, washing machine 2, and heating device 50 can be arranged vertically to form a tower 9. Within the tower 9, the order in which the dryer 1, washing machine 2, and heating device 50 are arranged is not limited to... FIG. 1 The order shown. For example, the washing machine 2 can be positioned above the dryer 1, and the heating device 50 can be positioned higher than the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2.

[0300] Tower 9 can be configured on one side of nursing machine 3 (Lateral side).

[0301] The front surface of tower 9 and the front surface 31a of nursing machine 3 can be aligned. The front surface of tower 9 and the front surface 31a of nursing machine 3 can be on the same plane. The front surface of tower 9 can refer to the front surface 11a of first door 11 and the front surface 21a of second door 21. The front surface of tower 9 can also refer to the front surface 10a of first housing 10, the front surface 20a of second housing 20, and the front surface of control panel 8.

[0302] The upper part 91 of the front of tower 9 and the upper part 307 of the front of nursing machine 3 31a can be aligned. The upper part 91 of the front of tower 9 and the upper part 307 of the front of nursing machine 3 31a can be located on the same horizontal plane.

[0303] The upper end 91 of the front of the tower 9 can refer to the first upper end 107. However, when the washing machine 2 is positioned above the dryer 1, the upper end 91 of the front of the tower 9 can refer to the upper end of the front of the washing machine 2. Furthermore, when the heating device 50 is positioned above both the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2, the upper end 91 of the front of the tower 9 can refer to the upper end of the front of the heating device 50.

[0304] The upper side 9c of tower 9 and the upper side 30c of nursing machine 3 can be aligned horizontally. The upper side 9c of tower 9 and the upper side 30c of nursing machine 3 can be located on the same horizontal plane.

[0305] Connector 92 can connect the upper end 91 of the front of tower 9 and the upper end 307 of the front of nursing machine 3. Connector 92 can connect the upper side 9c of tower 9 and the upper side 30c of nursing machine 3.

[0306] The third side panel 305 of the nursing machine 3 and the side wall 315 of the rear housing 310 can be configured on the same plane.

[0307] The front panel 101 of the dryer 1, the front panel 201 of the washing machine 2, and the control panel 8 can be arranged on the same plane. The front surface 10a of the dryer 1, the front surface 20a of the washing machine 2, and the front surface of the control panel 8 can be located on the same plane.

[0308] The third door 31 of the nursing machine 3 can be arranged on the same plane as the front panel 101 of the dryer 1, the front panel 201 of the washing machine 2, and the control panel 8. Alternatively, the third door 31 of the nursing machine 3 can be arranged on the same plane as the first door 11 of the dryer 1 and the second door 21 of the washing machine 2.

[0309] The second lower panel 204 of the washing machine 2 and the third lower panel 304 of the care machine 3 can be configured on the same horizontal plane.

[0310] The following is for reference FIG. 2 This describes the internal structure of the dryer 1, washing machine 2, and heating device 50. FIG. 2 This is a diagram showing the internal structure of the dryer 1 and washing machine 2, which are cut along the longitudinal direction of the clothing handling device A.

[0311] The washing machine 2 may include: a second housing 20; a second door 21 rotatably connected to the second housing 20; an outer tub 23 disposed inside the second housing 20; a second drum 24 rotatably disposed inside the outer tub 23 and containing clothes inside; a motor 25 for transmitting power to the second drum 24; a drain pump 26 for discharging water generated in the clothes handling unit A to the outside; a water supply valve 27 connected to an external water source (not shown); and a drawer 28 for storing detergent. The drawer 28 may be referred to as a "detergent tank".

[0312] The drain pump 26 can be connected to the outer tub 23 via the first drain pipe 261. The drain pump 26 can discharge water flowing in through the first drain pipe 261 and the discharge pipe 532 to the outside of the laundry handling device A via the second drain pipe 262. However, the discharge pipe 532 can be directly connected to the second drain pipe 262. In this case, condensate generated in the evaporator 53 can be discharged to the outside of the laundry handling device A via the discharge pipe 532 and the second drain pipe 262.

[0313] Water supply valve 27 can open and close the water supply lines 278 and 279 (not shown) connecting the external water source (not shown) and the washing machine 2. FIG. 9 The water supply valve 27 can regulate the flow rate of water flowing into the washing machine 2 from the external water source. The water supply valve 27 can be connected to the first water supply pipe 271. The first water supply pipe 271 can be connected to the drawer 28 for storing detergent. The water flowing into the drawer 28 via the first water supply pipe 271 can flow into the outer tub 23 together with the detergent in the drawer 28 through the second water supply pipe 272.

[0314] The dryer 1 may include: a first housing 10; a first door 11 rotatably connected to the first housing 10; and a first drum 13 rotatably disposed inside the first housing 10 to hold clothes inside.

[0315] The dryer 1 may include a motor 133 (see reference) for rotating the first drum 13. FIG. 5 The pulley can be fixed to the rotating shaft of the motor 133. A belt can connect the pulley and the circumferential surface of the roller. Thus, the rotational force of the motor 133 can be transmitted to the roller 13 through the pulley and the belt.

[0316] Motor 133 can be disposed on the underside of the first roller 13. Motor 133 can be disposed on the heating device 50. Motor 133 can be disposed on the lateral side of the heat exchange channel 42. In the housing 570 of the heating device 50 (see reference) FIG. 5 It can be equipped with a motor mounting section 133s (see reference). FIG. 6 ).

[0317] In contrast, the motor 133 can be directly connected to the first roller 13, thereby rotating the first roller 13.

[0318] The heating device 50 can be disposed on the upper side of the second upper panel 203. The heating device 50 can also be disposed inside the first housing 10.

[0319] The heating device 50 may include: a condenser 52 for heating air by exchanging heat between a high-temperature refrigerant and the air; a fan 60 for blowing the air heated by the condenser 52; and an evaporator 53 for cooling and dehumidifying the air by exchanging heat between the air flowing into the heating device 50 and the low-temperature refrigerant. The condenser 52 and the evaporator 53 may be referred to as a "heat exchange unit".

[0320] The air heated while passing through the condenser 52 (hereinafter referred to as "hot air") can be blown by the fan 60 and supplied to at least one of the dryer 1, washing machine 2 and care machine 3.

[0321] The heating device 50 can be connected to the first roller 13 via the first air supply pipe 43. The hot air generated in the heating device 50 can be blown by the fan 60 and supplied to the interior of the first roller 13 via the first air supply pipe 43. The first air supply pipe 43 can extend upward from the heating device 50.

[0322] The heating device 50 can be connected to the outer tub 23 via a third air supply pipe 48. The hot air generated in the heating device 50 can be blown by a fan 60 and supplied to the interior of the outer tub 23 via the third air supply pipe 48. The third air supply pipe 48 can extend downward from the heating device 50.

[0323] The hot air generated in the heating device 50 can be blown by the fan 60 and supplied to the outside of the clothing handling device A through the dehumidification duct 46. The dehumidification duct 46 can be disposed between the base plate 575 and the second upper panel 203 (described later). The air blown by the fan 60 can be supplied to the indoor space through the dehumidification duct 46. An opening member 463 can be disposed in front of the dehumidification duct 46. The opening member 463 can open and close the front of the dehumidification duct 46. The opening member 463 can be rotatably connected to the first housing 10 or the second housing 20.

[0324] Air supply pipes 43, 45, and 48 can be referred to as one of the following: first air supply pipe, second air supply pipe, and third air supply pipe. For example, the air supply pipe connected to the dryer 1 can be called the first air supply pipe 43, the air supply pipe connected to the care machine 3 can be called the second air supply pipe 45, and the air supply pipe connected to the washing machine 2 can be called the third air supply pipe 48. Air supply pipes 43, 45, and 48 can also be referred to as supply pipes. The first air supply pipe 43, the second air supply pipe 45, and the third air supply pipe 48 can each be referred to as one of the following: first supply pipe, second supply pipe 45, and third supply pipe. For example, the first air supply pipe 43 can be called the first supply pipe, the second air supply pipe 45 can be called the second supply pipe, and the third air supply pipe 48 can be called the third supply pipe.

[0325] The air supplied to dryer 1, washing machine 2 or care machine 3 can be recycled to heating device 50.

[0326] The heating device 50 can be connected to the first drum 13 via the first exhaust pipe 41. Hot air flowing into the first drum 13 via the first air supply pipe 43 can be returned to the heating device 50 via the first exhaust pipe 41 after drying the laundry contained inside the first drum 13. The first exhaust pipe 41 can extend downward from the first drum 13.

[0327] The heating device 50 can be connected to the outer tub 23 via the third exhaust pipe 47. Hot air flowing into the outer tub 23 via the third air supply pipe 48 can be returned to the heating device 50 via the third exhaust pipe 47 after drying the laundry contained inside the second drum 24. The third exhaust pipe 47 can extend upward from the outer tub 23.

[0328] Exhaust pipes 41, 44, and 47 can be referred to as one of the first exhaust pipe, the second exhaust pipe, and the third exhaust pipe. For example, the exhaust pipe connected to the dryer 1 can be called the first exhaust pipe 41, the exhaust pipe connected to the care machine 3 can be called the second exhaust pipe 44, and the exhaust pipe connected to the washing machine 2 can be called the third exhaust pipe 47. Each of the first exhaust pipe 41, the second exhaust pipe 44, and the third exhaust pipe 47 can be referred to as one of the first recovery pipe, the second recovery pipe, and the third recovery pipe. For example, the first exhaust pipe 41 can be called the first recovery pipe, the second exhaust pipe 44 can be called the second recovery pipe, and the third exhaust pipe 47 can be called the third recovery pipe.

[0329] The hot air generated in the heating device 50 is supplied to the dryer 1, washing machine 2, and garment care machine 3, and can be recycled back to the heating device 50 after drying the clothes contained in each of the garment processors 1, 2, and 3. That is, the hot air generated in the heating device 50 can circulate within the garment processing unit A. Compared to the case of drying clothes contained in one garment processor, the hot air recycled back to the heating device 50 after drying clothes contained in each of the plurality of garment processors 1, 2, and 3 contains more moisture.

[0330] The evaporator 53 can lower the temperature of the recovered air and remove moisture from the air by exchanging heat between the air recovered into the heating unit 50 and the refrigerant. The heat exchange between the air recovered into the heating unit 50 and the evaporator 53 can produce condensate.

[0331] The heating device 50 may include a drain pan 531 disposed below the evaporator 53. The drain pan 531 can hold condensate generated in the evaporator 53.

[0332] The drain pan 531 can be connected to the drain pump 26 via the drain pipe 532. The drain pipe 532 can extend downward from the drain pan 531 to connect to the drain pump 26.

[0333] The condensate contained in the drain pan 531 can flow into the drain pump 26 through the drain pipe 532, and can be discharged to the outside of the garment handling device A through the drain pump 26.

[0334] The dryer 1 may have a first rear side 10b. The first rear side 10b may refer to the rear side of the first housing 10.

[0335] The washing machine 2 may have a second rear side 20b. The second rear side 20b may refer to the rear side of the second housing 20.

[0336] Tower 9 may have widths W1 and W2 in the front-to-back direction. The width from the front sides 11a and 21a of doors 11 and 21 to the rear sides 10b and 20b can be defined as the first width W1. The width from the front sides 10a and 20a of boxes 10 and 20 to the rear sides 10b and 20b can be defined as the second width W2.

[0337] The dryer 1 and the washing machine 2 may each have the first width W1 and the second width W2, respectively. The front-to-back widths of the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2 may be the same.

[0338] The tower 9 can have a height 9H in the vertical direction. The height 9H of the tower 9 can be defined as the sum of the heights of each of the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2. However, when the heating device 50 is located outside the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2, the height 9H of the tower 9 can be defined as the sum of the heights of the dryer 1, the washing machine 2, and the heating device 50.

[0339] The following is for reference FIG. 3 The internal structure of nursing machine 3 will be explained. FIG. 3 This is a diagram showing the internal structure of the garment processing device A, which is cut longitudinally along the garment.

[0340] The care machine 3 may include a third housing 30, which forms a space 33 for storing clothing inside.

[0341] The care machine 3 may include: a clothes hanger 36 for hanging clothes; and an inner panel 34 that defines the lower part of the space 33 for accommodating clothes. The inner panel 34 may be referred to as the "inner plate".

[0342] The inner panel 34 can be located lower than the outer tub 23. The inner panel 34 can also be located lower than the second drum 24. However, when the dryer 1 is positioned below the washing machine 2, the inner panel 34 can be located lower than the first drum 13. Therefore, the height of the inner panel 34 is reduced, thereby increasing the volume of the internal space of the care machine 3.

[0343] The hanger 36 can be configured between the third upper panel 303 and the third lower panel 304, and can be configured to be closer to the third upper panel 303 than the third lower panel 304.

[0344] The clothes hanger 36 can be positioned higher than the first drum 13. Alternatively, it can be positioned at a height corresponding to the upper part of the first drum 13. However, when the dryer 1 is positioned below the washing machine 2, the clothes hanger 36 can be positioned higher than the outer tub 23 or higher than the second drum 24, or at a height corresponding to the upper part of either the outer tub 23 or the second drum 24. Therefore, by increasing the height of the clothes hanger 36, the internal space of the washing machine 3 can be increased.

[0345] The inner panel 34 can be configured between the third upper panel 303 and the third lower panel 304, and can be configured to be closer to the third lower panel 304 than the third upper panel 303.

[0346] The clothing G contained in the internal space 33 of the third compartment 30 can be located between the hanger 36 and the inner panel 34.

[0347] The height H of the internal space 33 can refer to the height between the hanger 36 and the inner panel 34. The height H of the internal space 33 can also refer to the vertical distance between the upper panel 303 and the inner panel 34. Compared to the case where the heating device 50 is positioned between the inner panel 34 and the third lower panel 304, the height H of the internal space 33 can be further expanded. Therefore, unlike existing care machines, the care machine 3 of the present invention can accommodate garments G that occupy a significant vertical height, such as long coats or suits.

[0348] Furthermore, compared to existing garment care machines, the garment care machine 3 of the present invention can expand its front-to-back width to match the front-to-back width of the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2. Therefore, compared to existing garment care machines, the garment care machine 3 of the present invention can accommodate more clothes in the front-to-back direction. The front-to-back width W3 of the internal space 33 of the garment care machine 3 can refer to the width between the third door 31 and the third rear panel 302.

[0349] The nursing machine 3 may have a third rear side 30b. The third rear side 30b may refer to the rear side of the third housing 30.

[0350] The nursing machine 3 may have widths W3, W4, and W5 in the front-to-back direction. The width from the inner side of the third door 31 to the inner side of the third rear panel 302 can be defined as the third width W3. The third width W3 may also be the front-to-back width of the internal space 33 of the nursing machine 3. The width from the front side 31a of the third door 31 to the rear side 30b of the third housing 30 can be defined as the fourth width W4. The width from the front side 31a of the third door 31 to the rear side 44b of the second exhaust pipe 44 can be defined as the fifth width W5. However, the first width W1, second width W2, third width W3, fourth width W4, and fifth width W5 are named for ease of explanation, and each of the widths W1, W2, W3, W4, and W5 defined above may be referred to as one of the first width, second width, third width, fourth width, and fifth width.

[0351] The front-to-back width W3 of the internal space 33 of the nursing machine 3 can be smaller than the front-to-back widths W1 and W2 of the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2. The front-to-back width W4 of the third cabinet 30 can be smaller than the front-to-back widths W1 and W2 of the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2.

[0352] The sum of the front-to-back widths W5 of the nursing machine 3 and the pipe 44 can be the same as the front-to-back widths W1 and W2 of the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2. However, the sum of the front-to-back widths W5 of the nursing machine 3 and the pipe 44 can also be similar to or less than the front-to-back widths W1 and W2 of the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2.

[0353] In a garment handling apparatus A according to one aspect of the present invention, by arranging an air supply pipe 45 and an exhaust pipe 44 at the rear of the garment-containing space 33, the front surface 31a of the garment care machine 3 can be aligned with the front surface of the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2.

[0354] The nursing machine 3 may have a height 3H in the vertical direction. The height 3H of the nursing machine 3 may be defined as the length from the upper side 30c to the lower side of the nursing machine 3.

[0355] The vertical height 3H of the nursing machine 3 can be the same as the vertical height 9H of the tower 9. However, the vertical height 3H of the nursing machine 3 can also be similar to or greater than the vertical height 9H of the tower 9.

[0356] A storage space 35 can be formed between the inner panel 34 and the third lower panel 304. The storage space 35 can accommodate relatively small items of clothing such as socks, underwear, hats, scarves, and gloves. However, the storage space 35 may refer to the space where the air supply pipe 45 and the exhaust pipe 44 are installed.

[0357] The inner panel 34 can be connected to the second air supply pipe 45. The third housing 30 can be connected to the second exhaust pipe 44.

[0358] The inner panel 34 may include: a first inner panel 341, spaced above the third lower panel 304; and a second inner panel 342, extending obliquely upward from the first inner panel 341. The second inner panel 342 may extend obliquely upward from the first inner panel 341 toward the third rear panel 302.

[0359] The second air supply pipe 45 can be connected to the second inner panel 342. An air supply port 308 opening toward the interior space 33 can be formed on the second inner panel 342. The second air supply pipe 45 can be connected to the air supply port 308. Hot air supplied from the heating device 50 can be discharged into the interior space 33 through the air supply port 308.

[0360] The second air supply duct 45 may include a first hot air duct 451 disposed behind the third rear panel 302 and a second hot air duct 452 disposed in front of the third rear panel 302.

[0361] The first hot air duct 451 can be disposed inside the rear housing 310. The second hot air duct 452 can be disposed within the storage space 35. The first hot air duct 451 and the second hot air duct 452 can be combined with the third rear panel 302. The first hot air duct 451 can extend upward within the rear housing 310 to connect with the heating device 50. The second hot air duct 452 can extend upward to combine with the second inner panel 342.

[0362] The second exhaust duct 44 can be connected to the third rear panel 302. An exhaust port 309 opening into the interior space 33 can be formed on the third rear panel 302. The second exhaust duct 44 can be connected to the third rear panel 302 in a manner corresponding to the exhaust port 309. Hot air expelled into the interior space 33 of the care machine 3 can flow into the second exhaust duct 44 through the exhaust port 309 after the clothes G has been dried.

[0363] Air inlet 308 can be located at the lower part of the care unit 3, and exhaust outlet 309 can be located at the upper part of the care unit 3. However, the positions of air inlet 308 and exhaust outlet 309 are not limited to the above-described cases. For example, air inlet 308 can be located at the upper part of the care unit 3, and exhaust outlet 309 can be located at the lower part of the care unit 3. In this case, air inlet 308 can be located on the upper side, higher than the clothes hanger 36. By positioning air inlet 308 above the clothes hanger 36, dust accumulated on the upper part of the clothing G can be removed. Alternatively, one of air inlet 308 and exhaust outlet 309 can be located at the upper part and the other at the lower part. After the air supplied through air inlet 308 is evenly diffused throughout the entire internal space 33, it is recycled to the heating device 50 through exhaust outlet 309.

[0364] The second exhaust pipe 44 can penetrate the third rear panel 302 and extend into the rear housing 310. The second exhaust pipe 44 can penetrate the third rear panel 302, thereby extending downward within the rear housing 310 and connecting to the heating device 50.

[0365] The garment care machine 3 may include rollers 39 protruding downward from the third lower panel 304. A plurality of rollers 39 may be arranged spaced apart along the front-to-back direction. The roller structure of the garment care machine 3 can also be applied to the second lower panel 204 of the washing machine 2. When the garment handling device A moves, the rollers of the washing machine 2 and the garment care machine 3 can support the load of the garment handling device A.

[0366] The following is for reference FIG. 4 The piping system in the garment processing apparatus A of the present invention will be described. FIG. 4 To the left of the baseline Y is a diagram showing the piping system of dryer 1 and washing machine 2. FIG. 4 To the right of the baseline Y is a diagram showing the piping system of the nursing machine 3. FIG. 4To the left of the central baseline Y is a diagram conceptually showing the piping system by cutting through the dryer 1 and washing machine 2 with a plane perpendicular to the left and right directions. FIG. 4 The diagram to the right of the central baseline Y is a conceptual representation of the back of the nursing machine 3 to show the piping system. FIG. 4 The directional concepts used in the description can be compared with FIG. 1 The orientations are the same.

[0367] Can FIG. 4 The area to the left of the baseline Y in the diagram is called the first concept map S1. It can be... FIG. 4 The area to the right of the baseline Y in the diagram is called the second concept map S2.

[0368] "Pipeline system" can be a general term for the flow path of hot air circulating in the garment processing device A. "Pipeline system" can also be a general term for the flow path connecting the heating device 50, dryer 1, washing machine 2, and garment care machine 3. "Pipeline system" can also be a general term for the flow path of heated air within the heating device 50.

[0369] The heating device 50 can heat the air and supply the heated air to each of the dryer 1, washing machine 2 and care machine 3.

[0370] The piping system may include a heat exchange passage 42 for heating air. The piping system may include a first air supply pipe 43 connecting the heating device 50 and the dryer 1. The piping system may include a second air supply pipe 45 connecting the heating device 50 and the care unit 3. The piping system may include a third air supply pipe 48 connecting the heating device 50 and the washing machine 2. The piping system may include a dehumidification pipe 46 connected to the heating device 50. Air heated by the heat exchange passage 42 is blown by a fan 60, thereby supplying air to at least one of the first air supply pipe 43, the second air supply pipe 45, the third air supply pipe 48, and the dehumidification pipe 46.

[0371] The piping system may include a first exhaust pipe 41 connecting the heating device 50 and the dryer 1. The piping system may include a second exhaust pipe 44 connecting the heating device 50 and the care machine 3. The piping system may include a third exhaust pipe 47 connecting the heating device 50 and the washing machine 2. Heated air supplied to the dryer 1 can flow into the heat exchange passage 42 through the first exhaust pipe 41. Heated air supplied to the care machine 3 can flow into the heat exchange passage 42 through the second exhaust pipe 44. Heated air supplied to the washing machine 2 can flow into the heat exchange passage 42 through the third exhaust pipe 47.

[0372] A heat exchange channel 42 for airflow may be provided inside the heating device 50. The heating device 50 may include a heat exchange unit disposed within the heat exchange channel 42. The heat exchange unit can heat the air flowing within the heat exchange channel 42. The heat exchange unit may include a condenser 52 and an evaporator 53.

[0373] The garment handling device A may include a fan 60. The fan 60 can blow air within the heat exchange passage 42. The fan 60 may be positioned downstream of the condenser 52. Air heated by heat exchange with the evaporator 53 and the condenser 52 can be blown by the fan 60. The fan 60 may be positioned inside the heat exchange passage 42.

[0374] The air blown by the fan 60 can be supplied to at least one of the dryer 1, washing machine 2, nursing machine 3, and dehumidification duct 46.

[0375] The garment handling device A may include an air duct 420 surrounding the fan 60. The duct system may include the air duct 420. The fan 60 may be configured inside the air duct 420.

[0376] The internal space of the air supply duct 420 can be part of the heat exchange passage 42.

[0377] The fan 60 and the air supply duct 420 can be configured at the discharge end 42B of the heat exchange passage 42. The discharge end 42B can be located downstream of the condenser 52 and the evaporator 53.

[0378] The air supply duct 420 may include a first discharge port 425 connected to the first air supply duct 43. The air supply duct 420 may include a second discharge port 427 connected to the second air supply duct 45. The air supply duct 420 may include a third discharge port 426 connected to the third air supply duct 48. The air supply duct 420 may include a fourth discharge port 428 connected to the dehumidification duct 46.

[0379] The first discharge port 425 can protrude upward from the air supply duct 420. The first air supply duct 43 can connect the first roller 13 and the first discharge port 425.

[0380] The second discharge port 427 can protrude laterally from the air supply duct 420. The second air supply duct 45 can connect to the third housing 30 and the second discharge port 427.

[0381] The third discharge port 426 can protrude downward from the air supply duct 420. The third air supply duct 48 can connect the outer tank 23 and the third discharge port 426.

[0382] The fourth discharge port 428 can protrude laterally from the air supply duct 420. The fourth discharge port 428 can protrude in the opposite direction to the second discharge port 427. The dehumidification duct 46 can be connected to the fourth discharge port 428.

[0383] A switching device 70 (described later) can be installed inside the air supply duct 420. FIG. 6 The rotating body 71 is connected to the drive motor 711 and can rotate inside the air supply duct 420. The air blown by the fan 60 flows into at least one of the first air supply duct 43, the second air supply duct 45, the third air supply duct 48 and the dehumidification duct 46 through the drive of the switching device 70.

[0384] In addition to the switching device 70 described later, the garment handling apparatus A of the present invention may also include a separate distribution device (not shown). The distribution device can distribute air blown by the fan 60 to each of the dryer 1, washing machine 2, conditioning machine 3, and dehumidification duct 46. That is, air blown by the fan 60 can be simultaneously supplied to each of the dryer 1, washing machine 2, conditioning machine 3, and dehumidification duct 46 through the distribution device. The distribution device may be disposed inside the air supply duct 420 or in a distribution flow path (not shown) connected to the air supply duct 420. The distribution device may be a valve. The distribution device may include an actuator and a switching damper. The garment handling apparatus A may include both the switching device 70 and the distribution device, or it may include only the switching device 70, or it may include only the distribution device.

