Washing machine

Abstract

A washing machine is provided. The washing machine includes: a housing; a tub provided inside the housing; and a detergent supply device configured to supply detergent to the tub. The detergent supply device includes: a housing mounted on a housing; a detergent box movable in a mounting direction in which the detergent box is mounted on the housing and in a separation direction in which the detergent box is separated from the housing; a push connector that can press the detergent box in the separation direction; and a motor that can operate the push link. The push link is rotatable to a first position, in which the push link is coupled to the detergent box to support the detergent box in the mounting direction, and rotatable to a second position B, in which the push link is disengaged from the detergent box to no longer support the detergent box in the mounting direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a washing machine having a detergent supply device. Background Art

[0002] A washing machine is a device that uses the driving force of a motor to stir together laundry, wash water, and detergent put into a washing chamber, thereby washing the laundry through mutual friction.

[0003] The detergent supply device is a device that allows detergent to be uniformly mixed with water supplied in a process of supplying water into a tub of the washing machine.

[0004] The detergent supply device is installed inside the housing of the washing machine and may include a box-shaped housing having an open front, and a detergent box installed inside the housing through the open front of the housing and separable in the form of a drawer.

[0005] A user may separate the detergent box from the housing to refill the detergent or clean the detergent box. Summary of the invention

[0006] Technical issues

[0007] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a washing machine having a detergent supply device that ensures easy installation and removal of a detergent box.

[0008] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a washing machine having a detergent supply device which prevents a detergent box from being displaced.

[0009] The technical purpose of the present disclosure is not limited to the above contents, and other purposes not described above may become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art based on the following description.

[0010] Technical Solution

[0011] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a washing machine is provided, comprising: a housing; a barrel disposed inside the housing; and a detergent supply device configured to supply detergent to the barrel, wherein the detergent supply device comprises: a housing mounted on the housing; a detergent box configured to be movable in an installation direction to be mounted on the housing and movable in a separation direction to be separated from the housing; a push connector configured to press the detergent box in the separation direction; and a motor configured to allow the push connector to operate. The push connector may be configured to be rotatable between a first position and a second position, in which the push connector is coupled to the detergent box to support the detergent box in the installation direction, and in which the push connector is released from the detergent box to release the support of the detergent box in the installation direction.

[0012] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a washing machine is provided, comprising: a housing; a tub disposed inside the housing; a housing mounted on the housing; a detergent box configured to be movable in an installation direction to be mounted on the housing and movable in a separation direction to be separated from the housing; a push connector coupled to the detergent box to press the detergent box in the separation direction; a motor configured to operate the push connector; and a control unit configured to control the motor. The control unit may be configured to control the motor to move the push connector in the installation direction when the detergent box moves in the installation direction and is coupled to the push connector.

[0013] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a washing machine is provided, comprising: a housing; a barrel disposed inside the housing; and a detergent supply device configured to supply detergent to the barrel, wherein the detergent supply device comprises: a housing formed with an opening; a detergent box configured to be movable in one direction relative to the housing through the opening; and an electrical module that can be coupled to the detergent box so that the detergent box can move in the one direction. The electrical module comprises a motor and a push connector configured to receive a driving force from the motor and move in one direction. The push connector may include a locking protrusion configured to be inserted into the detergent box and rotatable around an axis in one direction to prevent the push connector from being separated from the detergent box.

[0014] Beneficial Effects

[0015] According to the technical concept of the present disclosure, installation and separation of the detergent box become easy, thereby improving the convenience of use of the washing machine.

[0016] According to the technical concept of the present disclosure, the detergent box can be prevented from being displaced from the housing, thereby ensuring ease of management.

[0017] The effects of the present disclosure are not limited to those described above, and other effects not described above will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the above detailed description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] Figure 1 is a perspective view illustrating a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 3 is a perspective view illustrating a detergent supply device installed to a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view showing some components of the detergent supply device.

[0022] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of an electric module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 6 is a perspective view showing a push connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 7 is a perspective view showing a push connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 8 2 is a view showing a state in which a push connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is located at a first pressing position.

[0026] Fig. 9 The push connector is shown from Figure 8 A view of a state in which the position is moved to a second pressed position.

[0027] Fig.10 is a view illustrating a detergent box connection according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] Fig.11 2 is a view illustrating a state in which a push connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is coupled to a detergent box when in a first position.

[0029] Fig.12 is a view illustrating a state in which a push connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is released from a detergent box when in a second position.

[0030] Fig.13 is a view illustrating a process in which a push connector is coupled to a detergent box according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Fig.14 is a view illustrating a state in which a detergent box is completely installed within a housing during operation of the detergent supply device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Fig.15 is a view illustrating a process in which a detergent box is separated from a housing during operation of the detergent supply device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Fig.16 is a view illustrating a state in which a detergent box has been separated from an electric module during operation of a detergent supply device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Fig.17 is a view illustrating a process in which a detergent box is mounted to a housing during operation of a detergent supply device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0035] Fig.18is a view illustrating a state in which a detergent box has been mounted to a housing during operation of the detergent supply device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0036] Fig.19 is a functional block diagram of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0037] Fig. 20 is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] Fig.21 is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0039] Fig. 22 is a perspective view showing the arrangement of a push connector and a switch according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] Fig.23 2 is a view showing a moving process of a push connector.

[0041] Fig.24 It is shown Fig.23 View of the switch shown.

[0042] Fig.25 2 is a view showing a moving process of a push connector.

[0043] Fig.26 It is shown Fig.25 View of the switch shown.

[0044] Fig. 27 2 is a view showing a moving process of a push connector.

[0045] Fig.28 It is shown Fig. 27 View of the switch shown.

[0046] Fig.29 2 is a view showing a moving process of a push connector.

[0047] Fig.30 It is shown Fig.29 View of the switch shown.

