Washing machine

Abstract

The washing machine may include: a housing; a tub disposed within the housing; a drawer capable of accommodating detergent to be supplied to the tub; the filter is detachably mounted on the drawer; a drawer housing configured to accommodate the drawer; and a discharge pipe provided to allow the wash water discharged from the drawer housing to flow therethrough. The discharge tube may include a circulation tube configured to direct wash water to the tub. The drain pipe may include a drain pipe configured to direct wash water to an exterior of the housing. The washing machine may include a flow path switching device configured to flow wash water that has passed through the filter through the circulation pipe or the drain pipe.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a washing machine having a filter. Background Art

[0002] A washing machine is a household appliance for washing clothes, towels, bedding, etc. Washing machines can be classified into drum type washing machines that wash clothes by rotating a drum to repeatedly lift and lower the clothes, and electric washing machines that wash clothes using a water flow generated by an agitator when the drum rotates.

[0003] The washing machine can circulate the washing water in the tub in the process of supplying the washing water to the tub to wash or rinse the clothes. The washing machine can discharge the washing water in the tub to the outside in the process of draining the washing water from the tub and removing moisture from the clothes. Summary of the invention

[0004] Technical issues

[0005] The present disclosure is directed to providing a washing machine having a filter for filtering wash water.

[0006] The present disclosure is directed to providing a washing machine capable of circulating or draining filtered wash water.

[0007] The present disclosure is directed to providing a washing machine having an easy-to-maintain filter.

[0008] The present disclosure is directed to providing a washing machine having a filter that is easy to clean and / or replace.

[0009] The present disclosure is directed to providing a washing machine having increased space utilization.

[0010] The technical tasks to be achieved by this document are not limited to the above-mentioned technical tasks, and those skilled in the art will be able to clearly understand other technical tasks not mentioned from the following description.

[0011] Technical Solution

[0012] Aspects of the present disclosure provide a washing machine, which includes a housing, a barrel disposed inside the housing, a drawer configured to receive detergent to be supplied to the barrel, a filter detachably mounted in the drawer, and a drawer housing configured to accommodate the drawer. The drawer housing may include an inlet portion configured to allow washing water to flow toward the filter and an outlet portion configured to allow washing water passing through the filter to flow out. The washing machine may include a drain pipe configured to allow washing water flowing out of the drawer housing to flow. The drain pipe may include a circulation pipe configured to guide washing water to the barrel. The drain pipe may include a drain pipe configured to guide washing water to the outside of the housing. The washing machine may include a flow path switching device configured to allow washing water passing through the filter to flow into the circulation pipe, or to allow washing water passing through the filter to flow into the drain pipe.

[0013] The washing machine may further include a pump device configured to pump the wash water in the tub to deliver the wash water to the inlet portion of the drawer housing.

[0014] The filter can be inserted into the drawer housing or pulled out from the drawer housing in a state installed in the drawer.

[0015] The filter may include a first filter port configured to allow the filtered wash water to flow out toward the circulation pipe. The filter may include a second filter port configured to allow the filtered wash water to flow out toward the drain pipe.

[0016] The flow path switching device may include a valve configured to open and close the first filter port. The washing machine may further include a controller configured to control the valve to close the valve during drainage.

[0017] The valve may be a first valve, and the flow path switching device may further include a second valve configured to open and close the second filter port. The controller may control the second valve to open the second valve during drainage.

[0018] The circulation pipe may be positioned lower than the drain pipe. The flow path switching device may include a valve configured to open and close the circulation pipe. The washing machine may further include a controller configured to control the valve to close the valve during drainage.

[0019] The flow path switching device may include a first valve configured to open and close the circulation pipe and a second valve configured to open and close the drainage pipe. The washing machine may also include a controller configured to control the first valve and the second valve to close the first valve and open the second valve during drainage.

[0020] The discharge pipe may further include a main pipe extending from the outlet portion. The circulation pipe and the drainage pipe may be arranged to branch from the main pipe. A flow path switching device may be arranged at a branch point of the circulation pipe and the drainage pipe to open any one of the circulation pipe and the drainage pipe.

[0021] The drawer may further include a detergent receiving portion configured to receive detergent and a filter mounting portion configured such that a filter may be mounted therein. The filter mounting portion may be arranged parallel to the detergent receiving portion in a direction perpendicular to a direction in which the filter is inserted or withdrawn.

[0022] The drawer may include a first detergent receiving portion configured to receive a first detergent to be supplied to the tub during a washing process. The drawer may include a second detergent receiving portion configured to receive a second detergent to be supplied to the tub during a rinsing process. The drawer may include a filter mounting portion configured so that a filter may be mounted therein and disposed between the first detergent receiving portion and the second detergent receiving portion.

[0023] The filter may form a collecting space therein. The collecting space may be configured to collect foreign matter contained in wash water when the wash water flowing from the pump device flows from the inside of the filter to the outside of the filter.

[0024] The wash water passing through the filter may flow between the drawer and the drawer case to flow out through the outlet portion of the drawer case.

[0025] The drawer may include a shape inclined downward toward the outlet portion to guide wash water flowing between the drawer and the drawer case to the outlet portion.

[0026] The drawer may further include a detergent receiving portion capable of receiving detergent. The washing machine may further include a detergent pump disposed at the rear of the drawer housing and configured to pump the detergent received in the detergent receiving portion to deliver the pumped detergent to the drawer housing.

[0027] Aspects of the present disclosure provide a washing machine, which includes a housing, a tub disposed inside the housing, a pump device configured to pump wash water in the tub, and a detergent supply device configured to supply detergent to the tub and including a filter configured to filter the wash water delivered from the pump device. The washing machine may include a connecting pipe configured to connect the pump device and the detergent supply device, a circulation pipe configured to connect the detergent supply device and the tub, and a drain pipe configured to connect the detergent supply device and the outside of the housing. The washing machine may include a flow path switching device configured to allow wash water flowing out of the detergent supply device to flow into the circulation pipe, or to allow wash water flowing out of the detergent supply device to flow into the drain pipe.

[0028] The detergent supply device may include: a drawer including a detergent receiving portion configured to receive detergent and a filter mounting portion configured to be separated from the detergent receiving portion so that a filter is detachably mounted therein; and a drawer housing configured to accommodate the drawer. The drawer housing may include an outlet portion formed at the bottom of the drawer housing. The outlet portion may be connected to a circulation pipe to supply at least one of the detergent received in the drawer and the wash water passing through the filter to the tub.

[0029] The filter may include a first filter port disposed to be communicable with the circulation pipe and to allow the filtered wash water to flow out. The filter may include a second filter port disposed to be communicable with the drain pipe and to allow the filtered wash water to flow out.

[0030] The first filter port may be positioned lower than the second filter port. The flow path switching device may include a valve configured to open and close the first filter port.

[0031] The pump may include a circulation pump and a drain pump. The washing machine may further include a controller configured to control the valve to close the valve based on the operation of the drain pump.

[0032] Beneficial Effects

[0033] According to the present disclosure, the washing machine can effectively collect foreign materials contained in wash water.

[0034] According to the present disclosure, the washing machine may circulate or drain the wash water passing through the filter.

[0035] According to the present disclosure, maintenance of the filter can be facilitated.

[0036] According to the present disclosure, cleaning and / or replacement of the filter can be facilitated.

[0037] According to the present disclosure, space utilization of the washing machine can be increased.

[0038] Effects obtainable from the present disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned effects, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0039] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an example of a washing machine according to one embodiment.

[0040] Figure 2 It shows the extraction Figure 1 Schematic diagram of an example of a state of a drawer of a detergent supply device shown in FIG.

[0041] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of an example of a washing machine according to one embodiment.

[0042] Figure 4 is a perspective view of an example of a detergent supply device according to one embodiment.

[0043] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A rear perspective view of the detergent supply device shown in FIG.

[0044] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 A bottom perspective view of the detergent supply device shown in FIG.

[0045] Figure 7 yes Figure 4 An exploded view of the detergent supply unit is shown in .

[0046] Figure 8 yes Figure 7 Exploded view of the drawer housing shown in .

[0047] Fig. 9 It is shown Figure 7 View of the drawer, detergent drawer, and filter shown in .

[0048] Fig.10 It is shown from the rear Fig. 9 View of the drawer, detergent drawer, and filter shown in .

[0049] Fig.11 is a perspective view of an example of a filter according to one embodiment.

[0050] Fig.12 is a plan view of an example of a detergent supply device according to one embodiment.

[0051] Fig.13 is a plan view of an example of a detergent supply device according to one embodiment.

[0052] Fig.14 is a plan view of an example of a detergent supply device according to one embodiment.

[0053] Fig.15 is a cross-sectional view of an example of a detergent supply device according to one embodiment.

[0054] Fig.16 is a cross-sectional view of an example of a detergent supply device according to one embodiment.

[0055] Fig.17 is a cross-sectional view of an example of a detergent supply device according to one embodiment.

[0056] Fig.18 is a cross-sectional view of an example of a detergent supply device according to one embodiment.

[0057] Fig.19 is a cross-sectional view of an example of a detergent supply device according to one embodiment.

[0058] Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view of an example of a detergent supply device according to one embodiment.

[0059] Fig.21 is a cross-sectional view of an example of a detergent supply device according to one embodiment.

[0060] Fig. 22 is a cross-sectional view of an example of a detergent supply device according to one embodiment.

[0061] Fig.23 is a cross-sectional view of an example of a detergent supply device according to one embodiment.

[0062] Fig.24 is a perspective view of an example of a detergent supply device according to one embodiment.

[0063] Fig.25 It is shown Fig.24 View of the drawer, detergent drawer, and filter shown in .

[0064] Fig.26 yes Fig.24 A cross-sectional view of an example of a detergent supply device shown in FIG.

[0065] Fig. 27 is a cross-sectional view of an example of a detergent supply device according to one embodiment.

[0066] Fig.28 is a cross-sectional view of an example of a detergent supply device according to one embodiment.

[0067] Fig.29 is a cross-sectional view of an example of a detergent supply device according to one embodiment.

[0068] Fig.30 is a diagram illustrating an example of a drawer, a detergent box, and a filter according to one embodiment.

[0069] Fig.31 yes Fig.30 Exploded view of the filter shown in .

[0070] Fig.32 is a perspective view of an example of a flow path switching device according to one embodiment.

[0071] Fig.33 yes Fig.32 An exploded view of the flow path switching device shown in .

[0072] Fig.34 is a control block diagram of a washing machine according to one embodiment.

[0073] Fig.35 An example of a wash cycle according to one embodiment is shown.

[0074] Fig.36 An example of a control block diagram and a signal flow of a washing machine according to one embodiment is shown.

[0075] Fig.37 An example of a control block diagram and a signal flow of a washing machine according to one embodiment is shown.

[0076] Fig.38 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of a washing machine according to one embodiment when a driving condition of a circulation pump is satisfied.

[0077] Fig.39 An example of a control block diagram and a signal flow of a washing machine according to one embodiment is shown.

[0078] Fig.40 An example of a control block diagram and a signal flow of a washing machine according to one embodiment is shown.

[0079] Fig.41 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of a washing machine according to one embodiment when a driving condition of a drain pump is satisfied.

[0080] Fig.42 An example of a control block diagram and a signal flow of a washing machine according to one embodiment is shown.

[0081] Fig.43 An example of a control block diagram and a signal flow of a washing machine according to one embodiment is shown.

[0082] Fig.44 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of a washing machine according to one embodiment when a driving condition of a circulation pump or a drainage pump is satisfied.

[0083] Fig.45 An example of a control block diagram and a signal flow of a washing machine according to one embodiment is shown.

[0084] Fig.46 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of a washing machine according to one embodiment when clogging of a filter is detected. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0085] Various embodiments and terms in this document are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, and should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments.

[0086] In conjunction with the description of the drawings, the same reference numerals may be used for the same or related components.

[0087] Unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise, a singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one item or a plurality of items.

[0088] In this document, each of the phrases such as "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B or C", "at least one of A, B and C" and "at least one of A, B or C" may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding one of the phrases, or all possible combinations thereof.

[0089] The term "and / or" includes any combination of a plurality of related components or any one of a plurality of related components.

[0090] Terms such as “first,” “second,” “primary,” and “secondary / secondary” may be used simply to distinguish a given component from other corresponding components and do not limit the corresponding components in any other aspects (eg, importance or order).

[0091] When any (e.g., first) component is referred to as being "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., second) component with or without the term "functionally" or "communicatively", it means that any component can be connected to another component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0092] The terms “including”, “having” and the like are intended to indicate the presence of the features, quantities, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof described in this document, and do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, quantities, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0093] When any component is referred to as being “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact with” another component, this includes the case where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact with each other via a third component as well as the case where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact with each other.

[0094] When any component is referred to as being “on” or “over” another component, this includes not only a case where any component is in contact with another component but also a case where another component exists between the two components.

[0095] A washing machine according to various embodiments may be an example of a laundry treating apparatus.

[0096] The washing machine according to various embodiments may include a top loading washing machine in which a laundry inlet for putting in or taking out laundry is disposed to face the top or a front loading washing machine in which a laundry inlet for putting in or taking out laundry is disposed to face the front. The washing machine according to various embodiments may include a washing machine of another loading method other than the top loading washing machine and the front loading washing machine.

[0097] In the case of a top-loading washing machine, the laundry may be washed using a water flow generated by a rotating body such as an agitator. In the case of a front-loading washing machine, the laundry may be washed by rotating a drum so that the laundry is repeatedly raised and lowered. In the case of a front-loading washing machine, a lifter may be provided to lift the laundry. Washing machines according to various embodiments may include washing machines having other washing methods than the above-described washing methods.

[0098] The terms "upward", "front-rear direction", "forward", "backward", "left-right direction", "rightward", "leftward", "up-down direction", "upward", "downward", etc. used in the following description are defined with reference to the drawings, and the shape and position of each component are not limited by these terms. For example, the +X direction may be defined as forward, and the -X direction may be defined as backward. For example, the +Y direction may be defined as rightward, and the -Y direction may be defined as leftward. For example, the +Z direction may be defined as upward, and the -Z direction may be defined as downward.

[0099] Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present disclosure are described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0100] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an example of a washing machine according to one embodiment. Figure 2 It shows the extraction Figure 1 Schematic diagram of an example of a state of a drawer of a detergent supply device shown in FIG. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of an example of a washing machine according to one embodiment.

[0101] refer to Figures 1 to 3 , the washing machine 1 may include a housing 10. The washing machine 1 may include a tub 20 disposed inside the housing 10. The washing machine 1 may include a drum 30 disposed inside the tub 20. The washing machine 1 may include a driving motor 40 configured to drive the drum 30.

[0102] The housing 10 may be provided to form an exterior appearance of the washing machine 1. The housing 10 may accommodate components of the washing machine 1. For example, the housing 10 may be provided to have a substantially box shape.

[0103] The washing machine 1 may include a laundry inlet 11. The housing 10 may include the laundry inlet 11. The laundry inlet 11 may be provided to allow laundry (e.g., clothes, towels, bedding, etc.) to be put into or taken out from the inside of the drum 30. The laundry inlet 11 may be formed at the front of the housing 10. The laundry inlet 11 may be provided to open toward the front. However, the laundry inlet 11 is not limited thereto and may be formed on the upper side of the housing 10 in the case of a top-loading washing machine. In this case, the laundry inlet 11 may be provided to open toward the upper side of the housing 10. The shape and / or position of the laundry inlet 11 may vary depending on the type of the washing machine.

[0104] The washing machine 1 may include a door 12. The door 12 may be provided to open and close the laundry inlet 11. The door 12 may be rotatably installed in the housing 10. For example, the door 12 may be provided to rotate through a hinge 13.

[0105] For example, the door 12 may include a door glass 12a configured to allow a user to check the interior of the drum 30. For example, the door glass 12a may include a transparent tempered glass material. For example, the door 12 may include a door frame 12b configured to support the door glass 12a.

[0106] The tub 20 may be disposed inside the housing 10. The tub 20 may be configured to receive wash water. The tub 20 may be configured to store wash water. An opening for loading clothes may be formed at the front of the tub 20. The opening of the tub 20 may correspond to the clothes inlet 11. For example, the tub 20 may have a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0107] The washing machine 1 may include a damper 90. The tub 20 may be supported in the housing 10 by the damper 90. For example, the damper 90 may connect the inner bottom surface of the housing 10 and the outer surface of the tub 20. Vibration occurring in the tub 20 may be reduced by the damper 90. Noise occurring in the tub 20 may be reduced by the damper 90. Impact occurring in the tub 20 may be reduced by the damper 90.

[0108] The washing machine 1 may include a detergent supply device 50. The detergent supply device 50 may be configured to supply detergent to the tub 20. The detergent supply device 50 may be configured to contain detergent. For example, the detergent supply device 50 may contain liquid detergent, powder detergent, fabric softener, rinse agent, bleach, etc. The type of detergent is not limited as long as the detergent received in the detergent supply device 50 is used for washing clothes.

[0109] The detergent supply device 50 may be accommodated inside the housing 10. The detergent supply device 50 may be disposed in a space formed between the housing 10 and the tub 20. The detergent supply device 50 may be disposed in a space formed between the inside of the housing 10 and the outside of the tub 20.

[0110] For example, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the detergent supply device 50 may be disposed between the housing 10 and the upper left portion of the tub 20. However, it is not limited to the examples shown in the drawings. For example, the detergent supply device 50 may be disposed between the housing 10 and the upper right portion of the tub 20. For example, the detergent supply device 50 may be disposed between the housing 10 and the lower left portion of the tub 20. For example, the detergent supply device 50 may be disposed between the housing 10 and the lower right portion of the tub 20. The position of the detergent supply device 50 is not limited as long as the detergent supply device 50 may be disposed so as not to interfere with other components inside the housing 10 of the washing machine 1.

[0111] The detergent supply device 50 may include a drawer 130 capable of receiving detergent. The detergent supply device 50 may include a drawer housing 120 configured to accommodate the drawer 130. The drawer 130 may be configured to be withdrawn from the drawer housing 120. The drawer 130 may be configured to be inserted into the drawer housing 120. The filter 110 may be detachably installed in the drawer 130. A detailed description thereof will be given later.

[0112] The washing machine 1 may include a housing opening 17 provided to correspond to the detergent supply device 50. The housing opening 17 may be provided to insert a drawer 130 of the detergent supply device 50. The housing opening 17 may be provided to extract the drawer 130. For example, the housing opening 17 may be formed on the front surface of the housing 10. For example, the housing opening 17 may be provided to correspond to a housing opening 120c of a drawer housing 120 to be described later.