[0385] Hot air flowing into the first drum 13 via the first air supply pipe 43, after drying the clothes contained within the first drum 13, can flow into the heat exchange channel 42 via the first exhaust pipe 41. The first drum 13 may include a front cover 131 disposed on the front side and a rear cover 132 disposed on the rear side. The first air supply pipe 43 may be connected to the rear cover 132, and the first exhaust pipe 41 may be connected to the front cover 131.

[0386] The first exhaust pipe 41 can connect the first roller 13 and the heat exchange channel 42. The first exhaust pipe 41 can extend downward from the first roller 13 and connect to the heat exchange channel 42.

[0387] A first inflow port 421, which connects to the first exhaust pipe 41, may be formed at the inflow end 42A of the heat exchange channel 42. The first inflow port 421 may extend upward from the heat exchange channel 42. The first inflow port 421 may extend upward from the housing 570 of the heating device 50.

[0388] The garment handling device A may include a first on / off valve 41a disposed in the first exhaust duct 41. The first on / off valve 41a can regulate the airflow in the first exhaust duct 41. The first on / off valve 41a can cut off the airflow in the first exhaust duct 41. When hot air is not supplied to the first roller 13 through the first air supply duct 43, the first on / off valve 41a can cut off the airflow in the first exhaust duct 41.

[0389] Hot air flowing into the third housing 30 via the second air supply pipe 45, after drying the clothes contained in the third housing 30, can flow into the heat exchange channel 42 via the second exhaust pipe 44. The second air supply pipe 45 and the second exhaust pipe 44 can be connected to the third rear panel 302 of the third housing 30.

[0390] The second exhaust pipe 44 can connect the third housing 30 and the heat exchange channel 42. The second exhaust pipe 44 can extend from the upper part of the third housing 30 downwards to connect with the heat exchange channel 42.

[0391] The second exhaust duct 44 may include a first duct section 441 located between the heating device 50 and the second housing 20. The first duct section 441 may be disposed on the substrate 575 described later (see reference). FIG. 6 The first pipe section 441 can be located between the second upper panel 203 of the second housing 20 and the second housing 20. The first pipe section 441 can be located in the space 55 described later (see reference). FIG. 6 It extends along the front-to-back direction.

[0392] A second inflow port 422, which connects to the second exhaust pipe 44, may be formed at the inflow end 42A of the heat exchange channel 42. The second inflow port 422 may extend downward from the heat exchange channel 42. The second inflow port 422 may extend downward from the housing 570 of the heating device 50.

[0393] The garment handling device A may include a second on / off valve 44a disposed in the second exhaust duct 44. The second on / off valve 44a can regulate the airflow within the second exhaust duct 44. The second on / off valve 44a can also cut off the airflow within the second exhaust duct 44. When hot air is not supplied to the third housing 30 via the second air supply duct 45, the second on / off valve 44a can cut off the airflow within the second exhaust duct 44. The second on / off valve 44a may be disposed in the first duct section 441.

[0394] After the hot air flowing into the outer tub 23 via the third air supply pipe 48 dries the clothes contained in the outer tub 23, it can flow into the heat exchange channel 42 via the third exhaust pipe 47.

[0395] The third exhaust pipe 47 can connect the outer barrel 23 and the heat exchange channel 42. The third exhaust pipe 47 can extend upward from the upper part of the outer barrel 23 and connect to the heat exchange channel 42.

[0396] A third inflow port 424, which connects to the third exhaust pipe 47, may be formed at the inflow end 42A of the heat exchange passage 42. The third inflow port 424 may extend downward from the heat exchange passage 42. The third inflow port 424 may extend downward from the second exhaust pipe 44. The third inflow port 424 may extend downward from the first pipe section 441.

[0397] The third inlet port 424 can protrude downward from the bottom surface of the second exhaust pipe 44. The third exhaust pipe 47 can connect the outer barrel 23 and the third inlet port 424. The third exhaust pipe 47 can connect the outer barrel 23 and the second exhaust pipe 44. The air in the third exhaust pipe 47 can merge with the air in the second exhaust pipe 44 and flow into the heat exchange channel 42.

[0398] The garment handling device A may include a third on / off valve 47a disposed in the third exhaust duct 47. The third on / off valve 47a can regulate the airflow within the third exhaust duct 47. The third on / off valve 47a can cut off the airflow within the third exhaust duct 47. When hot air is not supplied to the outer tub 23 through the third air supply duct 48, the third on / off valve 47a can cut off the airflow within the third exhaust duct 47.

[0399] Hot air flowing through dehumidification duct 46 can be supplied to the outside of the clothing handling unit A through the front-opening outlet 462. Hot air flowing through dehumidification duct 46 can also be supplied to the indoor space through the outlet 462.

[0400] The dehumidification duct 46 may include a second duct section 461 located between the heating device 50 and the second housing 20. The second duct section 461 may be configured on the substrate 575 described later (see reference). FIG. 6 The second pipe section 461 is located between the second upper panel 203 of the second housing 20 and the second housing 20. The second pipe section 461 can be located in the space 55 described later (see reference). FIG. 6 It extends along the front-to-back direction.

[0401] An external air inlet port 423 connected to the heat exchange passage 42 may be formed at the inlet end 42A of the heat exchange passage 42. The external air inlet port 423 may extend forward from the heat exchange passage 42. The external air inlet port 423 may extend forward from the second exhaust pipe 44.

[0402] An external air inlet port 423 can protrude forward from one side of the second exhaust duct 44. The external air inlet port 423 can connect the indoor space and the second exhaust duct 44. Air within the external air inlet port 423 can merge with air within the second exhaust duct 44 and flow into the heat exchange passage 42. The external air inlet port 423 may include a forward-opening external air inlet 49. Air flowing in through the external air inlet 49 can merge with air within the second exhaust duct 44 and flow into the heat exchange passage 42.

[0403] The garment handling device A may include a fourth on / off valve 49a disposed at the external air inlet port 423. The fourth on / off valve 49a can regulate the airflow within the external air inlet port 423. The fourth on / off valve 49a can also cut off the airflow within the external air inlet port 423. When hot air is not flowing into the dehumidification duct 46, the fourth on / off valve 49a can cut off the airflow within the external air inlet port 423.

[0404] The following is for reference FIG. 5 to FIG. 7 The heating device 50 will be described below. (Refer to...) FIG. 5 to FIG. 7 The description of the heating device 50 can also be applied to the reference. FIG. 1 to FIG. 55 The garment processing apparatus of all embodiments described herein. However, in this case, the shape of the housing 570, the shape of the air duct 420, whether the roller motor 133 is configured, the opening direction of the discharge ports 425, 426, 427, 428, and the opening direction of the inflow ports 421, 422, 423, 424, etc., may vary depending on the relative configuration position of the garment processors constituting the garment processing apparatus.

[0405] Reference FIG. 5 The heating device 50 may include a housing 570, a compressor 51, a condenser 52, an evaporator 53, and an expansion device 54.

[0406] The compressor 51, condenser 52, evaporator 53, and expansion device 54 can be connected via a refrigerant flow path. A heat pump unit may include a compressor 51, condenser 52, evaporator 53, and expansion device 54.

[0407] The drain pan 531 can be configured on the underside of the evaporator 53.

[0408] The housing 570 provides space for configuring the compressor 51, condenser 52, fan 60, and evaporator 53. The compressor 51, condenser 52, fan 60, evaporator 53, and switching device 70 can be configured in the housing 570.

[0409] The housing 570 includes: a cover 573; a base plate 575 spaced from the lower side of the cover 573; a front wall 574 disposed in front of the condenser 53; a first side wall 571 disposed on one side of the condenser 53; and a second side wall 572 disposed on the other side of the condenser 53.

[0410] The drum motor 133 of the first drum 13 of the rotary dryer 1 can be disposed in the housing 570 of the heating device 50. The drum motor 133 can be disposed on the upper side of the housing 570. The housing 570 can provide a motor mounting section 133s for mounting the drum motor 133.

[0411] The condenser 52, fan 60 and evaporator 53 can be configured on the upper side of the base plate 575.

[0412] The heat exchange channel 42 can refer to the space surrounded by the substrate 575, the front wall 574, the first side wall 571, and the second side wall 572. The cover 573 may be omitted, in which case the upper part of the heat exchange channel 42 can be open. The heat exchange channel 42 can communicate with a fan 60 disposed at the rear of the heating device 50. Air inside the heat exchange channel 42 can be blown by the fan 60. The heat exchange channel 42 can also be referred to as a "heating flow path". The condenser 52 and the evaporator 53 can be disposed inside the heat exchange channel 42. The heat exchange channel 42 can refer to a partially open space.

[0413] The heat exchange channel 42 can refer to the space surrounded by the cover 573, substrate 575, front wall 574, first side wall 571, and second side wall 572. The cover 573 can cover the upper part of the heat exchange channel 42. The heat exchange channel 42 can refer to the space between the cover 573 and the substrate 575. The cover 573, substrate 575, front wall 574, first side wall 571, and second side wall 572 can form a "heating pipe" surrounding the heat exchange channel 42. The heating pipe can be connected to a fan 60, and the air inside the heating pipe can be blown by the fan 60. A condenser 52 and an evaporator 53 can be disposed inside the heating pipe. The heat exchange channel 42 can refer to a pipe that is shielded on all four sides.

[0414] A heat exchange channel 42 may be formed inside the heating device 50. The heat exchange channel 42 may refer to a part of the internal space of the heating device 50.

[0415] The first inlet port 421 may be located in front of the heat exchange channel 42. The first inlet port 421 may cover the front of the heat exchange channel 42. The first inlet port 421 may be connected to the front wall 574. The first inlet port 421 may be formed in the housing 570. The first exhaust pipe 41 may be inserted into and fixed to the first inlet port 421.

[0416] The heating device 50 can be installed inside the machine room S. The controller 81 can control the drive of the components installed in the machine room S. The machine room S can provide space for installing a PCB (not shown), on which the controller 81 can be mounted.

[0417] The heating device 50 may include: a steam generator 502 for generating steam; and a dehumidifier 504 for removing moisture from the air flowing through the heat exchange channel 42.

[0418] Steam generator 502 generates steam by heating water. Steam generator 502 can be configured between condenser 52 and fan 60. The steam generated in steam generator 502 is pressurized by fan 60, allowing it to be supplied to each of dryer 1, washing machine 2, and massage machine 3. The steam generated in steam generator 502 can be supplied to first drum 13, second drum 24, and the internal space 33 of massage machine 3, respectively.

[0419] The dehumidifier 504 can dehumidify the air at room temperature (approximately 25 degrees Celsius). The dehumidifier 504 can dehumidify the air by using a desiccant. The interior of the dehumidifier 504 can be filled with zeolite. The zeolite filling the dehumidifier 504 can be replaced periodically.

[0420] The dehumidifier 504 can be configured between the condenser 52 and the fan 60. Even when the compressor 51 is not driven, the dehumidifier 504 can dehumidify the air flowing in the heat exchange passage 42.

[0421] The switching device 70 can adjust the direction of the air blown from the fan 60. The switching device 70 can be installed inside the machine room S.

[0422] Reference FIG. 6 The switching device 70 can adjust the hot air supplied to the dryer 1, washing machine 2, nursing machine 3 and dehumidification duct 46.

[0423] The switching device 70 may include a rotating body 71 rotatably disposed inside the air supply duct 420. The switching device 70 may include a drive motor 711 for rotating the rotating body 71. The rotating body 71 can rotate inside the air supply duct 420 by the drive motor 711. A fan 60 may be disposed inside the rotating body 71.

[0424] The drive motor 711 can rotate the rotating body 71. The drive gear 712 can be fixed to the rotating shaft of the drive motor 711. The drive gear 712 can be a pinion or a spur gear.

[0425] Driven gear 713 can mesh with drive gear 712 and rotate. Driven gear 713 can be fixed to rotating body 71, or it can be integrally formed with rotating body 71. Driven gear 713 can be a ring gear. Driven gear 713 can be a ring-shaped rack.

[0426] The drive gear 712 and the driven gear 713 can mesh with each other. By rotating the drive gear 712, the driven gear 713 can move circumferentially about the rotation axis of the fan 60. When the driven gear 713 moves circumferentially, the rotating body 71, on which the driven gear 713 is fixed, can also move circumferentially about the rotation axis of the fan 60.

[0427] The drive motor 712 can be configured outside the air duct 420. A cutout 714 can be provided on the side of the air duct 420 facing the rotating body 71 (e.g., the back side). The cutout 714 can be located at a position corresponding to the driven gear 713. A portion of the drive gear 712 can be inserted into the cutout 714. The drive gear 712 and the driven gear 713 can mesh with each other at the cutout 714.

[0428] The rotation axis of the drive motor 711 can be configured parallel to the back of the air duct 420. This reduces the volume occupied by the drive motor 711 and the drive gear 712 in the front-rear direction.

[0429] The drive motor 711 can be a motor capable of controlling its rotational position, rotational angle, and rotational direction. As an example, the drive motor can be a BLDC (Brushless Direct Current) motor. Alternatively, the drive motor 711 can be a stepper motor. The drive motor 711 can be electrically connected to the control panel 8 and / or the controller 81. The drive motor 711 can receive electrical signals from the control panel 8 and / or the controller 81 to control its rotation. The control panel 8 and / or the controller 81 can control the direction of the supplied hot air by controlling the rotational angle of the drive motor 711.

[0430] On the other hand, the drive motor 711 can rotate the rotating body 71 in various known ways in which the motor rotates the rotating body. For example, belt-pulley type, meshing of multiple gears, or the rotating shaft of the motor can rotate integrally with the rotating body.

[0431] The air supply duct 420 can be connected to the first air supply duct 43, the second air supply duct 45, the third air supply duct 48, and the dehumidification duct 46.

[0432] The air duct 420 can be connected to the motor mount 64, and the fan motor (not shown) of the rotating fan 60 is fixed to the motor mount 64. The motor mount 64 can be configured on the back of the air duct 420. The drive motor 711, drive gear 712, and driven gear 713 can be located further radially outward than the motor mount 64.

[0433] The air supply duct 420 may include a first discharge port 425, a second discharge port 427, a third discharge port 426, and a fourth discharge port 428.

[0434] The first air supply pipe 43 can be connected to the first discharge port 425. The first air supply pipe 43 can be inserted into the first discharge port 425. The first discharge port 425 can be opened upwards from the air supply pipe 420. The first discharge port 425 can provide an air supply port with openings at the top and bottom.

[0435] The second air supply pipe 45 can be connected to the second discharge port 427. The second air supply pipe 45 can be inserted into the second discharge port 427. The second discharge port 427 can be opened to the side from the air supply pipe 420. The second discharge port 427 can provide an air supply port that is open in the left and right direction.

[0436] The third air supply pipe 48 can be connected to the third discharge port 426. The third air supply pipe 48 can be inserted into the third discharge port 426. The third discharge port 426 can be located on the downward side of the air supply pipe 420. The third discharge port 426 can provide an air supply port that is open in the vertical direction.

[0437] The dehumidification duct 46 can be connected to the fourth discharge port 428. The dehumidification duct 46 can be inserted into the fourth discharge port 428. The fourth discharge port 428 can face the opposite direction to the second discharge port 427. The fourth discharge port 428 can face the side of the air supply duct 420. The fourth discharge port 428 can provide an air supply port that opens in the left and right direction.

[0438] The heating device 50 can be connected to the first exhaust pipe 41, the second exhaust pipe 44, the third exhaust pipe 47, and the external air inlet port 423, respectively. The third exhaust pipe 47 and the external air inlet port 423 can be connected to the heating device 50 through the second exhaust pipe 44.

[0439] The heating device 50 may include a first inflow port 421 connected to a first exhaust pipe 41 and a second inflow port 422 connected to a second exhaust pipe 44. The first inflow port 421 may extend upward and the second inflow port 422 may extend downward. The first inflow port 421 and the second inflow port 422 may protrude from the housing 570 of the heating device 50.

[0440] Air flowing into the heating device 50 via the first exhaust pipe 41, the second exhaust pipe 44, the third exhaust pipe 47 and the external air inlet port 423 can be drawn into the fan 60 by the suction force of the fan 60 through the heat exchange channel 42.

[0441] Reference FIG. 7 The air flowing in the first exhaust pipe 41, the second exhaust pipe 44, the third exhaust pipe 47 and the external air inlet port 423 can be combined in the heat exchange channel 42 and flow into the fan 60.

[0442] The third inlet port 424, which is connected to the third exhaust pipe 47, can protrude downward from the second exhaust pipe 44. The air in the third exhaust pipe 47 can merge with the air in the second exhaust pipe 44 and flow into the heat exchange channel 42.

[0443] An external air inlet port 423, which connects to the indoor space, can protrude forward from the second exhaust pipe 44. Air flowing into the external air inlet port 423 via the external air inlet 49 can merge with the air in the second exhaust pipe 44 and flow into the heat exchange channel 42.

[0444] Air flowing into the heat exchange passage 42 via the second exhaust pipe 44 can merge with air flowing into the heat exchange passage 42 via the first exhaust pipe 41 and flow towards the fan 60.

[0445] The heating device 50 may include: a first support plate 576 extending downward from the substrate 575; and a second support plate 577 extending downward from the substrate 575 and spaced apart from the first support plate 576.

[0446] A space 55 may be formed between the first support plate 576 and the second support plate 577.

[0447] The second exhaust pipe 44, the third air supply pipe 48, and the dehumidification pipe 46 can be disposed in the partition space 55. The second exhaust pipe 44, the third air supply pipe 48, and the dehumidification pipe 46 can be disposed between the first support plate 576 and the second support plate 577. The second exhaust pipe 44, the third air supply pipe 48, and the dehumidification pipe 46 can be disposed on the underside of the base plate 575.

[0448] The dehumidification duct 42 can be disposed on the underside of the substrate 575 and extend forward, and air can be discharged forward through the hot air outlet 462. The open member 463 described later (see...) FIG. 10 In front of the open partition space 55, the air expelled through the hot air outlet 462 can be expelled in front of the clothing processing device A.

[0449] A portion of the second exhaust pipe 44 located on the lower side of the substrate 575 can be defined as the first pipe section 441.

[0450] A portion of the dehumidification pipe 46 located on the lower side of the substrate 575 can be defined as the second pipe section 461.

[0451] The following is for reference FIG. 8 This describes the method for adjusting the direction of the blown air in the switching device 70. FIG. 8 (a) is an example diagram of the operation when air is supplied to the first air supply pipe 43 by the drive of the switching device 70. FIG. 8 (b) is an example diagram illustrating the operation when air is simultaneously supplied to the first air supply pipe 43 and the second air supply pipe 45 via the drive of the switching device 70. (Refer to...) FIG. 8 The description of the switching device 70 can also be applied to the reference. FIG. 1 to FIG. 55 The garment handling apparatus of all embodiments described herein. However, in this case, the opening directions of the discharge ports 425, 426, 427, and 428, the configuration of the exhaust pipes 41, 44, and 47, and the connection structure, etc., may vary depending on the relative configuration positions of the garment processors constituting the garment handling apparatus.

[0452] Fan 60 can be a sirocco fan. Fan 60 can blow air in a direction intersecting the rotation axis 61 by rotation. Fan 60 can blow air in a direction connected to the rotation direction. The air blown from fan 60 is concentrated within a specified angle range centered on the rotation axis 61.

[0453] The fan 60 may include: a rotating shaft 61 connected to and rotating with a fan motor (not shown); a plurality of blades 62 spaced apart radially outward from the rotating shaft 61; and an outer body 63 connected to the blades 62 and extending along the direction of rotation of the fan 60. The outer body 63 may be annular. The rotating shaft 61 and the blades 62 can be connected via the outer body 63. If the rotating shaft 61 rotates, the outer body 63 and the blades 62 can also rotate together with the rotating shaft 61.

[0454] The rotating body 71 may include: a rotating plate 71a having a driven gear 713; a scroll member 71b connected to the rotating plate 71a; and a shaft through-hole 71c formed on the rotating plate 71a.

[0455] The rotating plate 71a may be disc-shaped and may be located behind the fan 60. A driven gear 713 may be formed annularly on one side of the rotating plate 71a. The driven gear 713 may be integrally formed with the rotating plate 71a. If the driven gear 713 and the drive gear 711 mesh and rotate, the rotating plate 71a may rotate in the same direction as the fan 60. The rotating plate 71a may include a shaft through-hole 71c through which a rotating shaft 61 passes. The rotating shaft 61 may pass through the shaft through-hole 71c and be connected to a fan motor (not shown).

[0456] The fan 60 can be configured between the heat exchange channel 42 and the rotating plate 71a. That is, the rotating plate 71a can be configured closer to the rear than the heat exchange channel 42 and the fan 60. The rotating plate 71a can also be configured inside the air supply duct 420 closer to the rear than the fan 60.

[0457] The scroll member 71b can be integrally formed with the rotating plate 71a. If the rotating plate 71a rotates, the scroll member 71b can also rotate. The scroll member 71b can extend along the rotation direction of the fan 60. The scroll member 71b can be configured to surround the fan 60. The fan 60 can be disposed inside the scroll member 71b.

[0458] The vortex member 71b may include an air delivery channel 72. The air delivery channel 72 may refer to the portion of the outer peripheral surface of the vortex member 71b that has been cut open. The vortex member 71b may cover the outer side of the fan 60, and the air delivery channel 72 may also refer to the outer area of ​​the fan 60 not covered by the vortex member 71b. Air blown from the fan 60 can be discharged through the air delivery channel 72 to the outside of the air delivery duct 420.

[0459] If the vortex member 71b rotates due to the rotation of the rotating plate 71a, the position of the air supply channel 72 can change. That is, by rotating the vortex member 71b, the position of the air supply channel 72 can change about the rotation axis 61. The drive motor 711 changes the position of the air supply channel 72 by rotating the vortex member 71b, thereby adjusting the direction of the air discharged from the air supply duct 420.

[0460] The longitudinal section of the air supply duct 420 can be square. This prevents interference between the vortex member 71b and the air supply duct 420 caused by the rotation of the vortex member 71b.

[0461] The air supply duct 420 may include: a first wall 420a, located above the fan 60; a second wall 420b, located below the fan 60; a third wall 420c, located on one side of the fan 60; and a fourth wall 420d, located on the other side of the fan 60.

[0462] The first discharge port 425 can protrude upward from the first wall 420a. The second discharge port 427 can protrude laterally from the third wall 420c. The third discharge port 426 can protrude downward from the second wall 420b. The fourth discharge port 428 can protrude laterally from the fourth wall 420d.

[0463] according to FIG. 8 In (a), the drive motor 711 can rotate the rotating body 71 by a first angle. If the rotating body 71 rotates by the first angle, the air blown by the fan 60 can be supplied to the first air supply duct 43. At this time, the air supply duct 72 can only communicate with the internal space of the first discharge port 425. Therefore, the air blown by the fan 60 can only be supplied to the dryer 1.

[0464] according to FIG. 8 (b) The drive motor 711 can rotate the rotating body 71 by a second angle. If the rotating body 711 rotates by the second angle, the air blown by the fan 60 can be simultaneously supplied to the first air supply pipe 43 and the second air supply pipe 45. At this time, the air supply channel 72 can communicate with the internal space of the first discharge port 425 and the internal space of the second discharge port 427. Therefore, the air blown by the fan 60 can be simultaneously supplied to the dryer 1 and the care machine 3. The air supply channel 72 may include: a first air supply channel 72a, communicating with the internal space of the first discharge port 425; and a second air supply channel 72b, communicating with the internal space of the second discharge port 427. The air blown by the fan 60 can be supplied to the dryer 1 through the first air supply channel 72a. The air blown by the fan 60 can be supplied to the care machine 3 through the second air supply channel 72b.

[0465] The user can control the switching device 70 by inputting signals to the control panel 8. If a signal is input to the control panel 8, the signal is transmitted to the drive motor 711, thereby controlling the rotation angle of the drive motor 711. For example, if the user inputs a signal to the control panel 8 to supply hot air to the dryer 1, the drive motor 711 can rotate the rotating body 71, causing the air supply channel 72 to move to a position such that... FIG. 8 The position shown in (a). For example, if the user inputs a signal to the control panel 8 to simultaneously supply hot air to the dryer 1 and the care unit 3, the drive motor 711 can rotate the rotating body 71, causing the air supply channel 72 to move to the position shown in (a). FIG. 8 The position shown in (b).

[0466] The following is for reference FIG. 9 This describes the structure of the heating device 50 supplying hot air and steam to each of the clothing processors 1, 2, and 3.

[0467] The heating device 50 can be disposed on the upper side of the second upper panel 203. The heating device 50 can be disposed inside the housing 10 of the dryer 1.