[0048] Fig.31 2 is a view showing a moving process of a push connector.

[0049] Fig.32 It is shown Fig.31 View of the switch shown.

[0050] Fig.33 2 is a view showing a moving process of a push connector.

[0051] Fig.34 It is shown Fig.33 View of the switch shown in .

[0052] Fig.35 2 is a view showing a moving process of a push connector.

[0053] Fig.36 It is shown Fig.35 View of the switch shown in . DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] The various embodiments of the present disclosure and the terms used herein are not intended to limit the technical features of the present disclosure to specific embodiments, but should be understood to cover all modifications, equivalents, and substitutes falling within the concept and scope of the present disclosure.

[0055] In the description of the drawings, like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the description of the drawings.

[0056] Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms preceding “a”, “an” and “the” corresponding to items are intended to include the plural forms as well.

[0057] In the present disclosure, phrases such as "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B or C", "at least one of A, B and C" and "at least one of A, B or C" may include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase of the phrase or any possible combination thereof.

[0058] The term "and / or" includes a combination of one or all of the associated listed items.

[0059] 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 components in other aspects (eg, importance or order).

[0060] When one (e.g., a first) element is referred to as being “coupled” or “connected” to another (e.g., a second) element with or without the term “functionally” or “communicatively”, it means that one element is connected to another element directly, wirelessly, or via a third element.

[0061] It should be understood that when used in this specification, the terms "includes", "comprising" and / or "having" specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, parts and / or combinations thereof.

[0062] It should 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 coupled to another component directly or indirectly via a third component.

[0063] Throughout the specification, when a member is referred to as being 'on' another member, the member is in contact with the other member, or another member is interposed between the two members.

[0064] The washing machine according to various embodiments can perform washing, rinsing, spinning and drying processes. The washing machine is an example of a clothing care device, which is a concept including a device capable of washing clothing (laundered objects, dried objects), a device capable of drying clothing, and a device capable of washing and drying clothing.

[0065] The washing machine according to various embodiments may include a top-loading washing machine in which a laundry inlet for inserting or removing laundry is disposed to face upward or a front-loading washing machine in which a laundry inlet is disposed to face forward. The washing machine according to various embodiments may include a washing machine in a loading type other than the top-loading washing machine and the front-loading washing machine.

[0066] In a top-loading washing machine, clothes may be washed using a water flow generated by a rotating body such as a pulsator. In a front-loading washing machine, clothes may be washed by repeatedly lifting and lowering clothes by rotating a drum. A front-loading washing machine may include a dryer-combined washing machine capable of drying clothes stored in a drum. The dryer-combined washing machine may include a hot air supply device for supplying high-temperature air into the drum and a condensing device for removing moisture from the air exhausted from the drum. For example, the dryer-combined washing machine may include a heat pump device. Washing machines according to various embodiments may include washing machines using washing methods other than the above-described washing methods.

[0067] The washing machine according to various embodiments may include a housing in which various components are accommodated. The housing may be provided in the form of a box including a laundry inlet at one side thereof.

[0068] The washing machine may include a door for opening and closing the laundry inlet. The door may be rotatably mounted to the housing by a hinge. At least a portion of the door may be transparent or translucent to allow viewing of the interior of the housing.

[0069] The washing machine may include a tub disposed inside the housing to store water. The tub may be formed in a generally cylindrical shape with a tub opening formed on one side thereof. The tub may be disposed inside the housing in such a manner that the tub opening corresponds to a laundry inlet.

[0070] The tub may be connected to the housing via a damper, which may absorb vibrations generated when the drum rotates and reduce the vibrations transmitted to the housing.

[0071] A washing machine may include a drum arranged to contain laundry.

[0072] The drum can be arranged inside the barrel in such a way that a drum opening provided on one side of the drum corresponds to a laundry inlet and a barrel opening. The laundry can sequentially pass through the laundry inlet, the barrel opening, and the drum opening, and then be contained in the drum or taken out from the drum.

[0073] The drum may perform each operation according to washing, rinsing and / or spinning while rotating in the tub. A plurality of through holes may be formed in the cylindrical wall of the drum to allow water stored in the tub to be introduced into the drum or drained from the drum.

[0074] The washing machine may include a driving device configured to rotate the drum. The driving device may include a driving motor and a rotating shaft for transmitting the driving force generated by the driving motor to the drum. The rotating shaft may pass through the tub to be connected to the drum.

[0075] The driving device may perform corresponding operations by rotating the drum in a forward direction or a reverse direction according to a washing, rinsing and / or spinning or drying process.

[0076] The washing machine may include a water supply device configured to supply water to the tub. The water supply device 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 the external water supply source to the detergent supply device and / or the tub. Water may be supplied to the tub through the detergent supply device. Alternatively, water may be supplied to the tub without passing through the detergent supply device.

[0077] The water supply valve may open or close the water supply pipe in response to an electrical signal of the controller. The water supply valve may allow or prevent water from being supplied to the tub from an external water supply source. The water supply valve may include a solenoid valve configured to open or close in response to an electrical signal.

[0078] The washing machine may include a detergent supply device configured to supply detergent to the barrel. The detergent supply device may include a manual detergent supply device and an automatic detergent supply device, wherein the manual detergent supply device requires the user to input the detergent to be used for each washing, and the automatic detergent supply device stores a large amount of detergent and automatically inputs a predetermined amount of detergent during washing. The detergent supply device may include a detergent box for storing detergent. The detergent supply portion may be configured to supply detergent to the barrel during the water supply process. The water supplied by the water supply pipe may be mixed with the detergent via the detergent supply device. The water mixed with the detergent may be supplied to the barrel. Detergent is used as a term including detergent for pre-washing, detergent for main washing, fabric softener, bleach, etc., and the detergent box may be divided into a storage area for pre-washing detergent, a storage area for main washing detergent, a storage area for fabric softener, and a storage area for bleach.

