Filter device and clothes treating apparatus having same

Abstract

A filter device, which may be provided on an exterior of a washing machine and may be connected to a drainage device of the washing machine, includes: a filter housing; a filter removably mounted in the filter housing; a filter path formed in the filter housing such that water passes through the filter when the filter is mounted in the filter housing; a bypass path formed in the filter housing such that water bypasses the filter when the filter is mounted in the filter housing; at least one sensor for acquiring information related to a state of the filter; an opening and closing device for opening and closing the bypass path to guide water flowing from the drainage device into the filter housing to the filtration path or the bypass path; and a control unit for controlling the opening and closing device on the basis of the acquired information relating to the state of the filter.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a filter device connectable to a washing machine and a clothes treating device having the filter device. Background Art

[0002] A washing machine is an apparatus for washing clothes put into the inside of a tub by friction by stirring the clothes, water, and detergent together using the driving force of a driving motor.

[0003] Regardless of the type of washing machine, operations performed by the washing machine include: a washing operation for washing clothes put into a tub by supplying detergent and water to the tub and rotating the drum; a rinsing operation for rinsing the clothes by supplying water to the tub and rotating the drum; and a dehydration operation for dehydrating water from the clothes by draining water from the tub and rotating the drum.

[0004] The washing machine includes a drainage device configured to drain water stored in a tub to the outside of the washing machine when performing a washing operation, a rinsing operation and / or a dehydration operation. The drainage device is configured to drain water drained from the tub to the tub again when performing a washing operation and / or a rinsing operation. Summary of the invention

[0005] Technical issues

[0006] Aspects of the present disclosure provide an easily manageable filter device and a clothes treating device having the filter device.

[0007] Aspects of the present disclosure provide a filter device capable of increasing a replacement cycle of a filter and a clothes treating device having the filter device.

[0008] Aspects of the present disclosure provide a filter device capable of draining water from the filter device even if a portion of a filter is clogged, and a clothes treating device having the filter device.

[0009] Aspects of the present disclosure provide a filter device capable of preventing an operation of the filter device from being stopped even if a portion of a filter is clogged, and a clothes treating device having the filter device.

[0010] The technical objectives of the present disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned technical objectives, and other technical objectives not described herein will also be clearly understood by ordinary technicians in the technical field to which the present disclosure belongs from the following detailed description.

[0011] Technical Solution

[0012] According to the concept of the present disclosure, a filter device can be positioned outside a washing machine and can be connected to a drainage device of the washing machine, and the filter device includes: a filter housing; a filter that is detachably mounted inside the filter housing; a filtering flow path formed inside the filter housing so that when the filter is mounted inside the filter housing, water passes through the filter; a bypass flow path formed inside the filter housing so that when the filter is mounted inside the filter housing, water bypasses the filter; at least one sensor configured to obtain information about the state of the filter; an opening and closing device configured to open and close the bypass flow path to guide water flowing from the drainage device into the filter housing to the filtering flow path or the bypass flow path; and a controller configured to control the opening and closing device based on the information obtained about the state of the filter.

[0013] According to the concept of the present disclosure, a clothes processing device includes: a washing machine including a washing machine housing, a tub inside the washing machine housing, and a drainage device configured to drain water from the tub to the outside of the washing machine housing; and a filter device, which is arranged outside the washing machine housing and connected to the drainage device. The filter device includes: a filter housing; a filter, which is detachably mounted inside the filter housing; at least one sensor, which is configured to obtain information about the state of the filter; an opening and closing device, which is configured to guide water flowing from the drainage device into the filter housing to pass through the filter or bypass the filter; and a controller, which is configured to control the opening and closing device based on the information obtained about the state of the filter, the state of the filter being related to the clogging of the filter. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] These and / or other embodiments of the present disclosure will become apparent and more easily understood from the following description of the embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0015] Figure 1 A clothes treating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0016] Figure 2 The embodiment according to the present disclosure is shown Figure 1 A cross section of a washing machine is shown in FIG.

[0017] Figure 3 is a control block diagram of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 4 A clothes treating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0019] Figure 5 The embodiment according to the present disclosure is shown Figure 4 A cross section of a washing machine is shown in FIG.

[0020] Figure 6 The embodiment according to the present disclosure is shown Figure 1 and Figure 3 The interior of the filter device is shown in FIG.

[0021] Figure 7 According to the embodiments of the present disclosure Figure 6 Exploded view of the filter assembly shown in .

[0022] Figure 8 In with Figure 7 Different directions show the embodiments according to the present disclosure. Figure 7 The filter arrangement shown in FIG.

[0023] Fig. 9 An exploded view of an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 6 The filter and handle configuration shown in .

[0024] Fig.10 From Fig. 9 Different orientations are shown according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Fig. 9 The filter and handle configuration shown in .

[0025] Fig.11 The embodiment according to the present disclosure is shown Figure 6 A cross section of some components of the filter device is shown in FIG.

[0026] Fig.12 The magnetic body is shown as foreign matter is collected in the embodiment according to the present disclosure. Fig.11 The state of movement inside the filter is shown in FIG.

[0027] Fig.13 It is shown that when determining the embodiment according to the present disclosure Fig.12 Flow of water along the bypass flow path when the filter shown in FIG. 1 is clogged.

[0028] Fig.14 Configurations of filter devices according to embodiments of the present disclosure and signal flows between the configurations are shown.

[0029] Fig.15 A flow chart showing a control method of a filter device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0030] Fig.16 Configurations of filter devices according to embodiments of the present disclosure and signal flows between the configurations are shown.

[0031] Fig.17 A flow chart showing a control method of a filter device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0032] Fig.18 Configurations of filter devices according to embodiments of the present disclosure and signal flows between the configurations are shown.

[0033] Fig.19 A flow chart showing a control method of a filter device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0034] Fig. 20 Shown are cross-sections of some components of a filter device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Fig.21 Shown are cross-sections of some components of a filter device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] Fig. 22 A filter device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0037] Fig.23 A filter device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0038] Fig.24 The embodiment according to the present disclosure is shown Fig.23 The configuration of the filter device and the signal flow between the configurations are shown in .

[0039] Fig.25 The embodiment according to the present disclosure is shown Fig.23 Flow chart of a control method of a filter device shown in . DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] It should be understood that the various embodiments of the present disclosure and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described herein to specific embodiments, but include various changes, equivalents, or replacements for the corresponding embodiments.

[0041] With regard to the description of the drawings, like reference numerals may be used to refer to like or related elements.

[0042] It will be understood that nouns in the singular form corresponding to items may include one or more items unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0043] As used herein, 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 or all possible combinations of the items listed with the corresponding one of the phrases.

[0044] The term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0045] As used herein, terms such as “1st” and “2nd” or “first” and “second” may be used to simply distinguish a corresponding component from another component and do not limit the component in other aspects (eg, importance or order).

[0046] It will be understood that if a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as being "coupled to another component (e.g., the second component)", "coupled to another component (e.g., the second component)", "connected to another component (e.g., the second component)" or "connected to another component (e.g., the second component)" with or without the terms "operably" or "communicatively", it means that the component can be directly (e.g., wired) coupled to another component, wirelessly coupled to another component, or coupled to another component via a third element.

[0047] It will be understood that terms such as “include” or “have” are intended to indicate the presence of features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or a combination thereof disclosed in the specification, and are not intended to exclude the possibility that one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or a combination thereof may exist or may be added.

[0048] It will be understood that if a component is referred to as being “coupled to another component,” “coupled to another component,” “supported on another component,” or “in contact with another component,” it means that the component may be directly coupled to another component or indirectly coupled to another component via a third component.

[0049] It will also be understood that if a component is referred to as being "on" or "over" another component, it can be directly on the other component or intervening components may also be present.

[0050] The washing machine according to various embodiments may perform a washing operation, a rinsing operation, a draining operation, and a dehydration operation. The washing machine may also be a drying combination washing machine capable of performing a drying operation on dehydrated clothes. The washing machine may be an example of a clothes processing device. The clothes processing device is a concept including an apparatus for washing clothes (objects to be washed or dried), an apparatus for drying clothes, and an apparatus capable of washing and drying clothes.

[0051] The washing machine according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may include a top-loading washing machine in which an inlet through which laundry is put into the top-loading washing machine is provided upward, or a front-loading washing machine in which an inlet through which laundry is put into the front-loading washing machine is provided forward. The washing machine according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may include another loading type washing machine in addition to the top-loading washing machine and the front-loading washing machine.

[0052] A top-loading washing machine may wash clothes by using a water flow generated by a rotating body such as a pulsator. A front-loading washing machine may wash clothes by rotating a drum to repeatedly lift and lower the clothes. A front-loading washing machine may include a lifter for lifting clothes. A front-loading washing machine may include a drying combination washing machine capable of drying clothes stored in a drum. A drying combination washing machine may include a heating device using high-temperature air. A drying combination washing machine may also include a condensing device using dry air. For example, a drying combination washing machine may include a heat pump. Washing machines according to various embodiments of the present disclosure may include washing machines using another washing method in addition to washing machines using the above-mentioned washing method.

[0053] Hereinafter, a washing machine according to various embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0054] Figure 1 A clothes treating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 A cross section of a washing machine is shown in FIG.

[0055] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , the washing machine 10 of the clothes treating apparatus 1 may include a washing machine housing 11 in which various components are accommodated. The washing machine housing 11 may form an appearance of the washing machine 10. The washing machine housing 11 may have a shape of a box that is at least partially opened.

[0056] The washing machine housing 11 may include a housing opening 12 for allowing access to the interior of the drum 30. The housing opening 12 may be generally open forward.

[0057] The washing machine 10 may include a door 13 for opening or closing a housing opening 12 provided in the washing machine housing 11. The door 13 may be rotatably mounted on the washing machine housing 11 by a hinge 14. At least a portion of the door 13 may be transparent or translucent to show the interior of the washing machine housing 11.

[0058] The washing machine 10 may include a tub 20 disposed inside the washing machine housing 11 to store water. The tub 20 may be disposed inside the washing machine housing 11. The tub 20 may include a tub opening 22 disposed to correspond to the housing opening 12. The tub opening 22 may be substantially open forward. The tub 20 may be supported on an inner surface of the washing machine housing 11. The tub 20 may have a substantially cylindrical shape with one side thereof open.

[0059] The tub 20 may be elastically supported from the washing machine housing 11 by the damper 80. The damper 80 may connect the tub 20 to the washing machine housing 11. When vibration generated according to the rotation of the drum 30 is transmitted to the tub 20 and / or the washing machine housing 11, the damper 80 may absorb vibration energy between the tub 20 and the washing machine housing 11 to reduce the vibration.

[0060] The washing machine 10 may include a drum 30 for accommodating laundry. The drum 30 may be rotatably disposed inside the tub 20. The drum 30 may perform washing, rinsing, and / or dehydration while rotating inside the tub 20. The drum 30 may include a through hole 34 connecting the inner space of the drum 30 to the inner space of the tub 20. The drum 30 may have a substantially cylindrical shape with one side open. On the inner circumferential surface of the drum 30, at least one lifter 35 may be provided to lift and lower the laundry according to the rotation of the drum 30.

[0061] The drum 30 may include a drum opening 32 corresponding to the housing opening 12 and the tub opening 22. Clothes may be put into or taken out of the drum 30 through the housing opening 12, the tub opening 22, and the drum opening 32.

[0062] The washing machine 10 may include a washing machine driver 40 configured to rotate the drum 30. The washing machine driver 40 may include a driving motor 41 and a rotating shaft 42 for transmitting a driving force generated in the driving motor 41 to the drum 30. The rotating shaft 42 may penetrate the tub 20 and be connected to the drum 30.

[0063] The washing machine 10 may be classified into a direct drive type in which a rotating shaft 42 is directly connected to a driving motor 41 to rotate the drum 30 and an indirect drive type in which a pulley 43 is connected between the driving motor 41 and the rotating shaft 42 to drive the drum 30 .

[0064] The washing machine 10 according to the embodiment may be arranged in an indirect drive type, but may also be arranged in a direct drive type without being limited thereto.