[0468] The switching device 70 can be configured on the upper side of the second upper panel 203. The switching device 70 can be configured inside the housing 10 of the dryer 1.

[0469] The air supply duct 420 can be connected to the first air supply duct 43, the second air supply duct 45 and the third air supply duct 48.

[0470] The first air supply pipe 43 can extend upward from the air supply pipe 420. The first air supply pipe 43 can be connected to the first roller 13.

[0471] The second air supply pipe 45 can extend laterally from the air supply pipe 420. The second air supply pipe 45 can be connected to the nursing machine 3.

[0472] The third air supply pipe 48 can extend downward from the air supply pipe 420. The third air supply pipe 48 can extend into the interior of the second housing 20 through the partition space 55.

[0473] The garment processing device A may include: a first steam supply pipe 502a, connected to a steam generator 502 and a first roller 13; a second steam supply pipe 502b, connected to a steam generator 502 and a care machine 3; and a third steam supply pipe 502c, connected to a steam generator 502 and an outer tub 23.

[0474] The steam generator 502 can be disposed within the heating device 50. Steam generated in the steam generator 502 can be injected into the interior of the first roller 13 via the first steam supply pipe 502a. Steam generated in the steam generator 502 can be injected into the interior space 33 of the nursing machine 3 via the second steam supply pipe 502b. Steam generated in the steam generator 502 can be injected into the interior of the second roller 24 via the third steam supply pipe 502c.

[0475] The first steam supply pipe 502a can extend upward from the steam generator 502 and connect to the first drum 13.

[0476] The second steam supply pipe 502b can extend laterally from the steam generator 502 and connect to the nursing machine 3.

[0477] The third steam supply pipe 502c can extend downward from the steam generator 502 and connect to the outer barrel 23.

[0478] The steam generated in the steam generator 502 can be directed by the airflow generated by the fan 60 to each of the first roller 13, the second roller 24, and the internal space 33 of the care machine 3. That is, the fan 60 can pressurize the steam generated in the steam generator 502 and direct it to the first roller 13, the second roller 24, and the internal space 33 of the care machine 3.

[0479] Each of the first steam supply pipe 502a, the second steam supply pipe 502b, and the third steam supply pipe 502c may be equipped with a valve (not shown) to control the flow rate of steam. The controller 81 can adjust the amount of steam supplied to each of the first roller 13, the second roller 24, and the internal space 33 of the nursing machine 3 by adjusting the opening of the valve (not shown).

[0480] The washing machine 2 can be connected to a cold water supply pipe 278 that supplies cold water to the outer tub 23 and a hot water supply pipe 279 that supplies hot water to the outer tub 23.

[0481] The steam generator 502 can be connected to a third water supply pipe 277 branching from the cold water supply pipe 278 or the hot water supply pipe 279.

[0482] The steam generator 502 can receive hot water through the third water supply pipe 277. The steam generator 502 can generate steam by heating the water supplied through the third water supply pipe 277.

[0483] Water supply ports 273 and 274 can be configured to be closer to the second upper panel 203 than the second lower panel 204. Steam generator 502 can be configured between the second upper panel 203 and the first roller 13. As a result, the distance between steam generator 502 and water supply pipes 278 and 279 becomes shorter, so the length of the third water supply pipe 277 can be shortened.

[0484] The following is for reference FIG. 10 The connection structure between the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 will be described.

[0485] The substrate 575 of the heating device 50 can be separated from the upper side of the second upper panel 203 of the washing machine 2. A separation space 55 can be formed between the substrate 575 and the second upper panel 203.

[0486] The first side panels 105 and 106 of the dryer 1 may protrude downwards from the substrate 575. The first side panels 105 and 106 may be referred to as the "first sidewalls".

[0487] The first sidewalls 105 and 106 may include: a first outer sidewall 105, forming one side of the garment handling device A; and a first inner sidewall 106, facing the third housing 30.

[0488] The heating device 50 may include a first support plate 576 extending downward from the substrate 575. The first support plate 576 may be disposed inside the first outer side wall 105.

[0489] The heating device 50 may include a second support plate 577 extending downward from the substrate 575. The second support plate 577 may be disposed inside the first inner sidewall 106.

[0490] The substrate 575 and the support plates 576 and 577 can be integral. The first outer sidewall 105 and the first support plate 576 can be integral. The first inner sidewall 106 and the second support plate 577 can be integral.

[0491] The first sidewalls 105 and 106 may include first protrusions 105a and 106a that protrude downwards. The first outer sidewall 105 may include a first outer protrusion 105a that protrudes downwards. The first inner sidewall 106 may include a first inner protrusion 106a that protrudes downwards. The first protrusions 105a and 106a may protrude downwards from the lower ends of the first sidewalls 105 and 106.

[0492] The second housing 20 may include a first groove 203a into which the first protrusions 105a and 106a are inserted. The first groove 203a may be formed on the second upper panel 203. The first groove 203a may be formed at a position corresponding vertically to the first protrusions 105a and 106a.

[0493] Support plates 276 and 277 may include second protrusions 576a and 577a that project downwards. The first support plate 276 may include a second outer protrusion 576a that project downwards. The second support plate 577 may include a second inner protrusion 577a that project downwards. The second protrusions 576a and 577a may project downwards from the lower end of the support plates 576 and 577.

[0494] The second housing 20 may include a second groove 203b for the insertion of the second protrusions 576a and 577a. The second groove 203b may be formed on the second upper panel 203. The second groove 203b may be formed at a position corresponding vertically to the second protrusions 576a and 577a.

[0495] The first protrusions 105a and 106a and the second protrusions 576a and 577a can be referred to as "protrusions". The first groove 203a and the second groove 203b can be referred to as "grooves".

[0496] The first housing 10 and the second housing 20 can be joined by inserting protrusions 105a, 106a, 576a, and 577a into grooves 203a and 203b.

[0497] The machine chamber S is formed on the upper side of the substrate 575. Therefore, the machine chamber S can be separated from the upper side of the second upper panel 203.

[0498] The space 55 can be formed between the first support plate 576 and the second support plate 577.

[0499] The second exhaust pipe 44, the dehumidification pipe 46, and the third air supply pipe 48 can be disposed in the partition space 55. The second exhaust pipe 44, the dehumidification pipe 46, and the third air supply pipe 48 can be disposed between the second upper panel 203 and the substrate 575.

[0500] The third air supply pipe 48 may protrude downward toward the second upper panel 203. The third air supply pipe 48 may include: a first connecting pipe 48a, extending downward from the air supply pipe 420; and a second connecting pipe 48b, connected to the outer barrel 23.

[0501] The first connecting pipe 48a can be configured within the partition space 55.

[0502] The second connecting pipe 48b can extend downward from the second upper panel 203 and connect to the outer barrel 23. The second connecting pipe 48b may have a first insertion port 48s formed on its inner side for the first connecting pipe 48a to be inserted.

[0503] The first connecting pipe 48a is inserted into the first insertion port 48s, thereby securing it to the second connecting pipe 48b.

[0504] The third inlet port 424 can be connected to the second exhaust pipe 44 and can be configured within the partition space 55.

[0505] The third inlet port 424 is inserted into the second insertion port 47s formed inside the third exhaust pipe 47, thereby securing it to the third exhaust pipe 47.

[0506] When assembling the first housing 10 and the second housing 20, the assembly and alignment of the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 can be made easier by inserting and fixing the first connecting pipe 48a and the third inflow port 424 to the first insertion port 48s and the second insertion port 47s, respectively.

[0507] The garment handling device A may include an auxiliary panel 58 disposed behind the partition space 55.

[0508] The auxiliary panel 58 can shield the rear side of the space 55. The auxiliary panel 58 can be attached to the first rear panel 102 and the second rear panel 202. The first rear panel 102 and the second rear panel 202 can be connected to each other through the auxiliary panel 58.

[0509] The auxiliary panel 58 may include a pipe passage 59 through which a second exhaust pipe 44 passes. The second exhaust pipe 44 may extend through the auxiliary panel 58 into the spaced space 55.

[0510] The auxiliary panel 58 can be combined with the first side panels 105, 106 and the support plates 576, 577.

[0511] The open member 463 can shield the front side of the partition space 55. The open member 463 can be positioned in front of the dehumidification duct 46 and the external air inlet port 423.

[0512] The garment handling device A may include: a hinge 463a connected to an open member 463; and a motor 463b that rotates the hinge 463a.

[0513] Hinge 463a is rotatably attached to the first front panel 101. Hinge 463a can extend in the left-right direction. Opening member 463 can rotate in the front-back direction about hinge 463a as an axis of rotation. Opening member 463 can be integrally formed with hinge 463a. If motor 463b rotates hinge 463a, then opening member 463 can rotate together with hinge 463a. Opening member 463 can rotate forward, opening the front of partition space 55. If opening member 463 opens the front of partition space 55, then external air from clothing processing device A can flow into heat exchange channel 42 through external air inlet port 423, and air can be discharged to the outside of clothing processing device A through dehumidification pipe 46.

[0514] The controller 81 can be electrically connected to the motor 463b. The controller 81 can control the drive of the motor 463b. The user can open and close the partition space 55 by operating the control panel 8.

[0515] The following is for reference FIG. 11 The width of the garment handling device A in the front-to-back direction will be explained. (Refer to...) FIG. 11 The widths of dryer 1, washing machine 2, and care machine 3 described above can also be applied to the reference. FIG. 1 to FIG. 55 The garment handling apparatus of all embodiments described herein.

[0516] The front-to-back width W4 of the nursing machine 3 can be smaller than the front-to-back width W1 of the tower 9. When the front surface 31a of the nursing machine 3 and the front surface of the tower 9 are aligned, a gap X can be formed between the rear surface 30b of the nursing machine 3 and the rear surfaces 10b and 20b of the tower 9. The rear surface 30b of the nursing machine 3 can be closer to the front than the rear surfaces 10b and 20b of the tower 9, and can be located at the gap X further forward than the rear surfaces 10b and 20b of the tower 9.

[0517] A portion of the first inner wall 106 of the dryer 1 and a portion of the second inner wall 206 of the washing machine 2 may be located further back than the rear side 30b of the care machine 3. A portion of the first inner wall 106 and a portion of the second inner wall 206 may be exposed to the rear of the third housing 30.

[0518] The garment handling device A may include a rear housing 310 disposed at the rear of the interior space 33 of the care machine 3. The rear housing 310 may be disposed at the rear of the third housing 30.

[0519] The rear housing 310 can be attached to the dryer 1, the washing machine 2, and the care machine 3, respectively.

[0520] The rear housing 310 can provide space to accommodate the second air supply pipe 45 and the second exhaust pipe 44. The second air supply pipe 45 and the second exhaust pipe 44 can be accommodated inside the rear housing 310.

[0521] The second air supply pipe 45 and the second exhaust pipe 44, which circulate hot air to the nursing machine 3, can be configured at the rear of the third housing 30.

[0522] The second air supply pipe 45 and the second exhaust pipe 44 can be located further back than the third rear panel 302.

[0523] The second gas supply pipe 45 can extend downward from the heating device 50 and connect to the inner panel 34.

[0524] The second air supply pipe 45 may face the second inner wall 206 of the washing machine 2. The second air supply pipe 45 may be configured parallel to the second inner wall 206.

[0525] The second air supply pipe 45 may include a first hot air pipe 451 and a second hot air pipe 452. The first hot air pipe 451 may include: a first connecting portion 451a, connected to the heating device 50; a first extension portion 451b, extending downward from the first connecting portion 451a; and a second connecting portion 451c, connected to the second hot air pipe 452.

[0526] The first connecting portion 451a can penetrate the first inner sidewall 106 of the first housing 10. The first connecting portion 451a can be connected to the air supply duct 420, through which air blown by the fan 60 can flow. The first connecting portion 451a can extend horizontally from the heating device 50.

[0527] The first extension 451b can be bent downward from the first connecting portion 451a. The first extension 451b can extend downward from one end of the first connecting portion 451a. The first extension 451b can face the second inner sidewall 206 of the washing machine 2 and can be arranged parallel to the second inner sidewall 206.

[0528] The second connecting portion 451c can be combined with the third rear panel 302 of the third housing 30. The second connecting portion 451c can also be combined with the second hot air duct 452. That is, the third rear panel 302 can be provided between the second hot air duct 452 and the second connecting portion 451c. The second connecting portion 451c can extend from the first extension portion 451b in the front-rear direction.

[0529] Water supply ports 273 and 274 can be connected to water supply pipes 278 and 279 that are connected to an external water source (not shown). The outer tank 23 can receive water from an external water source (not shown) through water supply pipes 278 and 279.

[0530] The outer tub 23 can receive cold water through the cold water supply pipe 278 or hot water through the hot water supply pipe 279.

[0531] The garment handling device A may include a cooling pipe 275 branching from a cold water supply pipe 278 or a hot water supply pipe 279. The cooling pipe 275 may branch from the cold water supply pipe 278.

[0532] Cooling pipe 275 can be configured to branch off from cold water supply pipe 278 and exchange heat with second air supply pipe 45. Cooling pipe 275 can extend parallel to second air supply pipe 45 or contact second air supply pipe 45. Hot air flowing in second air supply pipe 45 can exchange heat with water flowing in cooling pipe 275 to reduce temperature. Cooling pipe 275 can be configured to exchange heat with first extension 451b or contact first extension 451b.

[0533] Cooling pipe 275 can be connected to drain pump 26. Water flowing into cooling pipe 275 from a branch of cold water supply pipe 278 can exchange heat with hot air flowing in the second air supply pipe 45 before flowing into drain pump 26. Drain pump 26 can discharge the water flowing in through cooling pipe 275 to the outside of clothing processing device A.

[0534] The clothes processed in the care machine 3 may be those that are easily damaged during high-temperature drying. Clothes dried in the care machine 3 may require hot air at a lower temperature than when processed in the dryer 1 and washing machine 2. The high-temperature hot air generated in the heating device 50 can be directly supplied to the dryer 1 or washing machine 2. Instead, it is necessary to cool the high-temperature hot air generated in the heating device 50 before supplying it to the care machine 3. Therefore, in the clothing processing apparatus A of the present invention, hot air at a lower temperature than that supplied to the dryer 1 and washing machine 2 is supplied to the care machine 3 via the water supply pipes 275, 278, and 279 of the washing machine 2, thereby preventing damage to the clothes contained inside the care machine 3. Furthermore, water used to lower the temperature of the hot air supplied to the care machine 3 is discharged to the outside via the drain pump 26, thereby effectively managing the water used for cooling the hot air.

[0535] The second exhaust pipe 44 may include: a third connecting portion 441, connected to the nursing machine 3; a second extension portion 442, extending downward from the third connecting portion 441; and a fourth connecting portion 443, connected to the heating device 50.

[0536] The third connecting part 441 can be combined with the third rear panel 302 of the third housing 30. The third connecting part 441 can communicate with the internal space 33 of the care machine 3, and the air circulating inside the care machine 3 can flow into it. The third connecting part 441 can be connected to the exhaust port 309. The third connecting part 441 can extend rearward from the third housing 30. The connection position of the third connecting part 441 with the third housing 30 can be located between the third upper panel 303 and the hanger 36. The exhaust port 309 can be located between the third upper panel 303 and the hanger 36.

[0537] The second extension 442 can be bent downward from the third connecting portion 441. The second extension 442 can extend downward from the third connecting portion 441. The second extension 442 can extend downward from one end of the third connecting portion 441. The second extension 442 can face the first inner wall 106 of the dryer 1 and can be arranged parallel to the first inner wall 106.

[0538] The fourth connecting portion 443 can extend into the partition space 55. The fourth connecting portion 443 can extend from the second extension portion 442 in the left-right direction. The fourth connecting portion 443 can be connected to the heating device 50 within the partition space 55.

[0539] The rear housing 310 may have a width W6 in the front-to-back direction. The front-to-back width W6 of the rear housing 310 may be smaller than the front-to-back width W1 of the tower 9. The front-to-back width W6 of the rear housing 310 may have the same dimension as the aforementioned interval X.

[0540] The rear surface 310b of the rear housing 310 can be aligned with the rear surfaces 10b and 20b of the tower 9. The rear surface 310b of the rear housing 310 can be on the same plane as the rear surfaces 10b and 20b of the tower 9.

[0541] The sum of the front-to-back width W6 of the rear housing 310 and the front-to-back width W4 of the nursing machine 3 (W4+W6) can be the same as the front-to-back width W1 of the tower 9. However, the sum of the front-to-back width W6 of the rear housing 310 and the front-to-back width W4 of the nursing machine 3 (W4+W6) can be similar to or greater than the front-to-back width W1 of the tower 9.

[0542] In the garment handling apparatus A of one aspect of the present invention, by arranging a rear housing 310 behind the care machine 3, a constant width in the front-to-back direction can be formed. That is, by arranging the rear housing 310 behind the care machine 3, the rear surface 310b of the rear housing 310 and the rear surfaces 10b and 20b of the tower 9 can be aligned simultaneously with the front surface 31a of the care machine 3 and the front surface of the tower 9.

[0543] The rear housing 310 may have a height 310H in the vertical direction. The height 310H of the rear housing 310 may be the same as the height 3H of the nursing machine 3 and the height 9H of the tower 9. However, the height 310H of the rear housing 310 may also be similar to or lower than the height 3H of the nursing machine 3 and the height 9H of the tower 9.

[0544] The rear housing 310 can be secured to the nursing machine 3 by a fastening member 316 passing through a fastening plate 317 extending in the front-rear direction. A plurality of fastening plates 317 can be arranged in a vertically spaced manner. The fastening plates 317 can extend in the front-rear direction and engage with the sidewalls of each of the rear housing 310 and the third housing 30. The fastening member 316 can penetrate the sidewalls of each of the rear housing 310 and the third housing 30 and the fastening plate 317.

[0545] The following is for reference FIG. 12 The alignment structure of the front and rear sides of the garment handling device A will be explained. (Refer to...) FIG. 12 The alignment structure of the garment handling device described herein can also be applied to the reference. FIG. 1 to FIG. 55 The garment handling apparatus of all embodiments described herein.

[0546] The front surface 31a of the nursing machine 3 and the front surface 9a of the tower 9 can be aligned in the horizontal direction. The front surface 31a of the nursing machine 3 and the front surface 9a of the tower 9 can be located on the same plane.

[0547] Doors 11 and 21 can be configured inside enclosures 10 and 20, with their front surfaces 11a and 21a located on the same plane as the front surfaces 10a and 20a of enclosures 10 and 20. The front surfaces 11a and 21a of doors 11 and 21 can be touchscreens, allowing users to open doors 11 and 21 by touching their front surfaces.

[0548] The front surface 31a of the nursing machine 3, the front surfaces 10a and 20a of the housings 10 and 20, and the front surfaces 11a and 21a of the doors 11 and 21 can be aligned horizontally. The front surface 31a of the nursing machine 3, the front surfaces 10a and 20a of the housings 10 and 20, and the front surfaces 11a and 21a of the doors 11 and 21 can be located on the same plane.

[0549] The rear side 30b of the nursing machine 3 can be closer to the front than the rear side 9b of the tower 9. The rear side 9b of the tower 9 can include the rear side 10b of the dryer 1 and the rear side 20b of the washing machine 2.

[0550] The rear surface 310b of the rear housing 310 can be aligned horizontally with the rear surface 9b of the tower 9. The rear surface 310b of the rear housing 310 and the rear surface 9b of the tower 9 can be located on the same plane.

[0551] A space may be formed between the rear side 30b of the nursing machine 3 and the rear side 310b of the rear housing 310, and the second air supply pipe 45 and the second exhaust pipe 44 may be disposed inside the space.

[0552] The garment handling device A may have a width W in the front-to-back direction. The front-to-back width W of the garment handling device A may remain the same in the horizontal direction.

[0553] The following is for reference FIG. 13 This illustrates the alignment structure of the clothing processing device A' of another aspect of the present invention.

[0554] The nursing machine 3' may have a height H1 in the vertical direction. The height H1 of the nursing machine 3' may be the length from the upper side 30c of the third housing 30 to the lower side 30d of the third housing 30.

[0555] Tower 9' can have a height H2 in the vertical direction. The height H2 of tower 9' can be the length from the upper side 10c of the first box 10 to the lower side 20d of the second box 20.

[0556] The height H1 of the nursing machine 3' can be higher than the height H2 of the tower 9'. The upper side 30c of the nursing machine 3' can be located at a higher position than the upper side 10c of the tower 9'. A height difference H3 can be formed between the upper side 30c of the nursing machine 3' and the upper side 10c of the tower 9'.

[0557] The garment handling device A' may include an auxiliary panel 93, which is movably connected to the first housing 10 in the vertical direction. The auxiliary panel 93 may also be movably disposed on the tower 9' in the vertical direction.

[0558] The auxiliary panel 93 moves upward from the first housing 10 to form the upper end 91' of the front of the tower 9'. The auxiliary panel 93 can be vertically movably disposed inside the first housing 10. The auxiliary panel 93 can also be vertically extended and disposed inside the first front panel 101. Alternatively, the auxiliary panel 93 can form the upper end of the front of the dryer 1. The upper end of the auxiliary panel 93 can be the upper end of the front of the tower 9'. The upper end of the auxiliary panel 93 can be the upper end of the front of the dryer 1.

[0559] The upper part 91' of the auxiliary panel 93 can be horizontally aligned with the upper part 307 of the front of the nursing machine 3'. The upper part 91' of the auxiliary panel 93 can be on the same plane as the upper part 307 of the front of the nursing machine 3'.

[0560] The height H4 of the auxiliary panel 93 protruding to the upper side of the first housing 10 can be the same as the height difference H3 between the upper side 30c of the care machine 3' and the upper side 10c of the dryer 1. That is, the auxiliary panel 93 can protrude to the upper side of the first housing 10 by the height difference H3 between the care machine 3' and the tower 9".

[0561] The auxiliary panel 93 can protrude upward from the upper side 10c of the first housing 10. A space facing the nursing machine 3' can be formed behind the auxiliary panel 93. Although not shown, an additional housing (not shown) or storage box (not shown) can be disposed on the upper side of the first housing 10, which can be obscured by the auxiliary panel 93 so that the housing (not shown) or storage box (not shown) cannot be seen from the front.

[0562] The nursing machine 3' may have a width W8 in the front-to-back direction. The width W8 of the nursing machine 3' may be the length from the front side 31a of the third door 31 to the rear side 30b of the third housing 30.

[0563] Tower 9' may have a width W7 in the front-to-back direction. The width W7 of tower 9' may be the length from the front side 10a, 20a of the housing 10, 20 or the front side 11a, 21a of the doors 11, 21 to the rear side 10b, 20b of the housing 10, 20.

[0564] The width W8 of the nursing machine 3' can be smaller than the width W7 of the tower 9'. The rear side 30b of the nursing machine 3' can be closer to the front than the rear sides 10b and 20b of the tower 9'. A depth difference X can be formed between the rear side 30b of the nursing machine 3' and the rear sides 10b and 20b of the tower 9'.

[0565] The garment handling device A' may include a support block 38, which is connected to the garment care machine 3 and extends in the front-to-back direction. The support block 38 may be attached to the rear panel 302 of the third housing 30. The support block 38 may protrude rearward from the rear panel 30b of the garment care machine 3'. The support block 38 may protrude from the rear panel 30b of the garment care machine 3' by a predetermined width W9. The width W9 of the support block 38 protruding from the rear panel 30b of the garment care machine 3' may be the same as the depth difference X between the garment care machine 3' and the tower 9'. That is, the support block 38 may protrude from the rear panel 30b of the garment care machine 3' by the depth difference X between the garment care machine 3' and the tower 9'.

[0566] A block storage groove 37 recessed forward can be formed on the rear panel 302 of the third housing 30. The block storage groove 37 extends in the vertical direction and can provide space for storing the support block 38.

[0567] The storage slot 37 and support blocks 38 can be arranged in a plurality of vertically spaced configurations. One of the plurality of support blocks 38 can be positioned horizontally relative to the dryer 1. Another of the plurality of support blocks 38 can be positioned horizontally relative to the washing machine 2. The support block 38 positioned horizontally relative to the dryer 1 can be referred to as the "first support block." The support block 38 positioned horizontally relative to the washing machine 2 can be referred to as the "second support block."

[0568] The garment handling device A' may include a proximity sensor 389, which senses the proximity of an object located behind the care machine 3.

[0569] A proximity sensor 389 may be configured on the rear panel 302 of the third housing 30. The proximity sensor 389 can sense the proximity of an object approaching the rear panel 302 of the third housing 30.

[0570] The garment handling device A' may include a side support block 38', which is disposed on the opposite side 305 of the care machine 3' to the side facing the tower 9' and can extend in the opposite direction to the direction facing the tower 9'.

[0571] The side support block 38' can be disposed on the outer side wall 305 of the third housing 30. A side block storage groove 37' can be recessed in the outer side wall 305 of the third housing 30. The side block storage groove 37' can provide space to accommodate the side support block 38'.