[0113] For example, refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , a detergent pump 53 may be connected to the rear of the detergent supply device 50. The detergent supply device 50 may be configured to automatically supply detergent to the tub 20 by means of the detergent pump 53. The detergent supply device 50 may be configured to timely supply detergent to the tub 20 by means of the detergent pump 53. However, the detergent pump 53 may be selectively provided as needed. The detergent pump 53 may be omitted.

[0114] The washing machine 1 may include a water supply pipe 51. The water supply pipe 51 may be provided to supply water to the tub 20. One side of the water supply pipe 51 may be connected to an external water supply source (not shown). The other side of the water supply pipe 51 may be connected to the detergent supply device 50. The water supplied through the water supply pipe 51 may be supplied to the inside of the tub 20 together with the detergent through the detergent supply device 50.

[0115] The washing machine 1 may include a water supply valve 52. The water supply valve 52 may be installed in the water supply pipe 51 to control water supply. The water supply valve 52 may be configured to open and close the water supply pipe 51. The water supply valve 52 may be configured to adjust the opening degree of the water supply pipe 51.

[0116] The drum 30 may be disposed inside the tub 20. The drum 30 may be disposed to be rotatable inside the tub 20. The drum 30 may be disposed to rotate around a rotation axis. For example, the drum 30 may have a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0117] The drum 30 may be configured to receive laundry introduced through the laundry inlet 11. The drum 30 may be configured to wash the laundry while rotating.

[0118] The drum 30 may include a cylindrical portion 31. The drum 30 may include a front plate 32 disposed at the front of the cylindrical portion 31. The drum 30 may include a rear plate 33 disposed at the rear of the cylindrical portion 31. The front plate 32 may be provided with an opening for allowing laundry to be put in and taken out. The opening of the drum 30 may correspond to the laundry inlet 11. A shaft 42 for transmitting a driving force of the driving motor 40 may be connected to the rear plate 33.

[0119] The drum 30 may include a through hole 34. The through hole 34 may be provided for the flow of wash water. The through hole 34 may be formed around the circumference of the drum 30. For example, the through hole 34 may be provided as a plurality of through holes.

[0120] The drum 30 may include a lifter 35. The lifter 35 may be provided to lift and lower the laundry as the drum 30 rotates. The lifter 35 may be formed on an inner circumferential surface of the drum 30. For example, the lifter 35 may be provided as a plurality of lifters.

[0121] The drum 30 and the drive motor 40 may be connected via a shaft 42. Depending on the connection form between the shaft 42 and the drive motor 40, a direct drive type in which the shaft 42 is directly connected to the drive motor 40 to rotate the drum 30 and an indirect drive type in which a shaft pulley 43 is connected between the drive motor 40 and the shaft 42 to drive the drum 30 may be provided.

[0122] In the washing machine 1 according to the example of the present disclosure, an indirect drive type may be provided. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the technical features of the present disclosure may also be applied to a direct drive type.

[0123] One end of the shaft 42 may be connected to the rear plate 33 of the drum 30. The other end of the shaft 42 may extend to the outside of the rear side 21 of the tub 20. The other end of the shaft 42 may be configured to be inserted into a shaft pulley 43 to receive a driving force from the drive motor 40. The motor pulley 41 may be formed on a rotating shaft of the drive motor 40. A drive belt 44 may be provided between the motor pulley 41 and the shaft pulley 43. The shaft 42 may be driven by the drive belt 44. The drive belt 44 may drive the shaft 42 while rotating clockwise or counterclockwise.

[0124] A bearing housing 45 may be provided on the rear side 21 of the tub 20 to rotatably support the shaft 42. The bearing housing 45 may be made of an aluminum alloy. When the tub 20 is injection molded, the bearing housing 45 may be inserted into the rear side 21 of the tub 20. A plurality of bearings 46 may be provided between the bearing housing 45 and the shaft 42 to allow the shaft 42 to rotate smoothly.

[0125] The washing machine 1 may include a pump device 80. The pump device 80 may be configured to pump the wash water inside the tub 20. The pump device 80 may be configured to deliver the wash water in the tub 20 to the detergent supply device 50. The pump device 80 may be configured to deliver the wash water in the tub 20 to the filter 110. The pump device 80 may be configured to move the wash water in the tub 20 to the filter 110. For example, the pump device 80 may be disposed below the tub 20.

[0126] The pump device 80 may be connected to the discharge port 22 of the tub 20 to allow wash water in the tub 20 to be introduced therein. The discharge port 22 may be formed at a lower end of the tub 20. The pump device 80 may be connected to the tub 20 through the tub discharge pipe 63.

[0127] For example, the pump device 80 may include a circulation pump 81 (see Fig.34 ). The circulation pump 81 may generate a pumping force to circulate the wash water inside the tub 20. The circulation pump 81 may be referred to as a first pump 81.

[0128] For example, the pump device 80 may include a drain pump 82 (see Fig.34 ). The drain pump 82 may generate a pumping force to discharge the wash water inside the tub 20. The drain pump 82 may be referred to as a second pump 82.

[0129] However, the pump device 80 is not limited thereto and may include a single pump as an example. As an example, the pump device 80 may include three or more pumps. There is no limitation on the number of pumps of the pump device 80 as long as the pump device 80 can move the wash water in the tub 20 to the filter 110.

[0130] The washing machine 1 may include a pump opening 14 formed on the housing 10 corresponding to the pump device 80. The pump opening 14 may allow access to the pump device 80. For example, the pump opening 14 may be provided to open toward the front of the housing 10. For example, the pump opening 14 may be formed on the front surface of the housing 10.

[0131] The washing machine 1 may include a pump cover 16 configured to cover the pump device 80. The pump cover 16 may be configured to open and close the pump opening 14. The pump cover 16 may be detachably installed in the pump opening 14. For example, the pump cover 16 may be configured to be rotatable relative to the housing 10. For example, the pump cover 16 may be configured to be rotatable relative to the pump opening 14.

[0132] The washing machine 1 may include a control panel 14. The control panel 14 may be provided at an upper portion of the front surface of the housing 10. The control panel 14 may be provided as an example of the user interface portion 310. For example, the control panel 14 may include a display 14b for displaying the state of the washing machine 1. For example, the control panel 14 may include an input 14a for receiving a command from a user. For example, the control panel 14 may include a printed circuit board assembly (not shown).

[0133] As an example, the following will refer to Figure 3 The pipes of the washing machine 1 are described.

[0134] The washing machine 1 may include a tub drain pipe 63. The tub drain pipe 63 may be disposed between the drain port 22 of the tub 20 and the pump device 80. The tub drain pipe 63 may be disposed to connect the drain port 22 of the tub 20 and the pump device 80. The tub drain pipe 63 may be disposed to guide wash water discharged from the tub 20 to the pump device 80. The tub drain pipe 63 may be referred to as a tub drain flow path 63.

[0135] The washing machine 1 may include a connecting pipe 60. The connecting pipe 60 may be provided between the pump device 80 and the detergent supply device 50. The connecting pipe 60 may be provided to connect the pump device 80 and the detergent supply device 50. The connecting pipe 60 may be provided to extend from the pump device 80 to the detergent supply device 50. The connecting pipe 60 may guide the wash water pumped from the pump device 80 to the filter 110. The connecting pipe 60 may move the wash water pumped from the pump device 80 to the filter 110. The connecting pipe 60 may be referred to as a connecting flow path 60.

[0136] Figure 3 It is shown that the connection pipe 60 is provided in a single configuration, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. One or more connection pipes 60 may be provided. For example, the connection pipe 60 may be provided to correspond to the number of pumps of the pump device 80.

[0137] For example, the connecting pipe 60 may include a first connecting pipe 61 (see Figure 20 to Figure 23). The first connecting pipe 61 may be configured to connect the circulation pump 81 and the detergent supply device 50. The first connecting pipe 61 may be configured to connect the circulation pump 81 and the filter 110. The first connecting pipe 61 may extend from the circulation pump 81 toward the filter 110. The first connecting pipe 61 may be configured to guide the wash water pumped from the circulation pump 81 to the filter 110. The wash water pumped from the circulation pump 81 may flow to the filter 110 through the first connecting pipe 61. The first connecting pipe 61 may be referred to as a circulation connecting pipe 61. The first connecting pipe 61 may be referred to as a circulation connecting flow path 61.

[0138] For example, the connecting pipe 60 may include a second connecting pipe 62 (see Figure 20 to Figure 23 ). The second connecting pipe 62 may be configured to connect the drain pump 82 and the detergent supply device 50. The second connecting pipe 62 may be configured to connect the drain pump 82 and the filter 110. The second connecting pipe 62 may extend from the drain pump 82 toward the filter 110. The second connecting pipe 62 may be configured to guide the wash water pumped from the drain pump 82 to the filter 110. The wash water pumped from the drain pump 82 may flow to the filter 110 through the second connecting pipe 62. The second connecting pipe 62 may be referred to as a drain connecting pipe 62. The second connecting pipe 62 may be referred to as a drain connection flow path 62.

[0139] For example, the first connection pipe 61 and the second connection pipe 62 may each extend from the pump device 80 to be joined before being connected to the detergent supply device 50. For example, the first connection pipe 61 and the second connection pipe 62 may each extend from the pump device 80 to be joined before being connected to the filter 110.

[0140] The washing machine 1 may include a drain pipe 70. The drain pipe 70 may be provided to allow the wash water discharged from the detergent supply device 50 to flow. The drain pipe 70 may be provided to allow the wash water passing through the filter 110 to flow. The drain pipe 70 may be provided to allow the filtered wash water to flow. The drain pipe 70 may be provided to allow the wash water from which foreign matter has been removed to flow. The drain pipe 70 may be referred to as a drain flow path 70.

[0141] The drain pipe 70 may be provided to guide the wash water passing through the filter 110 to the outside of the tub 20 or the housing 10. The drain pipe 70 may be provided to circulate the wash water passing through the filter 110 to the tub 20 or to drain the wash water passing through the filter 110 to the outside of the housing 10.

[0142] For example, the discharge pipe 70 may include a circulation pipe 71. The circulation pipe 71 may be provided to connect the detergent supply device 50 and the tub 20. The circulation pipe 71 may be provided to connect the filter 110 and the tub 20. The circulation pipe 71 may be provided to communicate with the tub 20. The circulation pipe 71 may be provided to guide the wash water passing through the filter 110 to the tub 20. The circulation pipe 71 may be provided to transport the wash water passing through the filter 110 to the tub 20. The circulation pipe 71 may be provided to circulate the wash water passing through the filter 110 to the tub 20. The circulation pipe 71 may be provided to guide the detergent received in the detergent supply device 50 to the tub 20. The circulation pipe 71 may extend from the detergent supply device 50 toward the tub 20.

[0143] The circulation pipe 71 may be referred to as a circulation flow path 71 .

[0144] For example, the drain pipe 70 may include a drain pipe 72. The drain pipe 72 may be provided to connect the detergent supply device 50 and the outside of the housing 10. The drain pipe 72 may be provided to connect the filter 110 and the outside of the housing 10. The drain pipe 72 may be provided to communicate with the outside of the housing 10. The drain pipe 72 may be provided to guide the wash water passing through the filter 110 to the outside of the housing 10. The drain pipe 72 may be provided to transport the wash water passing through the filter 110 to the outside of the housing 10. The drain pipe 72 may be provided to discharge the wash water passing through the filter 110 to the outside of the housing 10. The drain pipe 72 may extend from the detergent supply device 50 toward the outside of the housing 10.

[0145] The drain pipe 72 may be referred to as a drain flow path 72 .

[0146] The discharge pipe 70 may include a circulation pipe 71 and / or a drain pipe 72. For example, the discharge pipe 70 may include only the circulation pipe 71. For example, the discharge pipe 70 may include only the drain pipe 72. For example, the discharge pipe 70 may include both the circulation pipe 71 and the drain pipe 72. That is, the discharge pipe 70 may be provided to be connected to at least one of the outside of the tub 20 and the housing 10.

[0147] Figure 4 is a perspective view of an example of a detergent supply device according to one embodiment. Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A rear perspective view of the detergent supply device shown in FIG. Figure 6 yes Figure 4 A bottom perspective view of the detergent supply device shown in FIG. Figure 7 yes Figure 4 An exploded view of the detergent supply unit is shown in . Figure 8 yes Figure 7 Exploded view of the drawer housing shown in . Fig. 9 It is shown Figure 7View of the drawer, detergent drawer, and filter shown in . Fig.10 It is shown from the rear Fig. 9 View of the drawer, detergent drawer, and filter shown in . Fig.11 is a perspective view of an example of a filter according to one embodiment.

[0148] The following will refer to Figures 4 to 11 An example (50a) of the detergent supply device 50 is described.

[0149] The detergent supply device 50a may include a drawer case 120. The detergent supply device 50a may include a drawer 130. The detergent supply device 50a may include a filter 110.

[0150] refer to Figures 4 to 7 , at least a portion of the drawer 130 may be configured to be accommodated in the drawer housing 120. At least a portion of the drawer 130 may be configured to be disposed in the drawer housing 120. At least a portion of the drawer 130 may be configured to be insertable into the drawer housing 120.

[0151] The drawer 130 may be configured to be insertable into or removable from the drawer housing 120. The drawer 130 may be inserted into the drawer housing 120 through the housing opening 17. The drawer 130 may be removable from the drawer housing 120 through the housing opening 17. For example, the drawer 130 may be configured to move in the front-rear direction (X direction). For example, the drawer 130 may be configured to be slidably movable relative to the drawer housing 120.

[0152] The filter 110 may be provided so as to be insertable into or withdrawn from the drawer case 120 while being installed in the drawer 130. When the drawer 130 is withdrawn from the drawer case 120, the filter 110 installed in the drawer 130 may be exposed to the outside of the housing 10. Since the filter 110 is withdrawn to the outside of the housing 10, the user may clean the filter 110 or replace the filter 110 with a new filter.

[0153] The drawer housing 120 may be disposed inside the housing 10. The drawer housing 120 may be fixed inside the housing 10. For example, the drawer housing 120 may be disposed between the inner side of the housing 10 and the upper left portion of the tub 20 (see FIG. Figure 1 and Figure 2 ). However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and it is sufficient as long as the drawer case 120 is located inside the housing 10 so as not to interfere with the tub 20.

[0154] For example, the drawer housing 120 may include a first housing 120a and a second housing 120b. The first housing 120a and the second housing 120b may be detachably coupled to each other. The first housing 120a may be configured to be coupled to the upper portion of the second housing 120b. The first housing 120a may be referred to as an upper housing 120a. The second housing 120b may be referred to as a lower housing 120b. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the first housing 120a and the second housing 120b may be integrally formed.

[0155] The housing opening 120c may be formed in the drawer housing 120. The housing opening 120c may be arranged to correspond to the housing opening 17. The housing opening 120c may be formed to be used for inserting and / or extracting the drawer 130. The housing opening 120c may be arranged to be opened toward the front. For example, the housing opening 120c may be formed on the second housing 120b. However, the housing opening is not limited thereto and may be formed by combining the first housing 120a and the second housing 120b.

[0156] The drawer housing 120 may include an inlet portion 121. The inlet portion 121 may be connected to the pump device 80. The inlet portion 121 may be connected to the pump device 80 through a connecting pipe 60. Wash water pumped from the pump device 80 may be introduced into the inlet portion 121 of the drawer housing 120 through the connecting pipe 60. The inlet portion 121 may be configured to allow wash water to flow toward the filter 110. The inlet portion 121 may be configured to correspond to a filter inlet port 116 of the filter 110 to be described later.

[0157] The drawer housing 120 may include an outlet portion 122. The outlet portion 122 may be arranged to allow detergent and / or wash water to flow out. The outlet portion 122 may be arranged to allow wash water passing through the filter 110 to flow out. The outlet portion 122 may be connected to the outside of the barrel 20 and / or the housing 10. The outlet portion 122 may be connected to the outside of the barrel 20 and / or the housing 10 through a discharge pipe 70. The outlet portion 122 may be arranged to allow wash water and / or detergent inside the detergent supply device 50 to flow out. The outlet portion 122 may be arranged to allow wash water passing through the filter 110 to flow out to the discharge pipe 70. The outlet portion 122 may be arranged to allow wash water passing through the filter 110 to flow out to the circulation pipe 71 or the drain pipe 72. The outlet portion 122 may be arranged to allow the detergent received in the drawer 130 to flow out to the circulation pipe 71. The outlet portion 122 may be arranged to correspond to the filter outlet port 117 of the filter 110 to be described later. For example, the outlet portion 122 may be formed at the bottom of the drawer case 120. For example, the outlet portion 122 may be positioned lower than the inlet portion 121.

[0158] The drawer housing 120 may include a water supply port 126. The water supply port 126 may receive water from an external water supply source (not shown) through a water supply pipe 51. The water flowing into the water supply port 126 may flow into the tub 20 together with the detergent. For example, the water supply port 126 may be formed on the first housing 120a. However, the water supply port 126 is not limited thereto and may be formed on the second housing 120b.

[0159] The drawer case 120 may form accommodation spaces 1231 and 1232 configured to accommodate the drawer 130. The accommodation spaces 1231 and 1232 may be formed inside the drawer case 120. The accommodation spaces 1231 and 1232 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the drawer 130. For example, the accommodation spaces 1231 and 1232 may extend substantially in the front-rear direction (X direction).

[0160] For example, the drawer case 120 may include a first accommodation space 1231 corresponding to a detergent receiving portion 132 of the drawer 130 to be described later. The first accommodation space 1231 may accommodate the detergent receiving portion 132 of the drawer 130. The detergent receiving portion 132 of the drawer 130 may be disposed in the first accommodation space 1231.

[0161] For example, the drawer case 120 may include a second accommodation space 1232 corresponding to a filter installation portion 133 of the drawer 130 to be described later. The second accommodation space 1232 may include the filter installation portion 133 of the drawer 130. The filter installation portion 133 of the drawer 130 may be disposed in the second accommodation space 1232.

[0162] The drawer case 120 may include a wall portion 124. The wall portion 124 may be formed in the accommodation spaces 1231 and 1232. For example, the wall portion 124 may be disposed between the first accommodation space 1231 and the second accommodation space 1232. For example, the wall portion 124 may be disposed to separate the first accommodation space 1231 and the second accommodation space 1232.