[0065] One end of the rotating shaft 42 may be connected to the drum 30, and the other end of the rotating shaft 42 may be connected to the pulley 43 to obtain driving force from the driving motor 41. The motor pulley 41a may be formed on the rotating shaft of the driving motor 41. The driving belt 44 is provided between the motor pulley 41a and the pulley 43 so that the rotating shaft 42 can be driven by the driving belt 44.

[0066] In the rear portion of the tub 20, a bearing housing 45 may be installed to rotatably support the rotating shaft 42. The bearing housing 45 may be made of an aluminum alloy, and may be inserted into the rear portion of the tub 20 at the time of injection-molding of the tub 20.

[0067] The washing machine driver 40 may be configured to perform washing, rinsing, and / or dehydrating or drying operations by rotating the drum 30 forwardly or reversely.

[0068] The washing machine 10 may include a water supply device 50. The water supply device 50 may supply water to the tub 20. The water supply device 50 may be positioned above the tub 20. The water supply device 50 may include a water supply pipe 51 and a water supply valve 56 disposed in the water supply pipe 51. The water supply pipe 51 may be connected to an external water supply source. The water supply pipe 51 may extend from the external water supply source to the detergent supply device 60 and / or the tub 20. Water may be supplied to the tub 20 via the detergent supply device 60. Water may not be supplied to the tub 20 via the detergent supply device 60.

[0069] The water supply valve 56 may open or close the water supply pipe 51 in response to an electrical signal from the controller 90. The water supply valve 56 may allow or block the supply of water from an external water supply source to the tub 20. The water supply valve 56 may include, for example, a solenoid valve that opens or closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0070] The washing machine 10 may include a detergent supply device 60 configured to supply detergent to the tub 20. The detergent supply device 60 may supply detergent to the inside of the tub 20 during the water supply process. The water supplied through the water supply pipe 51 may be mixed with the detergent via the detergent supply device 60. The water mixed with the detergent may be supplied to the inside of the tub 20. The detergent may include a softener, a deodorant, a disinfectant, or an air freshener for a dryer, as well as a detergent for washing. The detergent supply device 60 may be connected to the tub 20 through a connecting pipe 61.

[0071] The washing machine 10 may include a drainage device 70. The drainage device 70 may be configured to drain water contained in the tub 20 to the outside. The drainage device 70 may include a drainage pump 73 for draining water from the tub 20 to the outside of the washing machine housing 11, a connection hose 71 connecting the tub 20 and the drainage pump 73 so that the water inside the tub 20 flows into the drainage pump 73, and a drainage hose 74 for guiding the water pumped by the drainage pump 73 to the outside of the washing machine housing 11. The drainage device 70 may include a drainage valve 72 provided on the connection hose 71 to open and close the connection hose 71.

[0072] The washing machine 10 may provide a user interface device 15 for interaction between a user and the washing machine 10 .

[0073] The washing machine 10 may include at least one user interface device 15. The user interface device 15 may include at least one input interface 16 and at least one output interface 17.

[0074] The at least one input interface 16 may convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0075] At least one input interface 16 may include a power button, an operation button, a process selection dial (or a process selection button), and a wash / rinse / spin setting button. At least one input interface 16 may include, for example, a touch switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a knob dial, and / or a microphone, etc.

[0076] The at least one output interface 17 may transmit various data related to the operation of the washing machine 10 to the user by generating sensory information.

[0077] For example, at least one output interface 17 may send information related to a washing process, an operation time of the washing machine 10, and a washing setting / rinsing setting / spinning setting to a user. Information on the operation of the washing machine 10 may be output through a screen, an indicator, or voice. The at least one output interface 17 may include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0078] The clothes treating apparatus 1 may include a filter device 100 that is disposed to be connectable to the drain device 70 of the washing machine 10. The filter device 100 may be disposed outside the washing machine 10. The filter device 100 may be disposed to filter foreign matter from water discharged from the washing machine 10. The filter device 100 may be disposed to filter foreign matter having a size smaller than that of foreign matter filterable by the washing machine 10. For example, the filter device 100 may be disposed to filter foreign matter having a size smaller than that of foreign matter filterable by the drain device 70 of the washing machine 10.

[0079] Figure 3 is a control block diagram of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0080] In an embodiment, the washing machine 10 may include a user interface device 15 , a driver 40 , a water supply device 50 , a drainage device 70 , a sensor unit 95 , a communicator 96 , and a controller 90 .

[0081] The user interface device 15 may provide a user interface for interaction between the user and the washing machine 10 .

[0082] The user interface device 15 may include at least one input interface 16 and at least one output interface 17 .

[0083] The at least one input interface 16 may convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0084] At least one input interface 16 may include a power button, an operation button, a process selection dial (or a process selection button), and a wash / rinse / spin setting button. For example, at least one input interface 16 may include a touch switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a knob dial, and / or a microphone, etc.

[0085] The at least one output interface 17 may transmit various data related to the operation of the washing machine 10 to the user by generating sensory information.

[0086] For example, at least one output interface 17 may send information related to a washing process, an operation time of the washing machine 10, and a washing setting / rinsing setting / spinning setting to a user. Information on the operation of the washing machine 10 may be output through a screen, an indicator, or voice. The at least one output interface 17 may include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0087] The driver 40 may include a driving motor 41 that provides a driving force to rotate the drum 30. The driver 40 may operate based on a control signal from the controller 90.

[0088] The water supply device 50 may include a water supply valve 56 for opening and closing a water supply pipe 51 extending from an external water source to the detergent supply device 60 and / or the tub 20. The water supply valve 56 may be opened and closed based on a control signal from the controller 90.

[0089] The drainage device 70 may include a drainage pump 73 for draining water from the tub 20 to the outside of the washing machine housing 11. The drainage pump 73 may operate based on a control signal of the controller 90.

[0090] The sensor unit 95 may include at least one sensor that obtains information related to an operating state of the washing machine 10 .

[0091] For example, the sensor unit 95 may include at least one of a water level sensor for detecting the water level in the barrel, a sensor for detecting the operating status of the driver 40, a flow sensor for detecting the flow rate flowing into the barrel 20 through the water supply device 50, or a sensor for detecting the operating status of the drainage device 70.

[0092] The sensor for detecting the operating state of the driver 40 may include, for example, a current sensor for measuring a driving current applied to the driving motor 41 , but is not limited thereto.

[0093] The sensor for detecting the operating state of the drain device 70 may include, for example, a current sensor for measuring a driving current applied to the drain pump 73 , but is not limited thereto.

[0094] The washing machine 10 may include a communicator 96 for wired and / or wireless communication with an external device.

[0095] The communicator 96 may include at least one of a short-range communicator and a long-range communicator.

[0096] The communicator 96 may send data to or receive data from an external device (e.g., a server, a user device, a home appliance, and / or the filter device 100). For example, the communicator 96 may establish communication with a server and / or a user device and / or a home appliance, and send / receive various data.

[0097] To this end, the communicator 96 can establish a direct (wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel with an external electronic device (e.g., a server, a user terminal and / or a household appliance), and support communication through the established communication channel. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the communicator 96 may include a wireless communicator (e.g., a cellular communicator, a short-range wireless communicator or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communicator) or a wired communicator (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communicator or a power line communicator). The corresponding communicator in these communicators can communicate with the external electronic device through a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network, such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct connection or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a telecommunications network, such as a traditional cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet or a computer network (e.g., a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN))). These various types of communicators can be integrated into a component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple independent components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0098] Short-range wireless communicators may include Bluetooth communicators, Bluetooth low energy (BLE) communicators, near field communicators (Near Field Communicator), WLAN (Wi-Fi) communicators, ZigBee communicators, Infrared Data Association (IrDA) communicators, Wi-Fi Direct (WFD) communicators, ultra-wideband (UWB) communicators, Ant+ communicators, microwave (uWave) communicators, etc., but are not limited to these.

[0099] The remote communicator may include a communicator that performs various types of remote communications, and may include a mobile communication unit.

[0100] In an embodiment, the communicator can communicate with external devices such as servers, user devices or other household appliances through a nearby access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect the local area network (LAN) to which the washing machine 10 or the user device is connected to the wide area network (WAN) to which the server is connected. The washing machine 10 or the user device can be connected to the server through a wide area network (WAN). The controller 90 can control various components of the washing machine 10 (e.g., the driver 40 and the water supply device 50). The controller 90 can control the various components of the washing machine 10 according to user input to perform at least one operation including water supply, washing, rinsing and / or dehydration. For example, the controller 90 can control the drive motor 41 to adjust the rotation speed of the drum 30, or control the water supply valve 56 of the water supply device 50 to supply water to the barrel 20.

[0101] The controller 90 may include hardware such as a CPU or a memory and software such as a control program. For example, the controller 90 may include an algorithm for controlling the operation of components in the washing machine 10, at least one memory 92 storing data in the form of a program, and at least one processor 91 using the data stored in the at least one memory to perform the above operations. The memory 92 and the processor 91 may be implemented as separate chips. The processor 91 may include one or more processor chips, or may include one or more processing cores. The memory 92 may include one or more memory chips, or may include one or more memory blocks. In addition, the memory 92 and the processor 91 may be implemented as a single chip.

[0102] Figure 4 A clothes treating device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 5 Shows Figure 4 A cross section of a washing machine is shown in FIG.

[0103] like Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown in FIG. 1 , a washing machine 10a of a clothes treating apparatus 1a may include a housing 11a in which various components are accommodated. The housing 11a may form an appearance of the washing machine 10a. The housing 11a may have a box shape with a portion thereof opened.

[0104] The housing 11a may include a housing opening 12a formed to be accessible to the inside of the drum 30a. The housing opening 12a may be substantially opened upward.

[0105] The washing machine 10a may include a door 13a for opening and closing a housing opening 12a provided in the housing 11a. The door 13a may be rotatably mounted to the housing 11a by a hinge. At least a portion of the door 13a may be transparent or translucent so that the interior of the housing 11a can be seen.

[0106] The washing machine 10a may include a tub 20a disposed inside the housing 11a to store water. The tub 20a may be disposed inside the housing 11a. The tub 20a may include a tub opening 22a disposed to correspond to the housing opening 12a. The tub opening 22a may be substantially opened upward. The tub 20a may be supported inside the housing 11a. The tub 20a may have a substantially cylindrical shape with one side open.

[0107] The tub 20a may be elastically supported from the housing 11a by the damper 80a. The damper 80a may connect the housing 11a and the tub 20a. When the vibration generated by the rotation of the drum 30a is transmitted to the tub 20a and / or the housing 11a, the damper 80a may be configured to attenuate the vibration by absorbing the vibration energy between the tub 20a and the housing 11a.

[0108] The washing machine 10a may include a drum 30a configured to accommodate laundry. The drum 30a may be rotatably disposed inside the tub 20a. The drum 30a may rotate within the tub 20a to perform washing, rinsing and / or dehydration. The drum 30a may include a through hole 34a connecting the inner space of the drum 30a and the inner space of the tub 20a. The drum 30a may have a substantially cylindrical shape with one side open.

[0109] The balancing unit 36a may be mounted on the top of the drum 30a to solve the load imbalance caused by the clothes. The balancing unit 36a includes a housing having an annular channel and a ball mass body or a fluid mass body movably disposed inside the channel, and when the ball or the fluid moves according to the rotation of the drum 30a, the load imbalance of the drum 30a may be solved.

[0110] The pulsator 37a is rotatably disposed at the bottom of the drum 30a to generate a wash water flow. The laundry may be washed by the wash water flow generated by the pulsator 37a.

[0111] The drum 30a may include a drum opening 32a disposed to correspond to the housing opening 12a and the tub opening 22a. Clothes may be put into or taken out of the drum 30a through the housing opening 12a, the tub opening 22a, and the drum opening 32a.

[0112] The washing machine 10a may include a washing machine driver 40a configured to rotate the drum 30a and the pulsator 37a. The washing machine driver 40a may include a driving motor 41a and a shaft system for transmitting a driving force generated by the driving motor 41a to the drum 30a and the pulsator 37a.