[0572] The side support block 38' can extend in the opposite direction to the direction facing the tower 9', and can protrude to one side of the outer side wall 305.

[0573] The garment handling device A' can be configured adjacent to a wall in the interior space. In this case, walls can be provided to one side and behind the garment care machine 3'. When the garment handling device A' is installed in the interior space, support blocks 38, 38' prevent collisions between the garment handling device A' and the wall. Furthermore, with the garment handling device A' installed in the interior space, support blocks 38, 38' can buffer vibrations generated in the washing machine 2. Vibrations generated in the washing machine 2 can be absorbed by the support blocks 38, 38' in contact with the wall. Additionally, support blocks 38 prevent the third door 31 of the garment care machine 3' from being further back than the front of the tower 9' due to the depth difference X between the garment care machine 3' and the tower 9'. That is, by positioning support blocks 38 between the rear side 30b of the garment care machine 3' and the wall, a space can be maintained between the garment care machine 3' and the wall, thereby aligning the front side 31a of the garment care machine 3' with the front side of the tower 9'.

[0574] The following is for reference FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 This explains the structure of the drive support block 38. FIG. 14 This is an enlarged view showing a portion of the rear side 30b of the nursing machine 3'. FIG. 15 yes FIG. 14 The longitudinal sectional view of the structure shown.

[0575] The support block 38 can be rotatably connected to the nursing machine 3'. The support block 38 can also be rotatably connected to the rear panel 302 of the third housing 30.

[0576] The garment handling device A' may include: a rotating shaft 383 that extends horizontally through a support block 38; and a motor 381 connected to the rotating shaft 383 via a motor shaft 382. The motor 381 may be referred to as a "block motor".

[0577] The rear panel 302 may have a thickness in the front-to-back direction, and a motor storage space 384 for mounting a motor 381 may be formed inside the rear panel 302. The motor 381 may generate power to rotate the rotating shaft 383, which may rotate by rotating the motor shaft 382.

[0578] The rotating shaft 383 can pass through one side wall 371 and the other side wall 372 of the block storage slot 37. One side wall 371 and the other side wall 372 can face each other in the horizontal direction.

[0579] The support block 38 can rotate about the rotation axis 383 in the front-to-back direction. The support block 38 can rotate about the rotation axis 383 to the rear, so that it can protrude towards the rear of the nursing machine 3'. The support block 38 can rotate about the rotation axis 383 to the front, so that it can be stored inside the block storage slot 37.

[0580] The support block 38 can protrude rearward from the rear side 30b of the nursing machine 3' by a specified width W9. The support block 38 can protrude rearward by the depth difference X (W9 = X) between the nursing machine 3' and the tower 9'.

[0581] The support block 38 may include: a first support portion 38a, which is combined with the nursing machine 3'; and a second support portion 38b, which is disposed at the rear end of the first support portion 38a and includes an elastomer.

[0582] The first support 38a can be rotatably combined with the third housing 30 inside the block storage slot 37.

[0583] The second support portion 38b can form the rear end of the first support portion 38a. The second support portion 38b can be made of a material with a high elastic modulus. Thus, in the event of a collision between the support block 38 and an object located behind the garment care machine 3', the impact applied to the garment care device A' can be buffered.

[0584] The rear end 38b of the support block 38 can be aligned horizontally with the rear sides 10b and 20b of the tower 9'.

[0585] The controller 81 can be electrically connected to the proximity sensor 39 and the motor 381. The controller 81 can receive information from the proximity sensor 39 about the proximity of an object located behind the nursing machine 3'.

[0586] The controller 81 can control the motor 381 to cause the support block 38 to protrude rearward toward the nursing machine 3' when the proximity level measured by the proximity sensor 39 is above a preset reference value. When the proximity level measured by the proximity sensor 39 is above the reference value, the motor 381 can rotate the rotation shaft 383, causing the support block 38 to rotate rearward. When the proximity level measured by the proximity sensor 39 is below the reference value, the motor 381 can rotate the rotation shaft 383, causing the support block 38 to rotate forward, and the support block 38 can be stored inside the block storage slot 37.

[0587] The following is for reference FIG. 16 The operation of auxiliary panel 93 will be explained. FIG. 16This is a diagram illustrating the principle of operation of the auxiliary panel 93 of the garment handling device A' according to the first operating embodiment.

[0588] The auxiliary panel 93 can be configured to extend upward from the first housing 10. The first housing 10 may include a first front panel 101 having a predetermined thickness and having a space formed therein, and the auxiliary panel 93 can be disposed inside the first front panel 101 in a manner that allows it to move in the vertical direction.

[0589] The auxiliary panel 93 may include: a panel body 932, which is disposed in the first housing 10 in a manner that allows it to move along the vertical direction; a rack 933, which extends downward from the panel body 932; and a sensing unit 931, which is disposed at the upper end of the front side of the panel body 932.

[0590] The panel body 932 protrudes upward from the upper side 10c of the dryer 1, forming the upper end 91' of the front of the tower 9'. The upper end 91' of the front of the tower 9' can refer to the upper end of the panel body 932.

[0591] The rack 933 can extend in the vertical direction to form multiple teeth that are spaced apart vertically.

[0592] The sensing unit 931 may be disposed at the upper end of the panel body 932. The sensing unit 931 may be configured to face the third door 31 in the horizontal direction.

[0593] The garment handling device A' may include: a motor 94 that generates power; and a drive gear 95 that is connected to the motor 94 and rotates.

[0594] Motor 94 provides power for raising and lowering auxiliary panel 93. Motor 94 may be referred to as "panel motor".

[0595] The drive gear 95 can receive power from the motor 94 to rotate. The drive gear 95 can be a spur gear that can mesh with the rack 933.

[0596] If the motor 94 rotates to drive the gear 95, the rack 933 meshing with the gear 95 can move in the vertical direction. The panel body 932 can be integrated with the rack 933 and can move together with the rack 933 in the vertical direction.

[0597] The drive gear 95 and rack 933 can be referred to as a "power transmission device". The power transmission device may include the drive gear 95 and rack 933, which can transmit the power generated in the motor 94 to the panel body 932.

[0598] The garment handling device A' may include a conveying unit 311, which is disposed at the upper end 307 of the third door 31 and transmits a predetermined signal in the horizontal direction.

[0599] The transmission unit 311 can transmit electrical signals in the horizontal direction. The transmission unit 311 can transmit radio waves in the horizontal direction. The transmission unit 311 can transmit infrared signals in the horizontal direction. The transmission unit 311 can generate electromagnetic force in the horizontal direction. The transmission unit 311 can be a permanent magnet.

[0600] The sensing unit 931 can sense the signal transmitted by the transmitting unit 311. The sensing unit 931 can be a Hall IC sensor. The sensing unit 931 can be an infrared sensing device. The sensing unit 931 can be a magnet.

[0601] As an example, the sensing unit 931 and the transmission unit 311 can transmit and receive infrared signals. The sensing unit 931 can be a device that emits infrared light in the horizontal direction and senses the infrared light reflected back from the emitted infrared light. The transmission unit 311 can be a reflector. The sensing unit 931 can sense the infrared light emitted in the horizontal direction to the transmission unit 311 and reflected back by the transmission unit 311. When the upper end 91' of the auxiliary panel 93 and the upper end 307 of the third door 31 are aligned in the horizontal direction, the sensing unit 931 can sense the infrared light reflected back by the transmission unit 311.

[0602] As another example, the sensing unit 931 and the transmitting unit 311 can transmit and receive magnetic signals. The sensing unit 931 can be a Hall IC sensor, or a device for sensing changes in the magnetic field. The transmitting unit 311 can be a permanent magnet. The sensing unit 931 can sense the magnetic force generated by the transmitting unit 311. Furthermore, the sensing unit 931 and the transmitting unit 311 can be permanent magnets with opposite polarities. When the upper end 91' of the auxiliary panel 93 and the upper end 307 of the third door 31 are aligned horizontally, the sensing unit 931 can sense the magnetism of the transmitting unit 311.

[0603] The controller 81 can be electrically connected to the sensing unit 931 and the motor 94. When the upper end 91' of the auxiliary panel 93 and the upper end 307 of the third door 31 are aligned in the horizontal direction, the sensing unit 931 can sense the signal transmitted from the transmission unit 311. If the sensing unit 931 senses the signal transmitted from the transmission unit 311, the controller 81 can stop the drive of the motor 94. Therefore, when the upper end 91' of the tower 9' and the upper end 307 of the nursing machine 3 are aligned in the horizontal direction, the drive of the motor 94 stops, thereby stopping the up-and-down movement of the auxiliary panel 93.

[0604] The following is for reference FIG. 17This explains another way in which the auxiliary panel 93' operates. FIG. 17 This is a diagram illustrating the principle of operation of the auxiliary panel 93' of the garment handling device A' according to the second operating embodiment.

[0605] Apart from the way the sensing unit 931' and the transmission unit 311' transmit and receive signals, the auxiliary panel 93' in the second operating embodiment can operate in the same way as the auxiliary panel 93 in the first operating embodiment.

[0606] The sensing unit 931' can be arranged facing upwards at the upper end 91' of the auxiliary panel 93'. The conveying unit 311' can extend horizontally from the upper end 307 of the nursing machine 3 toward the tower 9', and can be located on the upper side higher than the auxiliary panel 93'.

[0607] The sensing unit 931' can sense signals transmitted from the transmission unit 311'. For example, the sensing unit 931' can sense the change in the current flowing inside it by contacting the transmission unit 311'. Alternatively, the sensing unit 931' and the transmission unit 311' can be permanent magnets with opposite polarities. If the sensing unit 931' and the transmission unit 311' are close to each other, the sensing unit 931' can sense the polarity of the transmission unit 311' and attach itself to the transmission unit 311'.

[0608] The controller 81 can control the drive of the motor 94'. The motor 94' can move the rack 933' upward by rotating the drive gear 95'. When the rack 933' moves upward, the panel body 932', which is integrated with the rack 933', can move upward together with the rack 933'. When the panel body 932' moves upward, the sensing unit 931' can contact the transmission unit 311'. The sensing unit 931' can sense the signal transmitted from the transmission unit 311' by contacting the transmission unit 311'. If the sensing unit 931' senses the signal transmitted from the transmission unit 311', the controller 81 can stop the drive of the motor 94'. Therefore, when the upper end 91' of the tower 9' and the upper end 307 of the care machine 3 are aligned in the horizontal direction, the drive of the motor 94' stops, thereby stopping the up-and-down movement of the auxiliary panel 93'.

[0609] The following is for reference FIG. 18 The following describes another aspect of the clothing treatment apparatus A.

[0610] The garment handling device A” may include an upper housing 901, 902 disposed on the upper side of the dryer 1” or the care machine 3”.

[0611] The upper housings 901 and 902 may include: a first upper housing 901 disposed on the upper side of the dryer 1”; and a second upper housing 902 disposed on the upper side of the care machine 3”. Only one of the first upper housing 901 and the second upper housing 902 may be disposed. The first upper housing 901 may be included in the dryer 1”. The second upper housing 902 may be included in the care machine 3”. The first upper housing 901 may form the upper end of the front face of the dryer 1”. The second upper housing 902 may form the upper end of the front face of the care machine 3”.

[0612] The first upper housing 901 can be a storage box with a space 901s formed inside it. The second upper housing 902 can be a storage box with a space 902s formed inside it.

[0613] The garment processing device A” may include a first tower T1, which includes a dryer 1”, a washing machine 2” and a first upper housing 901.

[0614] The garment processing device A” may include a second tower T2, the second tower T2 including a care machine 3” and a second upper housing 902.

[0615] The first upper housing 901 can form the upper part 901a of the front of the first tower T1. The second upper housing 902 can form the upper part 902a of the front of the second tower T2.

[0616] The upper part 901a of the front of the first tower T1 and the upper part 902a of the front of the second tower T2 can be aligned in the horizontal direction. The upper part 901a of the front of the first tower T1 and the upper part 902a of the front of the second tower T2 can be located on the same plane.

[0617] The height H9 of the first tower T1 and the height H10 of the second tower T2 can be the same. The first tower T1 and the second tower T2 can be configured side by side.

[0618] The height H5 of the washing unit 9” including the dryer 1” and the washing machine 2” can be less than the height H6 of the care machine 3”. The height H7 of the first upper housing 901 can be greater than the height H8 of the second upper housing 902.

[0619] The sum of the height H5 of the washing unit 9” and the height H7 of the first upper housing 901 (H5+H7) can be the same as the sum of the height H6 of the nursing machine 3” and the height H8 of the second upper housing 902 (H6+H8).

[0620] By configuring housings 901 and 902 in the garment processing device A", the height of the garment processing device A can be evenly matched even if there is a height difference between the washing unit 9 and the care machine 3, and space can also be provided to store the components of the garment processing device A.

[0621] Reference FIG. 1 to FIG. 18 The descriptions of dryer 1, washing machine 2, care machine 3, and heating device 50 are equally applicable to reference. FIG. 19 to FIG. 55 The clothing processing apparatus of the present invention described in this embodiment.

[0622] Furthermore, even when referring to FIG. 19 to FIG. 55 This indicates that the clothing processing device did not... FIG. 19 to FIG. 55 The corresponding constituent elements are shown in the figure. FIG. 1 to FIG. 18 The description of the constituent elements shown can also be applied to the same purpose. FIG. 19 to FIG. 55 The explanation. For example, even in FIG. 19 to FIG. 55 The rear housing 310 is not shown in the reference. FIG. 19 to FIG. 55 When explaining, refer to FIG. 1 to FIG. 18 The description of the rear housing 310 is equally applicable. FIG. 19 to FIG. 55 Explanation.

[0623] The following is for reference FIG. 19 to FIG. 23 This describes another aspect of the clothing processing apparatus B and B' of the present invention.

[0624] Reference FIG. 19 In the clothing handling device B, a dryer 1 can be installed on the lower side of the washing machine 2, and a heating device 50 can be installed on the lower part of the dryer 1.

[0625] The second upper panel 203 of the washing machine 2 and the third upper panel 303 of the care machine 3 can be configured on the same horizontal plane.

[0626] The first lower panel 104 of the dryer 1 and the third lower panel 304 of the care machine 3 can be configured on the same horizontal plane.

[0627] The heating device 50 can be disposed inside the dryer 1. The heating device 50 can be disposed inside the first chamber 10. The heating device 50 can be disposed at the lower part of the first chamber 10 or at the lower side of the first drum 13.

[0628] Reference FIG. 20 The garment processing device B includes a piping system connecting the dryer 1, washing machine 2, care machine 3, and heating device 50.

[0629] The air supply duct 420 may include a first discharge port 425 connected to the first air supply duct 43. The air supply duct 420 may include a second discharge port 427 connected to the second air supply duct 45. The air supply duct 420 may include a fourth discharge port 428 connected to the dehumidification duct 46. A third air supply duct 48 may branch from the second air supply duct 45, and a third discharge port 426 may be formed at the branch point of the third air supply duct 48 from the second air supply duct 45.

[0630] The first discharge port 425 can protrude upward from the air supply duct 420. The first air supply duct 43 can connect the first roller 13 and the first discharge port 425.

[0631] The second discharge port 427 can protrude laterally from the air supply duct 420. The second air supply duct 45 can connect the nursing machine 3 and the second discharge port 427. The second air supply duct 45 can connect the air supply port 308 and the second discharge port 427.

[0632] The third discharge port 426 can protrude upward from the second air supply pipe 45. The third air supply pipe 48 can connect the outer barrel 23 and the third discharge port 426. The third air supply pipe 48 can connect the outer barrel 23 and the second air supply pipe 45.

[0633] The fourth discharge port 428 can protrude laterally from the air supply duct 420. The fourth discharge port 428 can protrude in the opposite direction to the second discharge port 427. The dehumidification duct 46 can be connected to the fourth discharge port 428.

[0634] Hot air flowing into the first drum 13 via the first air supply pipe 43, after drying the clothes contained within the first drum 13, can flow into the heat exchange channel 42 via the first exhaust pipe 41. The first drum 13 may include a front cover 131 disposed on the front side and a rear cover 132 disposed on the rear side. The first air supply pipe 43 may be connected to the rear cover 132, and the first exhaust pipe 41 may be connected to the front cover 131.

[0635] The first exhaust pipe 41 can connect the first roller 13 and the heat exchange channel 42. The first exhaust pipe 41 can extend downward from the first roller 13 and connect to the heat exchange channel 42.

[0636] A first inflow port 421, which connects to the first exhaust pipe 41, may be formed at the inflow end 42A of the heat exchange channel 42. The first inflow port 421 may extend upward from the heat exchange channel 42. The first inflow port 421 may extend upward from the housing 570 of the heating device 50.

[0637] The garment handling device B may include a first on / off valve 41a disposed in the first exhaust duct 41. The first on / off valve 41a can regulate the airflow in the first exhaust duct 41. The first on / off valve 41a can cut off the airflow in the first exhaust duct 41. When hot air is not supplied to the first roller 13 through the first air supply duct 43, the first on / off valve 41a can cut off the airflow in the first exhaust duct 41.

[0638] Hot air flowing into the third chamber 30 via the second air supply pipe 45 can flow into the heat exchange channel 42 via the second exhaust pipe 44 after drying the clothes contained in the third chamber 30. The second air supply pipe 45 can be connected to the third rear panel 302 of the third chamber 30. The second exhaust pipe 44 can penetrate the third inner wall 306 of the third chamber 30 and connect to the heat exchange channel 42.

[0639] The second exhaust pipe 44 can connect the exhaust port 309 and the heat exchange channel 42. The second exhaust pipe 44 can extend laterally from the lower part of the third housing 30 and connect to the heat exchange channel 42.

[0640] A second inflow port 422, connected to the second exhaust pipe 44, may be formed at the inflow end 42A of the heat exchange passage 42. The second inflow port 422 may extend laterally from the heat exchange passage 42. The second inflow port 422 may extend laterally from the third exhaust pipe 47. The second inflow port 422 may extend laterally from the first pipe section 471.

[0641] The second inlet port 422 can protrude to the side from one side of the third exhaust pipe 47. The second exhaust pipe 44 can connect the internal space 33 of the nursing machine 3 and the second inlet port 422. The second exhaust pipe 44 can connect the internal space 33 of the nursing machine 3 and the third exhaust pipe 47. The air in the second exhaust pipe 44 can merge with the air in the third exhaust pipe 47 and flow into the heat exchange channel 42.

[0642] The garment handling device B may include a second on / off valve 44a disposed in the second exhaust duct 44. The second on / off valve 44a can regulate the airflow within the second exhaust duct 44. The second on / off valve 44a can also cut off the airflow within the second exhaust duct 44. When hot air does not flow into the third housing 30 through the second air supply duct 45, the second on / off valve 44a can cut off the airflow within the second exhaust duct 44.

[0643] The hot air flowing into the outer tub 23 via the third air supply pipe 48 dries the clothes contained in the outer tub 23 and then flows into the heat exchange channel 42 via the third exhaust pipe 47.

[0644] The third exhaust pipe 47 can connect the outer barrel 23 and the heat exchange channel 42. The third exhaust pipe 47 can extend from the upper part of the outer barrel 23 and connect to the heat exchange channel 42.

[0645] The third exhaust duct 47 may include a first duct section 471 located between the base plate 575 and the first lower panel 104 of the heating device 50. The first duct section 471 may be disposed within the partition space 55 of the heating device 50. The first duct section 471 may extend in the front-rear direction within the partition space 55.

[0646] A third inflow port 424, which connects to the third exhaust pipe 47, may be formed at the inflow end 42A of the heat exchange channel 42. The third inflow port 424 may extend downward from the heat exchange channel 42. The third inflow port 424 may extend downward from the housing 570 of the heating device 50.

[0647] The garment handling device B may include a third on / off valve 47a disposed in the third exhaust duct 47. The third on / off valve 47a can regulate the airflow within the third exhaust duct 47. The third on / off valve 47a can cut off the airflow within the third exhaust duct 47. When hot air does not flow into the outer tub 23 through the third air supply duct 48, the third on / off valve 47a can cut off the airflow within the third exhaust duct 47.

[0648] An external air inlet port 423 can protrude forward from one side of the third exhaust duct 47. The external air inlet port 423 can connect the indoor space and the third exhaust duct 47. Air within the external air inlet port 423 can merge with air within the third exhaust duct 47 and flow into the heat exchange channel 42. The external air inlet port 423 may include a forward-opening external air inlet 49. Air flowing in through the external air inlet 49 can merge with air within the third exhaust duct 47 and flow into the heat exchange channel 42.

[0649] Reference FIG. 21 The heating device 50 can be configured at the bottom of the dryer 1 and can supply hot air to each of the dryer 1, washing machine 2 and care machine 3.

[0650] A second air supply duct 45 that supplies hot air to the nursing machine 3 can be located at the rear of the third housing 30. A second exhaust duct 44 can be located on the lower side of the inner panel 34.

[0651] The second gas supply pipe 45 can be positioned further back than the third rear panel 302.

[0652] The second gas supply pipe 45 can extend laterally from the heating device 50 and connect to the inner panel 34.

[0653] The second air supply pipe 45 can penetrate the first inner wall 106 of the dryer 1. The second air supply pipe 45 penetrates the first inner wall 106 and extends into the interior of the rear housing 310.

[0654] The first hot air duct 451 can be connected to the first inner wall 106. The first hot air duct 451 can be connected to the air supply duct 420, into which air blown by the fan 60 can flow. The first hot air duct 451 can extend horizontally from the heating device 50.

[0655] The second hot air duct 452 can be bent upward from the first hot air duct 451. The second hot air duct 452 can extend upward from one end of the first hot air duct 451.

[0656] The air supply port 308 of the care machine 3 can be located at the lower part of the care machine 3. Since the heating device 50 and the air supply port 308 are arranged at the lower part of the garment handling device B, the length of the second air supply pipe 45 connecting the heating device 50 and the air supply port 308 can be shortened. As a result, heat loss generated during the flow of air heated in the heating device 50 toward the air supply port 308 can be minimized. In addition, the hot air supplied from the heating device 50 is discharged into the internal space 33 through the air supply port 308 located at the lower part of the care machine 3, so the hot air can be evenly diffused to the upper part of the care machine 3.

[0657] The second exhaust pipe 44 can be disposed on the underside of the inner panel 34. The second exhaust pipe 44 can be connected to the exhaust port 309 formed in the inner panel 34.

[0658] The second exhaust pipe 44 can extend in the left-right direction and connect to the heating device 50. The second exhaust pipe 44 can connect to the third exhaust pipe 47. The second exhaust pipe 44 can pass through the support plate 577 and connect to the third exhaust pipe 47.

[0659] The third air supply pipe 48 can branch from the second air supply pipe 45. The third air supply pipe 48 can branch from the first hot air pipe 451. The third air supply pipe 48 can branch from the first hot air pipe 451 at the rear of the third housing 30.

[0660] The garment handling device B may include a regulating valve 453, which is configured at a location where the third air supply pipe 48 branches off from the second air supply pipe 45.

[0661] The regulating valve 453 can regulate the airflow direction within the second air supply duct 45. The regulating valve 453 can also regulate the airflow direction within the first hot air duct 451. The regulating valve 453 can open and close the second hot air duct 452 and the third air supply duct 48. The regulating valve 453 can open only one of the second hot air duct 452 and the third air supply duct 48. The regulating valve 453 can open both the second hot air duct 452 and the third air supply duct 48. The regulating valve 453 can regulate the airflow rate supplied to the second hot air duct 452 and the third air supply duct 48. The regulating valve 453 can distribute the air blown by the fan 60 to the second air supply duct 455 to the second hot air duct 452 and the third air supply duct 48.

[0662] The controller 81 can control the regulating valve 453. The controller 81 can control the regulating valve 453 to supply hot air from the fan 60 to the second air supply duct 45 to the internal space 33 of the nursing machine 3. The controller 81 can control the regulating valve 453 to supply hot air from the fan 60 to the second air supply duct 45 to the outer tub 23.

[0663] The third air supply pipe 48 can extend upward from the second air supply pipe 45. The third air supply pipe 48 can face the first inner wall 106. The third air supply pipe 48 can extend upward from the second air supply pipe 45, pass through the second inner wall 206 and connect to the outer barrel 23. The second roller 24 can receive hot air heated in the heating device 50 through the third air supply pipe 48.

[0664] The third exhaust pipe 47 can extend from the outer barrel 23 and penetrate the second inner wall 206.

[0665] The third exhaust pipe 47 may include: a first connecting portion 47a, which passes through the second inner sidewall 206 and is connected to the outer barrel 23; an extension portion 47b, which extends downward from the first connecting portion 47a; and a second connecting portion 47c, which bends from the extension portion 47b and is connected to the heating device 50.

[0666] The second exhaust pipe 44 can penetrate the support plate 577. The second air supply pipe 45 can penetrate the first inner wall 106.