[0163] The drawer housing 120 may include a housing communication portion 125. The housing communication portion 125 may be formed on the wall portion 124. For example, the housing communication portion 125 may be formed to pass through the wall portion 124. The housing communication portion 125 may be arranged to communicate the first accommodation space 1231 and the second accommodation space 1232. The housing communication portion 125 may be arranged to allow washing water to flow. The housing communication portion 125 may be arranged to allow washing water to pass through. For example, the washing water passing through the filter 110 may flow from the first accommodation space 1231 to the second accommodation space 1232 through the housing communication portion 125.

[0164] The drawer case 120 may include a guide wall 127. The guide wall 127 may be provided to guide wash water inside the drawer case 120 to the outlet portion 122. The guide wall 127 may be formed at the bottom of the drawer case 120. For example, the guide wall 127 may protrude from the bottom of the drawer case 120. For example, the guide wall 127 may have a curved shape.

[0165] The drawer housing 120 may include an inclined surface 129. The inclined surface 129 may be formed at the bottom of the drawer housing 120. The inclined surface 129 may have a shape that is inclined downward toward the outlet portion 122. With this shape, the wash water may flow along the inclined surface 129 to smoothly flow to the outlet portion 122. That is, the wash water may flow along the inclined surface 129 to be smoothly discharged from the detergent supply device 50.

[0166] The drawer housing 120 may include a detergent pump connection portion 128. The detergent pump connection portion 128 may be configured to be connected to the detergent pump 53. For example, the detergent received in the drawer 130 may flow to the detergent pump 53 through the detergent pump connection portion 128. For example, the detergent pumped by the detergent pump 53 may flow to the drawer housing 120 through the detergent pump connection portion 128.

[0167] For example, the detergent pump connection portion 128 may include a first hole 1281. The first hole 1281 may be provided to allow detergent received in a first detergent box 191 to be described later to flow toward the detergent pump 53.

[0168] For example, the detergent pump connection portion 128 may include a second hole 1282. The second hole 1282 may be provided to allow detergent received in a second detergent box 192 to be described later to flow toward the detergent pump 53.

[0169] For example, the detergent pump connection portion 128 may include a third hole 1283. The third hole 1283 may be provided to allow detergent pumped from the first detergent box 191 by the detergent pump 53 to flow toward the drawer housing 120.

[0170] For example, the detergent pump connection portion 128 may include a fourth hole 1284. The fourth hole 1284 may be provided to allow detergent pumped from the second detergent box 192 by the detergent pump 53 to flow toward the drawer housing 120.

[0171] However, unlike what is shown in the drawings, the detergent pump connection portion 128 may be omitted depending on the presence or absence of the detergent pump 53. In the case where the detergent pump 53 is not provided, the detergent pump connection portion 128 may not be formed on the drawer case 120.

[0172] The drawer 130 may include a drawer body 131. The drawer body 131 may be provided to be insertable into or withdrawn from the drawer case 120. The drawer body 131 may receive detergent. The drawer body 131 may accommodate the filter 110.

[0173] The drawer 130 may include a drawer handle 137. The drawer handle 137 may be configured to be grasped by a user. The user may insert the drawer 130 into the drawer housing 120 while grasping the drawer handle 137. The user may extract the drawer 130 from the drawer housing 120 while grasping the drawer handle 137. For example, the drawer handle 137 may be formed at the front of the drawer body 131. For example, the drawer handle 137 may not be accommodated in the drawer housing 120. For example, the drawer handle 137 may be configured to be exposed to the front outer side of the housing 10.

[0174] The drawer 130 may include a detergent receiving portion 132 capable of receiving detergent. The detergent receiving portion 132 may be formed in the drawer body 131. The detergent receiving portion 132 may have a concave shape. The detergent receiving portion 132 may directly receive detergent or indirectly receive detergent.

[0175] One or more detergent receiving portions 132 may be provided.

[0176] For example, refer to Fig. 9 and Fig.10 , the detergent receiving portion 132 may include a first detergent receiving portion 1321. For example, the first detergent box 191 may be detachably mounted in the first detergent receiving portion 1321. For example, the first detergent box 191 may be configured to receive a first detergent (e.g., liquid detergent, powder detergent, etc.) to be supplied to the barrel 20 during the washing process. For example, the first detergent box 191 may be configured to be connected to a detergent pump 53. For example, the first detergent received in the first detergent box 191 may be pumped by the detergent pump 53 to be automatically supplied to the barrel 20. The first detergent box 191 may be configured to be an automatic detergent box. However, the first detergent box 191 is not limited thereto, and may also be configured to receive a second detergent (e.g., fabric softener, rinse agent, etc.) to be supplied to the barrel 20 during the rinsing process. The first detergent box 191 may also be configured not to be connected to the detergent pump 53. The first detergent box 191 may also be configured to be a manual detergent box.

[0177] For example, refer to Fig. 9 and Fig.10, the detergent receiving portion 132 may include a second detergent receiving portion 1322. For example, the second detergent box 192 may be detachably mounted in the second detergent receiving portion 1322. For example, the second detergent box 192 may be configured to receive a second detergent. For example, the second detergent box 192 may be configured to be connected to a detergent pump 53. For example, the second detergent received in the second detergent box 192 may be pumped by the detergent pump 53 to be automatically supplied to the barrel 20. The second detergent box 192 may be configured as an automatic detergent box. However, the second detergent box 192 is not limited thereto, and may also be configured to receive the first detergent. The second detergent box 192 may also be configured not to be connected to the detergent pump 53. The second detergent box 192 may also be configured as a manual detergent box.

[0178] For example, refer to Fig. 9 and Fig.10 , the detergent receiving portion 132 may include a third detergent receiving portion 1323. The third detergent box 193 may be detachably mounted in the third detergent receiving portion 1323. For example, the third detergent box 193 may be configured to receive the first detergent. For example, the third detergent box 193 may be configured not to be connected to the detergent pump 53. For example, the user may manually put the detergent into the third detergent box 193. For example, the third detergent box 193 may be configured as a manual detergent box. However, the third detergent box 193 is not limited thereto, and may be configured to receive the second detergent. The third detergent box 193 may also be configured to be connected to the detergent pump 53. The third detergent box 193 may also be configured as an automatic detergent box.

[0179] For example, refer to Fig. 9 and Fig.10 , the detergent receiving portion 132 may include a fourth detergent receiving portion 1324. The fourth detergent box 194 may be detachably mounted in the fourth detergent receiving portion 1324. For example, the fourth detergent box 194 may be configured to receive the second detergent. For example, the fourth detergent box 194 may be configured not to be connected to the detergent pump 53. For example, a user may manually put detergent into the fourth detergent box 194. For example, the fourth detergent box 194 may be configured as a manual detergent box. However, the fourth detergent box 194 is not limited thereto and may be configured to receive the first detergent. The fourth detergent box 194 may also be configured to be connected to the detergent pump 53. The fourth detergent box 194 may also be configured as an automatic detergent box.

[0180] The drawings show an example in which detergent receiving portion 132 indirectly receives detergent when accommodating detergent box 190, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Detergent receiving portion 132 may also be configured to directly receive detergent. In this case, detergent supply device 50 may not include detergent box 190.

[0181] The drawer 130 may include a filter installation portion 133. The filter 110 may be detachably installed in the filter installation portion 133. The filter 110 may be accommodated in the filter installation portion 133. The filter installation portion 133 may form an accommodation space 1331 to accommodate the filter 110. For example, the accommodation space 1331 may be provided to have a concave shape.

[0182] The drawer 130 may include a partition wall 134. The partition wall 134 may be provided between the detergent receiving portion 132 and the filter mounting portion 133. The partition wall 134 may be provided to separate the detergent receiving portion 132 and the filter mounting portion 133. The partition wall 134 may be provided to separate the detergent receiving portion 132 and the filter mounting portion 133. For example, the washing water inside the filter mounting portion 133 may not flow to the detergent receiving portion 132 by virtue of the partition wall 134. For example, the washing water passing through the filter 110 may not flow to the detergent receiving portion 132 by virtue of the partition wall 134. Therefore, the washing water passing through the filter 110 may be prevented from overflowing and infiltrating into the detergent receiving portion 132.

[0183] The drawer 130 may include a drawer communication portion. The drawer communication portion may be formed on the filter mounting portion 133. For example, the drawer communication portion may be formed at the lower portion of the filter mounting portion 133. For example, the drawer communication portion may be formed at the bottom of the filter mounting portion 133. The drawer communication portion may be configured to communicate the filter mounting portion 133 and the drawer housing 120. For example, the wash water passing through the filter 110 may flow from the filter mounting portion 133 to the drawer housing 120 through the drawer communication portion. For example, the wash water passing through the drawer communication portion may flow between the drawer 130 and the drawer housing 120 to be discharged through the outlet portion 122 of the drawer housing 120.

[0184] Hereinafter, the drawer communication portion may be referred to as the first communication portion, and the housing communication portion 125 may be referred to as the second communication portion 125. However, the first communication portion and the second communication portion 125 are not limited by the ordinal numbers "first" and "second". For example, the drawer communication portion and the housing communication portion 125 may be referred to as the second communication portion and the first communication portion 125, respectively.

[0185] The drawer 130 may include an inclined surface 139. The inclined surface 139 may be formed at the bottom of the filter mounting portion 133. The inclined surface 139 may have a shape that is inclined downward toward the first communication portion. With this shape, the wash water that has passed through the filter 110 may flow smoothly to the first communication portion along the inclined surface 139.

[0186] The drawer 130 may include a first supporting portion 1361. The first supporting portion 1361 may be provided to support the detergent box 190. For example, in a case where the detergent box 190 is connected to the detergent pump 53, the first supporting portion 1361 may be provided to support the detergent discharge portions 1911 and 1921 of the detergent box 190. For example, the first supporting portion 1361 may be formed on the rear surface of the drawer body 131. For example, the first supporting portion 1361 may be formed by cutting the drawer body 131.

[0187] For example, the first supporting portion 1361 may include a first a supporting portion 1361a. The first a supporting portion 1361a may be configured to support the first detergent discharge portion 1911 of the first detergent box 191. For example, the first supporting portion 1361 may include a first b supporting portion 1361b. The first b supporting portion 1361b may be configured to support the second detergent discharge portion 1921 of the second detergent box 192.

[0188] The drawer 130 may include a second supporting portion 1362. The second supporting portion 1362 may be configured to support the filter 110. For example, the second supporting portion 1362 may be configured to support a filter inlet port 116 and / or a filter outlet port 117 of the filter 110 to be described later. For example, the second supporting portion 1362 may be formed on a rear surface of the drawer body 131. For example, the second supporting portion 1362 may be formed by cutting the drawer body 131.

[0189] However, the first supporting portion 1361 and the second supporting portion 1362 are not limited by the ordinal numbers “first” and “second.” For example, the first supporting portion 1361 and the second supporting portion 1362 may be oppositely referred to as the second supporting portion 1361 and the first supporting portion 1362 , respectively.

[0190] The drawer 130 may include a button 138. The button 138 may be configured to separate the drawer 130 from the drawer housing 120. For example, the button 138 may be exposed to the outside in a state where the drawer 130 is pulled out of the drawer housing 120. For example, when the button 138 is pressed, the connection between the drawer 130 and the drawer housing 120 may be released. For example, when the button 138 is pressed, the connection to the drawer 130 may be released from the drawer housing 120. For example, a user may easily clean the drawer 130 by completely separating the drawer 130 from the drawer housing 120.

[0191] The following will refer to Figures 9 to 11 An example 110a of the filter 110 is described.

[0192] The detergent supply device 50 may include a filter 110. The filter 110 may receive wash water from the pump device 80. The filter 110 may be disposed to receive wash water introduced from the pump device 80 through the connection pipe 60.

[0193] The filter 110 may be configured to filter the wash water introduced from the pump device 80. The filter 110 may be configured to collect foreign matter contained in the wash water introduced from the pump device 80. For example, the filter 110 may be configured to collect microplastics contained in the wash water introduced from the pump device 80. Since the washing machine 1 includes the filter 110, foreign matter (e.g., microplastics, etc.) contained in the wash water may be prevented from being discharged to the outside of the housing 10. For example, the filter 110 may include a fine filter.

[0194] For example, the filter 110 may include a filter frame 111 and a filter body 112 .

[0195] The filter frame 111 may be provided to support the filter body 112 or to accommodate the filter body 112. For example, the filter frame 111 may be provided to form an appearance of the filter 110. The filter frame 111 may be referred to as a filter case 111. The filter frame 111 may be referred to as a filter housing 111.

[0196] The filter body 112 may be configured to collect foreign matter in the wash water. Foreign matter contained in the wash water passing through the filter 110 may be attached to the filter body 112. For example, the filter body 112 may be configured in a mesh shape. For example, the filter body 112 may be made of nonwoven fabric. The filter body 112 is not limited to the above examples, and may be configured in various types and / or shapes to collect foreign matter.

[0197] The filter frame 111 may include a filter body mounting portion 114 in which the filter body 112 is mounted. For example, the filter body mounting portion 114 may be provided as an opening, and the filter body 112 may be provided to fill the filter body mounting portion 114. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the filter body mounting portion 114 may be provided in a concave shape inside the filter frame 111, and the filter body 112 may be provided to be seated in the filter body mounting portion 114.

[0198] The filter 110 may include a collecting space 113. The filter 110 may form the collecting space 113 therein. The collecting space 113 may refer to an inner space formed by the filter frame 111 and / or the filter body 112. The collecting space 113 may refer to a space surrounded by the filter frame 111 and / or the filter body 112.

[0199] The collecting space 113 may be configured to receive foreign matter filtered out by the filter 110. The collecting space 113 may be configured to collect foreign matter contained in the washing water when the washing water introduced from the pump device 80 flows from the inside of the filter 110 to the outside of the filter 110. For example, the collecting space 113 may be configured to collect foreign matter contained in the washing water when the washing water passes through the filter body 112. For example, the foreign matter may be collected on the surface of the filter body 112 facing the collecting space 113. For example, the foreign matter may be collected on the inner surface of the filter body 112.

[0200] For example, the filter 110 may include a filter inlet port 116. The filter inlet port 116 may receive wash water introduced from the pump device 80. The filter inlet port 116 may be provided to communicate with the collection space 113 and the connection pipe 60. The filter inlet port 116 may be provided to communicate with the collection space 113 and the inlet portion 121 of the drawer housing 120. The filter inlet port 116 may be provided to correspond to the inlet portion 121 of the drawer housing 120.

[0201] For example, the filter inlet port 116 may be formed on the filter frame 111 .

[0202] For example, wash water pumped from the pump device 80 may pass through the connection pipe 60 and the inlet portion 121 of the drawer housing 120, and then flow to the filter inlet port 116. Wash water introduced into the filter 110 through the filter inlet port 116 may flow to the outside of the filter 110 through the filter body 112. When the wash water flows from the inside to the outside of the filter 110, foreign matter in the wash water may not pass through the filter body 112 and may remain in the collection space 113.

[0203] For example, the filter inlet port 116 of the filter 110 may be arranged to dock with the inlet portion 121 of the drawer housing 120 when the filter 110 is inserted into the drawer housing 120. The sealing member 91 may be arranged between the filter inlet port 116 and the inlet portion 121. The sealing member 91 may prevent leakage of wash water by sealing between the filter inlet port 116 and the inlet portion 121. For example, the sealing member 91 may be detachably coupled to the filter inlet port 116.

[0204] The filter inlet port 116 may be referred to as a filter inlet portion 116 . The filter inlet port 116 may be referred to as a filter port 116 .

[0205] The filter 110 may include a filter handle 115. The filter handle 115 may be configured to be grasped by a user. For example, the user may install the filter 110 in the filter mounting portion 133 while grasping the filter handle 115. For example, the user may separate the filter 110 from the filter mounting portion 133 while grasping the filter handle 115. For example, the filter 110 installed in the drawer 130 may be exposed to the outside of the housing 10 while the drawer 130 is pulled out of the drawer housing 120. In this case, the filter handle 115 of the filter 110 may also be exposed to the outside of the housing 10. For example, the filter handle 115 may be formed on the upper side of the filter frame 111. The user may easily replace and / or clean the filter 110 by grasping the filter handle 115.

[0206] Figure 12 to Figure 14 Various arrangement examples of the filter 110 according to one embodiment are shown. The same reference numerals may denote parts or components that perform substantially the same functions, and repeated descriptions may be omitted.

[0207] For example, refer to Figure 12 to Figure 14 , the filter 110 may be arranged in the left-right direction (Y direction) relative to a portion of the drawer 130 receiving detergent. For example, the filter mounting portion 133 may be arranged parallel to the detergent receiving portion 132 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction in which the filter 110 is inserted or withdrawn.

[0208] For example, refer to Fig.12 , the filter 110 may be located on one side of the detergent box 190. The filter 110 may be located on the right side of the detergent box 190. The filter mounting portion 133 may be located on one side of the detergent receiving portion 132. The filter mounting portion 133 may be located on the right side of the detergent receiving portion 132. Fig.12 The detergent box 190 is shown to include a first detergent box 191, a second detergent box 192, a third detergent box 193, and a fourth detergent box 194, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the detergent box 190 may include at least one of the first detergent box 191, the second detergent box 192, the third detergent box 193, and the fourth detergent box 194. For example, the detergent box 190 may not be installed in the drawer 130.

[0209] For example, refer to Fig.13 , the filter 110 may be located on one side of the detergent box 190. The filter 110 may be located on the left side of the detergent box 190. The filter mounting portion 133 may be located on one side of the detergent receiving portion 132. The filter mounting portion 133 may be located on the left side of the detergent receiving portion 132. Fig.13The detergent box 190 is shown to include a first detergent box 191, a second detergent box 192, a third detergent box 193, and a fourth detergent box 194, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the detergent box 190 may include at least one of the first detergent box 191, the second detergent box 192, the third detergent box 193, and the fourth detergent box 194. For example, the detergent box 190 may not be installed in the drawer 130.

[0210] For example, refer to Fig.14 , the filter 110 can be substantially installed in the center portion of the drawer 130. For example, in the case where a plurality of detergent boxes are provided in the drawer 130, the filter 110 can be located between the plurality of detergent boxes. For example, the filter 110 can be located between the first detergent box 191 and the second detergent box 192. For example, the first detergent box 191 can receive a first detergent (e.g., liquid detergent, powder detergent, etc.), and the second detergent box 192 can receive a second detergent (e.g., fabric softener, rinse agent, etc.). For example, the first detergent box 191 can receive a second detergent, and the second detergent box 192 can receive a first detergent. For example, the first detergent box 191 and the second detergent box 192 can receive a first detergent. For example, the first detergent box 191 and the second detergent box 192 can receive a second detergent.