[0079] The washing machine may include a drain pipe configured to drain water contained in the tub to the outside. The drain pipe may include a drain pipe extending from the bottom of the basin to the outside of the housing, a drain valve provided on the drain pipe to open or close the drain pipe, and a pump provided on the drain pipe. The pump may pump water from the drain pipe to the outside of the housing.

[0080] The washing machine may include a control panel disposed on one side of the housing. The control panel may provide a user interface for interaction between a user and the washing machine. The user interface may include at least one input interface and at least one output interface.

[0081] At least one input interface may convert sensory information received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0082] At least one input interface 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 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 roller dial, and / or a microphone.

[0083] The at least one output interface may visually or audibly communicate information related to the operation of the washing machine to the user.

[0084] For example, at least one output interface may send information about the washing process, the operation time of the washing machine, and the washing / rinsing / spinning settings to the user. Information about the operation of the washing machine may be output through a screen, an indicator, or voice. At least one output interface may include a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, or a speaker.

[0085] The washing machine may include a communication module for wired and / or wireless communication with an external device.

[0086] The communication module may include at least one of a short-range wireless communication module and a long-range wireless communication module.

[0087] The communication module can send data to an external device (e.g., a server, a user device, and / or a home appliance) or receive data from an external device. For example, the communication module can establish communication with a server and / or a user device and / or a home appliance, and send and receive various types of data.

[0088] For communication, the communication module can establish a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between external devices, and support the execution of communication through the established communication channel. According to one embodiment, the communication module may include a wireless communication module (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with the external device through a first network (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network such as Bluetooth, Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) Direct, or Infrared Data Association (IrDA)) or a second network (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network such as a traditional cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., LAN or WAN)), and these various types of communication modules can be integrated into one component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips).

[0089] The short-range wireless communication module may include a Bluetooth communication module, a Bluetooth low energy (BLE) communication module, a near field communication module, a WLAN (Wi-Fi) communication module, a Zigbee communication module, an infrared data association (IrDA) communication module, a Wi-Fi direct (WFD) communication module, an ultra-wideband (UWB) communication module, an Ant+ communication module, a microwave (uWave) communication module, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0090] The long-distance wireless communication module may include a communication module that performs various types of long-distance wireless communications and may include a mobile communication circuit that transmits and receives radio signals with at least one of a base station, an external terminal, and a server on a mobile communication network.

[0091] According to one embodiment, the communication module can communicate with external devices such as servers, user devices, and other home appliances through an access point (AP). The access point (AP) can connect a local area network (LAN) to which a washing machine or a user device is connected to a wide area network (WAN) to which a server is connected. The washing machine or the user device can be connected to the server through a wide area network (WAN). The controller can control various components of the washing machine (e.g., a drive motor and a water supply valve). The controller can control various components of the washing machine according to user input to perform at least one operation including water supply, washing, rinsing, and / or spin drying. For example, the controller can control the drive motor to adjust the rotation speed of the drum, or control the water supply valve of the water supply device to supply water to the barrel.

[0092] The controller may include hardware such as a CPU or a memory, and software such as a control program. For example, the controller may include at least one memory and at least one processor, the at least one memory being used to store algorithms and program data for controlling the operation of components in the washing machine, and the at least one processor being configured to perform the above operations by using the data stored in the at least one memory. The memory and the processor may each be implemented as a separate chip. The processor may include one or more processor chips, or may include one or more processing cores. The memory may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks. Alternatively, the memory and the processor may be implemented as a single chip.

[0093] Hereinafter, a washing machine according to various embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0094] Meanwhile, the detergent box 80 may be mounted to the housing 70 in a mounting direction -X and may be separated in a separation direction +X. In the drawings, the mounting direction -X may refer to a direction toward the +X axis, and the separation direction +X may refer to a direction toward the -X axis.

[0095] The detergent box 80 may be movable in one direction +X↔-X relative to the housing 70. In other words, the one direction +X↔-X may refer to the installation direction -X and / or the separation direction +X. In the figure, the one direction +X↔-X may refer to the direction along the X axis. The one direction +X↔-X may refer to the front-rear direction.

[0096] Figure 1 is a perspective view illustrating a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0097] The washing machine 1 includes a housing 10 forming an exterior and accommodating various components therein, a tub 20 provided inside the housing 10 to store wash water, a drum 30 accommodating laundry and rotating, and a driving motor 16 rotating the drum 30 .

[0098] The housing 10 may have a substantially box shape. The housing 10 may have a front plate 11, a rear plate, a top plate, a bottom plate, and side plates.

[0099] A control panel 12 having input buttons 12 a for receiving operation instructions from a user and a display 12 b for displaying operation information of the washing machine 1 may be provided on the front panel 11 .

[0100] The tub 20 may contain wash water and may be formed in a substantially cylindrical shape. The tub 20 may be fixed to the inside of the housing 10.

[0101] Water supply device 13 may be provided at an upper side of tub 20 to supply wash water to the inside of tub 20. Water supply device 13 may include a water supply pipe 13b supplying wash water from an external water supply source and a water supply valve 13a opening and closing water supply pipe 13b.

[0102] A detergent supply device 50 that supplies detergent to tub 20 may be provided in the front upper portion of housing 10. Detergent supply device 50 may be connected to tub 20 through connection pipe 15. Wash water supplied through water supply pipe 13b may be supplied to the inside of tub 20 via detergent supply device 50 together with detergent.

[0103] The driving motor 16 generating a rotational force to rotate the drum 30 may be disposed on the rear side of the tub 20. The driving motor 16 may include a stator in a stationary state and a rotor rotating by electromagnetic interaction with the stator, and may convert electricity into mechanical rotational force.