[0667] The fan 60 can be configured to be closer to the first inner sidewall 106 than the first outer sidewall 105. The fan 60 can be configured adjacent to the care machine 3. The fan 60 can be configured to be closer to the first rear sidewall 102 than the first front panel 101. The fan 60 can be positioned further rearward than the third rear sidewall 302 of the care machine 3. The fan 60 can be positioned between the first roller 13 and the first lower panel 104. The fan 60 can be positioned between the substrate 575 and the first roller 13.

[0668] The switching device 70, which adjusts the air supply to the first air supply pipe 43 and the second air supply pipe 45, can be located at a height corresponding to the lower part of the nursing machine 3. The switching device 70 can be disposed below the first roller 13. The switching device 70 can be disposed between the first roller 13 and the first lower panel 104. The switching device 70 can be disposed between the first roller 13 and the base plate 575.

[0669] With the above-described configuration, the lengths of the first air supply pipe 43 and the second air supply pipe 45 can be minimized. That is, by arranging the fan 60 and the switching device 70 adjacent to both the first roller 13 and the nursing machine 3, the lengths of the first air supply pipe 43 and the second air supply pipe 45 can be minimized. Therefore, heat loss during the flow of heated air through the first air supply pipe 43 and the second air supply pipe 45 in the heating device 50 can be reduced.

[0670] The garment handling device B may include a steam generator 502. The steam generator 502 can generate steam by heating water. The steam generator 502 may be disposed inside the heating device 50.

[0671] The steam generator 502 can be connected to the first roller 13 via the first steam supply pipe 502a. The steam generator 502 can be connected to the nursing machine 3 via the second steam supply pipe 502b. The steam generated in the steam generator 502 can be supplied to the interior of the first roller 13 via the first steam supply pipe 502a. The steam generated in the steam generator 502 can be supplied to the interior space 33 of the nursing machine 3 via the second steam supply pipe 502b.

[0672] Reference FIG. 22 The heating device 50 can be configured at the lower part of the clothing processing device B, and the piping system can be connected to the lower part of the clothing processing device B.

[0673] The substrate 575 of the heating device 50 can be located on an upper side that is higher than the first lower panel 104. A spacer 55 can be formed on the lower side of the substrate 575.

[0674] The space 55 can be formed between the first support plate 576 and the second support plate 577.

[0675] The garment handling device B may include an auxiliary panel 58 and a first lower panel 104.

[0676] The auxiliary panel 58 can shield the rear side of the space 55. The auxiliary panel 58 can be combined with the first rear panel 102 and the first side panels 105, 106.

[0677] The first lower panel 104 can cover the lower side of the space 55. The first lower panel 104 can be combined with the support plates 576, 577 and the auxiliary panel 58.

[0678] The first support plate 576 may include a first protrusion 576a protruding downward. The second support plate 577 may include a second protrusion 577a protruding downward. The first protrusion 576a and the second protrusion 577a may be referred to as "protrusions".

[0679] The first lower panel 104 may include a recess 104a for inserting protrusions 576a, 577a. The recess 104a may be recessed downward from the top surface of the first lower panel 104.

[0680] By inserting the protrusions 576a and 577a into the groove 104a, the first lower panel 104 can be combined with the heating device 50.

[0681] The dehumidification duct 46 and the third exhaust duct 47 can be configured in the partition space 55. The third exhaust duct 47 located in the partition space 55 can be defined as the first duct section 471, and the dehumidification duct 46 located in the partition space 55 can be defined as the second duct section 461.

[0682] The dehumidification duct 46 can extend in the front-to-back direction. A hot air outlet 462 can be formed on the front side of the dehumidification duct 46. The air heated in the heating device 50 can be blown by the fan 60 and thus supplied to the indoor space through the dehumidification duct 46.

[0683] The second exhaust duct 44 can extend horizontally into the partition space 55. The second exhaust duct 44 can penetrate the third inner wall 306 and the second support plate 577. The second exhaust duct 44 can connect to the third exhaust duct 47 within the partition space 55. Air in the second exhaust duct 44 can merge with air in the third exhaust duct 47 and flow into the heat exchange channel 42.

[0684] Reference FIG. 23 The third gas supply pipe 480 can be directly connected to the heating device 50 and the washing machine 2, without branching from the second gas supply pipe 450.

[0685] The third gas supply pipe 480 and the third exhaust pipe 470 can be directly connected to the heating device 50. The third gas supply pipe 480 can be directly connected to the heating device 50 without branching from the second gas supply pipe 450. The third gas supply pipe 480 can be connected to the air supply pipe 420.

[0686] The third discharge port 426 can protrude downward from the air supply duct 420. The third discharge port 426 can protrude downward from the second wall 420b of the air supply duct 420.

[0687] The third discharge port 426 can be connected to the third air supply duct 480. Air blown from the fan 60 can be supplied to the interior of the third air supply duct 480 connected to the third discharge port 426.

[0688] The third gas supply pipe 480 may include: a first gas supply section 480a connected to a third discharge port 426; a second gas supply section 480b extending rearward from the first gas supply section 480a; and a third gas supply section 480c extending upward from the second gas supply section 480b.

[0689] The first air supply section 480a can extend downward from the third discharge port 426. The first air supply section 480a can extend vertically within the partition space 55.

[0690] The second air supply unit 480b can extend rearward within the partition space 55. A portion of the second air supply unit 480b can be located within the partition space 55, while the remainder can be located outside the partition space 55. The rear end of the second air supply unit 480b can be positioned further rearward than the first rear panel 102.

[0691] The third air supply unit 480c can extend upward from the second air supply unit 480b and connect to the washing machine 2. The end of the third air supply unit 480c can connect to the outer tub 23. The third air supply unit 480c can be positioned behind the first rear panel 102 and the second rear panel 202. The third air supply unit 480c can face the first rear panel 102 and the second rear panel 202.

[0692] The third exhaust pipe 470 can be connected to the heating device 50 behind the washing machine 2 and the dryer 1. That is, the third exhaust pipe 470 can extend vertically behind the first rear panel 102 and the second rear panel 202, and not extend inside the rear housing 310.

[0693] The third exhaust pipe 470 may include: a first pipe section 471 disposed within the spaced space 55; and a pipe extension 472 connected to the first pipe section 471.

[0694] The first pipe section 471 can extend forward within the partition space 55. The first pipe section 471 can be connected to the inlet end 42A of the heat exchange channel 42. The second exhaust pipe 440 can extend in the left-right direction on the lower side of the inner panel 34 and can be connected to the first pipe section 471 within the partition space 55. The air in the second exhaust pipe 440 can merge with the air in the first pipe section 471 and flow into the heat exchange channel 42.

[0695] The first pipe section 471 may include a connecting hole 471a communicating with the pipe extension 472. The connecting hole 471a may open rearward. The pipe extension 472 may be inserted into the connecting hole 471a and fixed to the first pipe section 471.

[0696] The pipe extension 472 may include: a first pipe extension 472a, connected to the first pipe section 471; and a second pipe extension 472b, extending upward from the first pipe extension 472a.

[0697] The first pipe extension 472a can extend rearward from the first pipe section 471 and can be disposed outside the space 55. The first pipe extension 472a can be disposed at a position closer to the rear than the first rear panel 102.

[0698] The second pipe extension 472b can be bent upward from the first pipe extension 472a. The second pipe extension 472b can be connected to the outer tub 23. The end of the second pipe extension 472b can be connected to the outer tub 23. The second pipe extension 472a can be disposed behind the first rear panel 102 and the second rear panel 202. The second pipe extension 472a can face the first rear panel 102 and the second rear panel 202.

[0699] However, the structure of the air supply and exhaust pipes connected to the washing machine 2 and the garment care machine 3 of the garment handling device B is not limited to the structure described above. For example, it can be as follows: FIG. 21 The structure is designed with gas supply pipes, so as to... FIG. 23 The exhaust pipe is designed with a specific structural configuration. Alternatively, it can be configured as follows: FIG. 23 The structure is designed with gas supply pipes, so as to... FIG. 21 The structure includes an exhaust pipe.

[0700] The following is for reference FIG. 24 to FIG. 30 This illustrates another aspect of the clothing processing apparatus C and C' of the present invention.

[0701] Reference FIG. 24 In the garment handling device C, a dryer 1 can be arranged below the washing machine 2, and a heating device 50 can be arranged between the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2. The heating device 50 can be arranged between the first drum 13 and the outer drum 23.

[0702] The second upper panel 203 of the washing machine 2 and the third upper panel 303 of the care machine 3 can be configured on the same horizontal plane.

[0703] The first lower panel 104 of the dryer 1 and the third lower panel 304 of the care machine 3 can be configured on the same horizontal plane.

[0704] The garment handling device C may include a drawer 14, which has a space inside for storing water. The drawer 14 may be disposed inside the first housing 10. The drawer 14 may be disposed close to the dryer 3. The drawer 14 may be disposed above the dryer 1. The drawer 14 may be disposed on an upper side higher than the first door 11.

[0705] Drawer 14 may include a first handle 141. A user can pull out drawer 14 by holding the first handle 141. The user can pull drawer 14 out to the outside of the first housing 10, thereby removing water stored inside it.

[0706] The laundry handling device C may include a detergent supply device 15, which has a space for storing detergent inside. The detergent supply device 15 may be disposed inside the first housing 10. The detergent supply device 15 may be configured further away from the dryer 3 than the drawer 14. The detergent supply device 15 may be horizontally spaced from the drawer 14. The detergent supply device 15 may be disposed above the dryer 1. The detergent supply device 15 may be disposed on an upper side higher than the first door 11.

[0707] The detergent supply device 15 may include a second handle 151. A user can extend the detergent supply device 15 by holding the second handle 151. The user can extend the detergent supply device 15 to the outside of the first housing 10 so that detergent can be filled inside.

[0708] Detergent stored in detergent supply device 15 can be pumped by detergent pump 152 (see reference). FIG. 28 It is delivered to the detergent tank 28 located on the upper part of the washing machine 2.

[0709] Reference FIG. 25 The condensate produced in the heating device 50 can fall into the drawer 14.

[0710] The drain pump 26 can be installed inside the machine room S. The drain pump 26 can be separated from one side of the heat exchange passage 42. The drain pump 26 can be installed inside the housing 570 of the heating device 50.

[0711] The first water supply pipe 271 can branch into a third water supply pipe 275. The third water supply pipe 275, branching from the first water supply pipe 271, can be connected to the detergent supply device 15. The detergent supply device 15 can use water received via the third water supply pipe 275 to dissolve detergent, and the dissolved detergent can be pumped by the detergent pump 152 (see reference). FIG. 28 ) is delivered to detergent tank 28.

[0712] The machine room S may be located inside the second housing 20. The machine room S may refer to a portion of the interior space of the second housing 20.

[0713] The dryer 1 may include a motor 133 for rotating a first drum 13. A pulley 134 may be fixed to the rotating shaft of the motor 133. A belt may connect the pulley 134 and the circumferential surface of the drum 13. The rotational force of the motor 133 can be transmitted to the drum 13 through the pulley 134 and the belt.

[0714] The motor 133 can be disposed on the lower side of the first roller 13. The motor 133 can also be disposed on the upper side of the first lower panel 104. A space for disposing of the motor 133 can be formed between the first roller 13 and the first lower panel 104.

[0715] Drawer 14 can be disposed between the first roller 13 and the outer tub 23. Drawer 14 can be disposed below the heating device 50. Drawer 14 can be disposed below the evaporator 53. Drawer 14 can be disposed below the drain pan 531.

[0716] Drawer 14 can be disposed inside the first housing 10. Drawer 14 can be disposed on the upper part of the first housing 10. Drawer 14 can be disposed between the first upper panel 103 and the first roller 13.

[0717] Drawer 14 may have a space 148 inside for storing condensate produced in evaporator 53.

[0718] Drawer 14 may be spaced apart from the front of the first rear panel 102. A rear space 149 may be formed between drawer 14 and the first rear panel 102, through which the first air supply pipe 43 passes. Drawer 14 may include a rear wall 142, which is spaced apart from the front of the first rear panel 102 and faces the first rear panel 102. The rear space 149 may be formed between the first rear panel 102 and the rear wall 142.

[0719] The condensate produced in the evaporator 53 can be stored in the internal space 148 of the drawer 14. The condensate produced in the evaporator 53 falls by gravity and can be contained in the internal space 148 of the drawer 14.

[0720] A drain tray 531 can be disposed between the evaporator 53 and the drawer 14. Condensate generated in the evaporator 53 can be temporarily stored in the drain tray 531 before falling into the internal space 148 of the drawer 14. However, condensate generated in the evaporator 53 can fall directly into the drawer 14 without the drain tray 531. That is, without the drain tray 531, the drawer 14 can be configured such that its lower side faces the evaporator 53, and condensate generated in the evaporator 53 can fall directly into the internal space 148 of the drawer 14.

[0721] The garment handling device C may include a drain pipe 532 connecting the drain tray 531 and the drawer 14. The drain pipe 532 extends downward from the drain tray 531 and connects to the drawer 14.

[0722] The drawer 14 may include: the aforementioned rear wall 142; a head 145 spaced apart from the front of the rear wall 142; and a roof 144 extending forward from the rear wall 142.

[0723] The first handle 141 can be formed by a depression in the head 145.

[0724] The garment handling device C may include a water level sensor 143, which measures the amount of water stored in the drawer 14. The water level sensor 143 may be disposed on or fixed to the rear wall 142.

[0725] The top cover 144 can be separated from the rear of the head 145. The top cover 144 can extend forward from the upper end of the rear wall 142.

[0726] The drain tray 531 may include a first hole 531a opening downwards. The drawer 14 may include a second hole 144a opening upwards. The first hole 531a and the second hole 144a may communicate with each other. The first hole 531a and the second hole 144a may face each other vertically.

[0727] The drain pipe 532 can pass through the first hole 531a and the second hole 144a. The drain pipe 532 can extend downwards through the first hole 531a and extend into the interior space 148 of the drawer 14 through the second hole 144a. The first hole 531a and the second hole 144a can communicate with each other through the drain pipe 532. However, the first hole 531a and the second hole 144a can also be directly connected, facing each other vertically. Specifically, the first hole 531a and the second hole 144a can be connected by arranging the bottom surface of the drain tray 531 and the top surface of the top cover 144 adjacent to each other in a vertically facing manner. In this case, additional filler (not shown) can be arranged between the drain tray 531 and the top cover 144, excluding the drain pipe 532.

[0728] The condensate produced in the evaporator 53 can be temporarily stored in the drain pan 531 and then stored inside the drawer 14 through the drain pipe 532.

[0729] The garment handling device C may include a second discharge pipe 533 connecting the drain pump 26 and the drain pan 531. The discharge pipe 532 connecting the drain pan 531 and the drawer 14 may be referred to as the "first discharge pipe 532", and the discharge pipe 533 connecting the drain pan 531 and the drain pump 26 may be referred to as the "second discharge pipe 533".

[0730] A drain pump 26 can be configured on one side of the drain pan 531, and a second discharge pipe 533 can extend laterally from the drain pan 531 and connect to the drain pump 26. The second discharge pipe 533 can transport water stored inside the drain pan 531 to the drain pump 26. The drain pump 26 and the drain pan 531 can be configured on the upper side of the base plate 575. The drain pump 26 can be located on the lower side, lower than the drain pan 531. Condensate stored in the drain pan 531 can flow into the drain pump 26 through the second discharge pipe 533.

[0731] The garment handling device C may include: a first valve 261a for regulating the amount of water flowing in the first drain pipe 261; and a second valve 533a for regulating the amount of water flowing in the second discharge pipe 533.

[0732] The controller 81 can be electrically connected to the drain pump 26, the first valve 261a and the second valve 533a.

[0733] The controller 81 can be electrically connected to the water level sensor 143 and can receive information about the amount of water stored inside the drawer 14 from the water level sensor 143. If the measured value of the water level sensor 143 is above a preset value, the controller 81 can transmit a signal to the control panel 8. The signal can display information on the control panel 8 indicating that the water stored inside the drawer 14 needs to be emptied. If the measured value of the water level sensor 143 is above the preset value, the control panel 8 can also display information externally indicating that the water inside the drawer 14 needs to be emptied. The user can recognize the information displayed on the control panel 8 and remove the water stored in the drawer 14 by extending the drawer 14.

[0734] When the washing machine 2 is running and the first valve 261a is open, the controller 81 can open the second valve 533a. That is, the controller 81 can open the second valve 533a while the washing machine 2 is running, so that the condensate inside the drain pan 531 and the water inside the outer tub 23 are discharged to the outside of the clothes handling device C. The second valve 533a can be opened when the washing machine 2 performs processes such as the load sensing program, washing program, spin-drying program, rinsing program, and washing program.

[0735] When the washing machine 2 is not running and the first valve 261a is closed, the controller 81 can close the second valve 533a. That is, when the washing machine 2 is not running, the controller 81 can close the second valve 533a, so that the condensate inside the drain pan 531 falls into the drawer 14 and does not flow into the drain pump 26.

[0736] The amount of condensate stored in the drain pan 531 may be less than the amount of water flowing into the drain pump 26 through the first drain pipe 261. Therefore, if the drain pump 26 is operated to drain the condensate inside the drain pan 531 when the washing machine 2 is not running and no water flows into the first drain pipe 261, the impeller of the drain pump 26 may rotate without being submerged in sufficient water. When the impeller rotates without being submerged in sufficient water, it may idle, potentially generating excessive heat, which could shorten the lifespan of the drain pump and reduce its energy efficiency. Therefore, in the clothing handling apparatus C of the present invention, the condensate inside the drain pan 531 is automatically drained by the drain pump 26 only when the washing machine 2 is running, and when the washing machine 2 is not running, the condensate can fall into the drawer 14 and be stored in the drawer 14.

[0737] A third valve 532a may be configured to open and close the first discharge pipe 532. The controller 81 may be electrically connected to the third valve 532a.

[0738] When the washing machine 2 is running, the controller 81 can close the third valve 532a. Therefore, when the washing machine 2 is running, the condensate inside the drain pan 531 can be discharged by the drain pump 26.

[0739] When the washing machine 2 is not running, the controller 81 can open the third valve 532a. Therefore, when the washing machine 2 is not running, the condensate inside the drain pan 531 can fall into the inside of the drawer 14.

[0740] Drawer 14 can be disposed between the first roller 13 and the first lower panel 104. Drawer 14 can be configured to be horizontally spaced from the roller motor 133. Drawer 14 can be disposed in the lower part of the dryer 1. In this case, the wider space inside the first housing 10 below the first roller 13 can be used as the configuration space for drawer 14.

[0741] The washing machine 2 may include a partition wall 208 disposed within the second housing 20. The partition wall 208 may extend horizontally. The partition wall 208 may be disposed below the outer tub 23. The partition wall 208 may be disposed above the second lower panel 204.

[0742] The machine room S can refer to the space between the partition wall 208 and the second lower panel 204. A drain pump 26 can be disposed on the lower side of the partition wall 208. The drain pump 26 can be disposed inside the machine room S. A first drain pipe 261 can extend from the outer tub 23 downwards and penetrate the partition wall 208. The first drain pipe 261 can penetrate the partition wall 208 and extend into the interior of the machine room S. The first drain pipe 261 can be connected to the drain pump 26 inside the machine room S.

[0743] A buffer member 209 may be disposed between the cover 573 and the partition wall 208 of the heating device 50. The buffer member 209 may be a vibration damping member. The buffer member 209 may reduce vibrations generated in the washing machine 2. The washing machine 2 may include a suspension 231 connected to the outer tub 23. The suspension 231 may attenuate vibrations generated in the outer tub 23. The suspension 231 may be connected to the partition wall 208. Vibrations generated in the outer tub 23 and transmitted to the second housing 20 may be reduced by the suspension 231 and the buffer member 209. The suspension 231 may be connected to the cover 573.

[0744] Reference FIG. 26 The garment handling device C may include a piping system connecting the dryer 1, washing machine 2, care machine 3, and heating device 50.

[0745] The air supply duct 420 may include a first discharge port 425 connected to the first air supply duct 43. The air supply duct 420 may include a second discharge port 427 connected to the second air supply duct 45. The air supply duct 420 may include a third discharge port 426 connected to the third air supply duct 48. The air supply duct 420 may include a fourth discharge port 428 connected to the dehumidification duct 46.

[0746] The first discharge port 425 can protrude downward from the air supply duct 420. The first air supply duct 43 can connect the first roller 13 and the first discharge port 425.

[0747] The second discharge port 427 can protrude laterally from the air supply duct 420. The second air supply duct 45 can connect the air supply port 308 and the second discharge port 427.

[0748] The third discharge port 426 can protrude upward from the air supply duct 420. The third air supply duct 48 can connect the outer tank 23 and the third discharge port 426.

[0749] The fourth discharge port 428 can protrude laterally from the air supply duct 420. The fourth discharge port 428 can protrude in the opposite direction to the second discharge port 427. The dehumidification duct 46 can be connected to the fourth discharge port 428.

[0750] The first exhaust pipe 41 can connect the first roller 13 and the heat exchange channel 42. The first exhaust pipe 41 can extend upward from the first roller 13 and connect to the heat exchange channel 42.

[0751] A first inflow port 421, connected to the first exhaust pipe 41, may be formed at the inflow end 42A of the heat exchange channel 42. The first inflow port 421 may extend downward from the heat exchange channel 42. The first inflow port 421 may extend downward from the second exhaust pipe 44. The first inflow port 421 may extend downward from the first pipe section 441.

[0752] The first inlet port 421 can protrude downward from the bottom surface of the second exhaust pipe 44. The first exhaust pipe 41 can connect the first roller 13 and the first inlet port 421. The first exhaust pipe 41 can connect the first roller 13 and the second exhaust pipe 44. The air in the first exhaust pipe 41 can merge with the air in the second exhaust pipe 44 and flow into the heat exchange channel 42.

[0753] The garment handling device C may include a first on / off valve 41a disposed in the first exhaust duct 41. The first on / off valve 41a can regulate the airflow in the first exhaust duct 41. The first on / off valve 41a can cut off the airflow in the first exhaust duct 41. When hot air is not supplied to the first roller 13 through the first air supply duct 43, the first on / off valve 41a can cut off the airflow in the first exhaust duct 41.

[0754] Hot air flowing into the third chamber 30 via the second air supply pipe 45, after drying the clothes contained in the third chamber 30, can flow into the heat exchange channel 42 via the second exhaust pipe 44. The second air supply pipe 45 and the second exhaust pipe 44 can be configured at the rear of the third chamber 30.

[0755] The second exhaust pipe 44 can connect the third housing 30 and the heat exchange channel 42. The second exhaust pipe 44 can extend from the upper part of the third housing 30 downwards to connect with the heat exchange channel 42.

[0756] The second exhaust duct 44 may include a first duct section 441 located between the heating device 50 and the second housing 20. The first duct section 441 may be disposed between the base plate 575 and the first upper panel 103 of the first housing 10. The first duct section 441 may extend in the front-back direction along the spacer 55.

[0757] A second inflow port 422, which connects to the second exhaust pipe 44, may be formed at the inflow end 42A of the heat exchange channel 42. The second inflow port 422 may extend downward from the heat exchange channel 42. The second inflow port 422 may extend downward from the housing 570 of the heating device 50.

[0758] The garment handling device C may include a second on / off valve 44a disposed in the second exhaust duct 44. The second on / off valve 44a can regulate the airflow within the second exhaust duct 44. The second on / off valve 44a can also cut off the airflow within the second exhaust duct 44. When hot air is not supplied to the third housing 30 via the second air supply duct 45, the second on / off valve 44a can cut off the airflow within the second exhaust duct 44. The second on / off valve 44a may be disposed in the first duct section 441.

[0759] The hot air flowing into the outer tub 23 via the third air supply pipe 48 dries the clothes contained in the outer tub 23 and then flows into the heat exchange channel 42 via the third exhaust pipe 47.

[0760] The third exhaust pipe 47 can connect the outer barrel 23 and the heat exchange channel 42. The third exhaust pipe 47 can extend from the upper part of the outer barrel 23 downwards to connect with the heat exchange channel 42.

[0761] A third inflow port 424, which connects to the third exhaust pipe 47, may be formed at the inflow end 42A of the heat exchange channel 42. The third inflow port 424 may extend upward from the heat exchange channel 42. The third inflow port 424 may extend upward from the housing 570 of the heating device 50.

[0762] The garment handling device C may include a third on / off valve 47a disposed in the third exhaust duct 47. The third on / off valve 47a can regulate the airflow within the third exhaust duct 47. The third on / off valve 47a can cut off the airflow within the third exhaust duct 47. When hot air is not supplied to the outer tub 23 through the third air supply duct 48, the third on / off valve 47a can cut off the airflow within the third exhaust duct 47.

[0763] An external air inlet port 423 can protrude forward from one side of the second exhaust duct 44. The external air inlet port 423 can connect the indoor space and the second exhaust duct 44. Air within the external air inlet port 423 can merge with air within the second exhaust duct 44 and flow into the heat exchange passage 42. The external air inlet port 423 may include a forward-opening external air inlet 49. Air flowing in through the external air inlet 49 can merge with air within the second exhaust duct 44 and flow into the heat exchange passage 42.