[0211] Fig.14 The detergent box 190 is shown to include a first detergent box 191 and a second detergent box 192, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the detergent box 190 may include at least one of the first detergent box 191, the second detergent box 192, the third detergent box 193, and the fourth detergent box 194. For example, the filter 110 may be located between the third detergent box 193 and the fourth detergent box 194. For example, the detergent box 190 may not be installed in the drawer 130.

[0212] For example, in the case where the filter is located at the rear of the detergent box, the filter 110 may not be exposed to the outside when the drawer is pulled out of the drawer housing. Therefore, in order to remove the filter, the drawer needs to be completely removed from the drawer housing. That is, the user may feel inconvenient because the user needs to completely separate the drawer from the washing machine in order to clean and / or replace the filter. For example, in the case where the detergent pump is connected to the rear of the detergent supply device, it may be difficult to position the filter at the rear of the drawer due to space limitations.

[0213] According to the present disclosure, the filter 110 may be located on one side of the detergent box 190. The filter 110 may be located on one side of the detergent receiving portion 132. Therefore, the filter 110 may be exposed to the outside in a state where the drawer 130 is pulled out of the drawer housing 120. Therefore, the user can easily remove the filter 110 from the drawer 130. That is, in order to clean and / or replace the filter 110, the user only needs to pull out the drawer 130 from the drawer housing 120. In other words, in order to clean and / or replace the filter 110, the user does not need to completely remove the drawer 130 from the drawer housing 120. In addition, the rear space of the drawer 130 can be ensured. Therefore, whether there is or is not a detergent pump 53, the filter 110 can be easily installed in the drawer 130, or the filter 110 can be easily separated from the drawer 130. Finally, regardless of whether the detergent supply device 50 is an automatic detergent supply device, the filter 110 for filtering wash water can be applied to the detergent supply device 50.

[0214] Figures 15 to 23 Various examples of a detergent supply device according to one embodiment are shown in cross-section. The same reference numerals may denote components or assemblies that perform substantially the same functions, and repeated descriptions may be omitted.

[0215] The following will refer to Fig.15 An example 50a of the detergent supply device 50 is described. Fig.15 An example is shown in which the wash water passing through the filter 110 flows into the circulation pipe 71 .

[0216] The detergent supply device 50 a may include a drawer case 120 , a drawer 130 provided to be accommodated in the drawer case 120 , and a filter 110 provided to be detachably installed in the drawer 130 .

[0217] The drawer case 120 may include an inlet portion 121. The inlet portion 121 may be connected to the connection pipe 60. The inlet portion 121 may be configured to receive wash water pumped from the pump device 80 through the connection pipe 60. For example, the connection pipe 60 may be configured as a first connection pipe 61.

[0218] The drawer case 120 may include an outlet portion 122. The outlet portion 122 may be connected to the drain pipe 70. The outlet portion 122 may be provided to allow the wash water passing through the filter 110 to flow out to the drain pipe 70. For example, the drain pipe 70 may be provided as a circulation pipe 71.

[0219] The drawer 130 may include a first communicating portion 135. Wash water passing through the filter 110 may flow from the filter mounting portion 133 to the drawer housing 120 through the first communicating portion 135. The drawer housing 120 may include a second communicating portion 125. Wash water flowing into the drawer housing 120 through the first communicating portion 135 may flow to the outlet portion 122 through the second communicating portion 125.

[0220] The filter 110 may include a filter inlet port 116. The filter inlet port 116 may correspond to the inlet portion 121. The filter inlet port 116 may communicate with the inlet portion 121.

[0221] Wash water pumped by the pump device 80 may pass through the filter 110 and be guided to the tub 20. The wash water may flow to circulate through the tub 20, the pump device 80, and the filter 110. The wash water may flow to circulate through the tub 20, the pump device 80, and the filter 110.

[0222] The washing water pumped by the pump device 80 can flow to the detergent supply device 50a through the connecting pipe 60. The washing water pumped by the pump device 80 can flow to the inlet portion 121 of the drawer housing 120 through the connecting pipe 60. The washing water passing through the inlet portion 121 of the drawer housing 120 can flow toward the filter 110. The washing water passing through the inlet portion 121 of the drawer housing 120 can flow to the inside of the filter 110 through the filter inlet port 116. The washing water inside the filter 110 can be filtered by the filter body 112 while flowing to the outside of the filter 110. When the washing water inside the filter 110 passes through the filter body 112 and then flows to the outside of the filter 110, foreign matter can be filtered out. Foreign matter may not pass through the filter body 112 and can be received in the collection space 113. The washing water passing through the filter 110 can flow to the first communication portion along the inclined surface 139. The washing water passing through the filter 110 can flow from the inside of the drawer 130 to the inside of the drawer housing 120 through the first communication portion. The washing water passing through the first communicating portion may flow between the drawer 130 and the drawer housing 120. The washing water passing through the first communicating portion may flow along the inclined surface 129. The washing water flowing between the drawer 130 and the drawer housing 120 may pass through the second communicating portion 125, and then flow to the outlet portion 122 of the drawer housing 120. The washing water flowing out through the outlet portion 122 of the drawer housing 120 may flow into the circulation pipe 71. The circulation pipe 71 may guide the washing water to the tub 20. This flow of the washing water may also be applied to the example to be described later.

[0223] The following will refer to Fig.16 An example 50b of the detergent supply device 50 is described.

[0224] The following will refer to Fig.16 An example 50b of the detergent supply device 50 is described. Fig.16 An example is shown in which the wash water passing through the filter 110 flows to the drain pipe 72 .

[0225] The detergent supply device 50 b may include a drawer case 120 , a drawer 130 provided to be accommodated in the drawer case 120 , and a filter 110 provided to be detachably installed in the drawer 130 .

[0226] The drawer case 120 may include an inlet portion 121. The inlet portion 121 may be connected to the connection pipe 60. The inlet portion 121 may be configured to receive wash water pumped from the pump device 80 through the connection pipe 60. For example, the connection pipe 60 may be configured as a second connection pipe 62.

[0227] The drawer case 120 may include an outlet portion 122. The outlet portion 122 may be connected to the drain pipe 70. The outlet portion 122 may be provided to allow the wash water passing through the filter 110 to flow out to the drain pipe 70.

[0228] The outlet portion 122 may include a first outlet port 1221 connected to the circulation pipe 71. The outlet portion 122 may include a second outlet port 1222 connected to the drain pipe 72.

[0229] The drawer 130 may include a first communication portion. Wash water passing through the filter 110 may flow from the filter mounting portion 133 to the drawer housing 120 through the first communication portion. Fig.15 Compared to the example shown in , the drawer housing 120 may not include the second communication portion 125 .

[0230] The filter 110 may include a filter inlet port 116. The filter inlet port 116 may correspond to the inlet portion 121. The filter inlet port 116 may communicate with the inlet portion 121.

[0231] The wash water pumped by the pump device 80 may pass through the filter 110 and be guided to the outside of the housing 10. The wash water inside the tub 20 may be discharged to the outside of the housing 10 after passing through the filter 110. The wash water inside the tub 20 may pass through the filter 110 and then be discharged to the outside of the housing 10.

[0232] The washing water pumped by the pump device 80 can flow to the detergent supply device 50b through the connecting pipe 60. The washing water pumped by the pump device 80 can flow to the inlet portion 121 of the drawer housing 120 through the connecting pipe 60. The washing water passing through the inlet portion 121 of the drawer housing 120 can flow toward the filter 110. The washing water passing through the inlet portion 121 of the drawer housing 120 can flow to the inside of the filter 110 through the filter inlet port 116. The washing water inside the filter 110 can be filtered by the filter body 112 while flowing to the outside of the filter 110. When the washing water inside the filter 110 passes through the filter body 112 and then flows to the outside of the filter 110, foreign matter can be filtered out. Foreign matter may not pass through the filter body 112 and can be received in the collection space 113. The washing water passing through the filter 110 can flow to the first connecting portion 135 along the inclined surface 139. The wash water passing through the filter 110 may flow from the inside of the drawer 130 to the inside of the drawer housing 120 through the first communicating portion 135. The wash water passing through the first communicating portion 135 may flow to the second outlet port 1222 of the drawer housing 120. The wash water flowing out through the second outlet port 1222 may flow to the drain pipe 72. The drain pipe 72 may guide the wash water to the outside of the housing 10. This flow of wash water may also be applied to the example to be described later.

[0233] exist Fig.16 , the wash water passing through the first communicating portion 135 may not flow to the first outlet port 1221 by virtue of the wall portion 124. Therefore, the first outlet port 1221 may not allow the wash water passing through the filter 110 to flow out. The first outlet port 1221 may allow the detergent received in the drawer 130 to flow out. The first outlet port 1221 may allow the wash water introduced through the water supply port 126 to flow out.

[0234] The following will refer to Fig.17 An example (50c) of the detergent supply device 50 is described. Fig.17 An example is shown in which the wash water passing through the filter 110 flows to the circulation pipe 71 or the drain pipe 72 .

[0235] The detergent supply device 50 c may include a drawer case 120 , a drawer 130 provided to be accommodated in the drawer case 120 , and a filter 110 provided to be detachably installed in the drawer 130 .

[0236] The drawer case 120 may include an inlet portion 121. The inlet portion 121 may be connected to the connection pipe 60. The inlet portion 121 may be configured to receive wash water pumped from the pump device 80 through the connection pipe 60. For example, the connection pipe 60 may be a pipe in which a first connection pipe 61 and a second connection pipe 62 are combined.

[0237] The drawer case 120 may include an outlet portion 122. The outlet portion 122 may be connected to the drain pipe 70. The outlet portion 122 may be provided to allow the wash water passing through the filter 110 to flow out to the drain pipe 70.

[0238] The outlet portion 122 may include a first outlet port 1221 connected to the circulation pipe 71. The outlet portion 122 may include a second outlet port 1222 connected to the drain pipe 72.

[0239] For example, the first outlet port 1221 can be positioned lower than the second outlet port 1222. For example, the second outlet port 1222 can be positioned higher than the first outlet port 1221. For example, the circulation pipe 71 can be positioned lower than the drain pipe 72. For example, the drain pipe 72 can be positioned higher than the circulation pipe 71. With this arrangement, the detergent supply device 50c and the tub 20 can be easily connected via the circulation pipe 71. In addition, the interference between the circulation pipe 71 and the drain pipe 72 can be minimized.

[0240] The drawer 130 may include a first communicating portion. Washing water passing through the filter 110 may flow from the filter mounting portion 133 to the drawer housing 120 through the first communicating portion. The drawer housing 120 may include a second communicating portion 125. Washing water flowing to the drawer housing 120 through the first communicating portion may flow to the outlet portion 122 through the second communicating portion 125.

[0241] The filter 110 may include a filter inlet port 116. The filter inlet port 116 may correspond to the inlet portion 121. The filter inlet port 116 may communicate with the inlet portion 121.

[0242] The washing machine 1 may include a flow path switching device 200. The flow path switching device 200 may be provided in a case where the filter 110 is in communication with both the circulation pipe 71 and the drain pipe 72. The flow path switching device 200 may be provided to allow the wash water passing through the filter 110 to flow to the circulation pipe 71, or to allow the wash water passing through the filter 110 to flow to the drain pipe 72. For example, the flow path switching device 200 may be controlled by a controller 330 to be described later.

[0243] For example, the flow path switching device 200 may include a first valve 210 .

[0244] The first valve 210 may be configured to open and close the circulation pipe 71. The first valve 210 may be configured to adjust the flow rate of wash water flowing through the circulation pipe 71. The first valve 210 may be installed on the circulation pipe 71. For example, the first valve 210 may open and close the circulation pipe 71 by rotating. The first valve 210 may be referred to as a circulation valve 210.

[0245] The first valve 210 may be controlled by a controller 330 .

[0246] For example, the controller 330 may close the first valve 210 during the drainage process. For example, the controller 330 may open the first valve 210 based on the completion of the drainage process. For example, the controller 330 may open the first valve 210 during the washing process and / or the rinsing process. For example, the controller 330 may open the first valve 210 based on the operation of the circulation pump 81. For example, the controller 330 may close the first valve 210 based on the operation of the drainage pump 82.

[0247] When the first valve 210 is opened, the wash water passing through the filter 110 may flow to the tub 20 through the circulation pipe 71. When the first valve 210 is opened, the wash water passing through the filter 110 may naturally flow toward the first outlet port 1221 because the first outlet port 1221 is positioned lower than the second outlet port 1222. The wash water flowing out of the first outlet port 1221 may be guided to the tub 20 through the circulation pipe 71.

[0248] When the first valve 210 is closed, the wash water passing through the filter 110 may flow to the outside of the housing 10. When the first valve 210 is closed, the wash water may not flow into the circulation pipe 71. Therefore, the wash water passing through the filter 110 may naturally flow toward the second outlet port 1222. The wash water flowing out of the second outlet port 1222 may be guided to the outside of the housing 10 through the drain pipe 72.

[0249] The following will refer to Fig.18 An example (50d) of the detergent supply device 50 is described. Fig.18 An example is shown in which the wash water passing through the filter 110 flows to the circulation pipe 71 or the drain pipe 72. Fig.17 Compared with the above, a second valve 220 may be provided additionally. Fig.17 Description of duplicate description.

[0250] The second valve 220 may be configured to open and close the drain pipe 72. The second valve 220 may be configured to adjust the flow rate of wash water flowing through the drain pipe 72. The second valve 220 may be installed on the drain pipe 72. For example, the second valve 220 may be configured to open and close the drain pipe 72 by rotating. The second valve 220 may be referred to as a drain valve 220.

[0251] The first valve 210 and the second valve 220 may be configured to be selectively opened. For example, the first valve 210 may be opened and the second valve 220 may be closed. For example, the first valve 210 may be closed and the second valve 220 may be opened.

[0252] The second valve 220 may be controlled by the controller 330 .

[0253] For example, the controller 330 may close the first valve 210 and open the second valve 220 during the drainage process. For example, the controller 330 may open the first valve 210 and close the second valve 220 based on the completion of the drainage process. For example, the controller 330 may open the first valve 210 and close the second valve 220 during the washing process and / or the rinsing process. For example, the controller 330 may open the first valve 210 and close the second valve 220 based on the operation of the circulation pump 81. For example, the controller 330 may close the first valve 210 and open the second valve 220 based on the operation of the drainage pump 82.

[0254] When the first valve 210 is opened and the second valve 220 is closed, the wash water passing through the filter 110 may flow to the tub 20 through the circulation pipe 71 .

[0255] When the first valve 210 is closed and the second valve 220 is opened, the wash water passing through the filter 110 may flow to the outside of the housing 10 through the drain pipe 72 .

[0256] However, the present disclosure is not limited to Fig.17 and Fig.18 The second outlet port 1222 may be positioned lower than the first outlet port 1221. The drain pipe 72 may be positioned lower than the circulation pipe 71. In this case, the flow path switching device 200 may include the second valve 220 instead of the first valve 210, or may include both the first valve 210 and the second valve 220.

[0257] The following will refer to Fig.19 An example (50e) of the detergent supply device 50 is described. Fig.19 An example is shown in which the wash water passing through the filter 110 flows to the circulation pipe 71 or the drain pipe 72 .

[0258] The detergent supply device 50 e may include a drawer case 120 , a drawer 130 provided to be accommodated in the drawer case 120 , and a filter 110 provided to be detachably installed in the drawer 130 .

[0259] The drawer case 120 may include an inlet portion 121. The inlet portion 121 may be connected to the connection pipe 60. The inlet portion 121 may be configured to receive wash water pumped from the pump device 80 through the connection pipe 60. For example, the connection pipe 60 may be a pipe in which a first connection pipe 61 and a second connection pipe 62 are combined.

[0260] The drawer case 120 may include an outlet portion 122. The outlet portion 122 may be connected to the drain pipe 70. The outlet portion 122 may be provided to allow the wash water passing through the filter 110 to flow out to the drain pipe 70.

[0261] The discharge pipe 70 may include a main pipe 73 extending from the outlet portion 122. The discharge pipe 70 may include a circulation pipe 71 and a drain pipe 72. The circulation pipe 71 and the drain pipe 72 may be provided to branch from the main pipe 73. For example, it may also be understood that the main pipe 73 and the circulation pipe 71 are provided integrally, and the drain pipe 72 branches from the circulation pipe 71. For example, it may also be understood that the main pipe 73 and the drain pipe 72 are provided integrally, and the circulation pipe 71 branches from the drain pipe 72.

[0262] The flow path switching device 200 may include a third valve 230 disposed at a branch point of the circulation pipe 71 and the drainage pipe 72. The third valve 230 may selectively open the circulation pipe 71 and the drainage pipe 72. The third valve 230 may open any one of the circulation pipe 71 and the drainage pipe 72. For example, the third valve 230 may be configured as a Y-type switching valve.

[0263] The third valve 230 may be controlled by a controller 330 .

[0264] For example, the controller 330 may control the third valve 230 to close the circulation pipe 71 and open the drain pipe 72 during the drainage process. For example, the controller 330 may control the third valve 230 to open the circulation pipe 71 and close the drain pipe 72 based on the completion of the drainage process. For example, the controller 330 may control the third valve 230 to open the circulation pipe 71 and close the drain pipe 72 during the washing process and / or the rinsing process. For example, the controller 330 may control the third valve 230 to open the circulation pipe 71 and close the drain pipe 72 based on the operation of the circulation pump 81. For example, the controller 330 may control the third valve 230 to close the circulation pipe 71 and open the drain pipe 72 based on the operation of the drain pump 82.

[0265] When the circulation pipe 71 is opened and the drain pipe 72 is closed, the wash water passing through the filter 110 may flow to the tub 20 through the circulation pipe 71 .

[0266] When the circulation pipe 71 is closed and the drain pipe 72 is opened, the wash water passing through the filter 110 may flow to the outside of the housing 10 through the drain pipe 72 .

[0267] The following will refer to Fig. 20 An example (50f) of the detergent supply device 50 is described. Fig. 20 An example is shown in which the wash water passing through the filter 110 flows to the circulation pipe 71 or the drain pipe 72. Fig.19 Description of duplicate description.