[0104] The rotational force generated by the driving motor 16 may be transmitted to the drum 30 through the driving shaft 17. The driving shaft 17 may be press-fitted into the rotor of the driving motor 16 and rotate together with the rotor, and may connect the drum 30 and the driving motor 16 by penetrating the rear wall of the tub 20.

[0105] The drain 18 may be provided on the lower side of the tub 20 to drain the wash water in the tub 20 to the outside of the housing 10. The drain 18 may include a drain pipe 18a guiding the wash water of the tub 20 to the outside of the housing 10, and a drain pump 18b pumping the wash water of the tub 20.

[0106] The drum 30 may have a generally cylindrical shape with an open front, and may be disposed inside the tub 20. The drum 30 may rotate within the tub 20. The drum 30 may rotate to lift and drop laundry, thereby performing washing. To this end, a plurality of lifters 31 may be provided on the inner circumferential surface of the drum 30 to lift the laundry when the drum 30 rotates. A plurality of through holes 32 may be formed along the circumference of the drum 30 to allow the wash water stored in the tub 20 to circulate.

[0107] The washing machine 1 may include a door assembly 40. The door assembly 40 may include a main door 41 that opens and closes a main entrance of the front panel 11, and an auxiliary door 42 that opens and closes an auxiliary entrance formed in the main door 41. The main door 41 and the auxiliary door 42 may be opened and closed independently of each other.

[0108] Figure 3 is a perspective view illustrating a detergent supply device installed to a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0109] The detergent supply device 50 may be installed inside the housing 10. In the drawings, the detergent supply device 50 is shown as being disposed at the upper left side in the housing 10, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the detergent supply device 50 may be disposed at the upper right side or the lower side in the housing 10.

[0110] The detergent supply device 50 may include a housing 70 installed inside the housing 10. The housing 70 may be provided to accommodate the detergent box 80. The housing 70 may be provided at an upper side of the tub 20.

[0111] The detergent supply device 50 may include a detergent box 80 configured to accommodate detergent. The detergent box 80 may be accommodated inside the housing 70.

[0112] The detergent box 80 can be mounted to the housing 70 toward the mounting direction -X, and can be separated from the housing 70 toward the separation direction +X. The detergent box 80 can be moved from the housing 70 in one direction +X↔-X. The detergent box 80 can be inserted into the housing 70 and / or pulled out from the housing 70.

[0113] The detergent supply device 50 may include a water supply unit 60 coupled to the housing 70 and / or the detergent box 80 to supply water. The water supply unit 60 may be connected to the water supply pipe 13b of the water supply device 13. The water supply unit 60 may be provided to cover the upper portion of the housing 70.

[0114] The detergent supply device 50 may include an electrical module 100 installed inside the housing 10. The electrical module 100 may move the detergent box 80 in the installation direction -X to install the detergent box 80 to the housing 70. The electrical module 100 may move the detergent box 80 in the separation direction +X to separate the detergent box 80 from the housing 70.

[0115] The electrical module 100 may include a push connector 150. The push connector 150 may move toward the installation direction -X and / or the separation direction +X of the detergent box 80. The push connector 150 may press the detergent box 80 in the separation direction +X. The push connector 150 may support the detergent box 80 in the installation direction -X. The push connector 150 may move along a direction +X↔-X.

[0116] The electric module 100 may be disposed at the rear of the detergent box 80 and / or the housing 70 .

[0117] The front plate 11 of the washing machine 1 may include a detergent supply mounting portion 11a formed in at least a portion of the front plate 11 that has been cut away. The detergent supply mounting portion 11a may be provided at an upper portion of the front plate 11.

[0118] The washing machine 1 may include an input interface 300 for receiving an operation instruction from a user. The input interface 300 may include an input button 12a provided on the control panel 12.

[0119] However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the input interface 300 may be provided in various shapes. For example, the input interface 300 may be provided in the form of a touch screen or a dial.

[0120] The user may supply detergent to the tub 20 through the input button 12a. The user may select an automatic detergent supply method or a manual detergent supply method.

[0121] The user may separate the detergent box 80 from the housing 70 through the input button 12a. The detergent box 80 may move from the housing 70 toward the separation direction +X.

[0122] The detergent box 80 may be automatically separated from the housing 70. That is, the detergent box 80 may be automatically separated by a command input by a user, rather than the user manually separating the detergent box 80 from the housing 70. Therefore, the convenience of using the washing machine 1 may be increased.

[0123] The detergent box 80 may include a detergent box cover 81 forming a front portion thereof. The detergent box cover 81 may be a portion exposed to the outside even when the detergent box 80 is mounted to the housing 70.

[0124] The detergent box cover 81 may not include a handle. Since the user does not need to manually pull out the detergent box 80, the detergent box cover 81 may not be provided with a portion to be grasped by the user. Therefore, the detergent box cover 81 may be provided without a recessed or protruding portion for a handle or the like.

[0125] The detergent box cover 81 may be arranged to be flat as a whole. Alternatively, the detergent box cover 81 may be arranged to have a curved surface as a whole. In other words, since there is no need to arrange a portion for the user to grasp, the design freedom of the detergent box cover 81 exposed to the outside can be increased, and the aesthetics can be improved.

[0126] The detergent box cover 81 may be formed to correspond to the detergent supply mounting portion 11a of the front panel 11. The detergent box cover 81 may be installed to be connected to the front side of the detergent supply mounting portion 11a. The detergent box cover may be formed to extend along the front panel 11 of the washing machine 1.

[0127] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view showing some components of the detergent supply device.

[0128] The housing 70 may include a housing body 71 in which the detergent box 80 is accommodated, and a housing opening 72 formed on the front of the housing body 71 and through which the detergent box 80 may be inserted and / or withdrawn.

[0129] The detergent box 80 may be provided to accommodate detergent. The detergent box 80 may be installed to be movable to the inside or outside of the housing 70 through the housing opening 72 .