[0113] The driving motor 41 a may include a fixed stator 48 a and a rotor 49 a that rotates by electromagnetic interaction with the stator 48 a .

[0114] The shaft system may include a dehydration shaft 47a arranged to transmit the driving force of the drive motor 41a to the drum 30a, a washing shaft 46a arranged to transmit the driving force of the drive motor 41a to the pulsator 37a, and a clutch device 45a connecting or disconnecting the drive motor 41a and the dehydration shaft 47a.

[0115] The dehydration shaft 47a is formed to have a hollow, and the washing shaft 46a can be arranged in the hollow of the dehydration shaft 47a. The washing shaft 46a remains connected to the rotor 49a of the drive motor 41a, and the dehydration shaft 47a can be connected to the rotor 49a of the drive motor 41a or disconnected from the rotor 49a of the drive motor 41a through the clutch device 45a.

[0116] When the clutch device 45a disconnects the dehydration shaft 47a and the drive motor 41a, power is transmitted to the washing shaft 46a, so that only the pulsator 37a rotates, and when the clutch device 45a connects the dehydration shaft 47a and the drive motor 41a, power is transmitted to both the dehydration shaft 47a and the washing shaft 46a, so that the drum 30a and the pulsator 37a can rotate simultaneously.

[0117] When only the pulsator 37a rotates, a wash water flow is generated by the rotation of the pulsator 37a, and the clothes are rotated by the wash water flow and rubbed with the drum 30a, so that the clothes can be washed. When the pulsator 37a and the drum 30a rotate simultaneously, the clothes inside the drum 30a are rotated, and the clothes are dehydrated by centrifugal force, so that the clothes can be dehydrated.

[0118] Washing machine 10a may include water supply device 50a. Water supply device 50a may supply water to tub 20a. Water supply device 50a may be positioned above tub 20a. Water supply device 50a may include a water supply pipe and a water supply valve disposed in the water supply pipe. The water supply pipe may be connected to an external water supply source. The water supply pipe may extend from an external water supply source to detergent supply device 60a and / or tub 20a. Water may be supplied to tub 20a via detergent supply device 60a. Water may be supplied to tub 20a without passing through detergent supply device 60a.

[0119] The water supply valve may open or close the water supply pipe in response to an electrical signal from the controller. The water supply valve may allow or prevent the supply of water from an external water supply source to the tub 20a. The water supply valve may include, for example, a solenoid valve that opens and closes in response to an electrical signal.

[0120] The washing machine 10a may include a detergent supply device 60a configured to supply detergent to the tub 20a. The detergent supply device 60a may be configured to supply detergent to the tub 20a during the water supply process. The water supplied by the water supply pipe may be mixed with the detergent via the detergent supply device 60a. The water mixed with the detergent may be supplied to the tub 20a. The detergent may include not only laundry detergent but also dryer rinse agent, deodorant, disinfectant or fragrance.

[0121] The washing machine 10a may include a drain device 70a. The drain device 70a may be configured to drain the water contained in the tub 20a to the outside. A drain port 21a may be formed at a lower portion of the tub 20a to drain the water stored in the tub 20a to the outside of the tub 20a. A drain hose 74a may be connected to the drain port 21a, and a drain valve 72a for opening and closing the drain hose 74a may be provided in the drain hose 74a.

[0122] The washing machine 10a may include at least one user interface device 15a for interaction between a user and the washing machine 10a. The user interface device 15a may include at least one input interface 16a and at least one output interface 17b.

[0123] The at least one input interface 16a may convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0124] At least one input interface 16a may include a power button, an operation button, a process selection dial (or a process selection button), and a wash / rinse / spin setting button. At least one input interface 16a may include, for example, a touch switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a knob dial, and / or a microphone.

[0125] The at least one output interface 17b may transmit various data related to the operation of the washing machine 10a to the user by generating sensory information.

[0126] For example, at least one output interface 17b may send information related to a washing process, an operation time of the washing machine 10a, and a washing setting / rinsing setting / spinning setting to a user. Information about the operation of the washing machine 10a may be output through a screen, an indicator, or voice. At least one output interface 17b may include, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, a speaker, etc.

[0127] The clothes treating apparatus 1a may include Figure 1 and Figure 2 The filter device 100 is the same as the filter device 100 shown in . For example, the filter device 100 according to the embodiment can be connected to a front loading washing machine or a top loading washing machine. The filter device 100 can be configured to be connectable to the drainage device 70a of the washing machine 10a. The filter device 100 can be arranged outside the washing machine 10a. The filter device 100 can be configured to filter foreign matter from water discharged from the washing machine 10a. The filter device 100 can be configured to filter foreign matter having a size smaller than the size of foreign matter filterable by the washing machine 10a. For example, the filter device 100 can be configured to filter foreign matter having a size smaller than the size of foreign matter filterable by the drainage device 70a of the washing machine 10a.

[0128] and Figure 3 The same control configuration as shown in the control configuration of the washing machine 10 can be applied to Figure 4 and Figure 5 The washing machine 10a of the clothes treating apparatus 1a is shown in FIG.

[0129] Figure 6 Shows Figure 1 and Figure 3 The interior of the filter device is shown in FIG. Figure 7 yes Figure 6 Exploded view of the filter assembly shown in . Figure 8 In with Figure 7 Different directions are shown Figure 7 The filter arrangement shown in FIG. Fig. 9 The exploded view shows Figure 6 The filter and handle configuration shown in . Fig.10 From Fig. 9 Different orientations are shown Fig. 9 The filter and handle configuration shown in . Fig.11 Shows Figure 6 A cross section of some components of the filter device is shown in FIG.

[0130] refer to Figures 6 to 8 , the filter device 100 according to the embodiment may include a filter housing 101 accommodating various components. The filter housing 101 may include a housing body 102, a housing cover 103, and a housing bracket 104. For example, the housing body 102, the housing cover 103, and the housing bracket 104 may be provided as separate components. For example, the housing body 102 may be formed integrally with the housing cover 103. For example, the housing body 102 may be formed integrally with the housing bracket 104. For example, the housing cover 103 may be formed integrally with the housing bracket 104. For example, the housing body 102 may be formed integrally with the housing cover 103 and the housing bracket 104.

[0131] The housing body 102 may form a space for accommodating various components. The housing body 102 may have a substantially U-shaped shape in a cross section perpendicular to a direction in which a filter 120 accommodated in the housing body 102 extends. The housing body 102 may have a box shape with an open front surface, a rear surface, and a top surface. The housing body 102 may be detachably coupled to the housing cover 103 and / or the housing bracket 104.

[0132] The housing body 102 may include a housing inlet 102a for receiving water into the interior of the filter device 100 and a housing outlet 102b for discharging water from the interior of the filter device 100 to the exterior of the filter device 100. The housing inlet 102a and / or the housing outlet 102b may be positioned at a lower portion of the housing body 102.

[0133] The housing inlet 102a may be connected to the drain hose 74 of the washing machine 10 and the drain hose 74a of the washing machine 10a. The housing outlet 102b may be connected to the drain line 105.

[0134] The housing cover 103 may be provided to cover the opened front surface and upper surface of the housing body 102. The housing cover 103 may be detachably coupled to the housing body 102 and / or the housing bracket 104. The housing cover 103 may include a cover opening 103a formed to allow the filter 120 to pass therethrough. The housing cover 103 may include a mounting portion 103b on which the user interface device 197 is mounted. At least a portion of the user interface device 197 may be exposed to the outside of the filter device 100 through the mounting portion 103b.

[0135] The housing bracket 104 may be provided to cover the opened rear surface of the housing body 102. The housing bracket 104 may be detachably coupled to the housing body 102 and / or the housing cover 103. The housing bracket 104 may include a cable opening 104a formed to allow the power cable 109 to pass therethrough. The housing bracket 104 may include a connector mounting portion 104b formed to connect a connector 108 for communicating with an external device including the washing machine 10 or the like.

[0136] The filter device 100 may include a filter housing 110 positioned inside the filter case 101. The filter housing 110 may form a flow path through which water flowing into the filter device 100 passes. The filter housing 110 may be configured to accommodate a filter 120. The filter housing 110 may include a housing body 111 and a housing cover 112.

[0137] The housing body 111 may extend in a direction in which the filter 120 accommodated in the housing body 111 extends. The housing body 111 may include a housing opening 111a formed to allow the filter 120 to pass therethrough. The housing opening 111a may be arranged to correspond to the cover opening 103a. The housing opening 111a is positioned closer to the housing outlet 111b than the housing inlet 112a, and may be arranged so that the filter 120 can pass therethrough.

[0138] The housing body 111 may include a housing outlet 111b for discharging water flowing into the filter housing 110 from the filter housing 110. The housing outlet 111b may be positioned at a lower portion of the housing body 111. The housing outlet 111b may be positioned adjacent to the housing opening 111a. The housing outlet 111b may be positioned near the other end opposite to one end where the filter opening 120a of the filter 120 is positioned. The housing outlet 111b may be positioned closer to the second filter portion 122 than the first filter portion 121 of the filter 120.

[0139] The housing outlet 111b may be connected to the case outlet 102b. The filter device 100 may include a discharge guide 107 for connecting the housing outlet 111b and the case outlet 102b.

[0140] The housing cover 112 may be detachably coupled to the other end of the housing body 111 opposite to the end where the housing opening 111a is located. For example, the housing cover 112 may be integrally formed with the housing body 111.

[0141] The housing cover 112 may include a housing inlet 112a through which water flows into the filter housing 110. The housing inlet 112a may be connected to the case inlet 102a. The filter device 100 may include an inflow guide 106 for connecting the housing inlet 112a and the case inlet 102a.

[0142] The housing cover 112 may include a motor mounting portion 112b for mounting the filter cleaning device 130 thereon. The motor mounting portion 112b may be positioned above the housing inlet 112a. The cleaning motor 136 of the filter cleaning device 130 may be mounted on the motor mounting portion 112b.

[0143] The filter device 100 may include a filter 120 detachably coupled to the filter housing 110. The filter 120 may be configured to filter fine-sized foreign matter. The filter 120 may be configured to filter microplastics having a size of about 5 mm or less. The filter 120 may include a mesh filter. The filter 120 may extend generally between the housing inlet 112a and the housing outlet 111b.

[0144] When the filter 120 is mounted on the filter housing 110, the filter 120 may include a filter opening 120a opened toward the housing inlet 112a. Water flowing into the filter housing 110 through the housing inlet 112a may move into the filter 120 through the filter opening 120a.

[0145] The filter 120 may include a first filter portion 121 and a second filter portion 122. The first filter portion 121 may be positioned closer to the housing inlet 112a than the second filter portion 122. In the water flowing into the filter housing 110, foreign matter may be filtered through the first filter portion 121, or may not be filtered in the first filter portion 121, and after passing through the first filter portion 121, the foreign matter may be filtered in the second filter portion 122. The first filter portion 121 and the second filter portion 122 may be arranged in sequence along the direction in which the filter 120 extends. Foreign matter transferred from the first filter portion 121 may be collected in the second filter portion 122 by the filter cleaning device 130.

[0146] When the filter 120 is mounted on the filter housing 110, the filter device 100 may include a handle 129 at least partially exposed to the outside of the filter housing 101. The handle 129 may be detachably coupled to the filter 120. When the handle 129 is detachably coupled to the filter 120, the filter 120 may be easily maintained and / or repaired. The handle 129 may be rotated and coupled to the cover opening 103a and / or the housing opening 111a.

[0147] The filter device 100 may include a filter cleaning device 130 for cleaning the filter 120. The filter cleaning device 130 may be mounted on the filter housing 110. The filter cleaning device 130 may include a cleaning member 131 for cleaning a surface of the filter 120 through which foreign matter is filtered, and a cleaning driving device 135 for driving the cleaning member 131.