[0268] and Fig.19In contrast, the connection pipe 60 may include a first connection pipe 61 and a second connection pipe 62. The first connection pipe 61 may guide wash water pumped from the circulation pump 81 to the detergent supply device 50f. The second connection pipe 62 may guide wash water pumped from the drain pump 82 to the detergent supply device 50f.

[0269] and Fig.19 In contrast, the inlet portion 121 may include a first inlet port 1211 connected to the first connection pipe 61 and a second inlet port 1212 connected to the second connection pipe 62. The first inlet port 1211 may receive wash water from the first connection pipe 61. The second inlet port 1212 may receive wash water from the second connection pipe 62.

[0270] Fig. 20 It is shown that the first inlet port 1211 and the second inlet port 1212 are spaced apart in the up-down direction (Z direction), but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The first inlet port 1211 and the second inlet port 1212 can be arranged to be located at the same height. The first inlet port 1211 and the second inlet port 1212 can be spaced apart in the left-right direction (Y direction). Similarly, the first connecting pipe 61 and the second connecting pipe 62 can be arranged to be located at the same height. The first connecting pipe 61 and the second connecting pipe 62 can be spaced apart in the left-right direction (Y direction).

[0271] and Fig.19 In contrast, the filter inlet port 116 may include a first filter inlet port 1161 corresponding to the first inlet port 1211 and a second filter inlet port 1162 corresponding to the second inlet port 1212. When the drawer 130 is inserted into the drawer housing 120, the first filter inlet port 1161 may be docked to the first inlet port 1211. When the drawer 130 is inserted into the drawer housing 120, the second filter inlet port 1162 may be docked to the second inlet port 1212.

[0272] The following will refer to Fig.21 An example (50g) of the detergent supply device 50 is described. Fig.21 An example is shown in which the wash water passing through the filter 110 flows to the circulation pipe 71 or the drain pipe 72 .

[0273] The detergent supply device 50 g may include a drawer case 120 , a drawer 130 provided to be accommodated in the drawer case 120 , and a filter 110 provided to be detachably installed in the drawer 130 .

[0274] The drawer case 120 may include an inlet portion 121. The inlet portion 121 may include a first inlet port 1211 connected to the first connection pipe 61 and a second inlet port 1212 connected to the second connection pipe 62. The first inlet port 1211 may receive wash water from the first connection pipe 61. The second inlet port 1212 may receive wash water from the second connection pipe 62.

[0275] The drawer housing 120 may include an outlet portion 122. The outlet portion 122 may be connected to the drain pipe 70. The outlet portion 122 may be configured to allow the wash water passing through the filter 110 to flow out to the drain pipe 70. The outlet portion 122 may include a first outlet port 1221 connected to the circulation pipe 71. The outlet portion 122 may include a second outlet port 1222 connected to the drain pipe 72.

[0276] The wash water pumped by the circulation pump 81 may be guided to the first inlet port 1211 through the first connection pipe 61. The wash water flowing through the first inlet port 1211 may pass through the filter 110 and then flow into the circulation pipe 71.

[0277] Wash water pumped by the drain pump 82 may be guided to the second inlet port 1212 through the second connection pipe 62. The wash water introduced through the second inlet port 1212 may pass through the filter 110 and then flow to the drain pipe 72.

[0278] The flow path switching device 200 may include a first valve 210. The first valve 210 may be configured to open and close the circulation pipe 71. The first valve 210 may be controlled by the controller 330. When the first valve 210 is opened, the wash water passing through the filter 110 may flow to the tub 20 through the circulation pipe 71. When the first valve 210 is closed, the wash water passing through the filter 110 may flow to the outside of the housing 10 through the drain pipe 72. Since the first valve 210 has been described above, its detailed description will be omitted.

[0279] The following will refer to Fig. 22 An example (50h) of the detergent supply device 50 is described. Fig. 22 An example is shown in which the wash water passing through the filter 110 flows to the circulation pipe 71 or the drain pipe 72. Fig.21 Compared with the above, a second valve 220 may be provided additionally. Fig.21 Description of duplicate description.

[0280] The flow path switching device 200 may include a first valve 210 and a second valve 220. The second valve 220 may be configured to open and close the drain pipe 72. The second valve 220 may be controlled by the controller 330. When the first valve 210 is opened and the second valve 220 is closed, the wash water passing through the filter 110 may flow to the tub 20 through the circulation pipe 71. When the first valve 210 is closed and the second valve 220 is opened, the wash water passing through the filter 110 may flow to the outside of the housing 10 through the drain pipe 72.

[0281] The following will refer to Fig.23 An example (50i) of the detergent supply device 50 is described. Fig.23 An example is shown in which the wash water passing through the filter 110 flows to the circulation pipe 71 or the drain pipe 72. Fig. 22 In contrast, a fourth valve 240 may be provided in place of the first valve 210 and the second valve 220. Fig. 22 In contrast, instead of the first valve 210 and the second valve 220 , a fifth valve 250 may be additionally provided.

[0282] The flow path switching device 200 may include a fourth valve 240. The fourth valve 240 may be installed in the detergent supply device 50i. The fourth valve 240 may be configured to open and close the first outlet port 1221. The fourth valve 240 may open and close the first outlet port 1221 by rotating.

[0283] The flow path switching device 200 may include a fifth valve 250. The fifth valve 250 may be installed in the detergent supply device 50i. The fifth valve 250 may be configured to open and close the second outlet port 1222. The fifth valve 250 may open and close the second outlet port 1222 by rotating.

[0284] The fourth valve 240 and the fifth valve 250 may be configured to be selectively opened. For example, the fourth valve 240 may be opened and the fifth valve 250 may be closed. For example, the fourth valve 240 may be closed and the fifth valve 250 may be opened.

[0285] The fourth valve 240 may be controlled by the controller 330 .

[0286] The fifth valve 250 may be controlled by the controller 330 .

[0287] For example, the controller 330 may close the fourth valve 240 and open the fifth valve 250 during the drainage process. For example, the controller 330 may open the fourth valve 240 and close the fifth valve 220 based on the completion of the drainage process. For example, the controller 330 may open the fourth valve 240 and close the fifth valve 250 during the washing process and / or the rinsing process. For example, the controller 330 may open the fourth valve 240 and close the fifth valve 250 based on the operation of the circulation pump 81. For example, the controller 330 may close the fourth valve 240 and open the fifth valve 250 based on the operation of the drainage pump 82.

[0288] When the fourth valve 240 is opened and the fifth valve 250 is closed, the wash water passing through the filter 110 may flow to the tub 20 through the circulation pipe 71 .

[0289] When the fourth valve 240 is closed and the fifth valve 250 is opened, the wash water passing through the filter 110 may flow to the outside of the housing 10 through the drain pipe 72 .

[0290] and Fig.23 , at least one of the fourth valve 240 and the fifth valve 250 may be omitted. For example, when wash water naturally flows toward the first outlet port 1221 because the first outlet port 1221 is positioned lower than the second outlet port 1222, the flow path switching device 200 may include only the fourth valve 240. For example, when wash water naturally flows toward the second outlet port 1222 because the second outlet port 1222 is positioned lower than the first outlet port 1221, the flow path switching device 200 may include only the fifth valve 250.

[0291] Fig.24 is a perspective view of an example of a detergent supply device according to one embodiment. Fig.25 It is shown Fig.24 View of the drawer, detergent drawer, and filter shown in . Fig.26 yes Fig.24 A cross-sectional view of an example of a detergent supply device shown in FIG.

[0292] The following will refer to Figure 24 to Figure 26 An example (50j) of the detergent supply device 50 is described. Fig.26 An example is shown in which wash water passing through the filter 110 flows to the circulation pipe 71 or the drain pipe 72. The same reference numerals may denote parts or components performing substantially the same functions, and repeated descriptions may be omitted.

[0293] The detergent supply device 50 j may include a drawer case 120 , a drawer 130 provided to be accommodated in the drawer case 120 , and a filter 110 provided to be detachably installed in the drawer 130 .

[0294] The drawer 130 may be provided to be insertable into or withdrawn from the drawer case 120. The filter 110 may be provided to be insertable into or withdrawn from the drawer case 120 in a state of being installed in the drawer 130.

[0295] The drawer housing 120 may include an inlet portion 121. The inlet portion 121 may be connected to the pump device 80. The inlet portion 121 may be connected to the pump device 80 through the connection pipe 60.

[0296] For example, the inlet portion 121 may include a first inlet port 1211 connected to the first connection pipe 61. The inlet portion 121 may include a second inlet port 1212 connected to the second connection pipe 62. Fig.26 It is illustrated that the inlet portion 121 includes a first inlet port 1211 and a second inlet port 1212 , but the inlet portion 121 is not limited thereto and may be provided in a single configuration.

[0297] The drawer housing 120 may include an outlet portion 122. The outlet portion 122 may be configured to allow wash water and / or detergent to flow out. The outlet portion 122 may be configured to allow wash water passing through the filter 110 to flow out. The outlet portion 122 may be connected to the outside of the tub 20 and / or the housing 10. The outlet portion 122 may be connected to the outside of the tub 20 and / or the housing 10 through a drain pipe 70. The outlet portion 122 may be configured to allow wash water passing through the filter 110 to flow out to the drain pipe 70. The outlet portion 122 may be configured to allow wash water passing through the filter 110 to flow out to the circulation pipe 71 or the drain pipe 72. The outlet portion 122 may be configured to allow the detergent received in the drawer 130 to flow out to the circulation pipe 71.

[0298] For example, the outlet portion 122 may include a first outlet port 1221 connected to the circulation pipe 71 and a second outlet port 1222 connected to the drain pipe 72. Wash water flowing out of the first outlet port 1221 may flow to the tub 20 through the circulation pipe 71. Wash water flowing out of the second outlet port 1222 may flow to the outside of the housing 10 through the drain pipe 72.

[0299] The following will refer to Fig.25 An example (110b) of the filter 110 is described.

[0300] The filter 110 may be configured to filter the wash water introduced from the pump device 80. The filter 110 may be configured to collect foreign matter contained in the wash water introduced from the pump device 80. For example, the filter 110 may be configured to collect microplastics contained in the wash water introduced from the pump device 80. Since the washing machine 1 includes the filter 110, foreign matter (e.g., microplastics, etc.) contained in the wash water may be prevented from being discharged to the outside of the housing 10. For example, the filter 110 may include a fine filter.

[0301] The filter 110 may include a filter frame 111 and a filter body 112 accommodated in the filter frame 111 .

[0302] The filter frame 111 may be provided to form an external appearance of the filter 110. The filter frame 111 may be referred to as a filter case 111. The filter frame 111 may be referred to as a filter housing 111.

[0303] The filter body 112 may be configured to collect foreign matter in the wash water. Foreign matter contained in the wash water passing through the filter 110 may be attached to the filter body 112. For example, the filter body 112 may be configured in a mesh shape. For example, the filter body 112 may be made of nonwoven fabric. The filter body 112 is not limited to the above examples, and may be configured in various types and / or shapes to collect foreign matter.

[0304] The filter 110 may include a collection space 113. The filter 110 may form the collection space 113 therein. For example, referring to Fig.25 , the collecting space 113 may refer to an inner space formed by the filter body 112 . The collecting space 113 may refer to a space surrounded by the filter body 112 .

[0305] The collecting space 113 may be provided to receive foreign matter filtered out by the filter 110. The collecting space 113 may be provided to collect foreign matter contained in the washing water when the washing water introduced from the pump device 80 flows from the inside of the filter body 112 to the outside of the filter body 112. For example, the collecting space 113 may be provided to collect foreign matter contained in the washing water when the washing water passes through the filter body 112. The foreign matter may be collected on the inner surface of the filter body 112.

[0306] The filter 110 may include a filter inlet port 116. The filter inlet port 116 may receive wash water introduced from the pump device 80. The filter inlet port 116 may be arranged to communicate with the collection space 113 and the connecting pipe 60. The filter inlet port 116 may be arranged to communicate with the collection space 113 and the inlet portion 121 of the drawer housing 120. The filter inlet port 116 may be arranged to correspond to the inlet portion 121 of the drawer housing 120. The wash water pumped from the pump device 80 may pass through the connecting pipe 60 and the inlet portion 121 of the drawer housing 120, and then flow to the filter inlet port 116.

[0307] For example, the filter inlet port 116 of the filter 110 may be configured to interface with the inlet portion 121 of the drawer housing 120 when the filter 110 is inserted into the drawer housing 120 .

[0308] For example, the filter inlet port 116 may include a first filter inlet port 1161 corresponding to the first inlet port 1211 of the drawer case 120. When the drawer 130 is inserted into the drawer case 120, the first filter inlet port 1161 may be docked to the first inlet port 1211.

[0309] For example, the filter inlet port 116 may include a second filter inlet port 1162 corresponding to the second inlet port 1212 of the drawer case 120. When the drawer 130 is inserted into the drawer case 120, the second filter inlet port 1162 may be docked to the second inlet port 1212.

[0310] The filter inlet port 116 may be referred to as a filter inlet portion 116 . The filter inlet port 116 may be referred to as a filter port 116 .

[0311] For example, the filter inlet port 116 may be formed on the filter frame 111 .

[0312] The filter 110 may include a filter outlet port 117. The filter outlet port 117 may be configured to allow filtered wash water to flow out. The filter outlet port 117 may be configured to allow wash water passing through the filter body 112 to flow out. The filter outlet port 117 may be configured to communicate with the collection space 113 and the drain pipe 70. The filter outlet port 117 may be configured to communicate with the collection space 113 and the outlet portion 122 of the drawer housing 120. Wash water passing through the filter body 112 may pass through the filter outlet port 117 and then flow to the drain pipe 70.

[0313] For example, the filter outlet port 117 may include a first filter outlet port 1171 corresponding to the first outlet port 1221 of the drawer case 120. The first filter outlet port 1171 may be provided to be communicable with the first outlet port 1221 when the drawer 130 is inserted into the drawer case 120.

[0314] For example, the filter outlet port 117 may include a second filter outlet port 1172 corresponding to the second outlet port 1222 of the drawer case 120. When the drawer 130 is inserted into the drawer case 120, the second filter outlet port 1172 may be docked to the second outlet port 1222.

[0315] The filter outlet port 117 may be referred to as a filter outlet portion 117. The filter outlet port 117 may be referred to as a filter port 117.

[0316] For example, the filter outlet port 117 may be formed on the filter frame 111 .

[0317] The filter 110 may include a filter handle 115. The filter handle 115 may be configured to be grasped by a user. For example, the user may install the filter 110 in the filter mounting portion 133 while grasping the filter handle 115. For example, the user may separate the filter 110 from the filter mounting portion 133 while grasping the filter handle 115. For example, the filter 110 installed in the drawer 130 may be exposed to the outside of the housing 10 while the drawer 130 is pulled out of the drawer housing 120. In this case, the filter handle 115 of the filter 110 may also be exposed to the outside of the housing 10. For example, the filter handle 115 may be formed on the upper side of the filter frame 111. The user may easily replace and / or clean the filter 110 by grasping the filter handle 115.

[0318] For example, wash water pumped from the pump device 80 may pass through the connection pipe 60 and the inlet portion 121 of the drawer housing 120, and then flow to the filter inlet port 116. Wash water flowing into the filter 110 through the filter inlet port 116 may flow to the outside of the filter 110 through the filter body 112. When the wash water flows from the inside to the outside of the filter 110, foreign matter in the wash water may not pass through the filter body 112 and may remain in the collection space 113.

[0319] For example, the flow path switching device 200 may include a sixth valve 260. The sixth valve 260 may be configured to open and close the first filter outlet port 1171. The sixth valve 260 may open and close the first filter outlet port 1171 by rotating.

[0320] The sixth valve 260 may be controlled by the controller 330 .

[0321] For example, the controller 330 may close the sixth valve 260 during the drainage process. For example, the controller 330 may open the sixth valve 260 based on the completion of the drainage process. For example, the controller 330 may open the sixth valve 260 during the washing process and / or the rinsing process. For example, the controller 330 may open the sixth valve 260 based on the operation of the circulation pump 81. For example, the controller 330 may close the sixth valve 260 based on the operation of the drainage pump 82.

[0322] When the sixth valve 260 is opened, the wash water passing through the filter 110 may flow to the tub 20 through the circulation pipe 71. For example, when the sixth valve 260 is opened, the wash water passing through the filter 110 may naturally flow toward the first filter outlet port 1171 because the first filter outlet port 1171 is positioned lower than the second filter outlet port 1172. The wash water flowing out of the first filter outlet port 1171 may flow to the first outlet port 1221.

[0323] When the sixth valve 260 is closed, the wash water passing through the filter 110 may flow to the outside of the housing 10. For example, when the sixth valve 260 is closed, the wash water may not flow out through the first filter outlet port 1171. Therefore, the wash water passing through the filter 110 may naturally flow toward the second filter outlet port 1172. The wash water flowing out from the second filter outlet port 1172 may flow to the second outlet port 1222.

[0324] The following will refer to Fig. 27 An example (50k) of the detergent supply device 50 is described. Fig. 27 An example is shown in which the wash water passing through the filter 110 flows to the circulation pipe 71 or the drain pipe 72. Fig.26 Compared with the above, a seventh valve 270 may be provided additionally. Fig.26 Description of duplicate description.

[0325] The flow path switching device 200 may include a seventh valve 270. The seventh valve 270 may be configured to open and close the second filter outlet port 1172. The seventh valve 270 may open and close the second filter outlet port 1172 by rotating.

[0326] The sixth valve 260 and the seventh valve 270 may be configured to be selectively opened. For example, the sixth valve 260 may be opened and the seventh valve 270 may be closed. For example, the sixth valve 260 may be closed and the seventh valve 270 may be opened.

[0327] The seventh valve 270 may be controlled by the controller 330 .

[0328] For example, the controller 330 may close the sixth valve 260 and open the seventh valve 270 during the drainage process. For example, the controller 330 may open the sixth valve 260 and close the fifth valve 220 based on the completion of the drainage process. For example, the controller 330 may open the sixth valve 260 and close the seventh valve 270 during the washing process and / or the rinsing process. For example, the controller 330 may open the sixth valve 260 and close the seventh valve 270 based on the operation of the circulation pump 81. For example, the controller 330 may close the sixth valve 260 and open the seventh valve 270 based on the operation of the drainage pump 82.

[0329] When the sixth valve 260 is opened and the seventh valve 270 is closed, the wash water passing through the filter 110 may flow to the tub 20 through the circulation pipe 71 .

[0330] When the sixth valve 260 is closed and the seventh valve 270 is opened, the wash water passing through the filter 110 may flow to the outside of the housing 10 through the drain pipe 72 .