[0764] Reference FIG. 27 The steam generator 502, which is located inside the heating device 50, can supply steam to the dryer 1, the washing machine 2, and the care machine 3.

[0765] The heating device 50 can be disposed on the upper side of the first upper panel 103. The heating device 50 can be disposed inside the second cabinet 20 of the washing machine 2.

[0766] The garment processing device C may include: a third steam supply pipe 502c, connected to the steam generator 502 and the outer tub 23; and a second steam supply pipe 502b, connected to the steam generator 502 and the care machine 3.

[0767] The steam generator 502 can be configured within the heating device 50. Steam generated in the steam generator 502 can be injected into the interior of the outer tub 23 via the third steam supply pipe 502c. Steam generated in the steam generator 502 can be injected into the interior space 33 of the nursing machine 3 via the second steam supply pipe 502b.

[0768] The second steam supply pipe 502b can extend laterally from the steam generator 502 and connect to the nursing machine 3.

[0769] The third steam supply pipe 502c can extend upward from the steam generator 502 and connect to the outer barrel 23.

[0770] The steam generated in the steam generator 502 flows through the airflow created by the fan 60 to each of the second roller 24 and the internal space 33 of the care machine 3. That is, the fan 60 can pressurize the steam generated in the steam generator 502 and make it flow to the second roller 24 and the internal space 33 of the care machine 3.

[0771] Each of the second steam supply pipe 502b and the third steam supply pipe 502c may be equipped with a valve (not shown) to control the flow rate of steam. The controller 81 can regulate the amount of steam supplied to each of the second roller 24 and the internal space 33 of the nursing machine 3 by adjusting the opening of the valve (not shown).

[0772] The garment processing device C may include a second steam generating device 506 disposed inside the dryer 1. The garment processing device C may have a plurality of steam generating devices 502 and 506. The steam generating device 502 disposed in the heating device 50 may be referred to as the "first steam generating device", and the steam generating device 506 disposed inside the dryer 1 may be referred to as the "second steam generating device".

[0773] The garment processing device C may include: a first steam supply pipe 506a, connected to a second steam generator 506 and a first roller 13; and a fourth steam supply pipe 506b, connected to the second steam generator 506 and the care machine 3.

[0774] The second steam generator 506 can be disposed within the first housing 10. The steam generated in the second steam generator 506 can be injected into the first roller 13 through the first steam supply pipe 506a. The steam generated in the second steam generator 506 can be injected into the internal space 33 of the nursing machine 3 through the fourth steam supply pipe 506b.

[0775] The fourth steam supply pipe 506b can extend laterally from the second steam generator 506 and connect to the nursing machine 3.

[0776] Each of the first steam supply pipe 506a and the fourth steam supply pipe 506b may be equipped with a valve (not shown) to control the flow rate of steam. The controller 81 can regulate the amount of steam supplied to each of the first roller 13 and the internal space 33 of the nursing machine 3 by adjusting the opening of the valve (not shown).

[0777] Reference FIG. 28 The condensate produced in the heating device 50 can be stored inside the drawer 14.

[0778] A space 55 may be formed between the substrate 575 and the first upper panel 103.

[0779] The second side panels 205 and 206 may include first protrusions 205a and 206a that protrude downwards. The second outer side wall 205 may include a first outer protrusion 205a that protrudes downwards. The second inner side wall 106 may include a first inner protrusion 206a that protrudes downwards. The first protrusions 205a and 206a may protrude downwards from the lower end of the second side panels 205 and 206.

[0780] The first housing 10 may include a first groove 103a into which first protrusions 205a and 206a are inserted. The first groove 103a may be formed on the first upper panel 103. The first groove 103a may be formed at a position corresponding to the first protrusions 205a and 206a.

[0781] Support plates 276 and 277 may include second protrusions 576a and 577a that project downwards. The first support plate 276 may include a second outer protrusion 576a that project downwards. The second support plate 577 may include a second inner protrusion 577a that project downwards. The second protrusions 576a and 577a may project downwards from the lower end of the support plates 576 and 577.

[0782] The first housing 10 may include a second groove 103b for insertion of the second protrusions 576a and 577a. The second groove 103b may be formed on the first upper panel 103. The second groove 103b may be formed at a position corresponding to the second protrusions 576a and 577a.

[0783] The first protrusions 205a and 206a and the second protrusions 576a and 577a can be referred to as "protrusions". The first groove 103a and the second groove 103b can be referred to as "grooves".

[0784] The first housing 10 and the second housing 20 can be joined by inserting protrusions 205a, 206a, 576a, and 577a into grooves 103a and 103b.

[0785] The first air supply pipe 43 may protrude downward toward the first upper panel 103. The first air supply pipe 43 may include: a first connecting pipe 43a, extending downward from the air supply pipe 420; and a second connecting pipe 43b, connected to the first roller 13.

[0786] The first connecting pipe 43a can be configured within the partition space 55.

[0787] The second connecting pipe 43b can extend downward from the first upper panel 103 and connect to the first roller 13. The second connecting pipe 43b can be formed with a first insertion port 43s, and the first connecting pipe 43a is inserted into the inside of the first insertion port 43s.

[0788] The first connecting pipe 43a can be inserted into the first insertion port 43s and fixed to the second connecting pipe 43b.

[0789] The first inlet port 421 can be connected to the second exhaust pipe 44 and can be configured within the partition space 55.

[0790] The first inlet port 421 can be inserted into the second insertion port 41s formed inside the first exhaust pipe 41 and fixed to the first exhaust pipe 41.

[0791] When assembling the first housing 10 and the second housing 20, the first connecting pipe 43a and the first inflow port 421 are respectively inserted into and fixed to the first insertion port 43s and the second insertion port 41s, thereby making the assembly and alignment of the first housing 10 and the second housing 20 easier.

[0792] Drawer 14 can be configured inside the first housing 10, or on the underside of the first upper panel 103.

[0793] Drawer 14 can be positioned in front of the first rear panel 102, closer to the front than the first air supply pipe 43. Because drawer 14 is closer to the front than the first air supply pipe 43, interference between the first air supply pipe 43 and drawer 14 can be avoided.

[0794] Drawer 14 can be positioned lower than the first exhaust pipe 41. Because drawer 14 is located lower than the first exhaust pipe 41, interference between the first exhaust pipe 41 and drawer 14 can be avoided. The first exhaust pipe 41 can extend upwards from the first roller 13 and can bypass one side of drawer 14 to avoid interference with drawer 14. The first exhaust pipe 41 can extend in a curved vertical direction, extending vertically along the outside of drawer 14.

[0795] The first exhaust pipe 41 may include a port insertion portion 41a that engages with the first inlet port 421. The port insertion portion 41a may be connected to the first upper panel 103. The port insertion portion 41a may be configured on an upper side higher than the drawer 14.

[0796] A detergent supply device 15 may be disposed on one side of drawer 14. The detergent supply device 15 may be horizontally spaced from drawer 14. The detergent supply device 15 may be disposed on the lower side of the first upper panel 103, or inside the first housing 10.

[0797] The detergent supply device 15 can be connected to the detergent pump 152 via the detergent supply pipe 153. The detergent supply device 15 can also be connected to a third water supply pipe 275 branching from the first water supply pipe 271. The detergent stored in the detergent supply device 15 can dissolve in the water supplied through the third water supply pipe 275. When the detergent pump 152 is activated, the detergent stored in the detergent supply device 15 flows into the detergent pump 152 via the detergent supply pipe 153. The detergent pump 152 can be connected to the detergent tank 28 of the washing machine 2 via the detergent delivery pipe 154. The detergent pump 152 can then expel the detergent flowing into the detergent pump 152 into the detergent tank 28 via the detergent delivery pipe 154.

[0798] The second housing 20 may include a first discharge hole 579, through which a discharge pipe 532 passes. The first housing 10 may include a second discharge hole 103c, through which the discharge pipe 532 passes. The first discharge hole 579 may be opened vertically in a boss protruding downward from the substrate 575. The second discharge hole 103c may be opened vertically in the first upper panel 103.

[0799] The drain pipe 532 can extend downward from the drain pan 531 and pass through the first drain hole 579. The drain pipe 532 passing through the first drain hole 579 can extend downward and pass through the second drain hole 103c. The drain pipe 532 passing through the second drain hole 103c can extend into the interior space 148 of the drawer 14.

[0800] The discharge pipe 532, passing through the first discharge port 579, can be configured adjacent to the dehumidification pipe 46 to exchange heat with the air flowing within the dehumidification pipe 46. The discharge pipe 532 can contact the dehumidification pipe 46. However, the discharge pipe 532 can be spaced apart from the dehumidification pipe 46, and an additional heat transfer component (not shown) can be disposed between the discharge pipe 532 and the dehumidification pipe 46. The discharge pipe 532 can contact the dehumidification pipe 46 after passing through the first discharge port 579. The discharge pipe 532 can pass through the second discharge port 103c after contacting the dehumidification pipe 46. Condensate inside the discharge pipe 532 can exchange heat with the air flowing within the dehumidification pipe 46 after passing through the first discharge port 579. The air flowing within the dehumidification pipe 46 can be cooled by exchanging heat with the condensate inside the discharge pipe 532.

[0801] Reference FIG. 29 The heating device 50 can be configured between the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2, and can supply hot air to each of the dryer 1, the washing machine 2 and the care machine 3.

[0802] The second air supply pipe 45 and the second exhaust pipe 44 that circulate hot air in the nursing machine 3 can be configured at the rear of the third housing 30.

[0803] The second air supply pipe 45 and the second exhaust pipe 44 can be located further back than the third rear panel 302.

[0804] The second gas supply pipe 45 can extend downward from the heating device 50 and connect to the gas supply port 308.

[0805] The second air supply pipe 45 may face the first inner wall 106 of the dryer 1. The second air supply pipe 45 may be configured parallel to the first inner wall 106.

[0806] The first hot air duct 451 may include: a first connecting portion 451a, connected to the heating device 50; a first extension portion 451b, extending downward from the first connecting portion 451a; and a second connecting portion 451c, connected to the second hot air duct 452.

[0807] The first connecting portion 451a can penetrate the second inner sidewall 206 of the second housing 20. The first connecting portion 451a can be connected to the air supply duct 420, through which air blown by the fan 60 can flow. The first connecting portion 451a can extend horizontally from the heating device 50.

[0808] The first extension 451b can be bent downward from the first connecting portion 451a. The first extension 451b can extend downward from one end of the first connecting portion 451a. The first extension 451b can face the first inner wall 106 of the dryer 1 and can be arranged parallel to the first inner wall 106.

[0809] The second connecting part 451c can be combined with the third rear panel 302 of the third housing 30. The second connecting part 451c can be combined with the second hot air duct 452. The second connecting part 451c can extend from the first extension part 451b in the front-rear direction.

[0810] The second exhaust pipe 44 may include: a third connecting portion 441 connected to the exhaust port 309; a second extension portion 442 extending downward from the third connecting portion 441; and a fourth connecting portion 443 connected to the heating device 50.

[0811] The third connecting part 441 can be combined with the third rear panel 302 of the third housing 30. The third connecting part 441 can communicate with the internal space 33 of the care machine 3, and the air circulating inside the care machine 3 can flow into it. The third connecting part 441 can extend rearward from the third housing 30. The connection position of the third connecting part 441 with the third housing 30 can be located between the third upper panel 303 and the hanger 36.

[0812] The second extension 442 can be bent downward from the third connecting portion 441. The second extension 442 can extend downward from the third connecting portion 441. The second extension 442 can extend downward from one end of the third connecting portion 441. The second extension 442 can face the second inner sidewall 206 of the washing machine 2 and can be arranged parallel to the second inner sidewall 206.

[0813] The fourth connecting portion 443 can extend into the partition space 55. The fourth connecting portion 443 can extend from the second extension portion 442 in the left-right direction. The fourth connecting portion 443 can be connected to the heating device 50 in the partition space 55.

[0814] Reference FIG. 30 Another aspect of the garment processing apparatus C' of the present invention may include a dryer 1, a care machine 3, and a heating device 50.

[0815] Another aspect of the clothing handling apparatus C' of the present invention may not include a washing machine.

[0816] The heating device 50 can be configured on the upper side of the dryer 1. The heating device 50 can be configured on the side of the care machine 3.

[0817] The heating device 50 may include a cover 573 disposed on the upper side of the heat exchange channel 42. The cover 573 may form the top surface of the heating device 50.

[0818] The cover 573 can shield the upper part of the heat exchange passage 42. The cover 573 can be configured on the upper side of the condenser 52 and the evaporator 53.

[0819] The user can separate the cover 573 from the heating device 50. If the user separates the cover 573, the condenser 52, evaporator 53, and fan 60 can be exposed to the outside. The user can clean the exposed condenser 52, evaporator 53, and fan 60. That is, since there are no other structures arranged on the upper side of the heating device 50, the cover 573 can be separated to clean the internal structures of the heating device 50.

[0820] The following is for reference FIG. 31 to FIG. 36 This illustrates another aspect of the clothing processing apparatus D and D' of the present invention.

[0821] Reference FIG. 31 In the garment handling device D, a dryer 1 can be installed on the upper side of the washing machine 2, and a heating device 50 can be installed on the lower part of the washing machine 2. The heating device 50 can be installed on the lower side of the outer tub 23.

[0822] The heating device 50 can be disposed inside the second housing 20. The heating device 50 can be disposed in the lower part of the interior space of the second housing 20.

[0823] The drain pump 26 can be installed inside the machine room S. The drain pump 26 can also be installed inside the housing 570 of the heating device 50 (see reference). FIG. 33 ).

[0824] The condensate contained in the drain pan 531 is discharged by the drain pump 26, and can then be discharged to the outside of the garment handling device D through the second drain pipe 262.

[0825] Reference FIG. 32 The garment processing device D includes a piping system connecting the dryer 1, washing machine 2, care machine 3, and heating device 50.

[0826] The air supply duct 420 may include a first discharge port 425 connected to the first air supply duct 43. The air supply duct 420 may include a second discharge port 427 connected to the second air supply duct 45. The air supply duct 420 may include a third discharge port 426 connected to the third air supply duct 48. The air supply duct 420 may include a fourth discharge port 428 connected to the dehumidification duct 46.

[0827] The first discharge port 425 can protrude downward from the air supply duct 420. The first air supply duct 43 can connect the first roller 13 and the first discharge port 425.

[0828] The second discharge port 427 can protrude laterally from the air supply duct 420. The second air supply duct 45 can connect the air supply port 308 and the second discharge port 427.

[0829] The third discharge port 426 can protrude upward from the air supply duct 420. The third air supply duct 48 can connect the outer tank 23 and the third discharge port 426.

[0830] The fourth discharge port 428 can protrude laterally from the air supply duct 420. The fourth discharge port 428 can protrude in the opposite direction to the second discharge port 427. The dehumidification duct 46 can be connected to the fourth discharge port 428.

[0831] Hot air flowing into the first drum 13 via the first air supply pipe 43, after drying the clothes contained within the first drum 13, can flow into the heat exchange channel 42 via the first exhaust pipe 41. The first drum 13 may include a front cover 131 disposed on the front side and a rear cover 132 disposed on the rear side. The first air supply pipe 43 may be connected to the rear cover 132, and the first exhaust pipe 41 may be connected to the front cover 131.

[0832] The first exhaust pipe 41 can connect the first roller 13 and the heat exchange channel 42. The first exhaust pipe 41 can extend downward from the first roller 13 and connect to the heat exchange channel 42.

[0833] The motor 133 that rotates the first roller 13 can be configured on the upper side of the second housing 20. The motor 133 can be configured on one side of the first exhaust pipe 41. The motor 133 can be configured side by side with the first exhaust pipe 41 in the horizontal direction.

[0834] The first exhaust pipe 41 may bend horizontally after extending downward from the first roller 13. The first exhaust pipe 41 may be disposed below the first roller 13. A portion of the first exhaust pipe 41 may extend horizontally inside the first housing 10.

[0835] A space can be formed on the underside of the first roller 13 to accommodate a portion of the first exhaust pipe 41 and the motor 133. The first exhaust pipe 41 can extend horizontally from the underside of the first roller 13 and then protrude to the outside of the first housing 10.

[0836] A first inflow port 421, which connects to the first exhaust pipe 41, may be formed at the inflow end 42A of the heat exchange channel 42. The first inflow port 421 may extend downward from the heat exchange channel 42. The first inflow port 421 may extend downward from the housing 570 of the heating device 50.

[0837] The first exhaust duct 41 may include a first duct section 411 located between the heating device 50 and the second housing 20. The first duct section 411 may be disposed between the base plate 575 and the second lower panel 204 of the second housing 20. The first duct section 411 may extend in the front-back direction along the spacer 55.

[0838] The garment handling device D may include a first on / off valve 41a disposed in the first exhaust duct 41. The first on / off valve 41a can regulate the airflow in the first exhaust duct 41. The first on / off valve 41a can cut off the airflow in the first exhaust duct 41. When hot air is not supplied to the first roller 13 through the first air supply duct 43, the first on / off valve 41a can cut off the airflow in the first exhaust duct 41.

[0839] Hot air flowing into the third housing 30 via the second air supply pipe 45, after drying the clothes contained within, can flow into the heat exchange channel 42 via the second exhaust pipe 44. The second air supply pipe 45 can penetrate the third rear panel 302 of the third housing 30. The second air supply pipe 45 can connect the heat exchange channel 42 and the air supply port 308. The second exhaust pipe 44 can penetrate the third inner wall 306.

[0840] The second exhaust pipe 44 can connect the nursing machine 3 and the heat exchange channel 42. The second exhaust pipe 44 can connect the exhaust port 309 and the heat exchange channel 42. The second exhaust pipe 44 can extend laterally from the lower part of the third housing 30 and connect to the heat exchange channel 42.

[0841] A second inflow port 422, which connects to the second exhaust pipe 44, may be formed at the inflow end 42A of the heat exchange passage 42. The second inflow port 422 may extend downward from the heat exchange passage 42. The second inflow port 422 may extend downward from the first exhaust pipe 41. The second inflow port 422 may extend downward from the first pipe section 411.

[0842] The second inlet port 422 can protrude downward from the bottom surface of the first exhaust pipe 41. The second exhaust pipe 44 can connect the exhaust port 309 and the second inlet port 422. The second exhaust pipe 44 can connect the exhaust port 309 and the first exhaust pipe 41. The air in the second exhaust pipe 44 can merge with the air in the first exhaust pipe 41 and flow into the heat exchange channel 42.

[0843] The garment handling device D may include a second on / off valve 44a disposed in the second exhaust duct 44. The second on / off valve 44a can regulate the airflow within the second exhaust duct 44. The second on / off valve 44a can also cut off the airflow within the second exhaust duct 44. When hot air is not supplied to the third housing 30 through the second air supply duct 45, the second on / off valve 44a can cut off the airflow within the second exhaust duct 44.

[0844] The hot air flowing into the outer tub 23 via the third air supply pipe 48 dries the clothes stored in the outer tub 23 and then flows into the heat exchange channel 42 via the third exhaust pipe 47.

[0845] The third exhaust pipe 47 can connect the outer barrel 23 and the heat exchange channel 42. The third exhaust pipe 47 can extend from the upper part of the outer barrel 23 downwards to connect with the heat exchange channel 42.

[0846] A third inflow port 424, which connects to the third exhaust pipe 47, may be formed at the inflow end 42A of the heat exchange channel 42. The third inflow port 424 may extend upward from the heat exchange channel 42. The third inflow port 424 may extend upward from the housing 570 of the heating device 50.

[0847] The garment handling device D may include a third on / off valve 47a disposed in the third exhaust duct 47. The third on / off valve 47a can regulate the airflow within the third exhaust duct 47. The third on / off valve 47a can also cut off the airflow within the third exhaust duct 47. When hot air is not supplied to the outer tub 23 through the third air supply duct 48, the third on / off valve 47a can cut off the airflow within the third exhaust duct 47.

[0848] An external air inlet port 423 can protrude forward from one side of the first exhaust duct 41. The external air inlet port 423 can connect the indoor space and the first exhaust duct 41. Air in the external air inlet port 423 merges with air in the first exhaust duct 41 and flows into the heat exchange channel 42. The external air inlet port 423 may include an external air inlet 49 that opens forward. Air flowing in through the external air inlet 49 can merge with air in the first exhaust duct 41 and flow into the heat exchange channel 42.

[0849] Reference FIG. 33 The drain pump 26 can be configured inside the heating device 50.

[0850] The drain pump 26 can be disposed inside the heating device 50. The drain pump 26 can be disposed inside the machine chamber S. The drain pump 26 can be disposed inside the second housing 20. When the machine chamber S is disposed inside the second housing 20, the drain pump 26 can be disposed within the machine chamber S, which is part of the internal space of the second housing 20. The drain pump 26 can be disposed between the cover 573 and the base plate 575. The drain pump 26 can be disposed on the lower side of the outer tank 23, and can be disposed at the same height as or below the evaporator 53.

[0851] The cover 573 may include a downwardly projecting shielding wall 573a. The shielding wall 573a may divide the space for configuring the drain pump 26 and the heat exchange passage 42. The shielding wall 573a may block the airflow within the heat exchange passage 42 to the drain pump 26. The shielding wall 573a may be connected to a second side wall 572 and a front wall 574. The drain pump 26 may be located on one side of the shielding wall 573a, and the heat exchange passage 42 may be located on the other side of the shielding wall 573a. A discharge pipe 532 may pass through the shielding wall 573a and connect to the drain pump 26.

[0852] The drain pump 26 can be connected to the drain pan 531 via the discharge pipe 532. The drain pump 26 can discharge condensate flowing in through the discharge pipe 532 to the outside of the garment handling device D through the second drain pipe 262. The drain pump 26 can also discharge water flowing into the outer tub 23 via the first drain pipe 261 to the outside of the garment handling device D through the second drain pipe 262.

[0853] The drain pump 26 can use the condensate flowing in through the drain pipe 532 to cool the hot air in the second air supply pipe 45.

[0854] The drain pump 26 may include: a cooling water supply pipe 265 for water flowing into the drain pump 26 and out; and a cooling water recovery pipe 268 for water flowing out through the cooling water supply pipe 265 and into the drain pump 26.

[0855] Water in the outer tub 23 and condensate in the drain pan 531 can flow into the drain pump 26, and be squeezed and discharged by the drain pump 26 to the cooling water supply pipe 265. A flow regulating valve 266 can be installed on the cooling water supply pipe 265 to regulate the flow rate of water discharged through the cooling water supply pipe 265. The flow regulating valve 266 can be electrically connected to a controller 81. The controller 81 can regulate the flow rate of water discharged through the cooling water supply pipe 265 by adjusting the opening of the flow regulating valve 266.

[0856] The cooling water supply pipe 265 may include a heat exchange section 267 that exchanges heat with the second air supply pipe 45. The cooling water supply pipe 265 may be configured to extend from the drain pump 26 toward and surround the second air supply pipe 45. The portion of the cooling water supply pipe 265 that surrounds the second air supply pipe 45 can be defined as the heat exchange section 267. The cooling water supply pipe 265 may contact or surround the second air supply pipe 45. Furthermore, the cooling water supply pipe 265 may be configured adjacent to the second air supply pipe 45, and an additional heat exchange component (not shown) may be disposed between the cooling water supply pipe 265 and the second air supply pipe 45.

[0857] The heat exchange section 267 can be configured to surround the second hot air duct 452. The heat exchange section 267 can extend across the first hot air duct 451 after surrounding the second hot air duct 452 toward the drain pump 26. Water flowing inside the heat exchange section 267 can exchange heat with hot air flowing inside the second air supply duct 45, thereby cooling the hot air.

[0858] Water flowing through the cooling water supply pipe 265 can flow into the drain pump 26 via the cooling water recovery pipe 268. Water that has undergone heat exchange with the internal hot air of the second air supply pipe 45 in the heat exchange section 267 can also flow into the drain pump 26 via the cooling water recovery pipe 268. The cooling water supply pipe 265, the heat exchange section 267, and the cooling water recovery pipe 268 can be integrated. A check valve 269 to prevent backflow can be installed in the cooling water recovery pipe 268. The check valve 269 prevents water inside the drain pump 26 from flowing back into the heat exchange section 267 through the cooling water recovery pipe 268. Therefore, water flowing into the drain pump 26 can be discharged through the cooling water supply pipe 265 and recovered into the drain pump 26 via the cooling water recovery pipe 268, preventing reverse flow.

[0859] Water flowing into the drain pump 26 via the cooling water recovery pipe 268 can be discharged to the outside of the clothing processing device D via the second drain pipe 262. Water used to cool the second air supply pipe 45 can be discharged to the outside of the clothing processing device D via the drain pump 26.

[0860] The cooling structure using the drain pump 26 and cooling water supply pipe 265 described above can also be applied to the cooling of the dehumidification pipe 46. The cooling water supply pipe 265 extends from the drain pump 26 and surrounds the dehumidification pipe 46, and may have a heat exchange section 267. Water flowing in the heat exchange section 267 can cool the hot air in the dehumidification pipe 46, and after cooling the hot air in the dehumidification pipe 46, it can be recovered to the drain pump 26 through the cooling water recovery pipe 268.