[0148] The cleaning member 131 may be positioned inside the filter 120. The cleaning member 131 may be arranged to correspond to the first filter portion 121 of the filter 120. The cleaning member 131 may have a blade 131a extending in a spiral. The blade 131a may extend in a radial direction from the rotation axis of the cleaning member 131. The cleaning member 131 may be arranged to contact the surface of the filter 120 through which foreign matter is filtered. The cleaning member 131 may be arranged to contact the inner surface of the filter 120. For example, the cleaning member 131 may include a plurality of brushes.

[0149] When the cleaning member 131 is driven by the cleaning drive device 135, the cleaning member 131 may be arranged to transfer foreign matter filtered from a portion of the filter 120 closer to the housing inlet 112a to a portion of the filter 120 closer to the housing outlet 111b of the filter 120. The cleaning member 131 may be arranged to transfer foreign matter filtered by the first filter portion 121 to the second filter portion 122. For example, the cleaning member 131 may be rotatably arranged inside the filter 120. The cleaning member 131 may include a flexible material. The cleaning member 131 rotates in contact with the filter 120, and may clean foreign matter filtered by the filter 120. When the cleaning member 131 is driven in contact with the filter 120, the cleaning member 131 may scrape and remove foreign matter attached to the surface of the filter 120 through which foreign matter is filtered. For example, the cleaning member 131 may be slidably arranged inside the filter 120.

[0150] When the cleaning member 131 is configured to transfer foreign matter filtered by the first filter portion 121 to the second filter portion 122 and water flowing into the filter housing 110 flows from the first filter portion 121 to the second filter portion 122, the foreign matter filtered by the first filter portion 121 can be effectively collected in the second filter portion 122.

[0151] The cleaning drive device 135 may include a cleaning motor 136 and a motor shaft 137. The cleaning motor 136 may be configured to generate power for driving the cleaning member 131. The motor shaft 137 may be connected to the cleaning member 131. The cleaning motor 136 may be mounted on the filter housing 110. The cleaning motor 136 may be located closer to the housing inlet 112a than the housing outlet 111b.

[0152] The filter device 100 may include a circuit 190 positioned inside the filter housing 101. The circuit 190 may be positioned at an upper end of the interior of the filter housing 101. The circuit 190 may be positioned on one side of the filter housing 110. For example, the circuit 190 may be positioned above the filter housing 110. For example, the circuit 190 may be disposed above the filter 120.

[0153] The circuit 190 may include a controller 191 for controlling the filter device 100 and a communication part 199 for communicating with the washing machines 10 and 10 a.

[0154] The filter device 100 may include a user interface device 197 positioned above the circuit 190. At least a portion of the user interface device 197 may be exposed to the outside of the filter device 100 through the mounting portion 103b of the filter housing 101. The user interface device 197 may be positioned on an upper surface of the filter device 100. The user interface device 197 may include a power button 197a and a WiFi connection button 197b.

[0155] The filter device 100 may include a display 198 that displays visual information related to the filter device 100. The display 198 may be positioned on an upper surface of the filter device 100. For example, the display 198 may be provided as a component of the user interface device 197.

[0156] The filter device 100 may include a filter sensor 181 that acquires information about the state of the filter 120. The filter sensor 181 may be mounted on the filter housing 110. The filter sensor 181 may be positioned outside the filter housing 110. The filter sensor 181 may be positioned to correspond to the second filter portion 122 of the filter 120 mounted on the filter housing 110. For example, the filter sensor 181 may include a magnetic sensor. For example, the filter sensor 181 may include an optical sensor.

[0157] The filter device 100 may include a water supply sensor 182 for detecting that water is supplied to the filter device 100. The water supply sensor 182 may be installed on a lower portion of the filter housing 110. The water supply sensor 182 may be located close to a housing inlet 112a of the filter housing 110.

[0158] refer to Fig. 9 and Fig.10 , the filter device 100 may include a movable member 161 movably coupled to the filter 120. The movable member 161 may be movably disposed inside the filter 120. The movable member 161 may be positioned in the second filter portion 122 of the filter 120. The movable member 161 may be positioned at one end of the filter 120 coupled to the handle 129. The movable member 161 may be movable by foreign matter collected in the second filter portion 122. The movable member 161 may be disposed to be movable in a direction in which the filter cleaning device 130 transfers foreign matter from the first filter portion 121 to the second filter portion 122.

[0159] The filter device 100 may include a deformable member 162 coupled to the movable member 161. The deformable member 162 may include a softer material than the movable member 161. The deformable member 162 may cover at least a portion of the movable member 161. The deformable member 162 may be positioned inside the filter 120. The deformable member 162 may be positioned in the second filter portion 122 of the filter 120. The deformable member 162 may be positioned at one end of the filter 120 coupled to the handle 129. One end of the deformable member 162 may be fixed to the fixed guide 163. The movable member 161 may be coupled to an opposite end of the deformable member 162 to the one end fixed to the fixed guide 163.

[0160] The filter device 100 may include a fixed guide 163 detachably coupled to the filter 120. The movable member 161 may be movably coupled to the fixed guide 163. The fixed guide 163 may guide the movement of the movable member 161. The fixed guide 163 may fix and support one end of the deformable member 162. One end of the deformable member 162 may be fixed to the fixed guide 163.

[0161] The filter device 100 may include an elastic body coupling part 164 coupled to the movable member 161. The elastic body coupling part 164 may be movably provided together with the movable member 161. The elastic body 165 may be coupled to the elastic body coupling part 164. The elastic body coupling part 164 may support one end of the elastic body 165.

[0162] The filter device 100 may include an elastic body 165 configured to elastically support the elastic body coupling part 164. One end of the elastic body 165 may be fixed to the handle 129, and the other end of the elastic body 165 may be fixed to the elastic body coupling part 164. The elastic body 165 may apply an elastic force to the movable member 161 in a direction opposite to the direction in which the filter cleaning device 130 transfers foreign matter.

[0163] The filter sensor 181 may include a magnetic sensor. The filter device 100 may include a magnetic body 166 that may be detected by the filter sensor 181. The magnetic body 166 may be coupled to the elastic body coupling part 164. The magnetic body 166 may move together with the elastic body coupling part 164 and the movable member 161. The filter sensor 181 may detect the movement of the magnetic body 166.

[0164] The movable member 161 , the elastic body coupling part 164 , and the magnetic body 166 are movable together, and thus may be referred to as a moving part.

[0165] The handle 129 may include an elastic body fixing part 129a for fixing the elastic body 165 thereto. The elastic body fixing part 129a may support one end of the elastic body 165.

[0166] refer to Fig.11 A filter flow path 116 passing through the filter 120 and a bypass flow path 117 bypassing the filter 120 may be formed inside the filter housing 110. Water introduced through the housing inlet 112a may move to the housing outlet 111b through the filter flow path 116, or may move to the housing outlet 111b through the bypass flow path 117.

[0167] The filter housing 110 may include a connection hole 118. The connection hole 118 may be positioned at one end of the bypass flow path 117 close to the housing inlet 112a. The connection hole 118 may be formed in the filter housing 110 to guide water introduced through the housing inlet 112a to the bypass flow path 117.

[0168] The filter device 100 may include an opening and closing device 140 for opening and closing the connection hole 118. The opening and closing device 140 may include a connection door 141 and a door motor 142 for operating the connection door 141.

[0169] The connection door 141 may be provided to open and close the connection hole 118. The connection door 141 may be provided in a size and / or shape capable of closing the connection hole 118. The connection door 141 may be rotatably coupled to the filter housing 110. The connection door 141 may be rotatably provided in a direction in which water flows from the remaining water guide 119 to the housing inlet 112a. The connection door 141 may be provided to be rotatable in a direction opposite to a direction in which water introduced through the housing inlet 112a flows into the connection hole 118. The connection door 141 may be provided to prevent the connection hole 118 from being opened by the hydraulic pressure of the water introduced through the housing inlet 112a.

[0170] The door motor 142 may be configured to generate power for operating the connection door 141. The opening and closing device 140 may include a power transmission device 143 for transmitting the power generated by the door motor 142 to the connection door 141. The power generated by the door motor 142 may be transmitted to the connection door 141 through the power transmission device 143.

[0171] When the connection door 141 opens the connection hole 118, water introduced through the housing inlet 112a may move directly to the bypass flow path 117 without passing through the filter flow path 116. When the connection door 141 opens the connection hole 118, water in the bypass flow path 117 may move directly to the housing inlet 112a without passing through the filter flow path 116. The connection hole 118 may be formed so that water in the bypass flow path 117 may move to the housing inlet 112a, or water flowing into the housing inlet 112a may move to the bypass flow path 117.

[0172] The water flowing into the filter device 100 through the housing inlet 102a can be guided to the filter housing 110 by the inflow guide 106. The water flowing into the filter housing 110 through the housing inlet 112a can flow into the filter 120 through the filter opening 120a. The water introduced into the filter housing 110 can flow into the filter flow path 116. Since the connection door 141 closes the connection hole 118, the water flowing into the filter housing 110 cannot flow to the bypass flow path 117 through the connection hole 118. The water flowing into the filter 120 passes through the filter 120, and foreign matter can be filtered out. The water passing through the filter 120 can be discharged to the outside of the filter housing 110 through the housing outlet 111b. The water discharged through the housing outlet 111b can be discharged from the filter device 100 by passing through the discharge guide 107 and the housing outlet 102b in sequence. The water discharged from the filter device 100 can be guided by the drain line 105.

[0173] Fig.12 The magnetic body is shown as foreign matter is collected in Fig.11 The state of movement inside the filter is shown in FIG. Fig.13 Shows when determined Fig.12 Flow of water along the bypass flow path when the filter shown in FIG. 1 is clogged.

[0174] refer to Fig.12 When the filter cleaning device 130 transfers foreign matter from the first filter portion 121 to the second filter portion 122, the foreign matter may accumulate in the second filter portion 122. When the foreign matter collected in the second filter portion 122 exceeds a preset amount, the foreign matter collected in the second filter portion 122 may pressurize the deformable member 162.

[0175] The deformable member 162 may be pressed by foreign matter in the direction in which the filter cleaning device 130 transfers the foreign matter. The deformable member 162 may be deformed as it is pressed. The deformable member 162 may shrink so that one end of the deformable member 162 fixed to the fixed guide 163 and the opposite end of the one end become closer.

[0176] When the deformable member 162 is deformed, the movable member 161 coupled to the deformable member 162 moves. The movable member 161 moves in the direction in which the filter cleaning device 130 transfers foreign matter. When the movable member 161 moves, the elastic body coupling part 164 moves together with the movable member 161. The movable member 161 can move in a direction close to the handle 129.

[0177] When the elastic body coupling part 164 moves, the magnetic body 166 coupled to the elastic body coupling part 164 moves. When the elastic body coupling part 164 moves, the elastic body 165 contracts. When the opposite end of the elastic body 165 fixed to the end of the handle 129 moves in the direction in which the filter cleaning device 130 transfers foreign matter, the elastic body 165 may contract. The filter sensor 181 may detect the movement of the magnetic body 166.

[0178] refer to Fig.13 , when the filter 120 of the filter device 100 according to the embodiment is clogged with foreign matter, the opening and closing device 140 may open the connection hole 118. When the filter 120 is clogged with foreign matter, the opening and closing device 140 may open the bypass flow path 117. The connection door 141 may rotate to open the connection hole 118. The connection door 141 may rotate to open the bypass flow path 117.

[0179] When the bypass flow path 117 is opened, water flowing into the filter housing 110 may move along the bypass flow path 117. Water introduced into the filter housing 110 may be introduced into the bypass flow path 117 through the connection hole 118 and then discharged to the outside of the filter housing 110 through the housing outlet 111b.

[0180] According to this configuration, even if a portion of the filter 120 is clogged, the clothes treating apparatus 1 according to various embodiments may drain water from the filter device 100, and thus, the operation of the filter device 100 may be prevented from being stopped.

[0181] The user may remove the handle 129 and the filter 120 from the filter housing 110 by separating the handle 129 from the filter case 101 and / or the filter housing 110. The user may remove the filter 120 from the handle 129 for maintenance, repair, and / or replacement.