[0331] and Fig. 27 Unlike what is shown in , the second filter outlet port 1172 may be positioned lower than the first filter outlet port 1171 , and the flow path switching device 200 may include only the seventh valve 270 for opening and closing the second filter outlet port 1172 .

[0332] The following will refer to Fig.28 An example (501) of the detergent supply device 50 is described. Fig.28 An example is shown in which wash water passing through the filter 110 flows to the circulation pipe 71 or the drain pipe 72. The same reference numerals may denote parts or components performing substantially the same functions, and repeated descriptions may be omitted.

[0333] The filter 110 may include a filter inlet port 116. The filter inlet port 116 may receive wash water introduced from the pump device 80.

[0334] For example, the filter inlet port 116 may include a first filter inlet port 1161 corresponding to the first inlet port 1211 of the drawer housing 120 .

[0335] For example, the filter inlet port 116 may include a second filter inlet port 1162 corresponding to the second inlet port 1212 of the drawer housing 120 .

[0336] The filter 110 may include a filter outlet port 117. The filter outlet port 117 may be configured to flow out filtered wash water.

[0337] For example, the filter outlet port 117 may include a first filter outlet port 1171 corresponding to the first outlet port 1221 of the drawer housing 120 .

[0338] For example, the filter outlet port 117 may include a second filter outlet port 1172 corresponding to the second outlet port 1222 of the drawer housing 120 .

[0339] For example, the flow path switching device 200 may include an eighth valve 280. The eighth valve 280 may be configured to open and close the first outlet port 1221. The eighth valve 280 may open and close the first outlet port 1221 by rotating.

[0340] The eighth valve 280 may be controlled by the controller 330 .

[0341] For example, the controller 330 may close the eighth valve 280 during the drainage process. For example, the controller 330 may open the eighth valve 280 based on the completion of the drainage process. For example, the controller 330 may open the eighth valve 280 during the washing process and / or the rinsing process. For example, the controller 330 may open the eighth valve 280 based on the operation of the circulation pump 81. For example, the controller 330 may close the eighth valve 280 based on the operation of the drainage pump 82.

[0342] When the eighth valve 280 is opened, the wash water passing through the filter 110 may flow to the tub 20 through the circulation pipe 71. For example, when the eighth valve 280 is opened, the wash water passing through the filter 110 may naturally flow toward the first filter outlet port 1171 because the first filter outlet port 1171 is positioned lower than the second filter outlet port 1172. The wash water flowing out of the first filter outlet port 1171 may flow to the first outlet port 1221.

[0343] When the eighth valve 280 is closed, the wash water passing through the filter 110 may flow to the outside of the housing 10. For example, when the eighth valve 280 is closed, the wash water passing through the filter 110 may flow to the second filter outlet port 1172. The wash water flowing out of the second filter outlet port 1172 may flow to the second outlet port 1222.

[0344] The following will refer to Fig.29 An example (50m) of the detergent supply device 50 is described. Fig.29 An example is shown in which the wash water passing through the filter 110 flows to the circulation pipe 71 or the drain pipe 72. Fig.28 Compared with the above, a ninth valve 290 may be additionally provided. Fig.28 Description of duplicate description.

[0345] The flow path switching device 200 may include a ninth valve 290. The ninth valve 290 may be configured to open and close the second outlet port 1222. The ninth valve 290 may open and close the second outlet port 1222 by rotating.

[0346] The eighth valve 280 and the ninth valve 290 may be configured to be selectively opened. For example, the eighth valve 280 may be opened and the ninth valve 290 may be closed. For example, the eighth valve 280 may be closed and the ninth valve 290 may be opened.

[0347] The ninth valve 290 may be controlled by the controller 330 .

[0348] For example, the controller 330 may close the eighth valve 280 and open the ninth valve 290 during the drainage process. For example, the controller 330 may open the eighth valve 280 and close the fifth valve 220 based on the completion of the drainage process. For example, the controller 330 may open the eighth valve 280 and close the ninth valve 290 during the washing process and / or the rinsing process. For example, the controller 330 may open the eighth valve 280 and close the ninth valve 290 based on the operation of the circulation pump 81. For example, the controller 330 may close the eighth valve 280 and open the ninth valve 290 based on the operation of the drainage pump 82.

[0349] When the eighth valve 280 is opened and the ninth valve 290 is closed, the wash water passing through the filter 110 may flow to the tub 20 through the circulation pipe 71 .

[0350] When the eighth valve 280 is closed and the ninth valve 290 is opened, the wash water passing through the filter 110 may flow to the outside of the housing 10 through the drain pipe 72 .

[0351] and Fig.29 Unlike what is shown in FIG. 1 , the second outlet port 1222 may be positioned lower than the first outlet port 1221 , and the flow path switching device 200 may include only the ninth valve 290 for opening and closing the second filter outlet port 1222 .

[0352] Fig.30 is a diagram illustrating an example of a drawer, a detergent box, and a filter according to one embodiment. Fig.31 yes Fig.30 Exploded view of the filter shown in .

[0353] The following will refer to Fig.30 and Fig.31 An example (110c) of the filter 110 and the filter mounting portion 133 of the drawer 130 are described. Figures 15 to 23 as well as Figure 26 to Figure 29 The example of connection of the connection pipe 60 and the discharge pipe 70, the example of the flow path switching device 200, the example of the flow of the washing water, etc. described above can also be applied to Fig.30 and Fig.31 The filter 110c and the drawer 130 are shown in FIG. The same reference numerals may denote parts or components that perform substantially the same functions, and repeated descriptions may be omitted.

[0354] The drawer 130 may include a filter installation portion 133. The filter 110 may be detachably installed in the filter installation portion 133. The filter 110 may be accommodated in the filter installation portion 133. The filter installation portion 133 may form an accommodation space 1331 to accommodate the filter 110. For example, the accommodation space 1331 may be provided to have a shape opened forward.

[0355] The filter mounting portion 133 may be provided on one side of the detergent box 190 . Fig.30 The filter mounting portion 133 is shown to be located on the right side of the detergent box 190, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the filter mounting portion 133 may be located on the left side of the detergent box 190. For example, the filter mounting portion 133 may be disposed between a plurality of detergent boxes 190. For example, the filter mounting portion 133 may be disposed between the first detergent box 191 and the second detergent box 192.

[0356] The filter mounting portion 133 may include a drawer inlet port 1332a communicating with the inlet portion 121 of the drawer case 120. Wash water may pass through the inlet portion 121 and then flow to the drawer inlet port 1332a.

[0357] The filter mounting portion 133 may include a drawer outlet port 1332b communicating with the outlet portion 122 of the drawer case 120. Wash water may pass through the drawer outlet port 1332b and then flow to the outlet portion 122.

[0358] The filter 110 may be provided to be insertable into or withdrawable from the filter mounting portion 133 .

[0359] The filter 110 may include a first filter portion 110aa and a second filter portion 110bb. The first filter portion 110aa may be disposed adjacent to the drawer inlet port 1332a. The second filter portion 110bb may be disposed adjacent to the drawer outlet port 1332b. For example, the first filter portion 110aa may be disposed behind the second filter portion 110bb.

[0360] The first filter part 110aa and the second filter part 110bb can be detachably combined. For example, the second filter part 110bb can be docked to the first filter part 110aa while being inserted into the filter mounting part 133. For example, the second filter part 110bb can be separated from the first filter part 110aa and extracted from the filter mounting part 133. The user can remove the second filter part 110bb from the filter mounting part 133 and remove foreign matter collected in the second filter part 110bb.

[0361] The first filter portion 110aa may be provided to filter wash water flowing through the drawer inlet port 1332a. For example, the first filter portion 110aa may filter wash water flowing into the filter 110 for the first time.

[0362] The first filter part 110aa may include a first filter frame 111aa. The first filter part 110aa may include a first filter body 112aa disposed to be supported on the first filter frame 111aa.

[0363] For example, the first filter frame 111aa may include a first filter body mounting portion 114aa in which the first filter body 112aa is mounted. For example, the first filter body mounting portion 114aa may be provided as an opening, and the first filter body 112aa may be provided to fill the first filter body mounting portion 114aa. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and it is sufficient as long as the first filter frame 111aa and the first filter body 112aa are provided in a shape that allows wash water to flow in and out.

[0364] The first filter portion 110aa may include a first collecting space 113aa. The first filter portion 110aa may form the first collecting space 113aa therein. The first collecting space 113aa may be configured to receive foreign matter filtered out by the first filter portion 110aa. The first collecting space 113aa may be configured to collect foreign matter contained in the washing water when the washing water introduced from the pump device 80 passes through the first filter body 112aa. For example, foreign matter may be collected on the surface of the first filter body 112aa facing the first collecting space 113aa. For example, foreign matter may be collected on the inner surface of the first filter body 112aa.

[0365] The second filter portion 110bb may be configured to filter the wash water passing through the first filter portion 110aa. For example, the second filter portion 110bb may filter the wash water passing through the first filter portion 110aa for a second time. The second filter portion 110bb may be configured to collect foreign matter removed from the first filter portion 110aa.

[0366] The second filter part 110bb may include a second filter frame 111bb. The second filter part 110bb may include a second filter body 112bb disposed to be supported on the second filter frame 111bb.

[0367] For example, the second filter frame 111bb may include a second filter body mounting portion 114bb in which the second filter body 112bb is mounted. For example, the second filter body mounting portion 114bb may be configured as an opening, and the second filter body 112bb may be configured to fill the second filter body mounting portion 114bb. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and it is sufficient as long as the second filter frame 111bb and the second filter body 112bb are configured in a shape that allows wash water to flow in and out.

[0368] The second filter portion 110bb may include a second collecting space 113bb. The second filter portion 110bb may form a second collecting space 113bb therein. The second collecting space 113bb may be configured to receive foreign matter filtered out by the second filter portion 110bb. The second collecting space 113bb may be configured to collect foreign matter contained in the washing water when the washing water passes through the second filter body 112bb. For example, foreign matter may be collected on the surface of the second filter body 112bb facing the second collecting space 113bb. For example, foreign matter may be collected in the inner surface of the second filter body 112bb.

[0369] and Fig.31 Unlike shown in FIG. 1 , the first filter portion 110 aa and the second filter portion 110 bb may be provided as a single filter 110 .

[0370] and Fig.31 Different from that shown in , the filter 110 can be configured to include three or more filter parts. For example, multiple filter parts can be arranged in sequence along the flow direction of the washing water. For example, multiple filter parts can be arranged side by side along the front-to-back direction.

[0371] The filter 110 may include a filter handle 115bb. The filter handle 115bb may be disposed in the front portion of the second filter portion 110bb. The filter handle 115bb may be configured to be grasped by a user. For example, the user may insert the filter 110 into the filter mounting portion 133 while grasping the filter handle 115bb. For example, the user may extract the filter 110 from the filter mounting portion 133 while grasping the filter handle 115bb.

[0372] The filter handle 115bb may include a first coupling portion 1151. The first coupling portion 1151 may be detachably coupled to a second coupling portion 1335 formed on the filter mounting portion 133. For example, the first coupling portion 1151 may be configured to rotate relative to the second coupling portion 1335. For example, the first coupling portion 1151 may include a thread. For example, the second coupling portion 1152 may include a thread. For example, when the filter handle 115bb is rotated in a predetermined range in a first direction, the filter handle 115bb may be in a detachable state relative to the filter mounting portion 133. For example, when the filter handle 115bb is rotated in a predetermined range in a second direction, the filter handle 115bb may be in a fixed state relative to the filter mounting portion 133. For example, the second direction may be the opposite direction of the first direction.

[0373] The filter 110 may include a blade 140. The blade 140 may be disposed adjacent to the filter 110. At least a portion of the blade 140 may be disposed inside the filter 110. At least a portion of the blade 140 may be disposed inside the first filter portion 110aa.

[0374] For example, the blade 140 may include a blade shaft 141. The blade shaft 141 may form a rotation center. The blade shaft 141 may receive a rotation force from the motor 180.

[0375] For example, the blade 140 may include a blade leaf 142 formed on an outer surface of a blade shaft 141. For example, the blade leaf 142 may include a spiral shape.

[0376] The blade 140 may be configured to transfer foreign matter collected by the filter 110 to one side inside the filter 110. The blade 140 may be configured to be rotatable while coming into contact with the inner surface of the filter 110. The blade leaf 142 may be configured to be rotatable while coming into contact with the inner surface of the filter 110.

[0377] The blade 140 may be configured to scrape off foreign matter collected on the inner surface of the filter 110 when the blade rotates. The blade 140 may be configured to scrape off foreign matter attached to the inner surface of the filter body 112 when the blade rotates. Therefore, foreign matter attached to the inner surface of the filter body 112 may be removed from the filter body 112. The removed foreign matter may be moved to one side of the inside of the filter 110 by the rotation of the blade leaf 142.

[0378] For example, the blade 140 may be configured to transfer foreign matter collected in the first filter part 110aa to the second filter part 110bb. For example, the blade 140 may be configured to be able to rotate while entering a state of contact with the inner surface of the first filter part 110aa. The blade leaf 142 may be configured to be able to rotate while entering a state of contact with the inner surface of the first filter part 110aa. The blade 140 may be configured to scrape off foreign matter collected on the inner surface of the first filter body 112aa of the first filter part 110aa when the blade rotates. Therefore, foreign matter attached to the inner surface of the first filter body 112aa can be removed from the filter body 112aa. The removed foreign matter can be moved toward the second filter part 110bb by the rotation of the blade leaf 142. For example, foreign matter can be transferred forward by the rotation of the blade 140.

[0379] The filter 110 may include a motor 180. The motor 180 may be configured to drive the blade 140. The motor 180 may be configured to rotate the blade 140. The motor 180 may generate a rotational force.

[0380] The motor 180 may be controlled by the controller 330 to be driven.

[0381] For example, the controller 330 may be configured to supply a driving current to the motor 180. For example, the controller 330 may be configured to supply a driving current to the motor 180 based on the operation of the pump device 80. For example, the controller 330 may be configured to supply a driving current to the motor 180 based on the operation of the circulation pump 81 and / or the drainage pump 82. For example, the controller 330 may be configured to control the user interface 310 by comparing the value of the driving current supplied to the motor 180 with a preset value. For example, the controller 330 may be configured to stop the operation of the motor 180 by comparing the value of the driving current supplied to the motor 180 with a preset value. A detailed description thereof will be given later.

[0382] The motor 180 may include a coupling portion 182. For example, the coupling portion 182 of the motor 180 may be fixed to the drawer 130 by a fastening member 170. For example, the fastening member 170 may be a screw.

[0383] The filter 110 may include a connecting member 151. The connecting member 151 may be configured to connect the motor 180 and the blade 140. The connecting member 151 may be configured to transmit the rotational force generated by the motor 180 to the blade 140. The connecting member 151 may be coupled to a motor shaft 181 of the motor 180. The connecting member 151 may be configured to rotate together with the motor 180. The connecting member 151 may be coupled to the blade shaft 141. The blade 140 may be configured to rotate together with the connecting member 151.

[0384] For example, the connection member 151 may have a shape extending in the front-rear direction (X direction). For example, the connection member 151 may have a shaft shape. The connection member 151 may be referred to as a connection shaft 151. For example, the connection member 151 may be inserted into the blade shaft 141.

[0385] The filter 110 may include a bearing 152. The bearing 152 may be configured to support a load of the connection member 151. The bearing 152 may be configured to rotatably support the connection member 151. The bearing 152 may be configured to reduce friction resistance when the connection member 151 rotates. Therefore, the connection member 151 may be smoothly rotated by the bearing 152.

[0386] The filter 110 may include a first sealing member 161. The first sealing member 161 may be arranged to seal between the first filter portion 110aa and the second filter portion 110bb. For example, the first sealing member 161 may be arranged between the outer surface of the first filter portion 110aa and the inner surface of the second filter portion 110bb. For example, the first sealing member 161 may be arranged to be installed in a groove 118 formed on the first filter portion 110aa.

[0387] The filter 110 may include a second sealing member 162. The second sealing member 162 may be provided to seal between the first filter portion 110aa and the filter mounting portion 133 of the drawer 130.

[0388] The filter 110 may include a third sealing member 163. The third sealing member 163 may be provided to seal between the connection member 151 and the filter mounting portion 133 of the drawer 130.

[0389] Fig.32 is a perspective view of an example of a flow path switching device according to one embodiment. Fig.33 yes Fig.32 An exploded view of the flow path switching device shown in . Fig.32 and Fig.33 The example of the flow path switching device 200 shown in FIG. 2 may be an example of valves 210, 220, 230, 240, 250, 260, 270, 280, and 290. However, this is merely an example, and the flow path switching device 200 may have various shapes and / or configurations.

[0390] The flow path switching device 200 may include an actuator 201. For example, the actuator 201 may be configured to be able to move in a straight line. The actuator 201 may receive a driving current from the controller 330.

[0391] The flow path switching device 200 may include a gear unit 202. The gear unit 202 may be configured to move together with the actuator 201.

[0392] For example, the gear unit 202 may include a first gear 2021. The first gear 2021 may be connected to one end of the actuator 201. For example, the first gear 2021 may be configured to move in a straight line when the actuator 201 moves in a straight line.

[0393] For example, the gear unit 202 may include a second gear 2022. The second gear 2022 may be configured to mesh with the first gear 2021. For example, the second gear 2022 may be configured to rotate when the first gear 2021 moves in a straight line.

[0394] The flow path switching device 200 may include an opening / closing portion 203. The opening / closing portion 203 may be configured to open and close at least one of the discharge pipe 70, the filter outlet port 117, and the outlet portion 122.

[0395] For example, the opening / closing portion 203 may include a gear connecting portion 2031 connected to the second gear 2022. The gear connecting portion 2031 may receive a rotational force from the second gear 2022. The gear connecting portion 2031 may be provided to be rotatable. For example, the gear connecting portion 2031 may have a shaft shape.

[0396] For example, the opening / closing portion 203 may include an opening / closing plate 2032 extending from the gear connection portion 2031. The opening / closing plate 2032 may be arranged to be rotatable. The opening / closing plate 2032 may be arranged to rotate around the gear connection portion 2031. For example, the opening / closing plate 2032 may be installed in at least one of the discharge pipe 70, the filter outlet port 117, and the outlet portion 122. For example, the opening / closing plate 2032 may be arranged to correspond to the size of the portion to be opened and closed. For example, the opening / closing plate 2032 may be arranged to correspond to at least one of the discharge pipe 70, the filter outlet port 117, and the outlet portion 122.