[0130] The detergent box 80 may include a detergent box body 82. The detergent box body 82 may be formed in a box shape with a top opening. The interior of the detergent box body 82 may be partitioned by a partition wall 83. The partition wall 83 may be provided in plural.

[0131] A detergent container 84 may be formed inside the detergent box body 82. Detergent and / or softener may be contained in the detergent container 84. The detergent container 84 may include a first container 84a, a second container 84b, and a third container 84c divided by the partition wall 83.

[0132] The detergent box 80 may include a detergent box cover 81 provided on the front of the detergent box body 82. The detergent box cover 81 may be installed to cover the front side of the detergent box body 82. The detergent box cover 81 may be coupled to the detergent box body 82.

[0133] The detergent box 80 may include an opening portion 85 provided to supply detergent to a detergent pump (not shown). The detergent contained inside the detergent box 80 may be discharged to the detergent pump through the opening portion 85.

[0134] The opening portion 85 may include a first opening hole 86 into which a detergent suction portion of the detergent pump is inserted and / or a second opening hole 87 into which a detergent detecting portion of the detergent pump is inserted.

[0135] The electric module 100 may be coupled to the housing 70 and / or the detergent box 80. The push connector 150 of the electric module 100 may pass through the housing coupling hole 73 formed in the housing 70 to be coupled to the detergent box connector 90 of the detergent box 80 disposed inside the housing 70.

[0136] The housing 70 may include a housing coupling hole 73 to which the push connector 150 is coupled. The push connector 150 may be inserted into the housing coupling hole 73 so that the electric module 100 may be fixed to the housing 70.

[0137] The detergent box 80 may include a detergent box connector 90 . The detergent box connector 90 of the detergent box 80 may be disposed at a position corresponding to the case coupling hole 73 of the case 70 .

[0138] The detergent box connector 90 may be provided so that the detergent box 80 may be coupled to the electrical module 100. The detergent box connector 90 may connect the detergent box 80 to the electrical module 100. The push connector 150 may be coupled to and / or released from the detergent box 80 through the detergent box connector 90. Details thereof will be described below.

[0139] The detergent box connector 90 may be provided at the rear of the detergent box 80. The detergent box connector 90 may be provided to protrude upward from an upper end of the detergent box body 82.

[0140] However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the detergent box connector 90 may be provided at various positions in the detergent box 80 in various shapes as long as it can be coupled to the electrical module 100. For example, the detergent box connector 90 may be provided on a lateral side of the detergent box body 82, or may be provided inside the detergent receiving portion 84.

[0141] Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of an electric module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0142] The electric module 100 may include an electric module housing 110. The electric module housing 110 may form an external appearance of the electric module 100.

[0143] The electric module housing 110 may include an electric module upper housing 111 and an electric module lower housing 112 that may be coupled to the electric module upper housing 111. An accommodation space may be formed between the electric module upper housing 111 and the electric module lower housing 112. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the electric module housing 110 may be formed as one component.

[0144] The electric module 100 may include a driving device. The driving device may be configured to transmit a driving force to the push connector 150. The push connector 150 may be configured to move by receiving a driving force from the driving device.

[0145] The driving device may include a motor 121 generating power, and a power transmission member transmitting the power of the motor 121 to the push connector 150. The motor 121 may be rotatably provided.

[0146] The power transmission member may include a motor gear 122 that receives driving force from the motor 121. The motor gear 122 may be mounted on a driving shaft of the motor 121.

[0147] The power transfer member may include a first transfer gear 123 receiving a driving force from the motor gear 122 and a second transfer gear 124 receiving a driving force from the first transfer gear 123. The first transfer gear 123 and / or the second transfer gear 124 may include a pinion gear.

[0148] Although the second transfer gear 124 is shown as an example to include a pinion, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The power transmission member may include a single transfer gear. Alternatively, the power transmission member may include three or more transfer gears. The power transmission member may be arranged in various ways as long as it is capable of transmitting the power generated by the motor 121 to the push connector 150.

[0149] The power transfer member may include a third transfer gear 125 that provides the driving force transferred from the first transfer gear 123 and / or the second transfer gear 124 to the push connector 150 .

[0150] The third transfer gear 125 may include a rack gear, and the rack of the third transfer gear 125 may mesh with the pinion of the second transfer gear 124 .

[0151] The third transfer gear 125 may be provided to be linearly movable. The third transfer gear 125 may be movable along one direction +X↔-X.

[0152] The third transfer gear 125 may be provided at the rear of the push connector 150. The third transfer gear 125 may be provided at a side from the push connector 150 toward the installation direction -X.

[0153] The third transfer gear 125 may provide power to the push connector 150. The push connector 150 and the third transfer gear 125 may be connected to each other. The push connector 150 may move together along the moving direction of the third transfer gear 125. The push connector 150 may move linearly in one direction.

[0154] The third transfer gear 125 may include a gear protrusion 126, which may be coupled to the push connector 150. The gear protrusion 126 may be inserted into the push connector 150.

[0155] When the third transfer gear 125 moves in one direction, that is, when the gear protrusion 126 moves in one direction +X↔-X, the push connector 150 connected to the gear protrusion 126 may also move together with the gear protrusion 126. That is, the gear protrusion 126 and the push connector 150 may move together in one direction +X↔-X.

[0156] The spring 128 may be installed on the gear protrusion 126. The spring 128 may be provided to have elastic force. The spring 128 may be installed to be wound around the outer peripheral surface of the gear protrusion 126.

[0157] The gear protrusion 126 may include a spring support protrusion 127 formed in a protruding manner. The spring support protrusion 127 may protrude in a direction perpendicular to the one direction +X↔-X.

[0158] At least a portion of the spring 128 may be supported by the spring support protrusion 127. At least a portion of the spring 128 may be fixed to the gear protrusion 126 through the spring support protrusion 127.