[0182] When the filter 120 is separated from the fixed guide 163, the foreign matter pressing the deformable member 162 can be removed. When the foreign matter pressing the deformable member 162 is removed, the movable member 161 can return to its original position by the elastic force of the elastic body 165. The position of the movable member 161 can be maintained by the elastic body 165 at a position before the foreign matter accumulates in the filter 120. When the interference portion 164a provided on the elastic body coupling part 164 interferes with the fixed guide 163, the movement of the movable member 161 in a direction away from the handle 129 can be restricted.

[0183] Fig.14 Configurations of filter devices according to embodiments and signal flows between the configurations are shown.

[0184] refer to Fig.14 , will describe Figures 6 to 13 A control method of the opening and closing device 140 of the filter device 100 shown in FIG.

[0185] refer to Fig.14 According to an embodiment, the filter device 100 includes a user interface device 197 for interacting with a user, a filter sensor 181, a water supply sensor 182, a cleaning motor 136, a door motor 142, a display 198, a communication component 199 and a controller 191 for controlling various configurations of the filter device 100.

[0186] The controller 191 may include at least one memory 191 a and at least one processor 191 b to perform the above-mentioned operations and operations to be described later.

[0187] In an embodiment, the controller 191 may include at least one memory 191a and at least one processor 191b, the memory 191a storing data for controlling the operation of components in the filter device 100 in the form of algorithms and / or programs, and the processor 191b using the data stored in at least one memory 191a to perform the above-mentioned operations and the following operations. The memory 191a and the processor 191b may be implemented as separate chips. The processor 191b may include one or more processor chips or may include one or more processing cores. The memory 191a may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks. In addition, the memory 191a and the processor 191b may be implemented as a single chip.

[0188] The controller 191 may process user input received through the user interface device 197 and control various components of the filter apparatus 100 (eg, the filter cleaning device 130 , the opening and closing device 140 , the display 198 ) based on the processed user input.

[0189] The user interface device 197 may include a first button 197 a and a second button 197 b , and may be operable based on a control signal from the controller 191 .

[0190] The filter sensor 181 may be mounted on the filter housing 110. The filter sensor 181 may detect the magnetic body 166 movably provided on the filter 120.

[0191] The water supply sensor 182 may be installed on the filter housing 110. The water supply sensor 182 may detect a situation in which water flows into the filter housing 110.

[0192] For example, the water supply sensor 182 may include a capacitive sensor that detects water flowing into the filter housing 110. However, the type of the water supply sensor 182 is not limited thereto, and any configuration capable of detecting water flowing into the filter housing 110 may be adopted as the water supply sensor 182.

[0193] The controller 191 may process sensor data received through the filter sensor 181 and / or the water supply sensor 182 and control various components of the filter device 100 (eg, the filter cleaning device 130 , the opening and closing device 140 ) based on the processed sensor data.

[0194] The filter cleaning device 130 may include a cleaning member 131 slidably and rotatably inserted into the inner surface of the filter 120 and a cleaning motor 136 for rotating the cleaning member 131 .

[0195] The controller 191 may control the filter cleaning device 130 .

[0196] In an embodiment, the controller 191 may control a driving circuit that applies a driving current to the cleaning motor 136. The driving circuit may supply the driving current to the cleaning motor 136 in response to a driving signal from the controller 191. The driving circuit may include: a rectifier circuit for rectifying AC power of an external power source; a DC link circuit that removes ripples of the rectified power and outputs DC power; an inverter circuit that converts the DC power into a sinusoidal wave type driving power and outputs the driving current to the cleaning motor 136; a current sensor that measures the driving current supplied to the cleaning motor 136; and a gate driver that turns on / off a switching element included in the inverter circuit based on a driving signal from the controller 191.

[0197] The drive circuit connected to the cleaning motor 136 may include components for driving a DC motor.

[0198] The opening and closing device 140 may include a connection door 141 for opening and closing the connection hole 118 and a door motor 142 for operating the connection door 141 .

[0199] The display 198 may display visual information related to the filter device 100. For example, the display 198 may be provided in a configuration separate from the user interface device 197. For example, the display 198 may be provided as a component of the user interface device 197.

[0200] The communication part 199 may transmit or receive data to or from an external device based on a control signal of the controller 191. For example, the communication part 199 may transmit / receive various types of data by communicating with a server and / or a user terminal device and / or home appliances including the washing machines 10 and 10a.

[0201] To this end, the communication component 199 can establish a direct (wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel with an external electronic device (e.g., a server, a user terminal and / or a household appliance), and support communication through the established communication channel. According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the communication component 199 may include a wireless communicator (e.g., a cellular communicator, a short-range wireless communicator or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communicator) or a wired communicator (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communicator or a power line communicator). The corresponding communicator in these communicators can communicate with the external electronic device through a first network (e.g., a short-range communication network, such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct connection or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a telecommunications network, such as a traditional cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet or a computer network (e.g., a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN))). These various types of communicators can be integrated into a component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple independent components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0202] According to various implementations, the communication component 199 may establish communication with the user terminal device through the server.

[0203] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the communication part 199 may include a WiFi module, and may perform communication with an external server and / or a user terminal based on establishing communication with an access point (AP) in the home.

[0204] When the filter device 100 is driven, the controller 191 may operate the filter sensor 181 .

[0205] The controller 191 may control the opening and closing device 140 to guide the water flowing into the filter housing 110 to the filter flow path 116 based on satisfaction of the first preset condition.

[0206] In addition, the controller 191 may control the opening and closing device 140 to guide the water flowing into the filter housing 110 to the bypass flow path 117 based on satisfaction of the second preset condition.

[0207] In this case, the first preset condition and the second preset condition may be information on the state of the filter 120. For example, the first preset condition may be a condition that clogging of the filter 120 is not detected, and the second preset condition may be a condition that clogging of the filter 120 is detected.

[0208] The filter sensor 181 may detect whether the filter 120 is clogged. The filter sensor 181 may detect movement of the magnetic body 166. Information on the movement of the magnetic body 166 obtained from the filter sensor 181 may be digitized.

[0209] The controller 191 may determine whether the filter 120 is clogged based on information obtained from the filter sensor 181 .

[0210] For example, the controller 191 may determine that the filter 120 is clogged based on the fact that the amount of foreign matter collected in the filter 120 is greater than a preset amount, and may determine that the filter 120 is not clogged based on the fact that the amount of foreign matter collected in the filter 120 is less than a preset amount.

[0211] The controller 191 may control the opening and closing device 140 to guide the water flowing into the filter housing 110 to the bypass flow path 117 based on the determination that the filter 120 is clogged. The opening and closing device 140 may control the connection door 141 to open the bypass flow path 117 based on a control signal from the controller 191.

[0212] The controller 191 may control the opening and closing device 140 to guide the water flowing into the filter housing 110 to the filtration flow path 116 based on the determination that the filter 120 is not clogged. The opening and closing device 140 may control the connection door 141 to close the bypass flow path 117 based on a control signal from the controller 191.

[0213] In this embodiment, the controller 191 can control the connecting door 141 to open the bypass flow path 117 based on the blockage of the filter 120 detected by the filter sensor 181, and can control the connecting door 141 to close the bypass flow path 117 based on the fact that the blockage of the filter 120 is not detected by the filter sensor 181.

[0214] For example, the filter sensor 181 may include an optical sensor (e.g., an infrared sensor) that detects the amount of foreign matter collected in the filter 120. For example, the filter sensor 181 may irradiate light to the second filter portion 122, and detect the amount of foreign matter collected in the second filter portion 122 when receiving reflected light. However, the type of the filter sensor 181 is not limited thereto, and any configuration capable of detecting the amount of foreign matter collected in the filter 120 may be adopted as the filter sensor 181.

[0215] Fig.15 A flow chart showing a control method of a filter device according to an embodiment.

[0216] refer to Fig.15 When the washing machines 10 and 10a are drained, the wash water may flow into the filter device 100 (operation 1100). The filter device 100 may filter foreign matter from the wash water flowing into the filter device 100. The filter cleaning device 130 may transfer foreign matter from the first filter part 121 to the second filter part 122.

[0217] The filter sensor 181 may detect that the filter 120 is clogged (operation 1200 ). The filter sensor 181 may detect that the second filter portion 122 of the filter 120 is clogged. The filter sensor 181 may obtain information on the amount of foreign matter collected in the filter 120 by detecting movement of the magnetic body 166 .

[0218] The controller 191 may receive information about the clogging of the filter 120 from the filter sensor 181 that acquires information about the amount of foreign matter collected in the filter 120 (operation 1300 ).

[0219] The controller 191 may determine clogging of the filter 120 based on detecting that the amount of foreign matter collected in the filter 120 exceeds a preset amount (operation 1400). The controller 191 may determine that the flow of water passing through the filter flow path 116 is not smooth based on detecting that the filter 120 is clogged.

[0220] Based on the detection of the clogging of the filter 120, the controller 191 may transmit the clogging information of the filter 120 to the washing machines 10 and 10a and / or the display 198 (operation 1500). The display 198 may display the clogging information of the filter 120. For example, the controller 191 may control the display 198 to output visual feedback indicating the clogging of the filter 120. The visual feedback indicating the clogging of the filter 120 may include various visual indications such as text, graphics, symbols, icons, images, and / or animations.

[0221] As another example, when the filter device 100 includes a speaker, the controller 191 may control the speaker to output auditory feedback indicating clogging of the filter 120. The auditory feedback indicating clogging of the filter 120 may include various sounds such as buzzing and voice.

[0222] As another example, the controller 191 may control the communication part 199 to transmit a message notifying that the filter 120 is blocked to the user terminal.

[0223] The user may confirm that the filter 120 is clogged based on at least one feedback.

[0224] According to the present disclosure, by notifying the user that the filter 120 is clogged, rapid filter management may be induced.

[0225] According to various embodiments, the user terminal receiving the message notifying that the filter 120 is clogged from the communication part 199 may provide an interface for causing the washing cycle to stop. For example, the interface for causing the washing cycle to stop may include a user interface element for receiving an input for stopping the washing cycle.

[0226] The user terminal may transmit an operation stop command to the communicator 96 of the washing machines 10 and 10a in response to the user interface element being selected. The operation stop command may be a command for stopping an ongoing washing cycle of the washing machines 10 and 10a.

[0227] The controller 90 of the washing machines 10 and 10a may stop the washing cycle when receiving the operation stop command from the user terminal through the communicator 96. Thereafter, the user may replace the filter 120 and then press the start button again to continue the stopped washing cycle.

[0228] The controller 191 may generate a signal for operating the opening and closing device 140 to open the bypass flow path 117 based on the detection of the clogging of the filter 120 (operation 1600). Based on the detection of the clogging of the filter 120, the controller 191 may control the opening and closing device 140 so that the water flowing into the filter housing 110 is discharged without passing through the filter 120.

[0229] When the filter 120 is clogged, the opening and closing device 140 may open the bypass flow path 117 (operation 1700). When the filter 120 is clogged, the opening and closing device 140 may open the connection hole 118 of the filter housing 110.

[0230] In the above, reference Fig.15 An example of the control method of the washing machine has been described.

[0231] Fig.15The flowchart shown in is not intended to limit the order of each operation (operation 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600 and 1700), and the order of each operation (operation 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600 and 1700) may be changed according to various embodiments. For example, the operation of opening the bypass flow path 117 (operation 1700) may be performed before the operation (operation 1500) of transmitting the clogging information of the filter 120 to the washing machines 10 and 10a and / or the display 198.

[0232] In addition, at least two of the operations (operations 1100, 1200, 1300, 1400, 1500, 1600, and 1700) may be performed simultaneously. For example, the operation of opening the bypass flow path 117 (operation 1700) may be performed simultaneously with the operation of transmitting the clogging information of the filter 120 to the washing machines 10 and 10a and / or the display 198 (operation 1500).

[0233] Furthermore, some of the operations (operations 1100 , 1200 , 1300 , 1400 , 1500 , 1600 , and 1700 ) may be omitted, or some operations not shown in the drawings may be added.