[0397] The flow path switching device 200 may include a valve housing 204. The valve housing 204 may accommodate at least a portion of the actuator 201. The valve housing 204 may accommodate at least a portion of the gear unit 202. The valve housing 204 may accommodate at least a portion of the opening / closing portion 203.

[0398] For example, the valve housing 204 may include a housing connection portion 2041. For example, a portion where the flow path switching device 200 is installed and the housing connection portion 2041 may be fastened by a fastening member 205. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the flow path switching device 200 may be installed by various known methods.

[0399] Fig.34is a control block diagram of a washing machine according to one embodiment.

[0400] refer to Fig.34 , a washing machine 1 according to one embodiment may include a user interface 310 , a driving motor 40 configured to drive a drum 30 , a water supply portion 320 , a pump device 80 , a flow path switching device 200 , and a motor 180 configured to drive a blade 140 .

[0401] The user interface 310 may interact with a user.

[0402] For example, the user interface 310 may include the control panel 14 .

[0403] The control panel 14 may include an input 14a configured to receive an operation command from a user and a display 14b configured to display operation information of the washing machine. The control panel 14 may provide a user interface for interaction between the user and the washing machine 1 .

[0404] The input device 14a may provide an electrical output signal corresponding to the user input to the controller 330. The input device 14a may include, for example, a power button, an operation button, a process selection dial (or a process selection button), and a washing / rinsing / spinning setting button. The input button may include, for example, a tactile switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, or a touch switch.

[0405] The display 14b may receive a signal from the controller 330 and display information corresponding to the received signal. The display 14b may include: a screen for displaying the washing process and the operation time of the washing machine selected by rotating the course selection dial (or pressing the course selection button); and an indicator for displaying the washing setting / rinsing setting / spinning setting selected by the setting button. The display 14b may include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, etc.

[0406] Although not shown in the drawings, the user interface 310 may include various additional components for interacting with the user in addition to the control panel.

[0407] For example, the user interface 310 may include a visual indicator that is separate from the control panel 14 .

[0408] A separately disposed visual indicator may be disposed proximate to the filter handle 115 and 115bb. According to various embodiments, a visual indicator may be disposed on a surface of the filter handle 115 and 115bb.

[0409] As another example, user interface 310 may include a speaker to provide audible feedback.

[0410] The controller 330 may include at least one memory 332 and at least one processor 331 in order to perform the above-mentioned operations and operations to be described later.

[0411] In one embodiment, the controller 330 may include: at least one memory 332 storing data in the form of algorithms and / or programs for controlling the operations of components in the washing machine 1; and at least one processor 331 using the data stored in the at least one memory 332 to perform the above operations and operations to be described later. The memory 332 and the processor 331 may be implemented as separate chips. The processor 331 may include one or more processor chips or may include one or more processing cores. The memory 332 may include one or more memory chips or may include one or more memory blocks. The memory 332 and the processor 331 may also be implemented as a single chip.

[0412] The controller 330 can process user input received through the inputter 14a and can control various components of the washing machine 1 (e.g., the drive motor 40, the user interface 310, the water supply part 320, the pump device 80, the flow path switching device 200, the motor 180) based on the processed user input.

[0413] As an example, the controller 330 may control various components of the washing machine 1 to perform a washing cycle including a water supply process, a washing process, a rinsing process, and / or a dehydration process based on a user input into the control panel 14 .

[0414] The driving motor 40 may rotate the drum 30. To this end, although not shown in the drawing, the controller 330 may control the driving circuit to supply the driving motor 40 with a driving current.

[0415] The driving circuit may supply a driving current to the driving motor 40 in response to a driving signal from the controller 330 .

[0416] In one embodiment, the drive circuit may include a rectifier circuit for rectifying AC power from an external power source, a DC link circuit for removing fluctuations from the rectified power and outputting DC power, an inverter circuit for converting the DC power into sinusoidal drive power and outputting the drive current to the drive motor 40, a current sensor for measuring the drive current supplied to the drive motor 40, and a gate driver for turning on / off a switching element included in the inverter circuit based on a drive signal from the controller 330.

[0417] The controller 330 may measure the load of the driving motor 40 based on the current value measured from the current sensor of the driving circuit.

[0418] The water supply portion 320 may supply water supplied from an external water supply source to the inside of the tub 20 .

[0419] To this end, the water supply portion 320 may include at least one water supply valve 52 .

[0420] The at least one water supply valve 52 may include a water supply valve for supplying water supplied from an external water supply source to the detergent supply device 50 and / or a water supply valve for directly supplying water supplied from an external water supply source to the tub 20 .

[0421] The controller 330 may control the water supply portion 320 to supply water supplied from an external water supply source to the tub 20 through the detergent supply device 50 , or to directly supply water supplied from an external water supply source to the tub 20 .

[0422] The pump device 80 may include at least one pump 81 and / or 82 .

[0423] According to various embodiments, the pump device may include a circulation pump 81 and a drainage pump 82 .

[0424] Wash water pumped from the circulation pump 81 may flow to the filter 110 through the circulation connection pipe 61 , and wash water pumped from the drain pump 82 may flow to the filter 110 through the drain connection pipe 62 .

[0425] According to various embodiments, the pump device 80 may include a single pump 81 or 82 .

[0426] Wash water pumped from a single pump 81 or 82 may flow to the filter 110 through a single connecting pipe 60 .

[0427] The controller 330 may operate the pump device 80 to allow wash water to flow to the filter 110 .

[0428] The flow path switching device 200 may allow water flowing into the filter 110 through the connection pipe 60 ( 61 and 62 ) to flow into the circulation pipe 71 or the drain pipe 72 .

[0429] The water flowing into the circulation pipe 71 may flow back into the tub 20 , and the water flowing into the drain pipe 72 may be discharged to the outside of the housing 10 .

[0430] The flow path switching device 200 may include at least one valve.

[0431] According to various embodiments, the flow path switching device 200 may include only the first valve 210 for opening and closing the circulation pipe 71 .

[0432] In the case where the flow path switching device 200 only includes a first valve 210 for opening and closing the circulation pipe 71, when the first valve 210 opens the circulation pipe 71, most of the water flowing into the filter 110 can be introduced into the circulation pipe 71, and when the first valve 210 closes the circulation pipe 71, the water flowing into the filter 110 can be introduced into the drain pipe 72.

[0433] According to various embodiments, the flow path switching device 200 may include a first valve 210 for opening and closing the circulation pipe 71 and a second valve 220 for opening and closing the drain pipe 72 .

[0434] In the case where the flow path switching device 200 includes a first valve 210 and a second valve 220, when the first valve 210 opens the circulation pipe 71 and the second valve 220 closes the drain pipe 72, water flowing into the filter 110 can be introduced into the circulation pipe 71, and when the first valve 210 closes the circulation pipe 71 and the second valve 220 opens the drain pipe 72, water flowing into the filter 110 can be introduced into the drain pipe 72.

[0435] According to various embodiments, the flow path switching device 200 may include only the third valve 230 provided at a branch point of the circulation pipe 71 and the drain pipe 72 .

[0436] The third valve 230 may selectively open the circulation pipe 71 and the drain pipe 72 .

[0437] When the flow path switching device 200 includes a third valve 230, when the third valve 230 opens the circulation pipe 71, water flowing into the filter 110 can be introduced into the circulation pipe 71, and when the third valve 230 opens the drain pipe 72, water flowing into the filter 110 can be introduced into the drain pipe 72.

[0438] According to various embodiments, the flow path switching device 200 may include only the fourth valve 240 for opening and closing the first outlet port 1221 .

[0439] In the case where the flow path switching device 200 only includes the fourth valve 240, when the fourth valve 240 opens the first outlet port 1221, most of the water flowing into the filter 110 can be introduced into the circulation pipe 71, and when the fourth valve 240 closes the first outlet port 1221, the water flowing into the filter 110 can be introduced into the drain pipe 72.

[0440] According to various embodiments, the flow path switching device 200 may include a fourth valve 240 and a fifth valve 250. The fourth valve 240 may open and close the first outlet port 1221. The fifth valve 250 may open and close the second outlet port 1222.

[0441] In the case where the flow path switching device 200 includes a fourth valve 240 and a fifth valve 250, when the fourth valve 240 opens the first outlet port 1221 and the fifth valve 250 closes the second outlet port 1222, water flowing into the filter 110 can be introduced into the circulation pipe 71, and when the fourth valve 240 closes the first outlet port 1221 and the fifth valve 250 opens the second outlet port 1222, water flowing into the filter 110 can be introduced into the drain pipe 72.

[0442] According to various embodiments, the flow path switching device 200 may include only the sixth valve 260 for opening and closing the first filter outlet port 1171 .

[0443] In the case where the flow path switching device 200 only includes the sixth valve 260, when the sixth valve 260 opens the first filter outlet port 1171, most of the water flowing into the filter 110 can be introduced into the circulation pipe 71, and when the sixth valve 260 closes the first filter outlet port 1171, the water flowing into the filter 110 can be introduced into the drain pipe 72.

[0444] According to various embodiments, the flow path switching device 200 may include a sixth valve 260 and a seventh valve 270. The sixth valve 260 may open and close the first filter outlet port 1171. The seventh valve 270 may open and close the second filter outlet port 1172.

[0445] In the case where the flow path switching device 200 includes a sixth valve 260 and a seventh valve 270, when the sixth valve 260 opens the first filter outlet port 1171 and the seventh valve 270 closes the second filter outlet port 1172, water flowing into the filter 110 can be introduced into the circulation pipe 71, and when the sixth valve 260 closes the first filter outlet port 1171 and the seventh valve 270 opens the second filter outlet port 1172, water flowing into the filter 110 can be introduced into the drain pipe 72.

[0446] According to various embodiments, the flow path switching device 200 may include only the eighth valve 280 for opening and closing the first outlet port 1221 .

[0447] In the case where the flow path switching device 200 only includes the eighth valve 280, when the eighth valve 280 opens the first outlet port 1221, most of the water flowing into the filter 110 can be introduced into the circulation pipe 71, and when the eighth valve 280 closes the first outlet port 1221, the water flowing into the filter 110 can be introduced into the drain pipe 72.

[0448] According to various embodiments, the flow path switching device 200 may include an eighth valve 280 and a ninth valve 290. The eighth valve 280 may open and close the first outlet port 1221. The ninth valve 290 may open and close the second outlet port 1222.

[0449] In the case where the flow path switching device 200 includes an eighth valve 280 and a ninth valve 290, when the eighth valve 280 opens the first outlet port 1221 and the ninth valve 290 closes the second outlet port 1222, water flowing into the filter 110 can be introduced into the circulation pipe 71, and when the eighth valve 280 closes the first outlet port 1221 and the ninth valve 290 opens the second outlet port 1222, water flowing into the filter 110 can be introduced into the drain pipe 72.

[0450] However, examples of the flow path switching device 200 are not limited to the above-described embodiment, and a configuration capable of causing water introduced into the filter 110 to selectively flow to the circulation pipe 71 or the drain pipe 72 may be adopted as an example of the flow path switching device 200 .

[0451] The controller 330 may control the flow path switching device 200 to selectively allow the water flowing into the filter 110 to flow into the circulation pipe 71 or the drain pipe 72 .

[0452] The motor 180 may drive the blade 140. To this end, although not shown in the drawings, the controller 330 may control a driving circuit that applies a driving current to the motor 180.

[0453] The driving circuit may supply a driving current to the motor 180 in response to a driving signal from the controller 330. The configuration of the driving circuit connected to the motor 180 may be the same as or different from the configuration of the driving circuit connected to the driving motor 40.

[0454] For example, the driving circuit connected to the motor 180 may include components for driving a DC motor that are different from the driving circuit connected to drive the motor 40 .

[0455] The controller 330 may measure the load of the motor 180 based on the current value measured from the current sensor of the driving circuit.

[0456] Fig.35 An example of a wash cycle according to one embodiment is shown.

[0457] refer to Fig.35 , the washing machine 1 may sequentially perform a washing process (1010), a rinsing process (1020), and a dehydration process (1030) according to a user input through the input device 14a.

[0458] The laundry may be washed through a washing process (1010). Specifically, foreign matter attached to the laundry may be removed through a chemical action of a detergent and / or a mechanical action such as dropping.

[0459] The washing process (1010) may include laundry measurement (1011) for measuring the amount of laundry, water supply (1012) for supplying water to the tub 20, washing (1013) for washing the laundry by rotating the drum 30 at a low speed, drainage (1014) for discharging the water received in the tub 20, and intermediate dehydration (1015) for removing water from the laundry by rotating the drum 30 at a high speed.

[0460] For laundry measurement (1011), the controller 330 may control the driving circuit so that the driving motor 40 is repeatedly turned on and off, and may measure the load (the weight of laundry) inside the drum 30 based on the back electromotive force value generated when the driving motor 40 is turned off.

[0461] For water supply ( 1012 ), the controller 330 may control the water supply valve 52 to supply water supplied from an external water supply source into the tub 20 .

[0462] For washing (1013), the controller 330 may control the driving circuit to rotate the driving motor 40 in a forward direction (e.g., clockwise) or a reverse direction (e.g., counterclockwise). By the rotation of the drum 30, the laundry falls from the upper side of the drum 30 to the lower side, and the laundry may be washed by falling.

[0463] During washing (1013), a circulation operation may be performed so that water inside the tub 20 passes through the filter 110 and is then introduced into the tub 20. The circulation operation by introducing water from which foreign matter is removed into the tub 20 may achieve more efficient washing.

[0464] In one embodiment, for the circulation operation, the controller 330 may operate the pump device 80 and control the flow path switching device 200 to open the circulation pipe 71 .

[0465] In one embodiment, for the circulation operation, the controller 330 may operate the pump device 80 and control the flow path switching device 200 to open the circulation pipe 71 and close the drain pipe 72 .

[0466] According to various embodiments, in a case where the pump device 80 includes both the circulation pump 81 and the drainage pump 82 , the controller 330 may operate the circulation pump 81 for a circulation operation.

[0467] According to various embodiments, in a case where the pump device 80 includes only one of the pumps 81 and 82 , the controller 330 may operate one of the pumps 81 and 82 for a circulation operation.

[0468] The controller 330 may stop the operation of the circulation pump 81 based on the completion of the circulation operation. In the case where the pump device 80 includes only one of the pumps 81 and 82, the controller 330 may stop the operation of one of the pumps 81 and 82.

[0469] In addition, the controller 330 may control the flow path switching device 200 to close the circulation pipe 71 based on the completion of the circulation operation.

[0470] For drainage ( 1014 ), the controller 330 may operate the pump device 80 and control the flow path switching device 200 to open the drainage pipe 72 .

[0471] According to various embodiments, in the case where the pump device 80 includes both the circulation pump 81 and the drainage pump 82 , for drainage ( 1014 ), the controller 330 may operate the drainage pump 82 .

[0472] According to various embodiments, in a case where the pump device 80 includes only one of the pumps 81 and 82 , the controller 330 may operate one of the pumps 81 and 82 for drainage ( 1014 ).

[0473] The controller 330 may stop the operation of the drainage pump 82 based on the completion of the drainage (1014). In the case where the pump device 80 includes only one of the pumps 81 and 82, the controller 330 may stop the operation of one of the pumps 81 and 82.

[0474] For the intermediate dehydration (1015), the controller 330 may control the driving circuit to rotate the driving motor 40 at a high speed. By rotating the drum 30 at a high speed, water may be separated from the laundry received in the drum 30 and then discharged to the outside of the washing machine 1.

[0475] During the intermediate dehydration (1015), the rotation speed of the drum 30 may be gradually increased. For example, the controller 330 may control the driving circuit to rotate the driving motor 40 at a first rotation speed, and may control the driving motor 40 to increase the rotation speed of the driving motor 40 to a second rotation speed based on a change in the driving current of the driving motor 40 while the driving motor 40 is rotating at the first rotation speed. While the driving motor 40 is rotating at the first rotation speed, the controller 330 may control the driving motor 40 to increase the rotation speed of the driving motor 40 to a third rotation speed based on a change in the driving current of the driving motor 40, or control the driving motor 40 to reduce the rotation speed of the driving motor 40 to the second rotation speed.

[0476] Through the rinsing process (1020), the clothes can be rinsed. Specifically, the detergent or foreign matter remaining in the clothes can be washed away by water.

[0477] The rinsing process (1020) may include water supply (1021) for supplying water to the tub 20, rinsing (1022) for rinsing clothes by driving the drum 30, drainage (1023) for discharging the water received in the tub 20, and intermediate dehydration (1024) for removing water from the clothes by driving the drum 30.

[0478] The water supply (1021), drainage (1023) and intermediate dehydration (1024) of the rinsing process (1020) may be respectively the same as the water supply (1012), drainage (1014) and intermediate dehydration (1015) of the washing process (1010). During the rinsing process (1020), the water supply (1021), rinsing (1022), drainage (1023) and intermediate dehydration (1024) may be performed once or multiple times.

[0479] During rinsing (1022), the controller 330 may perform a circulation operation. Since a method of performing the circulation operation has been described above, a description thereof will be omitted.

[0480] According to the present disclosure, by performing a circulation operation during rinsing (1022), foreign matter received in water in the tub 20 may be effectively removed, and rinsing efficiency may be improved.

[0481] Through the dehydration process (1030), the laundry can be dehydrated. Specifically, water can be separated from the laundry by the high-speed rotation of the drum 30, and the separated water can be discharged to the outside of the washing machine 1.

[0482] The dehydration process (1030) may include a final dehydration (1031) for separating water from the laundry by rotating the drum 30 at a high speed. Due to the final dehydration (1031), the final intermediate dehydration (1024) of the rinsing process (1020) may be omitted.

[0483] For the final dehydration (1031), the controller 330 may control the driving circuit to rotate the driving motor 40 at a high speed. By the high-speed rotation of the drum 30, water may be separated from the laundry contained in the drum 30 and discharged to the outside of the washing machine 1. The rotation speed of the driving motor 40 may be gradually increased.

[0484] Since the operation of the washing machine 1 is completed by the final spinning (1031), the execution time of the final spinning (1031) may be longer than the execution time of the intermediate spinning (1015 and 1024).

[0485] According to various embodiments, a drainage operation may be performed during the dehydration process 1030 . For example, the controller 330 may operate the drainage pump 82 during the dehydration process 1030 , and may control the flow path switching device 200 to close the circulation pipe 71 and open the drainage pipe 72 .