[0159] The spring 128 may be inserted into the push connector 150 to elastically support the push connector 150. As will be described below, the push connector 150 may rotate around an axis in a direction +X↔-X. In this case, the spring 128 may apply a reaction force to the push connector 150 in a direction opposite to the direction in which the push connector 150 rotates. Therefore, the push connector 150 may be re-rotated by the spring 128 to return to the original state.

[0160] For example, when the push connector 150 rotates clockwise due to an external force, the spring 128 may apply a counterclockwise reaction force to the push connector 150 , and thus the push connector 150 may rotate counterclockwise, thereby returning to an original state.

[0161] The electrical module 100 may include a switch 140. The switch 140 may be disposed inside the electrical module housing 110. The switch 140 may be disposed adjacent to the push connector 150. The switch 140 may be disposed on one side of the push connector 150.

[0162] The switch 140 may include an inner button 141 disposed adjacent to the push link 150 and an outer button 142 spaced apart from the inner button 141. The inner button 141 and / or the outer button 142 may be opened and closed by the switch contact 180 of the push link 150.

[0163] A switch 140 may be provided to detect the position of the push connector 150. The push connector 150 may selectively press the switch 140 while moving linearly and / or rotationally.

[0164] The switch 140 may be configured to detect a position to which the push connector 150 is linearly moved in one direction +X↔-X and / or a position to which the push connector 150 is rotationally moved in one direction +X↔-X around an axis. The switch 140 may be provided to detect whether the push connector 150 is coupled to the detergent box 80. Details thereof will be described below.

[0165] Figure 6 is a perspective view showing a push connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 7 is a perspective view showing a push connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0166] The push connector 150 may include a connector 160, a rotation shaft 170, and a switch contact 180. The push connector 150 may be formed as one component.

[0167] The push connector 150 may include a connector 160. The connector 160 may be provided to allow the push connector 150 to be coupled to the detergent box 80. The connector 160 may be coupled to the detergent box connector 90 of the detergent box 80.

[0168] The connector 160 may be disposed at one end of the push connector 150. One end of the push connector 150 may be disposed adjacent to the detergent box 80. The connector 160 may be disposed at a front side of the push connector 150.

[0169] The connector 160 may include a head 161 and a locking protrusion 162 protruding from the head 161. The locking protrusion 162 may be supported on the detergent box 80 to prevent the detergent box 80 from being separated from the electric module 100.

[0170] The head 161 may extend in one direction +X↔-X. The head 161 may have a cylindrical shape. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the head 161 may be provided in various shapes, such as a circular or quadrilateral shape.

[0171] The cross-sectional area of ​​the head 161 may be designed to become smaller toward the front.

[0172] The locking protrusion 162 may protrude from the head 161 in a direction perpendicular to the one direction +X↔-X. The locking protrusion 162 may protrude in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis +X↔-X of the push connector 150.

[0173] The locking protrusion 162 may include a first locking protrusion 162a and a second locking protrusion 162b spaced apart from the first locking protrusion 162a. The first locking protrusion 162a and the second locking protrusion 162b may be formed at the same position in one direction +X↔-X. The first locking protrusion 162a and the second locking protrusion 162b may be formed to be symmetrical to each other relative to the rotation axis +X↔-X of the push connector 150.

[0174] However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the number of the locking protrusions 162 may be one, or may be three or more.

[0175] The push connector 150 may include a rotation shaft 170. The rotation shaft 170 may be configured to rotate the push connector 150. The rotation shaft 170 may guide the push connector 150 to rotate around an axis in one direction +X↔-X while linearly moving in one direction +X↔-X.

[0176] The rotating shaft 170 may be connected to the connector 160 and / or the switch contact 180. The rotating shaft 170 may be formed integrally with the connector 160 and / or the switch contact 180. The push connector 150 may be rotated as a whole by the rotation of the rotating shaft 170.

[0177] The rotating shaft 170 may include a body 171 and a rotating protrusion 172 protruding from the body 171. The rotating protrusion 172 may be provided to guide the rotation of the body 171.

[0178] The body 171 may extend in one direction +X↔-X. The body 171 may have a cylindrical shape. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the cross-sectional area of ​​the body 171 may be provided in various shapes such as a circular or quadrilateral shape. The body 171 may be provided in the same shape as the head 161.

[0179] The rotation protrusion 172 may protrude from the body 171 in a direction perpendicular to the one direction +X↔-X. The rotation protrusion 172 may protrude in a direction perpendicular to the rotation axis +X↔-X of the push connector 150.

[0180] The rotation protrusion 172 may be provided on one side of the push connector 150. Although the rotation protrusion 172 is shown as one unit, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the rotation protrusion 172 may be provided in two or more units.

[0181] The push connector 150 may include a middle plate 163 disposed between the head 161 and the body 171. The middle plate 163 may connect the head 161 and the body 171. The middle plate 163 may be formed to have a larger cross-sectional area than that of the head 161 and / or the body 171.

[0182] The push connector 150 may include a switch contact 180. The switch contact 180 may be configured to press the switch 140. The switch contact 180 may be configured to selectively press the switch 140 according to the linear movement and / or rotational movement of the push connector 150.

[0183] The switch contact 180 may be provided at the other end of the push connector 150 different from the connector 160. The switch contact 180 may be formed at a side opposite to the connector 160. The switch contact 180 may be provided at the rear of the push connector 150.

[0184] The switch contact 180 may include a wing 185. The wing 185 may protrude from the body 171 toward one side of the switch contact 180. The wing 185 may protrude from the body 171 toward the switch 140.