[0861] The detailed description of the cooling method of the dehumidification pipe 46 can also be applied to the description of the cooling method of the second air supply pipe 45.

[0862] At least a portion of the second drain pipe 262 may be configured adjacent to the second air supply pipe 45. The second drain pipe 262 extends from the drain pump 26 to the outside of the garment handling device D, and a portion of the extended portion may exchange heat with the second air supply pipe 45. At least a portion of the second drain pipe 262 may surround or contact the second air supply pipe 45. Water flowing within the second drain pipe 262 can cool the hot air inside the second air supply pipe 45. At least a portion of the second drain pipe 262 may be configured adjacent to the second air supply pipe 45, and an additional heat transfer component (not shown) may be disposed between the second drain pipe 262 and the second air supply pipe 45.

[0863] At least a portion of the second drain pipe 262 may be configured adjacent to the dehumidification pipe 46. The second drain pipe 262 may extend from the drain pump 26 to the outside of the clothes handling device D, and a portion of the extended portion may be configured adjacent to the dehumidification pipe 46. At least a portion of the second drain pipe 262 may surround or contact the dehumidification pipe 46. Water flowing within the second drain pipe 262 may cool the hot air inside the dehumidification pipe 46. At least a portion of the second drain pipe 262 may be configured adjacent to the dehumidification pipe 46, and an additional heat transfer component (not shown) may be configured between the second drain pipe 262 and the dehumidification pipe 46.

[0864] The method of cooling the hot air flowing inside the second air supply pipe 45 and the dehumidification pipe 46 can selectively use either the method of utilizing the cooling water supply pipe 265 (hereinafter referred to as the "first method") or the method of utilizing the second drain pipe 262 (hereinafter referred to as the "second method"). However, in the garment handling apparatus D of the present invention, both the first method and the second method can be used simultaneously as methods of cooling the hot air flowing inside the second air supply pipe 45 and the dehumidification pipe 46.

[0865] The garment processing device D may include a circulation pipe 263 connected to a drain pump 26, which sprays condensate that flows into the drain pump 26 through the discharge pipe 532 toward the evaporator 53.

[0866] The circulation pipe 263 extends from the drain pump 26 toward the evaporator 53. The drain pump 26 can discharge condensate flowing in through the drain pipe 532 into the circulation pipe 263. In addition, the drain pump 26 can also discharge water flowing into the outer tank 23 through the first drain pipe 261 into the circulation pipe 263.

[0867] A nozzle 264 may be provided at one end of the circulation pipe 263. The nozzle 264 may be configured to face the evaporator 53. The condensate flowing through the circulation pipe 263 may be sprayed onto the evaporator 53 through the nozzle 264.

[0868] The condensate sprayed onto the evaporator 53 can be collected in the drain pan 531 after cleaning the surface of the evaporator 53. The condensate collected in the drain pan 531 can flow back into the drain pump 26 through the drain pipe 532.

[0869] The garment handling device D may include a valve 263a disposed in the circulation pipe 263. The valve 263a may be electrically connected to a controller 81. The controller 81 may adjust the opening degree of the valve 263a.

[0870] The garment cleaning device D can use the circulation pipe 263 and nozzle 264 to clean the evaporator 53. Additionally, the condensate used for cleaning can be easily discharged to the outside of the garment cleaning device D through the drain pan 531 and drain pipe 532. As described above, the cleaning method using condensate can also be applied to cleaning the condenser 52.

[0871] Reference FIG. 34 The heating device 50 can supply hot air to each of the dryer 1, washing machine 2 and care machine 3.

[0872] A second air supply duct 45, which circulates hot air within the nursing unit 3, can be located at the rear of the third housing 30. A second exhaust duct 44 can be located on the underside of the inner panel 34.

[0873] The second gas supply pipe 45 can be positioned further back than the third rear panel 302.

[0874] The second gas supply pipe 45 can extend laterally from the heating device 50 and connect to the gas supply port 308.

[0875] The second air supply pipe 45 can penetrate the second inner wall 206 of the washing machine 2. The second air supply pipe 45 can penetrate the second inner wall 206 and extend into the interior of the rear housing 310.

[0876] The first hot air duct 451 can penetrate the second inner wall 206 of the second housing 20. The first hot air duct 451 can be connected to the air supply duct 420, and air blown by the fan 60 can flow into it. The first hot air duct 451 can extend horizontally from the heating device 50.

[0877] The second hot air duct 452 can be bent upward from the first hot air duct 451. The second hot air duct 452 can extend upward from one end of the first hot air duct 451. The second hot air duct 452 can be installed in the storage space 35 of the nursing machine 3, or it can be installed on the lower side of the inner panel 34.

[0878] A third rear panel 302 may be provided between the second hot air duct 452 and the first hot air duct 451.

[0879] The air inlet 308 supplying hot air to the interior space 33 of the care machine 3 can be located at the lower part of the care machine 3. Since the heating device 50 and the air inlet 308 are located at the lower part of the garment handling device D, the length of the second air supply pipe 45 connecting the heating device 50 and the air inlet 308 can be shortened. Therefore, heat loss during the flow of air heated in the heating device 50 to the air inlet 308 can be minimized. In addition, since the hot air supplied from the heating device 50 is discharged into the interior space 33 through the air inlet 308 located at the lower part of the care machine 3, the hot air can be evenly diffused to the upper part of the care machine 3.

[0880] The second exhaust pipe 44 can be disposed on the underside of the inner panel 34. The second exhaust pipe 44 can be connected to the exhaust port 309 formed in the inner panel 34.

[0881] The second exhaust pipe 44 can extend in the left-right direction and connect to the heating device 50. The second exhaust pipe 44 can connect to the first exhaust pipe 41. The second exhaust pipe 44 can pass through the support plate 577 and connect to the first exhaust pipe 41.

[0882] The first air supply duct 43 can extend upward from the heating device 50. The first air supply duct 43 can be connected to the air supply duct 420. The first air supply duct 43 can face the second rear panel 202. The first air supply duct 43 can extend upward from the air supply duct 420, pass through the first rear panel 102, and connect to the first roller 13. The first roller 13 can receive hot air heated in the heating device 50 through the first air supply duct 43.

[0883] The first gas supply pipe 43 may include: a first gas supply section 431 connected to the heating device 50; a second gas supply section 432 extending upward from the first gas supply section 431; and a third gas supply section 433 connected to the first roller 13.

[0884] The first air supply unit 431 can be combined with the air supply duct 420. The first air supply unit 431 can be configured within the partition space 55.

[0885] The second air supply section 432 can extend upward from the end of the first air supply section 431. The second air supply section 432 can face the second rear panel 202 and the first rear panel 102.

[0886] The third air supply section 433 can extend forward from the upper end of the second air supply section 432. The third air supply section 433 can penetrate the first rear panel 102 and be combined with the first roller 13. The third air supply section 433 can be combined with the rear cover 132.

[0887] The first exhaust pipe 41 can extend from the first roller 13 and penetrate the first inner wall 106.

[0888] The first exhaust pipe 41 may include: a first exhaust section 41a, which passes through the first inner sidewall 106 and is connected to the first roller 13; a second exhaust section 41b, which extends downward from the first exhaust section 41a; and a third exhaust section 41c, which bends from the second exhaust section 41b and extends laterally.

[0889] The first exhaust portion 41a can penetrate the first inner sidewall 106 and extend horizontally. The first exhaust portion 41a can extend in the front-rear direction inside the first housing 10 and be combined with the front cover 131.

[0890] The second exhaust section 41b can extend downward from the first exhaust section 41a and can face the second inner wall 206.

[0891] The third exhaust section 41c can be bent laterally from the second exhaust section 41b and can be connected to the first pipe section 411. The third exhaust section 41c can pass through the support plate 577 and be connected to the first pipe section 411. However, the third exhaust section 41c can also be a concept that includes the first pipe section 411.

[0892] The second exhaust pipe 44 can penetrate the support plate 577. The second air supply pipe 45 can penetrate the second inner wall 206.

[0893] The fan 60 can be configured to be closer to the second inner sidewall 206 than the second outer sidewall 205. The fan 60 can be configured adjacent to the care unit 3. The fan 60 can be configured to be closer to the second rear sidewall 202 than the second front panel 201. The fan 60 can be positioned further rearward than the third rear sidewall 302 of the care unit 3. The fan 60 can be positioned between the outer barrel 23 and the second lower panel 204. The fan 60 can be positioned between the base plate 575 and the outer barrel 23.

[0894] The switching device 70, which adjusts the air supplied to the first air supply pipe 43, the second air supply pipe 45, and the third air supply pipe 48, can be located at a height corresponding to the lower part of the nursing machine 3. The switching device 70 can be disposed on the lower side of the outer tub 23. The switching device 70 can be disposed between the outer tub 23 and the second lower panel 204. The switching device 70 can be disposed between the outer tub 23 and the base plate 575.

[0895] With the above-described configuration, the lengths of the first air supply pipe 43 and the second air supply pipe 45 can be minimized. That is, by arranging the fan 60 and the switching device 70 adjacent to both the first roller 13 and the nursing machine 3, the lengths of the first air supply pipe 43 and the second air supply pipe 45 can be minimized. Therefore, heat loss during the flow of air heated in the heating device 50 through the first air supply pipe 43 and the second air supply pipe 45 can be reduced.

[0896] The garment processing device D may include steam generating devices 502 and 506. The steam generating device 502, which is disposed inside the heating device 50, may be referred to as the "first steam generating device". The steam generating device 506, which is disposed inside the dryer 1, may be referred to as the "second steam generating device".

[0897] The steam generator 502 can be connected to the outer drum 23 via the third steam supply pipe 502c. The steam generator 502 can be connected to the nursing machine 3 via the second steam supply pipe 502b. The steam generated in the steam generator 502 can be supplied to the interior of the second drum 24 via the third steam supply pipe 502c. The steam generated in the steam generator 502 can be supplied to the interior space 33 of the nursing machine 3 via the second steam supply pipe 502b.

[0898] The steam generator 502 can be configured adjacent to the fan 60. The steam generated in the steam generator 502 can be supplied to the interior space 33 of the second roller 24 and / or the nursing machine 3 by the airflow from the fan 60.

[0899] With the above-described configuration, the lengths of the second steam supply pipe 502b and the third steam supply pipe 502c can be minimized. That is, by arranging the fan 60 and the steam generator 502 adjacent to both the second roller 24 and the nursing machine 3, the lengths of the second steam supply pipe 502b and the third steam supply pipe 502c can be minimized. Therefore, losses of steam generated by the steam generator 502 during its flow through the second steam supply pipe 502b and the third steam supply pipe 502c can be prevented.

[0900] The garment processing device D may include a second steam generator 506. The second steam generator 506 generates steam by heating water. The second steam generator 506 may be disposed inside the first housing 10. The second steam generator 506 may be connected to water supply pipes 278 and 279. The second steam generator 506 can receive water through the water supply pipes 278 and 279.

[0901] The second steam generator 506 can be connected to the first roller 13 via the first steam supply pipe 506a. The second steam generator 506 can be connected to the nursing machine 3 via the fourth steam supply pipe 506b. The steam generated in the second steam generator 506 can be supplied to the interior of the first roller 13 via the first steam supply pipe 506a. The steam generated in the second steam generator 506 can be supplied to the interior space 33 of the nursing machine 3 via the fourth steam supply pipe 506b.

[0902] The fourth steam supply pipe 506b can be connected to the upper part of the nursing machine 3. The steam flowing into the internal space 33 of the nursing machine 3 through the fourth steam supply pipe 506b can be evenly diffused downwards.

[0903] The second steam generator 506 may be configured to be closer to the first inner sidewall 106 than the first outer sidewall 105. The second steam generator 506 may be configured to be closer to the first rear sidewall 102 than the first front panel 101.

[0904] With the above-described configuration, the lengths of the first steam supply pipe 506a and the fourth steam supply pipe 506b can be minimized. That is, by arranging the second steam generator 506 adjacent to both the first roller 13 and the nursing machine 3, the lengths of the first steam supply pipe 506a and the fourth steam supply pipe 506b can be minimized. Therefore, losses of steam generated in the second steam generator 506 during its flow through the first steam supply pipe 506a and the fourth steam supply pipe 506b can be prevented.

[0905] Reference FIG. 35 The heating device 50 can be connected to a piping system.

[0906] The substrate 575 of the heating device 50 can be located on an upper side that is higher than the second lower panel 204. A spacer 55 can be formed on the lower side of the substrate 575.

[0907] The space 55 can be formed between the first support plate 576 and the second support plate 577.

[0908] The garment handling device D may include an auxiliary panel 58 and a second lower panel 204.

[0909] The auxiliary panel 58 can shield the rear side of the space 55. The auxiliary panel 58 can be combined with the second rear panel 202 and the second side panels 205, 206.

[0910] The auxiliary panel 58 may include a pipe opening 58a through which the first gas supply pipe 43 passes.

[0911] A portion of the first gas supply pipe 43 may be disposed within the partition space 55. A portion of the first gas supply unit 431 may be disposed within the partition space 55.

[0912] The first air supply unit 431 may include: a connecting part 431a, which is connected to the air supply duct 420; and an extension part 431b, which extends rearward from the connecting part 431a.

[0913] The connecting part 431a can extend in the vertical direction. The connecting part 431a can extend downward from the air supply duct 420. The connecting part 431a can extend downward from the first discharge port 425.

[0914] The extension 431b can extend rearward from the lower end of the connecting part 431a. The extension 431b can extend rearward through the pipe through-hole 58a.

[0915] The second air supply unit 432 can extend upward from the rear end of the extension 431b. The second air supply unit 432 can extend upward from a position closer to the rear than the auxiliary panel 58.

[0916] The second lower panel 204 can cover the lower side of the space 55. The second lower panel 204 can be combined with the support plates 576, 577 and the auxiliary panel 58.

[0917] The first support plate 576 may include a first protrusion 576a protruding downward. The second support plate 577 may include a second protrusion 577a protruding downward. The first protrusion 576a and the second protrusion 577a may be referred to as "protrusions".

[0918] The second lower panel 204 may include a recess 204a for inserting protrusions 576a, 577a. The recess 204a may be recessed downward from the top surface of the second lower panel 204.

[0919] By inserting the protrusions 576a and 577a into the groove 204a, the second lower panel 204 can be combined with the heating device 50.

[0920] The dehumidification duct 46 and the first exhaust duct 41 can be configured in the partition space 55. The first exhaust duct 41 located in the partition space 55 can be defined as the first duct section 411, and the dehumidification duct 46 located in the partition space 55 can be defined as the second duct section 461.

[0921] The dehumidification duct 46 can extend in the front-to-back direction. A hot air outlet 462 can be formed on the front side of the dehumidification duct 46. The air heated in the heating device 50 can be blown by the fan 60 and thus supplied to the indoor space through the dehumidification duct 46.

[0922] The first exhaust duct 41 can extend in a front-to-back direction. An external air inlet port 423 can be formed on the front side of the first exhaust duct 41. Air from the indoor space can flow into the first exhaust duct 41 through the external air inlet port 423.

[0923] The second exhaust pipe 44 can extend horizontally and can extend within the partition space 55. The second exhaust pipe 44 can penetrate the third inner sidewall 306 and the second support plate 577. The second exhaust pipe 44 can be connected to the first exhaust pipe 41 within the partition space 55. The air in the second exhaust pipe 44 can merge with the air in the first exhaust pipe 41 and flow into the heat exchange channel 42.

[0924] Reference FIG. 36 The heating device 50 of the garment processing device D' can be connected to the dryer 1 via the air supply pipe 430 and the exhaust pipe 410.

[0925] The first gas supply pipe 430 can branch from the second gas supply pipe 450. The first gas supply pipe 430 can branch from the second gas supply pipe 450 without being directly connected to the heating device 50. When the first gas supply pipe 430 branches from the second gas supply pipe 450, the first discharge port 425 may not be formed. The first gas supply pipe 430 can extend upwards from the first hot air pipe 451. The first gas supply pipe 430 can branch from the first hot air pipe 451.

[0926] The first exhaust pipe 410 can be combined with the second exhaust pipe 440. The first exhaust pipe 410 can be combined with the second exhaust pipe 440 without being directly connected to the heating device 50.

[0927] The first air supply pipe 430 may include a first air supply section 436 connected to the second air supply pipe 450 and a second air supply section 437 connected to the first roller 13.

[0928] The first air supply unit 436 can extend upward from the second air supply pipe 450. The first air supply unit 436 can be located further rearward than the third rear panel 302. The first air supply unit 436 can face the second side panel 206.

[0929] The second air supply section 437 can extend laterally from the upper end of the first air supply section 436. The second air supply section 437 can extend into the interior of the first housing 10. The second air supply section 437 can be combined with the rear cover 132 of the first roller 13.

[0930] The garment handling device D' may include a regulating valve 453, which may be configured at a location where the first air supply pipe 430 branches off from the second air supply pipe 450.

[0931] The regulating valve 453 can regulate the airflow direction within the second air supply duct 450. The regulating valve 453 can also regulate the airflow direction within the first hot air duct 451. The regulating valve 453 can open and close the second hot air duct 452 and the first air supply duct 430. The regulating valve 453 can open only one of the second hot air duct 452 and the first air supply duct 430. The regulating valve 453 can open both the second hot air duct 452 and the first air supply duct 430. The regulating valve 453 can regulate the airflow rate supplied to the second hot air duct 452 and the first air supply duct 430. The regulating valve 453 can distribute the air blown by the fan 60 to the second air supply duct 450 to both the second hot air duct 452 and the first air supply duct 430.

[0932] The controller 81 can control the regulating valve 453. The controller 81 can supply hot air from the fan 60 to the second air supply duct 450 into the internal space 33 of the nursing machine 3 by controlling the regulating valve 453. The controller 81 can also supply hot air from the fan 60 to the second air supply duct 450 into the first roller 13 by controlling the regulating valve 453.

[0933] The first exhaust pipe 410 can merge with the second exhaust pipe 440 behind the rear of the care unit 3. That is, the first exhaust pipe 410 can extend inside the rear housing 310. The first exhaust pipe 410 can penetrate the third rear panel 302 and merge with the second exhaust pipe 440. Air flowing out from the first roller 13 flows through the first exhaust pipe 410, thereby merging with the air flowing inside the second exhaust pipe 440.

[0934] The first exhaust pipe 410 may include: a first exhaust portion 413 connected to the first roller 13; a second exhaust portion 414 extending downward from the first exhaust portion 413; and a third exhaust portion 415 connected to the second exhaust pipe 440.

[0935] A portion of the first exhaust portion 413 may be disposed inside the first housing 10. The first exhaust portion 413 may be combined with the first roller 13. A portion of the first exhaust portion 413 may extend in a front-rear direction inside the first housing 10. The first exhaust portion 413 may extend through the first inner sidewall 106 into the interior of the rear housing 310. The first exhaust portion 413 may extend horizontally behind the third rear panel 302.

[0936] The second exhaust portion 414 can extend downward from the end of the first exhaust portion 413. The second exhaust portion 414 can face the third rear panel 302. The second exhaust portion 414 can be disposed inside the rear housing 310.

[0937] The third exhaust section 415 can extend forward from the lower end of the second exhaust section 414. The third exhaust section 415 can extend forward through the third rear panel 302. The third exhaust section 415 can be merged with the second exhaust pipe 440.

[0938] However, the structure of the air supply and exhaust pipes connected to the dryer 1 and the care unit 3 is not limited to the structure described above. For example, it can be as follows: FIG. 34 The structure is designed with gas supply pipes, so as to... FIG. 36 The exhaust pipe is designed with a specific structural configuration. Alternatively, it can be configured as follows: FIG. 36 The structure is designed with gas supply pipes, so as to... FIG. 34 The structure includes an exhaust pipe.

[0939] The following is for reference FIG. 37 to FIG. 44 This describes another aspect of the clothing handling apparatus E, E', E' of the present invention.

[0940] Reference FIG. 37 In the clothing handling device E, a dryer 1 can be arranged above the washing machine 2, and a heating device 50 can be arranged above both the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2. The heating device 50 can be arranged inside the first cabinet 10 or above the first drum 13.

[0941] The heating device 50 can be installed separately from the dryer 1. The heating device 50 can be installed on the upper side of the first chamber 10.

[0942] Reference FIG. 38 The heating device 50 can be located on the upper side, which is higher than the outer barrel 23 and the first roller 13.

[0943] The motor 133 that rotates the first roller 13 can be disposed on the lower side of the first roller 13. The motor 133 can be disposed inside the first housing 10 or disposed on the upper side of the first lower panel 104.

[0944] The machine room S may be part of the interior space of the first housing 10. The machine room S may refer to the upper space of the first housing 10. The heating device 50 may be disposed in the machine room S.

[0945] The garment handling device E may include a partition wall 108 disposed inside the first housing 10. The heating device 50 may be disposed on the upper side of the partition wall 108.

[0946] The partition wall 108 can divide the space where the first roller 13 is configured and the machine room S. The partition wall 108 can be configured between the heating device 50 and the first roller 13.

[0947] The partition wall 108 can be integrated with the first box 10 or it can be separated from the first box 10.

[0948] The heating device 50 can be disposed between the partition wall 108 and the first upper panel 103. The machine chamber S can be formed between the partition wall 108 and the first upper panel 103. However, in another aspect of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention, the heating device 50 can be disposed on the upper side of the first housing 10. In this case, the heating device 50 can be disposed on the upper side of the first upper panel 103 and can have an additional housing (not shown).

[0949] Reference FIG. 39 The garment handling device E includes a piping system connected to the dryer 1, the washing machine 2, and the care machine 3.

[0950] The air supply duct 420 may include a first discharge port 425 connected to the first air supply duct 43. The air supply duct 420 may include a second discharge port 427 connected to the second air supply duct 45. The air supply duct 420 may include a third discharge port 426 connected to the third air supply duct 48. The air supply duct 420 may include a fourth discharge port 428 connected to the dehumidification duct 46.

[0951] The first discharge port 425 can protrude downward from the air supply duct 420. The first air supply duct 43 can connect the first roller 13 and the first discharge port 425.

[0952] The second discharge port 427 can protrude laterally from the air supply duct 420. The second air supply duct 45 can connect to the third housing 30 and the second discharge port 427.

[0953] The third discharge port 426 can protrude laterally from the air supply duct 420. The third air supply duct 48 can connect the outer tank 23 and the third discharge port 426.

[0954] The fourth discharge port 428 can protrude laterally from the air supply duct 420. The fourth discharge port 428 can protrude in the opposite direction to the second discharge port 427. The dehumidification duct 46 can be connected to the fourth discharge port 428.

[0955] Hot air flowing into the first drum 13 via the first air supply pipe 43, after drying the clothes contained within the first drum 13, can flow into the heat exchange channel 42 via the first exhaust pipe 41. The first drum 13 may include a front cover 131 disposed on the front side and a rear cover 132 disposed on the rear side. The first air supply pipe 43 may be connected to the rear cover 132, and the first exhaust pipe 41 may be connected to the front cover 131.

[0956] The first exhaust pipe 41 can connect the first roller 13 and the heat exchange channel 42. The first exhaust pipe 41 can extend upward from the first roller 13 and connect to the heat exchange channel 42.

[0957] A first inflow port 421, connected to the first exhaust pipe 41, may be formed at the inflow end 42A of the heat exchange channel 42. The first inflow port 421 may extend downward from the heat exchange channel 42. The first inflow port 421 may extend downward from the second exhaust pipe 44. The first inflow port 421 may extend downward from the first pipe section 441.

[0958] The garment handling device E may include a first on / off valve 41a disposed in the first exhaust duct 41. The first on / off valve 41a can regulate the airflow within the first exhaust duct 41. The first on / off valve 41a can cut off the airflow within the first exhaust duct 41. When hot air is not supplied to the first roller 13 through the first air supply duct 43, the first on / off valve 41a can cut off the airflow within the first exhaust duct 41.

[0959] Hot air flowing into the third housing 30 via the second air supply pipe 45, after drying the clothes contained in the third housing 30, can flow into the heat exchange channel 42 via the second exhaust pipe 44. The second air supply pipe 45 and the second exhaust pipe 44 can be connected to the third rear panel 302 of the third housing 30.

[0960] The second air supply pipe 45 can be connected to the upper part of the nursing machine 3. The second air supply pipe 45 can be connected to the air supply port 308 formed on the upper part of the nursing machine 3.

[0961] The upper panel 303 of the third housing 30 can tilt downwards as it approaches the rear. The upper panel 303 of the third housing 30 can extend downwards toward the third rear panel 302.

[0962] The air supply port 308 can be formed at an inclined portion of the upper plate 303. The air supply port 308 can be opened in a manner that is inclined downward toward the internal space 33 of the nursing machine 3. The air supply port 308 can be opened in a manner that is inclined relative to the horizontal direction.

[0963] The air supply port 308 can be located between the third upper panel 303 and the hanger 36. The air supply port 308 can be located on the upper side, higher than the hanger 36.