[0234] Fig.16 Configurations of filter devices according to embodiments and signal flows between the configurations are shown.

[0235] refer to Fig.16 ,Apart from Figure 3 In addition to the configuration shown in FIG. 1 , the sensor unit 95 of the washing machines 10 and 10 a may further include a water level sensor.

[0236] When the drum 30 rotates, the sensor unit 95 may detect a frequency according to a change in water level.

[0237] In an embodiment, the controller 90 of the washing machines 10 and 10 a may recognize the water level of the tub 20 by analyzing the frequency (water level frequency) of the electrical signal corresponding to the input measured by the sensor unit 95 .

[0238] The controller 90 of the washing machines 10 and 10a may drive the drainage devices 70 and 70a to perform a drainage process.

[0239] When the drain process is performed in a state where the filter 120 is not clogged, the water level in the tub 20 may decrease by a variation within a predetermined range. On the other hand, when the drain process is performed when the filter 120 is clogged, the water level in the tub 20 may decrease by a variation outside the predetermined range.

[0240] In an embodiment, the sensor unit 95 may be an example of a sensor that obtains information about the state of the filter 120 .

[0241] When the drainage devices 70 and 70a operate, the controller 90 of the washing machines 10 and 10a can determine whether the filter 120 is clogged based on the water level change detected by the sensor unit 95. That is, when the drainage devices 70 and 70a are driven, the controller 90 of the washing machines 10 and 10a can detect whether the filter 120 is clogged based on the water level change in the tub 20.

[0242] In an embodiment, when the drainage devices 70 and 70a are operating, the controller 90 of the washing machines 10 and 10a may determine that the filter 120 is clogged based on the water level change in the tub 20 being less than or equal to a predetermined change. In addition, when the drainage devices 70 and 70a are operating, the controller 90 may determine that the filter 120 is not clogged based on the water level change in the tub 20 being greater than a predetermined change.

[0243] The controller 90 of the washing machines 10 and 10a may transmit the clogging information of the filter 120 to the controller 191 of the filter device 100. The controller 191 of the filter device 100 may receive a signal from the controller 90 of the washing machines 10 and 10a through the communication part 199. The communication part 199 may receive a signal from the controller 90 of the washing machines 10 and 10a through the server. The communication part 199 may receive a signal from the controller 90 of the washing machines 10 and 10a through the communicator 96 of the washing machines 10 and 10a.

[0244] The controller 191 of the filter device 100 may receive clogging information of the filter 120. The controller 191 of the filter device 100 may control the opening and closing device 140 to guide the water flowing into the filter housing 110 to the bypass flow path 117 based on the determination that the filter 120 is clogged. The opening and closing device 140 may control the connection door 141 to open the bypass flow path 117 based on a control signal of the controller 191 of the filter device 100.

[0245] The controller 90 of the washing machines 10 and 10a may transmit information indicating that the filter 120 is not clogged to the controller 191 of the filter device 100. The controller 191 of the filter device 100 may control the opening and closing device 140 to guide the water flowing into the filter housing 110 to the filter flow path 116 based on the determination that the filter 120 is not clogged. The opening and closing device 140 may control the connection door 141 to close the bypass flow path 117 based on a control signal of the controller 191 of the filter device 100.

[0246] In the present embodiment, when the drainage devices 70 and 70a are operating, the controller 90 of the washing machines 10 and 10a may determine whether the filter 120 is clogged based on the change in the water level in the tub 20 being less than a predetermined change, and the controller 191 of the filter device 100 may control the connection door 141 to open the bypass flow path 117 based on a signal sent from the controller 90 of the washing machines 10 and 10a. When the drainage devices 70 and 70a are operating, the controller 90 of the washing machines 10 and 10a may determine that the filter 120 is not clogged based on the change in the water level in the tub 20 being greater than a predetermined change, and the controller 191 of the filter device 100 may control the connection door 141 to close the bypass flow path 117 based on a signal sent from the controller 90 of the washing machines 10 and 10a.

[0247] Fig.17 A flow chart showing a control method of a filter device according to an embodiment.

[0248] refer to Fig.17 , water level sensing information sensed by the sensor unit 95 of the washing machines 10 and 10a may be transmitted to the filter device 100 (operation 2100).

[0249] The filter device 100 may receive water level sensing information through a server, a wired connection, Bluetooth low energy, or direct WiFi communication (operation 2200 ).

[0250] The controller 191 of the filter device 100 may receive the clogging detection signal through the communication part 199 (operation 2300).

[0251] The controller 191 of the filter device 100 may determine clogging of the filter based on the signals transmitted from the washing machines 10 and 10a (operation 2400).

[0252] The controller 191 may transmit the clogging information of the filter 120 to the washing machines 10 and 10a and / or the display 198 (operation 2500) based on the detection of the clogging of the filter 120. The display 198 may display the clogging information of the filter 120. For example, the controller 191 may control the display 198 to output visual feedback indicating the clogging of the filter 120. The visual feedback indicating the clogging of the filter 120 may include various visual indications such as text, graphics, symbols, icons, images, and / or animations.

[0253] As another example, when the filter device 100 includes a speaker, the controller 191 may control the speaker to output auditory feedback indicating clogging of the filter 120. The auditory feedback indicating clogging of the filter 120 may include various sounds such as buzzing and voice.

[0254] As another example, the controller 191 may control the communication part 199 to transmit a message notifying that the filter 120 is blocked to the user terminal.

[0255] The user may confirm that the filter 120 is clogged based on at least one feedback.

[0256] According to the present disclosure, by notifying the user that the filter 120 is clogged, rapid filter management may be induced.

[0257] According to various embodiments, the user terminal receiving the message notifying that the filter 120 is clogged from the communication part 199 may provide an interface for causing the washing cycle to stop. For example, the interface for causing the washing cycle to stop may include a user interface element for receiving an input for stopping the washing cycle.

[0258] The user terminal may transmit an operation stop command to the communicator 96 of the washing machines 10 and 10a in response to the user interface element being selected. The operation stop command may be a command for stopping an ongoing washing cycle of the washing machines 10 and 10a.

[0259] The controller 90 of the washing machines 10 and 10a may stop the washing cycle when receiving the operation stop command from the user terminal through the communicator 96. Thereafter, the user may replace the filter 120 and then press the start button again to continue the stopped washing cycle.

[0260] The controller 191 may generate a signal for operating the opening and closing device 140 to open the bypass flow path 117 based on the detection of the clogging of the filter 120 (operation 2600). Based on the detection of the clogging of the filter 120, the controller 191 may control the opening and closing device 140 so that the water flowing into the filter housing 110 is discharged without passing through the filter 120.

[0261] When the filter 120 is clogged, the opening and closing device 140 may open the bypass flow path 117 (operation 2700). When the filter 120 is clogged, the opening and closing device 140 may open the connection hole 118 of the filter housing 110.

[0262] In the above, reference Fig.17 An example of the control method of the washing machine has been described.

[0263] Fig.17The flowchart shown in is not intended to limit the order of each operation (operation 2100, 2200, 2300, 2400, 2500, 2600 and 2700), and the order of each operation (operation 2100, 2200, 2300, 2400, 2500, 2600 and 2700) may be changed according to various embodiments. For example, the operation of opening the bypass flow path 117 (operation 2700) may be performed before the operation (operation 2500) of transmitting the clogging information of the filter 120 to the washing machines 10 and 10a and / or the display 198.

[0264] In addition, at least two operations (operations 2100, 2200, 2300, 2400, 2500, 2600, and 2700) may be performed simultaneously. For example, the operation of opening the bypass flow path 117 (operation 2700) may be performed simultaneously with the operation of transmitting the clogging information of the filter 120 to the washing machines 10 and 10a and / or the display 198 (operation 2500).

[0265] Furthermore, some of the operations (operations 2100 , 2200 , 2300 , 2400 , 2500 , 2600 , and 2700 ) may be omitted, or some operations not shown in the drawings may be added.

[0266] Fig.18 Configurations of filter devices according to embodiments and signal flows between the configurations are shown.

[0267] refer to Fig.18 In an embodiment, at least one sensor that obtains information about the state of the filter 120 may include a current sensor that detects a value of a driving current applied to the cleaning motor 136. In an embodiment, the current sensor that detects a value of a driving current applied to the cleaning motor 136 may be an example of the filter sensor 181 that obtains information about the state of the filter 120.

[0268] When operating the filter cleaning device 130, the controller 191 can determine whether the filter 120 is clogged based on the value of the driving current applied to the cleaning motor 136. That is, when driving the cleaning motor 136, the controller 191 can detect whether the filter 120 is clogged based on the load value of the cleaning motor 136.

[0269] In an embodiment, the controller 191 may determine that the filter 120 is clogged based on the value of the driving current applied to the cleaning motor 136 exceeding a preset value. In addition, the controller 191 may determine that the filter 120 is not clogged based on the fact that the value of the driving current applied to the cleaning motor 136 satisfies a predetermined range.

[0270] The controller 191 may control the opening and closing device 140 to guide the water flowing into the filter housing 110 to the bypass flow path 117 based on the determination that the filter 120 is clogged. The opening and closing device 140 may control the connection door 141 to open the bypass flow path 117 based on a control signal from the controller 191.

[0271] The controller 190 may control the opening and closing device 140 to guide the water flowing into the filter housing 110 to the filtration flow path 116 based on the determination that the filter 120 is not clogged. The opening and closing device 140 may control the connection door 141 to close the bypass flow path 117 based on a control signal from the controller 191.

[0272] In this embodiment, the controller 191 can control the connecting gate 141 to open the bypass flow path 117 based on the fact that the value of the driving current applied to the cleaning motor 136 exceeds a preset value, and can control the connecting gate 141 to close the bypass flow path 117 based on the fact that the value of the driving current applied to the cleaning motor 136 satisfies a predetermined range that is less than or equal to the preset value.

[0273] Fig.19 A flow chart showing a control method of a filter device according to an embodiment.

[0274] refer to Fig.19 , when the cleaning motor 136 of the filter cleaning device 130 is operated, a driving current value applied to the cleaning motor 136 may be transmitted to the controller (operation 3100).

[0275] The controller 191 may receive a signal regarding clogging of the filter 120 from the filter sensor 181 detecting a value of a driving current applied to the cleaning motor 136 (operation 3200 ).

[0276] The controller 191 may determine whether the filter 120 is clogged based on the fact that the value of the driving current applied to the cleaning motor 136 exceeds a preset value (operation 3300). The controller 191 may determine that the flow of water passing through the filter flow path 116 is not smooth based on detecting that the filter 120 is clogged.

[0277] The controller 191 may transmit the clogging information of the filter 120 to the washing machines 10 and 10a and / or the display 198 (operation 3400) based on the detection of the clogging of the filter 120. The display 198 may display the clogging information of the filter 120. For example, the controller 191 may control the display 198 to output visual feedback indicating the clogging of the filter 120. The visual feedback indicating the clogging of the filter 120 may include various visual indications such as text, graphics, symbols, icons, images, and / or animations.

[0278] As another example, when the filter device 100 includes a speaker, the controller 191 may control the speaker to output auditory feedback indicating clogging of the filter 120. The auditory feedback indicating clogging of the filter 120 may include various sounds such as buzzing and voice.

[0279] As another example, the controller 191 may control the communication part 199 to transmit a message notifying that the filter 120 is blocked to the user terminal.

[0280] The user may confirm that the filter 120 is clogged based on at least one feedback.

[0281] According to the present disclosure, by notifying the user that the filter 120 is clogged, rapid filter management may be induced.

[0282] According to various embodiments, the user terminal receiving the message notifying that the filter 120 is clogged from the communication part 199 may provide an interface for causing the washing cycle to stop. For example, the interface for causing the washing cycle to stop may include a user interface element for receiving an input for stopping the washing cycle.

[0283] The user terminal may transmit an operation stop command to the communicator 96 of the washing machines 10 and 10a in response to the user interface element being selected. The operation stop command may be a command for stopping an ongoing washing cycle of the washing machines 10 and 10a.