[0185] The switch contact 180 may include a first pressing portion 181, a second pressing portion 182, a third pressing portion 183, and a fourth pressing portion 184. The first pressing portion 181 may be configured to close the inner button 141 of the switch 140 and to open the outer button 142 of the switch 140. The second pressing portion 182 may be configured to close both the inner button 141 and the outer button 142. The third pressing portion 183 may be configured to open the inner button 141 and close the outer button 142. The fourth pressing portion 184 may be configured to close both the inner button 141 and the outer button 142. Details thereof will be described below.

[0186] Figure 8 2 is a view showing a state in which a push connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is located at a first pressing position. Fig. 9 The push connector is shown from Figure 8 A view of a state in which the position is moved to a second pressed position.

[0187] Reference Figure 8 , the push connector 150 may be located at a first pressing position. The first pressing position may be a position where the push connector 150 is disposed at a rearmost position in a direction +X↔-X during operation of the electrical module 100. The first pressing position may be a position to which the push connector 150 is moved to the maximum extent in the electrical module housing 110 along the mounting direction -X.

[0188] At the first pressing position, the push connector 150 may be in a state of being coupled to the detergent box 80. At the first pressing position, the locking protrusion 162 of the push connector 150 may be in a first position A where the locking protrusion 162 is supported by the detergent box 80.

[0189] Reference Fig. 9, the push connector 150 may be located at the second pressing position. The second pressing position may be a position where the push connector 150 is disposed at the most forward position in a direction +X↔-X during operation of the electrical module 100. The second pressing position may be a position to which the push connector 150 is moved to the maximum extent in the electrical module housing 110 along the separation direction +X.

[0190] The push connector 150 may move from the first pressing position to the second pressing position in the separation direction +X.

[0191] At the second pressing position, the push connector 150 may be released from the detergent box 80. At the second pressing position, the locking protrusion 162 of the push connector 150 may be rotated to the second position B.

[0192] That is, the push connector 150 may move in a direction +X↔-X from the first pressing position toward the second pressing position while rotating about an axis in a direction +X↔-X. Referring to the drawings, the push connector 150 may move forward while rotating counterclockwise.

[0193] The electrical module 100 may include a rotation guide configured to rotate the push connector 150. The rotation guide may guide the push connector 150 to rotate about an axis in one direction +X↔-X while linearly moving in one direction +X↔-X.

[0194] The rotation guide may include a guide wall 115. The guide wall 115 may be provided in the electric module housing 110. The guide wall 115 may be provided in the electric module lower housing 112. The guide wall 115 may be formed to protrude from the upper surface of the electric module lower housing 112 toward the lower surface of the electric module upper housing 111.

[0195] The guide wall 115 may support the push connector 150 so that the push connector 150 is disposed within the electrical module housing 110. The guide wall 115 may accommodate the push connector 150 to prevent the push connector 150 from being separated from the interior of the electrical module housing 110 when the push connector 150 moves. The guide wall 115 may be provided on one side of the push connector 150.

[0196] The guide wall 115 may include a rear guide wall 115 a , a middle guide wall 115 c , and a front guide wall 115 b .

[0197] The rear guide wall 115a may be a region disposed at the rear of the guide wall 115. The front guide wall 115b may be a region disposed at the front of the guide wall 115. The middle guide wall 115c may be a region disposed between the rear guide wall 115a and the front guide wall 115b.

[0198] The guide wall 115 may include a contact surface 116. The contact surface 116 may form an upper surface of the guide wall 115. The contact surface 116 may be an upwardly facing surface. The contact surface 116 may face a lower surface of the electric module upper housing 111.

[0199] The contact surface 116 may be provided to seat the rotation protrusion 172 of the push connector 150 thereon. The contact surface 116 may be provided to support the rotation protrusion 172. The contact surface 116 may be provided to contact the rotation protrusion 172. The contact surface 116 may contact the lower surface of the rotation protrusion 172.

[0200] While the rotating protrusion 172 is in contact with the contact surface 116 , the push connector 150 may move in one direction +X↔−X.

[0201] The rear guide wall 115a may include a first contact surface 116a. The front guide wall 115b may include a second contact surface 116b. When the push connector 150 is in the first pressing position, the rotation protrusion 172 may contact the first contact surface 116a of the rear guide wall 115a. When the push connector 150 is in the second pressing position, the rotation protrusion 172 may contact the second contact surface 116b of the front guide wall 115b.

[0202] The height of the guide wall 115 may be set to be different in one direction +X↔−X. The height of the guide wall 115 may refer to a length protruding from the electric module lower case 112 toward the electric module upper case 111 .

[0203] The height of the second contact surface 116b may be different from that of the first contact surface 116a. The height of the second contact surface 116b may be set higher than that of the first contact surface 116a.

[0204] The contact surface 116c of the middle guide wall 115c may be inclined.The contact surface 116c of the middle guide wall 115c may be provided to be inclined upward toward the front.

[0205] Since the height of the contact surface 116 increases as it points forward, the rotation protrusion 172 moving forward can be rotated by the contact surface 116. That is, the push connector 150 rotates counterclockwise by the rotation guide while moving forward. The push connector 150 can be rotated from a first position A where the push connector 150 is coupled to the detergent box 80 to a second position B where the push connector 150 is released from the detergent box 80.

[0206] Fig.10 is a view illustrating a detergent box connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.112 is a view illustrating a state in which a push connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is coupled to a detergent box when in a first position. Fig.12 is a view illustrating a state in which a push connector according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is released from a detergent box when in a second position. Fig.13 is a view illustrating a process in which a push connector is coupled to a detergent box according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0207] The detergent box connector 90 may include a through hole 91. The through hole 91 may include a center hole 92 through which the head 161 passes and a locking hole 93 through which the locking protrusion 162 passes. The center hole 92 may be provided to correspond to the shape of the head 161, and the locking hole 93 may be provided to correspond to the shape of the locking protrusion 162.

[0208] The locking hole 93 may extend from the center hole 92. The locking hole 93 may be provided at a side of the center hole 92. The center hole 92 and the locking hole 93 may be connected to each other.