[0964] The second exhaust pipe 44 can be located lower than the second air supply pipe 45. The exhaust port 309 can be located lower than the air supply port 308.

[0965] The second exhaust pipe 44 can connect the exhaust port 309 and the heat exchange channel 42. The second exhaust pipe 44 can extend laterally from the upper part of the third housing 30 and connect to the heat exchange channel 42.

[0966] The second exhaust duct 44 may include a first duct section 441 located between the heating device 50 and the first roller 13. The first duct section 441 may be configured between the substrate 575 and the partition wall 108. The first duct section 441 may extend in the front-back direction along the spacer 55.

[0967] A second inflow port 422, which connects to the second exhaust pipe 44, may be formed at the inflow end 42A of the heat exchange channel 42. The second inflow port 422 may extend downward from the heat exchange channel 42. The second inflow port 422 may extend downward from the housing 570 of the heating device 50.

[0968] The garment handling device E may include a second on / off valve 44a disposed in the second exhaust duct 44. The second on / off valve 44a can regulate the airflow within the second exhaust duct 44. The second on / off valve 44a can also cut off airflow within the second exhaust duct 44. When hot air is not supplied to the third housing 30 via the second air supply duct 45, the second on / off valve 44a can cut off airflow within the second exhaust duct 44. The second on / off valve 44a may be disposed upstream of the point where the third exhaust duct 47 and the second exhaust duct 44 meet.

[0969] The hot air flowing into the outer tub 23 via the third air supply pipe 48 dries the clothes contained in the outer tub 23 and then flows into the heat exchange channel 42 via the third exhaust pipe 47.

[0970] The third exhaust pipe 47 can connect the outer barrel 23 and the heat exchange channel 42. The third exhaust pipe 47 can extend upward from the upper part of the outer barrel 23 and connect to the heat exchange channel 42.

[0971] The third exhaust pipe 47 can extend laterally from the upper part of the outer barrel 23, or extend upward inside the rear housing 310.

[0972] The third exhaust pipe 47 can be connected to the second exhaust pipe 44. The third exhaust pipe 47 can merge with the second exhaust pipe 44 inside the rear housing 310. The air flowing in the third exhaust pipe 47 can merge with the air flowing in the second exhaust pipe 44.

[0973] A third inflow port 424 may be formed in the second exhaust pipe 44, which is connected to the third exhaust pipe 47. The third inflow port 424 may extend downward from the second exhaust pipe 44.

[0974] The third inlet port 424 can protrude downward from the bottom surface of the second exhaust pipe 44. The third exhaust pipe 47 can connect the outer barrel 23 and the third inlet port 424. The third exhaust pipe 47 can connect the outer barrel 23 and the second exhaust pipe 44. The air in the third exhaust pipe 47 can merge with the air in the second exhaust pipe 44 and flow into the heat exchange channel 42.

[0975] The garment handling device E may include a third on / off valve 47a disposed in the third exhaust duct 47. The third on / off valve 47a can regulate the airflow within the third exhaust duct 47. The third on / off valve 47a can cut off the airflow within the third exhaust duct 47. When hot air is not supplied to the outer tub 23 through the third air supply duct 48, the third on / off valve 47a can cut off the airflow within the third exhaust duct 47.

[0976] Hot air flowing through dehumidification duct 46 can be supplied to the outside of the clothing handling unit E through the front-opening outlet 462. Hot air flowing through dehumidification duct 46 can also be supplied to the indoor space through the outlet 462.

[0977] The dehumidification duct 46 may include a second duct section 461 located between the heating device 50 and the first roller 13. The second duct section 461 may be configured between the substrate 575 and the partition wall 108. The second duct section 461 may extend along the front-back direction in the spacer 55.

[0978] An external air inlet port 423 can protrude forward from one side of the second exhaust duct 44. The external air inlet port 423 can connect the indoor space and the second exhaust duct 44. Air within the external air inlet port 423 can merge with air within the second exhaust duct 44 and flow into the heat exchange channel 42. The external air inlet port 423 may include a forward-opening external air inlet 49. Air flowing in through the external air inlet 49 can merge with air within the second exhaust duct 44 and flow into the heat exchange channel 42.

[0979] Reference FIG. 40 The heating device 50 may include a heat pump device.

[0980] Unlike another embodiment A, the heating device 50 of the clothing processing apparatus E in this embodiment may not include the motor mounting section 133s (see reference). FIG. 5 ).

[0981] The motor 133 of the drum 13 of the rotary dryer 1 can be configured at the lower part of the dryer 1. The motor 133 can be configured on the lower side of the first drum 13.

[0982] Reference FIG. 41The heating device 50 can supply hot air to the dryer 1, washing machine 2 and care machine 3.

[0983] The heating device 50 can be disposed on the upper side of the partition wall 108. The heating device 50 can be disposed inside the first chamber 10 of the dryer 1.

[0984] The switching device 70 can be configured on the upper side of the partition wall 108. The switching device 70 can also be configured inside the first chamber 10 of the dryer 1.

[0985] The first air supply pipe 43 can pass through the partition space 55 and penetrate the first rear panel 102. The first air supply pipe 43 can penetrate the first rear panel 102 and connect to the first roller 13.

[0986] The second air supply pipe 45 can extend laterally from the air supply pipe 420 and penetrate the first inner wall 106. The second air supply pipe 45 can be bent upward inside the rear housing 310. The second air supply pipe 45 can be connected to the upper part of the nursing machine 3.

[0987] The third gas supply pipe 48 can extend laterally from the air supply pipe 420. The third gas supply pipe 48 can be connected to the outer tank 23.

[0988] The third gas supply duct 48 may include: a first gas supply section 481 extending laterally from the air supply duct 420; a second gas supply section 482 extending downwardly from the first gas supply section 481; and a third gas supply section 483 extending laterally from the second gas supply section 482.

[0989] The first air supply unit 481 can be connected to the air supply duct 420 and can extend laterally from the air supply duct 420. The first air supply unit 481 can extend through the first inner sidewall 106 into the interior of the rear housing 310. The first air supply unit 481 can be disposed behind the third rear panel 302.

[0990] The second air supply section 482 can extend downward from the end of the first air supply section 481. The second air supply section 482 can extend downward inside the rear housing 310. The second air supply section 482 can face the first inner sidewall 106 and the second inner sidewall 206.

[0991] The third air supply section 483 can extend laterally from the lower end of the second air supply section 482. The third air supply section 483 can extend laterally inside the rear housing 310 and penetrate the second inner sidewall 206. The third air supply section 483 can penetrate the second inner sidewall 206 and connect to the outer barrel 23 inside the second housing 20.

[0992] The third exhaust pipe 47 can be merged with the second exhaust pipe 44. The third exhaust pipe 47 can extend upward and merge with the second exhaust pipe 44.

[0993] The third exhaust pipe 47 may include: a first exhaust section 471 connected to the outer barrel 23; and a second exhaust section 472 extending upward from the first exhaust section 471.

[0994] The first exhaust portion 471 can be connected to the outer barrel 23 and can penetrate the second inner sidewall 206. The first exhaust portion 471 can penetrate the second inner sidewall 206 and extend laterally inside the rear housing 310.

[0995] The second exhaust portion 472 can extend upward from the end of the first exhaust portion 471. The second exhaust portion 472 can face the first inner sidewall 106 and the second inner sidewall 206.

[0996] The second exhaust portion 472 can be connected to the second exhaust pipe 44. The upper end of the second exhaust portion 472 can be connected to the lower part of the second exhaust pipe 44. The second exhaust pipe 44 may include a downwardly protruding third inlet port 424, and the second exhaust portion 472 can be connected to the third inlet port 424.

[0997] The second exhaust pipe 44 can be connected to the upper part of the nursing machine 3. The second exhaust pipe 44 can extend laterally inside the rear housing 310. The second exhaust pipe 44 can extend forward within the partition space 55 and connect to the heat exchange channel 42.

[0998] The partition space 55 can be formed between the substrate 575 and the partition wall 208. The first pipe section 441, the second pipe section 461 and the first gas supply pipe 43 can be disposed in the partition space 55.

[0999] The steam generator 502 can be disposed within the heating device 50. The steam generated in the steam generator 502 can be injected into the interior of the first roller 13 through the first steam supply pipe 502a. The steam generated in the steam generator 502 can be injected into the interior space 33 of the nursing machine 3 through the second steam supply pipe 502b.

[1000] The steam generated in the steam generator 502 can be directed by the airflow generated by the fan 60 to each of the first roller 13 and the internal space 33 of the nursing machine 3. That is, the fan 60 can pressurize the steam generated in the steam generator 502 and direct it to the first roller 13 and the internal space 33 of the nursing machine 3.

[1001] Each of the first steam supply pipe 502a and the second steam supply pipe 502b may be equipped with a valve (not shown) to control the flow rate of steam. The controller 81 can regulate the amount of steam supplied to each of the first roller 13 and the internal space 33 of the nursing machine 3 by adjusting the opening of the valve (not shown).

[1002] The garment handling device E may include a second steam generator 506 disposed inside the washing machine 2. The garment handling device E may have a plurality of steam generators 502 and 506. The steam generator 502 disposed in the heating device 50 may be referred to as the "first steam generator", and the steam generator 506 disposed inside the washing machine 2 may be referred to as the "second steam generator".

[1003] The garment processing device E may include: a third steam supply pipe 506a, connected to the second steam generator 506 and the outer tub 23; and a fourth steam supply pipe 506b, connected to the second steam generator 506 and the care machine 3.

[1004] The second steam generator 506 can be disposed within the second housing 20. The steam generated in the second steam generator 506 can be injected into the second roller 24 through the third steam supply pipe 506a. The steam generated in the second steam generator 506 can be injected into the internal space 33 of the nursing machine 3 through the fourth steam supply pipe 506b.

[1005] Each of the third steam supply pipe 506a and the fourth steam supply pipe 506b may be equipped with a valve (not shown) to control the flow of steam. The controller 81 can regulate the amount of steam supplied to each of the second roller 24 and the internal space 33 of the nursing machine 3 by adjusting the opening of the valve (not shown).

[1006] Reference FIG. 42 The heating device 50 can be configured on the upper part of the clothing processing device E.

[1007] The second upper panel 203 of the washing machine 2 can be coupled to the first lower panel 104 of the dryer 1. The first lower panel 104 can be disposed above the second upper panel 203. The first lower panel 104 and the second upper panel 203 can be coupled by an additional fastening member (not shown). In addition, one of the first lower panel 104 and the second upper panel 203 has a protrusion (not shown), and the other has a groove (not shown), so that the first lower panel 104 and the second upper panel 203 can be coupled by inserting the protrusion into the groove.

[1008] The dryer 1 can reduce the vertical vibration of the washing machine 2. Since the first housing 10 is combined with the second housing 20 on the upper side of the second housing 20, the vibration of the second housing 20 can be reduced.

[1009] The garment handling device E may include a roller 29 protruding downward from the second housing 20. The roller 29 may protrude downward from the second lower panel 204.

[1010] The roller 29 protruding downward from the second housing 20 can be referred to as the "first roller". The roller 38 protruding downward from the third housing 30 can be referred to as the "second roller". The first roller 29 and the second roller 38 can be separated in the horizontal direction.

[1011] Rollers 29 and 38 can support the load of the garment handling device E, and at least a portion of rollers 29 and 38 can rotate when the garment handling device E is moved.

[1012] The garment handling device E may include a leg 39 protruding downward from the third housing 30. The leg 39 may protrude downward from the third outer side wall 305.

[1013] The support legs 39 can support the load of the clothing handling device E. Multiple support legs 39 can be arranged spaced apart along the front-to-back direction.

[1014] The support leg 39 protruding downward from the third housing 30 can also be configured on the washing machine 2. That is, the washing machine 2 may include a support leg (not shown) protruding downward from the second housing 20.

[1015] The support legs (not shown) of washing machine 2 can have the same structure as the support legs 38 of nursing machine 3. The support legs (not shown) of washing machine 2 can protrude downward from the second outer side wall 205. A plurality of support legs (not shown) of washing machine 2 can be arranged in a manner spaced apart along the front-to-back direction.

[1016] The rollers and legs described above can support the load of the clothes handling device E. Furthermore, the rollers and legs can reduce vibrations generated within the washing machine 2. Vibrations generated within the washing machine 2 can be absorbed and discharged to the ground by the rollers and legs. The rollers and legs can also reduce the swaying of the second housing 20.

[1017] The garment handling device E may include a plate 90 disposed between the second housing 20 and the third housing 30. The plate 90 can connect the second housing 20 and the third housing 30. The plate 90 may be referred to as a "connector" or a "lower connector".

[1018] The plate 90 may include: a first plate 96 disposed between the second inner sidewall 206 and the third inner sidewall 306; a second plate 97 connecting the second lower panel 204 and the third lower panel 304; and a handle 98 recessed upward from the bottom surface of the second plate 92.

[1019] The first plate 96 can extend vertically between the second housing 20 and the third housing 30. The first plate 96 can contact the second housing 20 and the third housing 30. The first plate 96 can be made of a highly elastic material. The first plate 96 may include vibration damping material.

[1020] The first plate 96 can reduce vibrations generated in the washing machine 2. The first plate 96 can absorb vibrations generated in the washing machine 2. The first plate 96 can prevent the second housing 20 from shaking. In particular, when the second drum 24 rotates at high speed, the second inner wall 206 may sway in the left-right direction due to vibrations generated by the second drum 24. The first plate 96 is disposed on the second inner wall 206 and the third inner wall 306, thereby preventing the second inner wall 206 from swaying while colliding with the third inner wall 306 and generating noise.

[1021] The second plate 97 may extend horizontally below the second lower panel 204 and the third lower panel 304. The second plate 97 may be connected to the second lower panel 204 and the third lower panel 304 by means of a fastening member 99 passing through the second plate 97.

[1022] The plate 90 and the third housing 30 can reduce the vibration of the washing machine 2. The third housing 30 is disposed to the side of the second housing 20, thereby attenuating vibrations generated in the horizontal direction within the washing machine 2. The plate 90 is disposed between the second housing 20 and the third housing 30, thereby enhancing the vibration damping effect caused by the third housing 30. In particular, the plate 90 may include a highly elastic material or vibration damping material, thereby effectively reducing vibrations generated in the washing machine 2. Furthermore, since the plate 90 combines the second housing 20 and the third housing 30, vibrations generated in the second housing 20 can be reduced. The third housing 30 can support the second housing 20 on one side.

[1023] The handle 98 can be recessed into the plate 90. The handle 98 provides space for the user to grip. The user can hold the handle 98 to move the garment handling device E.

[1024] The open member 463 can shield the front side of the partition space 55. The open member 463 can be positioned in front of the dehumidification duct 46 and the external air inlet port 423. The open member 463 can shield the front of the hot air outlet 462 and the external air inlet 49.

[1025] The garment handling device E may include: a hinge 463a connected to an open member 463; and a motor 463b that rotates the hinge 463a.

[1026] Hinge 463a is rotatably attached to the first front panel 101. Hinge 463a can extend in the left-right direction. Opening member 463 can rotate in the front-back direction about hinge 463a as an axis of rotation. Opening member 463 and hinge 463a can be integrally formed. If motor 463b rotates hinge 463a, opening member 463 can rotate together with hinge 463a. Opening member 463 can rotate forward, thereby opening the front of partition space 55. If opening member 463 opens the front of partition space 55, external air from clothing processing device A can flow into heat exchange channel 42 through external air inlet port 423, and air can be discharged to the outside of clothing processing device A through dehumidification pipe 46.

[1027] The controller 81 can be electrically connected to the motor 463b. The controller 81 can control the drive of the motor 463b. The user can open and close the partition space 55 by operating the control panel 8.

[1028] The dehumidification duct 46 and the external air inlet port 423 can be configured at a higher position than the first door 11 and the second door 21. Because the dehumidification duct 46 and the external air inlet port 423 are positioned higher, the hot, dry air flowing through the dehumidification duct 46 can be prevented from being directly expelled towards the user. The dehumidification duct 46 and the external air inlet port 423 can be configured at a height corresponding to the upper part of the care unit 3.

[1029] Reference FIG. 43 The third gas supply pipe 480 can branch from the second gas supply pipe 450.

[1030] The third gas supply pipe 480 can branch from the second gas supply pipe 450 without being directly connected to the heating device 50. When the third gas supply pipe 480 branches from the second gas supply pipe 450, a third discharge port 426 may not be formed. The third gas supply pipe 480 can branch downwards from the first hot air pipe 451.

[1031] The second air supply duct 450 can extend laterally from the air supply duct 420. The second air supply duct 450 can also extend horizontally behind the third rear panel 302.

[1032] The third air supply pipe 480 can branch off from the second air supply pipe 450 on the rear side of the third rear panel 302. The third air supply pipe 480 can extend downward from the second air supply pipe 450. The third air supply pipe 480 can extend into the interior of the second housing 20 and connect to the outer barrel 23.

[1033] The garment handling device E' may include a regulating valve 453, which is configured at a location where the third air supply pipe 480 branches off from the second air supply pipe 450.

[1034] The regulating valve 453 can regulate the flow direction of air within the second air supply duct 450. The regulating valve 453 can also regulate the flow direction of air within the first hot air duct 451. The regulating valve 453 can open and close the second hot air duct 452 and the third air supply duct 480. The regulating valve 453 can open only one of the second hot air duct 452 and the third air supply duct 480. The regulating valve 453 can open both the second hot air duct 452 and the third air supply duct 480. The regulating valve 453 can regulate the flow rate of air supplied to the second hot air duct 452 and the third air supply duct 480. The regulating valve 453 can distribute the air blown by the fan 60 into the second air supply duct 450 to both the second hot air duct 452 and the third air supply duct 480.

[1035] The controller 81 can control the regulating valve 453. The controller 81 can control the regulating valve 453 to supply hot air from the fan 60 to the second air supply duct 450 to the internal space 33 of the nursing machine 3. The controller 81 can control the regulating valve 453 to supply hot air from the fan 60 to the second air supply duct 450 to the second roller 24.

[1036] However, the structure of the air supply pipes connected to the washing machine 2 and the care machine 3 can be selectively used. FIG. 41 or FIG. 43 The structure of the air supply pipe described herein. That is, the air supply pipe connected to the washing machine 2 and the care machine 3 can be configured as follows: FIG. 41 That or like FIG. 43 That way.

[1037] Reference FIG. 44 A storage box 950 can be configured between the nursing machine 3 and the tower 9.

[1038] The garment handling device "E" may include a dryer 1, a washing machine 2, a garment care machine 3, and a heating device 50.

[1039] However, the location of the heating device 50 is not limited to the upper side of the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2. That is, the heating device 50 can be located between the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2, or it can be located below the dryer 1 and the washing machine 2. Additionally, the heating device 50 can be located above the first drum 13 and the outer tub 23, between the first drum 13 and the outer tub 23, or below the first drum 13 and the outer tub 23. FIG. 44 In the clothing processing apparatus E of the embodiment described herein, although the position of the heating device 50 is changed, the air supply pipe 4500 and the exhaust pipe 4400 can both traverse the space formed at the rear of the storage box 950 to connect the care machine 3 and the heating device 50.

[1040] The garment handling device E may include a storage box 950 disposed on one side of the garment care machine 3. The storage box 950 may be disposed between the dryer 1 and the garment care machine 3. The storage box 950 may be disposed between the washing machine 2 and the garment care machine 3. The storage box 950 may be disposed between the heating device 50 and the garment care machine 3. The storage box 950 may be disposed between the first inner wall 106 and the third inner wall 306. The storage box 950 may be disposed between the second inner wall 206 and the third inner wall 306.

[1041] The height of the storage box 950 can be formed in various ways. For example, the storage box 950 can be configured only between the care machine 3 and the washing machine 2, in which case a hollow space can be formed between the care machine 3 and the dryer 1. Alternatively, the storage box 950 can be configured in the space between the care machine 3 and the washing machine 2, as well as in the space between the care machine 3 and the dryer 1.

[1042] The storage box 950 may include a first storage box 951 and a second storage box 952.

[1043] The first storage box 951 can be positioned below the second storage box 952. The vertical height of the first storage box 951 can be greater than the vertical height of the second storage box 952.

[1044] The storage box 950 provides space to accommodate the components of the clothing handling device E". The interior of the storage box 950 can hold hangers, detergent containers, fabric softener containers, dusters, etc. Additionally, the interior of the storage box 950 can hold clothing or laundry items.

[1045] The garment handling device E may i...

Claims

1.A laundry treating apparatus, wherein, Comprising: a first laundry treating apparatus including a first cabinet and a first drum rotatably disposed inside the first cabinet; a second laundry treating apparatus including a second cabinet disposed above and below the first cabinet and a second drum rotatably disposed inside the second cabinet; a third laundry treating apparatus including a third cabinet disposed at a side of the first cabinet and the second cabinet and having a space for receiving laundry formed inside; a heating device disposed above and below the first drum and the second drum at a side of the third cabinet, heating air to be supplied to the inside space of the third cabinet; and a steam generating device generating steam to be supplied to the inside space of the third cabinet and disposed at the heating device; the second laundry treating apparatus including: an outer tub disposed inside the second cabinet, storing water; and a water supply conduit supplying water to the inside of the outer tub; the steam generating device being connected to the water supply conduit. 2.The laundry treating apparatus of claim 1, wherein the heating device includes: a heat exchange unit heating air to be supplied to the inside space of the third cabinet; a heat exchange passage in which the heat exchange unit is disposed; and a fan disposed at a downstream side of the heat exchange passage, supplying air that has passed through the heat exchange passage to the inside space of the third cabinet, the heat exchange unit, the heat exchange passage, and the fan being disposed at a side of the third cabinet. Comprising: 3.The laundry treating apparatus of claim 1, wherein, an air supply conduit connecting the heating device and the third laundry treating apparatus, supplying air heated in the heating device to the inside space of the third cabinet; and an air exhaust conduit connecting the heating device and the third laundry treating apparatus, supplying air of the inside space of the third cabinet to the heating device, the air supply conduit and the air exhaust conduit extending sideways from the heating device toward the third cabinet. 4.The laundry treating apparatus of claim 1, wherein the heating device is disposed between the first drum and the second drum at a height corresponding to a central portion of the third cabinet. Comprising: an air supply conduit supplying air heated in the heating device to the inside space of the third cabinet; and 5.The laundry treating apparatus of claim 1, wherein, an air exhaust conduit supplying air of the inside space of the third cabinet to the heating device, the air supply conduit being connected to an air supply port located at an upper portion of the third laundry treating apparatus, the air exhaust conduit being connected to an air exhaust port located at a lower portion of the third laundry treating apparatus. 6.The laundry treating apparatus of claim 1, wherein a motor is included, the motor being disposed inside the first cabinet, for rotating the first drum, the motor being disposed at the heating device. 7.The laundry treating apparatus of claim 1, wherein an air supply conduit is included, the air supply conduit supplying air heated in the heating device to the inside space of the third cabinet, the third laundry treating apparatus including an inner panel formed with an air supply port connected to the air supply conduit, the inner panel being located at a height lower than the first drum and the second drum. ​ ​ ​ 8.The laundry treating apparatus of claim 7, wherein the third laundry treating unit comprises: a lower panel spaced apart from the inner panel at a lower side of the inner panel; and a receiving space formed between the inner panel and the lower panel. 9.The laundry treating apparatus of claim 1, wherein the third laundry treating unit comprises a hanger configured at an upper portion of an inner space of the third cabinet, the hanger is located at a height corresponding to an upper portion of a certain drum among the first and second drums configured at an upper side. comprises: an upper connector combining a certain cabinet among the first and second cabinets configured at an upper side with the third cabinet; and 10.The laundry treating apparatus of claim 1, wherein, a lower connector combining another cabinet among the first and second cabinets configured at a lower side with the third cabinet. 11.The laundry treating apparatus of claim 1, wherein an upper end portion of a front surface of a certain cabinet among the first and second cabinets configured at an upper side is aligned with an upper end portion of a front surface of the third cabinet in a horizontal direction. 12.The laundry treating apparatus of claim 1, wherein comprising a rear housing configured at a rear of the third cabinet, a front-rear direction width of the third cabinet is smaller than a front-rear direction width of the first and second cabinets, a back surface of the first and second cabinets is aligned with a back surface of the rear housing. 13.The laundry treating apparatus of claim 1, wherein the second laundry treating unit comprises: an outer tub configured at an inside of the second cabinet; a drain pump configured at a lower side of the outer tub; and a drain pipe connected with the drain pump and extending to an outside of the laundry treating apparatus, the heating device comprises: a heat exchange passage dehumidifying air to be supplied to an inner space of the third cabinet; an evaporator configured at an inside of the heat exchange passage; a drain pan configured at a lower side of the evaporator; and a discharge pipe connecting the drain pan and the drain pipe. 14.The laundry treating apparatus of claim 1, comprising a control panel controlling driving of the first, second, and third laundry treating units, the control panel is configured at a side of the third cabinet. ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​

Citation Information

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