[0284] The controller 90 of the washing machines 10 and 10a may stop the washing cycle when receiving the operation stop command from the user terminal through the communicator 96. Thereafter, the user may replace the filter 120 and then press the start button again to continue the stopped washing cycle.

[0285] The controller 191 may generate a signal for operating the opening and closing device 140 to open the bypass flow path 117 based on the detection of the clogging of the filter 120 (operation 3500). Based on the detection of the clogging of the filter 120, the controller 191 may control the opening and closing device 140 so that the water flowing into the filter housing 110 is discharged without passing through the filter 120.

[0286] When the filter 120 is clogged, the opening and closing device 140 may open the bypass flow path 117 (operation 3600). When the filter 120 is clogged, the opening and closing device 140 may open the connection hole 118 of the filter housing 110.

[0287] In the above, reference Fig.19 An example of the control method of the washing machine has been described.

[0288] Fig.19The flowchart shown in is not intended to limit the order of each operation (operation 3100, 3200, 3300, 3400, 3500 and 3600), and the order of each operation (operation 3100, 3200, 3300, 3400, 3500 and 3600) may be changed according to various embodiments. For example, the operation of opening the bypass flow path 117 (operation 3600) may be performed before the operation of transmitting the clogging information of the filter 120 to the washing machines 10 and 10a and / or the display 198 (operation 3400).

[0289] In addition, at least two of the operations (operations 3100, 3200, 3300, 3400, 3500, and 3600) may be performed simultaneously. For example, the operation of opening the bypass flow path 117 (operation 3600) may be performed simultaneously with the operation of transmitting the clogging information of the filter 120 to the washing machines 10 and 10a and / or the display 198 (operation 3400).

[0290] Furthermore, some of the operations (operations 3100, 3200, 3300, 3400, 3500, and 3600) may be omitted, or some operations not shown in the drawings may be added.

[0291] Fig. 20 Shown are cross sections of some components of a filter device according to an embodiment.

[0292] refer to Fig. 20 , the filter device 200 according to the embodiment will be described. Fig. 20 In the filter device 200 shown in FIG. 1 , the same reference numerals are assigned to the filter device 200 as in FIG. Figures 6 to 13 The components of the filter device 100 shown in FIG. 1 are the same components, and a detailed description may be omitted.

[0293] refer to Fig. 20 , the position of the magnetic body 266 of the filter device 200 can be Figures 6 to 13 The filter device 100 shown in FIG. 1 has the magnetic body 166 positioned differently.

[0294] refer to Fig. 20 In the filter device 200, the filter 120 may be movably disposed inside the filter housing 110. The filter device 200 may include a deformable member 262 connecting the handle 129 and the filter 120. The deformable member 262 may have one end coupled to the handle 129 and the other end coupled to the filter 120. The deformable member 262 may include a deformable material. The filter 120 may be moved relative to the handle 129 by the deformable member 262.

[0295] The magnetic body 266 may be mounted on the filter 120. The magnetic body 266 may be disposed on an outer surface of the filter 120. The magnetic body 266 may be disposed to be movable together with the filter 120.

[0296] The filter device 200 may include an elastic body 265 disposed to press the filter 120 in a direction away from the handle 129. The elastic body 265 may have one end fixed to the handle 129 and the other end fixed to the filter 120.

[0297] The filter sensor 181 may detect the magnetic body 266 mounted on the filter 120. When the filter sensor 181 detects the movement of the magnetic body 266, the filter sensor 181 may detect the movement of the filter 120 moving together with the magnetic body 266. The filter sensor 181 may include a magnetic sensor.

[0298] When the amount of foreign matter collected inside the filter 120 increases, the filter 120 moves in a direction closer to the handle 129. When the filter 120 moves in a direction closer to the handle 129, the magnetic body 266 moves with the filter 120. The filter sensor 181 can detect clogging of the filter 120 by detecting the movement of the magnetic body 266.

[0299] When foreign matter collected in the filter 120 is removed from the filter 120 , the filter 120 may be moved to an initial position by the elastic body 265 .

[0300] Fig.21 Shown are cross sections of some components of a filter device according to an embodiment.

[0301] refer to Fig.21 , the filter device 300 according to the embodiment will be described. Fig.21 In the filter device 300 shown in FIG. 1 , the same reference numerals are assigned to the filter device 300 as in FIG. Figures 6 to 13 The components of the filter device 100 shown in FIG. 1 are the same components, and a detailed description may be omitted.

[0302] refer to Fig.21 , the position of the magnetic body 366 of the filter device 300 can be Figures 6 to 13 The filter device 100 shown in FIG. 1 has the magnetic body 166 positioned differently.

[0303] refer to Fig.21 , the magnetic body 366 may be mounted on the movable member 161. The magnetic body 366 may be provided at an opposite end of the movable member 161 to one end supported by the elastic body 165. The magnetic body 366 may be provided to be movable together with the movable member 161.

[0304] The filter sensor 181 may detect the magnetic body 366 mounted on the movable member 161. When the filter sensor 181 detects movement of the magnetic body 366, the filter sensor 181 may detect movement of the movable member 161 moving together with the magnetic body 366. The filter sensor 181 may include a magnetic sensor.

[0305] Fig. 22 A filter device according to an embodiment is shown.

[0306] refer to Fig. 22 , the filter device 400 according to the embodiment will be described. Fig. 22 In the filter device 400 shown in FIG. 1 , the same reference numerals are assigned to the filter device 400 as in FIG. Figures 6 to 8 The components of the filter device 100 shown in FIG. 1 are the same components, and a detailed description may be omitted.

[0307] refer to Fig. 22 The positions of the housing inlet 402a and the housing outlet 402b of the filter device 400 may be Figures 6 to 8 The positions of the housing inlet 102a and the housing outlet 102b of the filter device 100 shown in FIG. 1 are arranged differently.

[0308] refer to Fig. 22 , the housing inlet 402a can be positioned on the rear side of the filter device 400. The housing inlet 402a can be positioned on the housing bracket 404. Figures 6 to 8 The housing inlet 102a of the filter device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is positioned in the housing body 102, however, Fig. 22 The housing inlet 402a of the filter device 400 shown in FIG. 4 may be positioned in the housing bracket 404. The housing inlet 402a may extend in substantially the same direction as the housing inlet 112a of the filter housing 110. The housing inlet 402a may be directly connected to the housing inlet 112a.

[0309] The housing outlet 402b may be positioned on the rear side of the filter device 400. The housing outlet 402b may be positioned on the housing bracket 404. Figures 6 to 8 The housing outlet 102b of the filter device 100 shown in FIG. 1 is positioned in the housing body 102, however, Fig. 22 The housing outlet 402 b of the filter device 400 shown in FIG. 4 may be positioned on a housing bracket 404 .

[0310] Although not shown, the filter device may also Fig. 22 The housing inlet 402a and Figures 6 to 8 The housing outlet 102b shown in FIG. 1 is combined with the housing outlet 102b shown in FIG. 1 , and the housing outlet 102b shown in FIG. 1 may also be combined with the housing outlet 102b shown in FIG. Figures 6 to 8The housing inlet 102a and Fig. 22 The housing outlet 402b shown in FIG.

[0311] Fig.23 A filter device according to an embodiment is shown.

[0312] refer to Fig.23 , the filter device 500 according to the embodiment will be described. Fig.23 In the filter device 500 shown in FIG. 1 , the same reference numerals are assigned to the filter device 500 as in FIG. Fig. 22 The components of the filter device 400 shown in FIG. 1 are the same components, and a detailed description may be omitted.

[0313] refer to Fig.23 , the filter sensor 181 may be provided outside the filter housing 110. The filter sensor 181 may be provided as a water pressure sensor that detects the water pressure of water flowing into the filter housing 110. When wash water flows into the filter housing 110, the filter sensor 181 may measure the water pressure inside the filter housing 110.

[0314] Fig.24 Shows Fig.23 The configuration of the filter device and the signal flow between the configurations are shown in .

[0315] refer to Fig.24 In an embodiment, a water pressure sensor that detects the water pressure of water flowing into the filter housing 110 may be an example of the filter sensor 181 that obtains information on the state of the filter 120 .

[0316] When wash water flows into the filter housing 110 , the controller 191 may determine whether the filter 120 is clogged based on a water pressure measurement value inside the filter housing 110 .

[0317] In an embodiment, the controller 191 may determine that the filter 120 is clogged based on the fact that the water pressure value inside the filter housing 110 exceeds a preset value. In addition, the controller 191 may determine that the filter 120 is not clogged based on the fact that the water pressure value inside the filter housing 110 satisfies a predetermined range.

[0318] The controller 191 may control the opening and closing device 140 to guide the water flowing into the filter housing 110 to the bypass flow path 117 based on the determination that the filter 120 is clogged. The opening and closing device 140 may control the connection door 141 to open the bypass flow path 117 based on a control signal from the controller 191.

[0319] The controller 191 may control the opening and closing device 140 to guide the water flowing into the filter housing 110 to the filtration flow path 116 based on the determination that the filter 120 is not clogged. The opening and closing device 140 may control the connection door 141 to close the bypass flow path 117 based on a control signal from the controller 191.

[0320] In this embodiment, the controller 191 can control the connecting door 141 to open the bypass flow path 117 based on the fact that the water pressure value inside the filter housing 110 exceeds a preset value, and can control the connecting door 141 to close the bypass flow path 117 based on the fact that the water pressure value inside the filter housing 110 satisfies a predetermined range that is less than or equal to the preset value.

[0321] Fig.25 A flow chart of a method for controlling the filter device shown in FIG. 23 is shown.

[0322] refer to Fig.25 When the washing machines 10 and 10a are drained, the wash water may flow into the filter device 100 (operation 4100). The filter device 100 may filter foreign matter from the wash water flowing into the filter device 100. The filter cleaning device 130 may transfer the foreign matter from the first filter part 121 to the second filter part 122.

[0323] The filter sensor 181 may detect that the filter 120 is clogged and transmit a filter 120 clogging signal (operation 4200). The filter sensor 181 may detect that the second filter portion 122 of the filter 120 is clogged. The filter sensor 181 may obtain information about the amount of foreign matter collected in the filter 120 by detecting the water pressure of the wash water flowing into the filter housing 110.

[0324] The controller 191 may receive a signal regarding clogging of the filter 120 from the filter sensor 181 acquiring information regarding the amount of foreign matter collected in the filter 120 (operation 4300 ).

[0325] The controller 191 may determine clogging of the filter 120 based on detecting that the amount of foreign matter collected in the filter 120 exceeds a preset amount (operation 4400). The controller 191 may determine that the flow of water passing through the filter flow path 116 is not smooth based on detecting that the filter 120 is clogged.

[0326] The controller 191 may transmit the clogging information of the filter 120 to the washing machines 10 and 10a and / or the display 198 based on the detection of the clogging of the filter 120 (operation 4500). The display 198 may display the clogging information of the filter 120. For example, the controller 191 may control the display 198 to output visual feedback indicating the clogging of the filter 120. The visual feedback indicating the clogging of the filter 120 may include various visual indications such as text, graphics, symbols, icons, images, and / or animations.

[0327] As another example, when the filter device 100 includes a speaker, the controller 191 may control the speaker to output auditory feedback indicating clogging of the filter 120. The auditory feedback indicating clogging of the filter 120 may include various sounds such as buzzing and voice.

[0328] As another example, the controller 191 may control the communication part 199 to transmit a message notifying that the filter 120 is blocked to the user terminal.

[0329] The user may confirm that the filter 120 is clogged based on at least one feedback.

[0330] According to the present disclosure, by notifying the user that the filter 120 is clogged, rapid filter management may be induced.

[0331] According to various embodiments, the user terminal receiving the message notifying that the filter 120 is clogged from the communication part 199 may provide an interface for causing the washing cycle to stop. For example, the interface for causing the washing cycle to stop may include a user interface element for receiving an input for stopping the washing cycle.

[0332] The user terminal may transmit an operation stop command to the communicator 96 of the washing machines 10 and 10a in response to the user interface element being selected. The operation stop command may be a command for stopping an ongoing washing cycle of the washing machines 10 and 10a.