[0486] As described above, in order to wash clothes, the washing machine 1 can perform a washing process (1010), a rinsing process (1020) and a dehydration process (1030). In particular, during the intermediate dehydration (1015 and 1024) and the final dehydration (1031), the washing machine 1 can gradually increase the rotation speed of the driving motor 40 that rotates the drum 30, and can increase or decrease the rotation speed of the driving motor 40 based on the change of the driving current of the driving motor 40.

[0487] Fig.36 An example of a control block diagram and a signal flow of a washing machine according to one embodiment is shown. Fig.37 An example of a control block diagram and a signal flow of a washing machine according to one embodiment is shown. Fig.38 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of a washing machine according to one embodiment when a driving condition of a circulation pump is satisfied.

[0488] refer to Fig.36 and Fig.37 , the controller 330 may control various components based on a signal corresponding to a user input received from the user interface 310 .

[0489] The pump device 80 may include a circulation pump 81 and a drainage pump 82 .

[0490] The controller 330 may output a control signal for driving the circulation pump 81 for a circulation operation. The circulation pump 81 may operate based on the control signal of the controller 330.

[0491] The controller 330 may output a control signal for driving the drain pump 82 for a drain operation. The drain pump 82 may operate based on the control signal of the controller 330.

[0492] The controller 330 may output a control signal for driving the motor 180 so as to rotate the blade 140. The motor 180 may operate based on the control signal of the controller 330.

[0493] refer to Fig.36 , the flow path switching device 200 may include a first valve 210 .

[0494] The controller 330 may output a control signal for opening or closing the first valve 210. The first valve 210 may be opened or closed based on the control signal of the controller 330.

[0495] refer to Fig.37 The flow path switching device 200 may include a first valve 210 and a second valve 220 .

[0496] The controller 330 may output a control signal for opening or closing the first valve 210 and the second valve 220. The first valve 210 and the second valve 220 may be opened or closed based on the control signal of the controller 330.

[0497] According to various embodiments, the controller 330 may operate the circulation pump 81 and control the first valve 210 to open the circulation pipe 71 .

[0498] In addition, the controller 330 may operate the circulation pump 81 , control the first valve 210 to open the circulation pipe 71 , and control the second valve 220 to close the drainage pipe 72 .

[0499] According to various embodiments, the controller 330 may operate the circulation pump 81 and drive the motor 180 .

[0500] The cycle operation may be performed in the washing process (1010) and / or the rinsing process (1020).

[0501] refer to Fig.38 For the circulation operation, the controller 330 may drive the circulation pump 81 ( 1100 ).

[0502] The controller 330 may control the flow path switching device 200 to open the circulation pipe 71 based on the operation of the circulation pump 81 ( 1110 ).

[0503] According to various embodiments, the operation ( 1110 ) of opening the circulation pipe 71 may further include closing the drain pipe 72 .

[0504] That is, the controller 330 may control the flow path switching device 200 to open the circulation pipe 71 and close the drainage pipe 72 based on the operation of the circulation pump 81 .

[0505] In one embodiment, the controller 330 may drive the motor 180 based on the operation of the circulation pump 81 ( 1120 ). The blade 140 may rotate by receiving a driving current from the motor 180 .

[0506] That is, when water is introduced into the filter device 100 by the circulation pump 81 , the blade 140 may transfer foreign matter collected by the filter 110 to one side inside the filter 110 .

[0507] According to the present disclosure, by quickly transferring foreign materials collected by the filter 110 to one side inside the filter 110 during a cycle operation, the life of the filter 110 may be improved.

[0508] Fig.39 An example of a control block diagram and a signal flow of a washing machine according to one embodiment is shown. Fig.40 An example of a control block diagram and a signal flow of a washing machine according to one embodiment is shown. Fig.41 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of a washing machine according to one embodiment when a driving condition of a drain pump is satisfied.

[0509] refer to Fig.39 and Fig.40 , the controller 330 may control various components based on a signal corresponding to a user input received from the user interface 310 .

[0510] The pump device 80 may include a circulation pump 81 and a drainage pump 82 .

[0511] The controller 330 may output a control signal for driving the circulation pump 81 for a circulation operation. The circulation pump 81 may operate based on the control signal of the controller 330.

[0512] The controller 330 may output a control signal for driving the drain pump 82 for a drain operation. The drain pump 82 may operate based on the control signal of the controller 330.

[0513] The controller 330 may output a control signal for driving the motor 180 so as to rotate the blade 140. The motor 180 may operate based on the control signal of the controller 330.

[0514] refer to Fig.39 , the flow path switching device 200 may include a first valve 210 .

[0515] The controller 330 may output a control signal for opening or closing the first valve 210. The first valve 210 may be opened or closed based on the control signal of the controller 330.

[0516] refer to Fig.40 The flow path switching device 200 may include a first valve 210 and a second valve 220 .

[0517] The controller 330 may output a control signal for opening or closing the first valve 210 and the second valve 220. The first valve 210 and the second valve 220 may be opened or closed based on the control signal of the controller 330.

[0518] According to various embodiments, the controller 330 may operate the drain pump 82 and control the first valve 210 to close the circulation pipe 71 .

[0519] In addition, the controller 330 may operate the drain pump 82 , control the first valve 210 to close the circulation pipe 71 , and control the second valve 220 to open the drain pipe 72 .

[0520] According to various embodiments, the controller 330 may operate the drain pump 82 and drive the motor 180 .

[0521] The draining process (1014 and 1023) may be performed in the washing process (1010) and / or the rinsing process (1020). According to various embodiments, the draining process may also be performed in the dehydration process (1030).

[0522] refer to Fig.41 , the controller 330 may drive the drain pump 82 (1200) during the drain process (1014 and 1023). For example, the controller 330 may drive the drain pump 82 based on the drain process (1014 and 1023) having started.

[0523] The controller 330 may control the flow path switching device 200 to close the circulation pipe 71 based on the operation of the drain pump 82 ( 1210 ).

[0524] According to various embodiments, the operation ( 1210 ) of closing the circulation pipe 71 may further include opening the drain pipe 72 .

[0525] That is, the controller 330 may control the flow path switching device 200 to close the circulation pipe 71 and open the drainage pipe 72 based on the operation of the drainage pump 82 .

[0526] In one embodiment, the controller 330 may drive the motor 180 based on the operation of the drain pump 82 ( 1220 ). The blade 140 may rotate by receiving a driving current from the motor 180 .

[0527] That is, when water is introduced into the filter device 100 by the drain pump 82 , the blade 140 may transfer foreign matter collected by the filter 110 to one side inside the filter 110 .

[0528] According to the present disclosure, by quickly transferring foreign matter collected by the filter 110 to one side inside the filter 110 during the drainage process ( 1014 and 1023 ), the life of the filter 110 may be improved.

[0529] Fig.42 An example of a control block diagram and a signal flow of a washing machine according to one embodiment is shown. Fig.43 An example of a control block diagram and a signal flow of a washing machine according to one embodiment is shown. Fig.44 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of a washing machine according to one embodiment when a driving condition of a circulation pump or a drainage pump is satisfied.

[0530] refer to Fig.42 and Fig.43 , the controller 330 may control various components based on a signal corresponding to a user input received from the user interface 310 .

[0531] The pump device 80 may include a pump 81 or 82 .

[0532] The controller 330 may output a control signal for driving the pump 81 or 82 for the circulation operation and the drainage operation. The pump 81 or 82 may operate based on the control signal of the controller 330.

[0533] The controller 330 may output a control signal for driving the motor 180 so as to rotate the blade 140. The motor 180 may operate based on the control signal of the controller 330.

[0534] refer to Fig.42 , the flow path switching device 200 may include a first valve 210 .

[0535] The controller 330 may output a control signal for opening or closing the first valve 210. The first valve 210 may be opened or closed based on the control signal of the controller 330.

[0536] refer to Fig.43 The flow path switching device 200 may include a first valve 210 and a second valve 220 .

[0537] The controller 330 may output a control signal for opening or closing the first valve 210 and the second valve 220. The first valve 210 and the second valve 220 may be opened or closed based on the control signal of the controller 330.

[0538] According to various embodiments, the controller 330 may operate the pump 81 or 82 and control the first valve 210 to close the circulation pipe 71 .

[0539] In addition, the controller 330 may operate the pump 81 or 82 , control the first valve 210 to close the circulation pipe 71 , and control the second valve 220 to open the drain pipe 72 .

[0540] According to various embodiments, the controller 330 may operate the pump 81 or 82 and drive the motor 180 .

[0541] refer to Fig.44 , the controller 330 may drive the pump 81 or 82 ( 1310 ) based on the fact that the drainage process ( 1014 and 1023 ) has started (drainage in 1300 ).

[0542] As described above, the controller 330 may control the flow path switching device 200 to close the circulation pipe 71 ( 1320 ) based on the operation of the pump 81 or 82 in the drainage process ( 1014 and 1023 ).

[0543] Controlling the flow path switching device 200 to close the circulation pipe 71 may include opening the drain pipe 72 .

[0544] In addition, the controller 330 may drive the pump 81 or 82 based on that the cycle operation has started (Cycle in 1300) (1330).

[0545] As described above, the controller 330 may control the flow path switching device 200 to open the circulation pipe 71 based on the operation of the pump 81 or 82 during the circulation operation ( 1340 ).

[0546] Controlling the flow path switching device 200 to open the circulation pipe 71 may include closing the drain pipe 72 .

[0547] The controller 330 may drive the motor 180 based on the operation of the pump 81 or 82 ( 1350 ).

[0548] For example, the controller 330 may drive the motor 180 based on the operation of the pump 81 or 82 during the drainage process ( 1014 and 1023 ).

[0549] As another example, the controller 330 may drive the motor 180 based on the operation of the pump 81 or 82 during the cycle operation.

[0550] According to the present disclosure, by quickly transferring foreign matter collected by the filter 110 to one side inside the filter 110 during a drainage process and / or a circulation operation, the life of the filter 110 may be improved.

[0551] Fig.45 An example of a control block diagram and a signal flow of a washing machine according to one embodiment is shown.

[0552] Fig.46 is a flowchart illustrating a control method of a washing machine according to one embodiment when clogging of a filter is detected.

[0553] refer to Fig.45 , the controller 330 may receive feedback signals from various components.

[0554] In one embodiment, the driving circuit included in the pump device 80 can sense a value related to the load of the circulation pump 81 and / or the drainage pump 82. For example, the value related to the load of the circulation pump 81 and / or the drainage pump 82 may include a driving current value, a power consumption value, and / or a rotation speed value of the circulation pump 81 and / or the drainage pump 82.

[0555] The controller 330 may receive a sensing signal from the pump device 80 related to a load of the pump device 80 .

[0556] In one embodiment, the driving circuit for driving the motor 180 may sense a value related to the load of the motor 180. For example, the value related to the load of the motor 180 may include a driving current value, a power consumption value, and / or a rotation speed value of the motor 180.

[0557] The controller 330 may receive a sensing signal related to the load of the motor 180 from a driving circuit of the motor 180 .

[0558] The controller 330 may detect clogging of the filter 110 based on sensing signals received from various components.

[0559] The controller 330 may output a control signal for controlling the display 14b.

[0560] The controller 330 may control the display 14 b to notify clogging of the filter 110 .

[0561] refer to Fig.46 , the controller 330 may detect clogging of the filter 110 (1400). The state in which the filter 110 is clogged may be a predetermined state in which the filter 110 cannot effectively collect foreign matter.

[0562] According to various embodiments, the controller 330 may detect the load of the circulation pump 81 while operating the circulation pump 81, and may detect the clogging of the filter 110 based on the load value of the circulation pump 81. For example, the controller 330 may detect the clogging of the filter 110 based on the load value of the circulation pump 81 remaining in a state exceeding a preset value for a preset period of time.

[0563] To this end, washing machines 1, 2, 3 and 4 may include a current sensor (not shown) for detecting a driving current applied to the circulation pump 81, a power sensor (not shown) for detecting the power applied to the circulation pump 81 and / or a speed sensor (not shown) for detecting the rotational speed of the circulation pump 81.

[0564] The controller 330 can obtain the load value of the circulation pump 81 while operating the circulation pump 81 based on sensor data obtained from a current sensor (not shown) for detecting the driving current applied to the circulation pump 81, a power sensor (not shown) for detecting the power applied to the circulation pump 81, and / or a speed sensor (not shown) for detecting the rotational speed of the circulation pump 81.

[0565] According to various embodiments, the controller 330 may detect the load of the drain pump 82 while operating the drain pump 82, and detect the clogging of the filter 110 based on the load value of the drain pump 82. For example, the controller 330 may detect the clogging of the filter 110 based on the load value of the drain pump 82 remaining in a state exceeding a preset value for a preset period of time.

[0566] To this end, washing machines 1, 2, 3 and 4 may include a current sensor (not shown) for detecting a driving current applied to the drain pump 82, a power sensor (not shown) for detecting the power applied to the drain pump 82 and / or a speed sensor (not shown) for detecting the rotational speed of the drain pump 82.

[0567] The controller 330 can obtain a load value of the drain pump 82 while operating the drain pump 82 based on sensor data obtained from a current sensor (not shown) for detecting a driving current applied to the drain pump 82, a power sensor (not shown) for detecting the power applied to the drain pump 82, and / or a speed sensor (not shown) for detecting the rotational speed of the drain pump 82.

[0568] According to various embodiments, the controller 330 may detect the load of the motor 180 while operating the motor 180, and detect the clogging of the filter 110 based on the load value of the motor 180. For example, the controller 330 may detect the clogging of the filter 110 based on the load value of the motor 180 remaining in a state exceeding a preset value for a preset period of time.

[0569] The controller 330 may control the user interface 310 to provide feedback informing of the clogging of the filter 110 based on the detection of the clogging of the filter 110 ( 1410 ).

[0570] In one embodiment, controller 330 may control display 14b to output visual feedback indicating clogging of filter 110. Visual feedback indicating clogging of filter 110 may include various visual indicators such as text, shapes, symbols, icons, images, and / or animations.

[0571] In one embodiment, in the case where the user interface 310 includes a speaker, the controller 330 may control the speaker to output auditory feedback indicating the blockage of the filter 110. The auditory feedback indicating the blockage of the filter 110 may include various sounds such as a beep, voice, and the like.

[0572] In the case where the motor 180 is continuously driven when clogging of the filter 110 is detected, not only is there a risk of malfunction of the motor 180 , but also foreign matter in the filter 110 may no longer be transferred to one side.

[0573] The controller 330 may stop driving of the motor 180 based on detection of clogging of the filter 110 ( 1420 ).

[0574] According to the present disclosure, when clogging of the filter 110 is detected, the operation of the motor 180 may be stopped, thereby preventing the occurrence of a malfunction of the motor 180 in advance.

[0575] Specific embodiments have been illustrated and described above. However, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that the present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiments and that various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the technical concept of the present disclosure described in the appended claims.

Claims

1. Washing machine, including: shell; A barrel, disposed inside the housing; a drawer configured to receive detergent to be supplied to the tub; a filter, detachably mounted in the drawer; a drawer housing configured to accommodate the drawer and including an inlet portion configured to allow wash water to flow toward the filter and an outlet portion configured to allow wash water passing through the filter to flow out; a discharge pipe configured to allow the wash water flowing out of the outlet portion to flow and including a circulation pipe configured to guide the wash water to the tub and a drain pipe configured to guide the wash water to the outside of the housing; as well as The flow path switching device is configured to allow the washing water passing through the filter to flow into the circulation pipe or to allow the washing water passing through the filter to flow into the drainage pipe.

2. The washing machine according to claim 1, further comprising: A pump device is configured to pump the wash water in the tub to deliver the wash water to the inlet portion of the drawer housing.

3. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein: The filter can be inserted into the drawer housing or can be removed from the drawer housing when installed in the drawer.

4. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein: The filters include: a first filter port configured to allow filtered wash water to flow out toward the circulation pipe; and The second filter port is configured to allow filtered wash water to flow out toward the drain pipe.

5. The washing machine according to claim 4, wherein: The flow path switching device includes a valve configured to open and close the first filter port, and The washing machine further includes a controller configured to control the valve to close the valve during the draining process.

6. The washing machine according to claim 5, wherein: The valve is a first valve, The flow path switching device further includes a second valve configured to open and close the second filter port, and The controller controls the second valve to open the second valve during the drainage process.

7. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein: The circulation pipe is positioned lower than the drainage pipe, The flow path switching device includes a valve configured to open and close the circulation pipe, and The washing machine further includes a controller configured to control the valve to close the valve during the draining process.

8. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein: The flow path switching device comprises: a first valve configured to open and close the circulation pipe; and a second valve configured to open and close the drain, and The washing machine further includes a controller configured to control the first valve and the second valve to close the first valve and open the second valve during a draining process.

9. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein: The discharge pipe further includes a main pipe extending from the outlet portion, wherein The circulation pipe and the drainage pipe are arranged to branch from the main pipe, and The flow path switching device is provided at a branch point of the circulation pipe and the drainage pipe to open any one of the circulation pipe and the drainage pipe.

10. The washing machine according to claim 3, wherein: The drawer comprises: a detergent receiving portion configured to receive the detergent; and The filter installation portion is configured so that the filter can be installed therein and is arranged parallel to the detergent receiving portion in a direction perpendicular to a direction in which the filter is inserted or withdrawn.

11. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein: The drawer comprises: a first detergent receiving portion configured to receive a first detergent to be supplied to the tub during a washing process; a second detergent receiving portion configured to receive a second detergent to be supplied to the tub during a rinsing process; and A filter installation portion is configured such that the filter can be installed therein and is disposed between the first detergent receiving portion and the second detergent receiving portion.

12. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein: The filter forms a collection space therein, and The collecting space is provided to collect foreign materials contained in the washing water when the washing water flowing from the pump device flows from the inside of the filter to the outside of the filter.

13. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein: The wash water passing through the filter flows between the drawer and the drawer case to flow out through the outlet portion of the drawer case.

14. The washing machine according to claim 13, wherein: The drawer case has a shape inclined downward toward the outlet portion to guide wash water flowing between the drawer and the drawer case to the outlet portion.

15. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein: The drawer further includes a detergent receiving portion capable of receiving the detergent; and The washing machine further includes a detergent pump disposed at a rear portion of the drawer case and configured to pump the detergent received in the detergent receiving portion to deliver the pumped detergent to the drawer case.

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