[0333] The controller 90 of the washing machines 10 and 10a may stop the washing cycle when receiving the operation stop command from the user terminal through the communicator 96. Thereafter, the user may replace the filter 120 and then press the start button again to continue the stopped washing cycle.

[0334] The controller 191 may generate a signal for operating the opening and closing device 140 to open the bypass flow path 117 based on the detection of the clogging of the filter 120 (operation 4600). Based on the detection of the clogging of the filter 120, the controller 191 may control the opening and closing device 140 so that the water flowing into the filter housing 110 is discharged without passing through the filter 120.

[0335] When the filter 120 is clogged, the opening and closing device 140 may open the bypass flow path 117 (operation 4700). When the filter 120 is clogged, the opening and closing device 140 may open the connection hole 118 of the filter housing 110.

[0336] In the above, reference Fig.25 An example of the control method of the washing machine has been described.

[0337] Fig.25 The flowchart shown in is not intended to limit the order of each operation (operation 4100, 4200, 4300, 4400, 4500, 4600 and 4700), and the order of each operation (operation 4100, 4200, 4300, 4400, 4500, 4600 and 4700) may be changed according to various embodiments. For example, the operation of opening the bypass flow path 117 (operation 4700) may be performed before the operation (operation 4500) of transmitting the clogging information of the filter 120 to the washing machines 10 and 10a and / or the display 198.

[0338] In addition, at least two of the operations (operations 4100, 4200, 4300, 4400, 4500, 4600, and 4700) may be performed simultaneously. For example, the operation of opening the bypass flow path 117 (operation 4700) may be performed simultaneously with the operation of transmitting the clogging information of the filter 120 to the washing machines 10 and 10a and / or the display 198 (operation 4500).

[0339] Furthermore, some of the operations (operations 4100 , 4200 , 4300 , 4400 , 4500 , 4600 , and 4700 ) may be omitted, or some operations not shown in the drawings may be added.

[0340] The filter device 100 according to the embodiment is a filter device 100 that can be positioned outside the washing machines 10 and 10a and can be connected to the drainage devices 70 and 70a of the washing machines, and includes: a filter housing 110; a filter 120 that is detachably mounted inside the filter housing; a filtration flow path 116 formed inside the filter housing so that when the filter is mounted inside the filter housing, water passes through the filter; a bypass flow path 117 formed inside the filter housing so that when the filter is mounted inside the filter housing, water bypasses the filter; at least one sensor 181 for obtaining information about the state of the filter; an opening and closing device 140 configured to open and close the bypass flow path to guide water flowing from the drainage device into the filter housing to the filtration flow path or the bypass flow path; and a controller 191 that controls the opening and closing device 140 based on the obtained information about the state of the filter. According to the present disclosure, since the filter device 100 is disposed outside the washing machines 10 and 10a, management of the filter device 100 can be facilitated. According to the present disclosure, since the filter device 100 includes the filter cleaning device 130, the replacement cycle of the filter 120 can be increased. According to the present disclosure, since the filter device 100 includes the controller 191 for controlling the filter device 100, independent control of the filter device 100 can be performed. According to the present disclosure, since the filter device 100 can detect clogging of the filter 120 and open the bypass flow path 117, even if the filter 120 is clogged, the operation of the filter device 100 can be prevented from being stopped.

[0341] The opening and closing device may include a connection door 141 for opening and closing the bypass flow path and a door motor 142 for operating the connection door.

[0342] The connection door may be positioned at a portion of the filter housing where the filtration flow path and the bypass flow path diverge.

[0343] The filter device may also include a moving component, which is arranged to be located inside the filter when the filter is installed inside the filter housing, and is configured to be able to move in a first direction inside the filter by collecting foreign matter inside the filter. At least one sensor may be installed on the filter housing to detect movement of the moving component.

[0344] The moving part may include a magnetic body 166, and the at least one sensor may include a magnetic sensor to detect movement of the magnetic body.

[0345] The filter device may further include an elastic body 165 to apply an elastic force to the moving part in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0346] The filter device may further include a fixed guide 163 configured to support the moving member so that the moving member is movable relative to the fixed guide. The moving member may include an interference portion 164a configured to contact the fixed guide to limit the moving range of the moving member in the second direction.

[0347] The filter device may further include a deformable member 162 that covers at least a portion of the moving part and is deformable according to the movement of the moving part. According to the present disclosure, the filter device may easily detect clogging of the filter with a relatively simple configuration.

[0348] The filter device may further include a cleaning member 131 configured to be rotatable and contact a surface of the filter through which foreign matter is filtered when the filter is installed in the filter housing, and a cleaning motor 136 for generating power to operate the cleaning member. The at least one sensor may include a current sensor to sense the value of a driving current applied to the cleaning motor.

[0349] The at least one sensor may include a water pressure sensor to sense a water pressure of water flowing into the filter housing.

[0350] When the filter is installed in the filter housing, the controller may control opening and closing of the device to direct water flowing into the filter housing to the bypass flow path based on determining that the filter is clogged.

[0351] When the filter is installed in the filter housing, the controller can control the opening and closing device to guide the water flowing into the filter housing to the filter flow path based on the determination that the filter is not clogged. According to the present disclosure, since the controller can selectively open and close the bypass flow path, the operation of the filter device can be prevented from stopping even if the filter is clogged.

[0352] The filter device may further include a display. When the filter is installed in the filter housing, the controller may control the display to provide visual feedback indicating the clogging of the filter based on the detection of the clogging of the filter. According to the present disclosure, the filter device may notify the user when the filter is clogged, thereby facilitating filter management.

[0353] The filter device may further include a communication component. When the filter is installed in the filter housing, the controller may control the communication component to send a filter clogging notification message to the user terminal based on detection of clogging of the filter.

[0354] The clothes treating apparatus 1 and 1a according to the embodiment include: washing machines 10 and 10a, including washing machine housings 11 and 11a, tubs 20 and 20a inside the washing machine housings, and drainage devices 70 and 70a configured to drain water from the tubs to the outside of the washing machine housings; and a filter device 100, which is arranged outside the washing machine housing and connected to the drainage device. The filter device includes: a filter housing 110; a filter 120, which is detachably mounted inside the filter housing; at least one sensor 181, which is configured to obtain information about the state of the filter; an opening and closing device 140, which is configured to guide water flowing from the drainage device into the filter housing to pass through the filter or to guide water to bypass the filter; and a controller 191, which controls the opening and closing device based on the information obtained about the state of the filter, the state of the filter being related to the clogging of the filter.

[0355] The filter device may include: a movable member 161 capable of moving in a first direction inside the filter by foreign matter collected inside the filter; a magnetic body 166 movable together with the movable member; and an elastic body configured to apply an elastic force to the movable member in a second direction opposite to the first direction. The at least one sensor may include a magnetic sensor that detects movement of the magnetic body.

[0356] The filter device may include a cleaning member 131 and a cleaning motor 136, the cleaning member 131 is rotatably arranged and in contact with the surface of the filter through which foreign matter is filtered, and the cleaning motor 136 generates power for operating the cleaning member. At least one sensor may include a current sensor that senses the value of a driving current applied to the cleaning motor.

[0357] The at least one sensor may include a water pressure sensor for sensing a water pressure of water flowing into the filter housing.

[0358] The at least one sensor may include a water level sensor that senses a water level of the tub.

[0359] The filter of the filter device may be configured to filter foreign matter having a size smaller than a size of foreign matter filterable by the washing machine.

[0360] According to the concept of the present disclosure, since the filter device is provided outside the washing machine, the clothes treating device may be easily managed.

[0361] According to the concept of the present disclosure, since the filter device includes the filter cleaning apparatus, the filter replacement cycle can be increased.

[0362] According to the concept of the present disclosure, since the filter device includes the bypass flow path, water can be discharged from the filter device even if a portion of the filter is clogged.

[0363] According to the concept of the present disclosure, since the filter device and the clothes treating device having the same include the bypass flow path, even if a portion of the filter is clogged, operation stop can be prevented.

[0364] Effects that can be achieved by the present disclosure are not limited to the above-mentioned effects, and other effects that are not mentioned will be clearly understood from the above description by those having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present disclosure belongs.

[0365] So far, specific embodiments have been shown and described. However, the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments, and it should be interpreted that a person skilled in the art can make various modifications without departing from the spirit of the technical concept of the present disclosure defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A filter device capable of being positioned outside a washing machine and capable of being connected to a drainage device of the washing machine, the filter device comprising: filter housing; A filter, detachably mounted inside the filter housing; a filter flow path formed inside the filter housing so that water passes through the filter when the filter is installed inside the filter housing; a bypass flow path formed inside the filter housing so that water bypasses the filter when the filter is installed inside the filter housing; at least one sensor configured to obtain information regarding a status of the filter; an opening and closing device configured to open and close the bypass flow path to direct water flowing from the drainage device into the filter housing to the filter flow path or the bypass flow path; as well as A controller is configured to control the opening and closing device based on the obtained information about the state of the filter.

2. The filter device according to claim 1, wherein The opening and closing device comprises: connecting a door to open and close the bypass flow path; and A door motor operates the connecting door.

3. The filter device according to claim 2, wherein: The connection door is positioned at a portion of the filter housing where the filtration flow path and the bypass flow path diverge.

4. The filter device according to claim 1, further comprising: a moving member arranged inside the filter when the filter is installed inside the filter housing and configured to be movable in a first direction inside the filter by foreign matter collected inside the filter, Wherein, the at least one sensor is mounted on the filter housing to detect the movement of the moving component.

5. The filter device according to claim 4, wherein The moving part includes a magnetic body, and The at least one sensor includes a magnetic sensor to detect movement of the magnetic body.

6. The filter device according to claim 4, further comprising: The elastic body applies an elastic force to the moving component in a second direction opposite to the first direction.

7. The filter device according to claim 6, further comprising: a fixed guide member that movably supports the moving component, Wherein, the moving component includes an interference portion, and the interference portion is configured to contact the fixed guide to limit the moving range of the moving component in the second direction.

8. The filter device according to claim 4, further comprising: A deformable member covers at least a portion of the moving part and is deformable according to the movement of the moving part.

9. The filter device of claim 1, further comprising: a cleaning member configured to be rotatable and to contact a surface of the filter through which foreign matter is filtered when the filter is installed in the filter housing; as well as a cleaning motor generating power to operate the cleaning member, The at least one sensor includes a current sensor for sensing a value of a driving current applied to the cleaning motor.

10. The filter device according to claim 1, wherein The at least one sensor includes a water pressure sensor for sensing water pressure of water flowing into the filter housing.

11. The filter device according to claim 1, wherein: The controller controls the opening and closing device to guide water flowing into the filter housing to the bypass flow path based on determining that the filter is clogged when the filter is installed in the filter housing.

12. The filter device according to claim 1, wherein The controller controls the opening and closing device to guide water flowing into the filter housing to the filter flow path based on determining that the filter is not clogged when the filter is installed in the filter housing.

13. The filter device of claim 1, further comprising: monitor, Wherein, when the filter is installed in the filter housing, the controller controls the display to provide visual feedback indicating clogging of the filter based on detecting clogging of the filter.

14. The filter device of claim 1, further comprising: Communication components, Wherein, when the filter is installed in the filter housing, the controller controls the communication component to send a filter clogging notification message to the user terminal based on detection of clogging of the filter.

15. A clothes processing device comprising: A washing machine comprising a washing machine housing, a tub inside the washing machine housing, and a drainage device configured to drain water from the tub to the outside of the washing machine housing; as well as A filter device is arranged outside the washing machine housing and connected to the drainage device, and the filter device includes: filter housing; A filter, detachably mounted inside the filter housing; at least one sensor configured to obtain information regarding a status of the filter; an opening and closing device configured to direct water flowing from the drain device into the filter housing to pass through the filter or to bypass the filter; and A controller is configured to control the opening and closing device based on the information obtained about the state of the filter, the state of the filter being related to the clogging of the filter.

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