[0209] The detergent box connector 90 may include a support plate 94. The support plate 94 may be provided to form a through hole 91. The through hole 91 may be provided to pass through the support plate 94.

[0210] The support plate 94 may include a support surface 95. The support surface 95 may be a front surface of the support plate 94. The support surface 95 may be disposed to face the housing opening 72.

[0211] refer to Fig.11 , the push connector 150 can be connected to the detergent box 80 at the first position A. The head 161 is inserted into the through hole 91, the locking protrusion 162 is inserted into the locking hole 93, and then rotated to the first position A, thereby being supported on the support plate 94. The locking protrusion 162 can contact the support surface 95 of the support plate 94.

[0212] In the first position A, the locking protrusion 162 is supported by the support plate 94 so that the push connector 150 can support the detergent box 80 in the mounting direction -X. Therefore, the detergent box 80 can be prevented from being separated from the electric module 100.

[0213] That is, the detergent box 80 may be prevented from being separated from the housing 70. The detergent box 80 may be prevented from being separated from the housing 70 due to vibration during operation of the washing machine 1.

[0214] refer to Fig.12 , the push connector 150 can be rotated to the second position B and released from the detergent box 80. The locking protrusion 162 can be rotated to match the position of the locking hole 93.

[0215] In the second position B, the locking protrusion 162 may pass through the locking hole 93 , so that the push connector 150 may move in the installation direction −X and pass through the through hole 91 , thereby achieving separation from the detergent box 80 .

[0216] That is, since the detergent box 80 is separated from the electrical module 100, the user can move the detergent box 80 to a desired position in the separation direction + X. For example, the user can completely separate the detergent box 80 from the housing 70 and easily perform processes such as washing the detergent box 80 or adding detergent.

[0217] At the same time, reference Fig.13 , the detergent box connector 90 may include a coupling guide surface 96. The coupling guide surface 96 may be provided to guide the push connector 150 to be coupled to the through hole 91.

[0218] The coupling guide surface 96 can guide the position of the locking protrusion 162 so that the push connector 150 can pass through the through hole 91, that is, the locking protrusion 162 can pass through the locking hole 93. The coupling guide surface 96 can allow the push connector 150 to rotate so that the locking protrusion 162 can pass through the locking hole 93.

[0219] The coupling guide surface 96 may guide the push connector 150 to rotate from the first position A to the second position B. The coupling guide surface 96 may guide the locking protrusion 162 of the push connector 150 to rotate to the second position B and pass through the locking hole 93 .

[0220] The coupling guide surface 96 may be provided adjacent to the locking hole 93. The coupling guide surface 96 may be formed to protrude from the support plate 94.

[0221] The coupling guide surface 96 may include an inclined surface. The coupling guide surface 96 may include a curved surface.

[0222] Fig.14 is a view illustrating a state in which a detergent box is completely installed within a housing during operation of a detergent supply device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.15 is a view illustrating a process in which a detergent box is separated from a housing during operation of the detergent supply device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.16 is a view illustrating a state in which a detergent box has been separated from an electric module during operation of a detergent supply device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.17 is a view illustrating a process in which a detergent box is mounted to a housing during operation of a detergent supply device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.18 is a view illustrating a state in which a detergent box has been mounted to a housing during operation of the detergent supply device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0223] refer to Fig.14 , the detergent box 80 may be in a closed state. The closed state may refer to a state in which the detergent box 80 is located at the rear in the installation direction −X and is completely installed inside the housing 70.

[0224] When the detergent box 80 is in the closed state, the detergent contained inside the detergent box 80 may be discharged toward the tub 20 .

[0225] The push connector 150 may be located at a first pressing position.

[0226] The detergent box 80 may be in a state of being coupled to the push connector 150. The push connector 150 in the first position may be in a state of being coupled to the detergent box 80. Therefore, even when vibration is applied due to the operation of the washing machine 1, the detergent box 80 may be prevented from being separated from the housing 70, thereby preventing leakage of detergent or the like.

[0227] refer to Fig.15 , the user may input a command to the washing machine 1 to open the detergent box 80. For example, the user may press an input button 12a provided on the control panel 12.

[0228] The open state may refer to a state in which the detergent box 80 moves in the separation direction +X and protrudes outward from the front plate 11. The user may perform processes such as checking the remaining amount of detergent contained in the detergent box 80 or replenishing detergent while the detergent box 80 is open.

[0229] The push connector 150 may apply force to the detergent box 80 while moving toward the separation direction +X. The detergent box 80 may move in the separation direction +X by the push connector 150.

[0230] The push connector 150 can be moved from the first pressing position to the second pressing position. In this case, the push connector 150 can be rotated from the first position to the second position.

[0231] Reference Fig.16 , the push connector 150 moved to the second pressing position may be rotated to the second position. Therefore, the connection between the detergent box 80 and the push connector 150 may be released.

[0232] In this case, the user can manually move the detergent box 80 toward the separation direction +X. That is, since the connection between the detergent box 80 and the push connector 150 is released, the user can additionally move the detergent box 80 toward the separation direction +X. For example, the user can completely separate the detergent box 80 from the housing 70. The user can easily perform a desired process, such as washing the detergent box 80 separated from the washing machine 1.

[0233] At the same time, the push connector 150 in the second pressing position can move to the third pressing position between the first pressing position and the second pressing position after being released from the detergent box 80. The push connector 150 can move to the third pressing position in the installation direction -X. The push connector 150 moved to the third pressing position can stop. This can be referred to as the standby state of the push connector 150.

[0234] The push connector 150 may rotate from the second position to the first position while moving from the second pressing position to the third pressing position. The push connector 150 stopped at the third pressing position may remain stopped at the first position.

[0235] refer to Fig.17 , the user can move the detergent box 80 in the installation direction -X. For example, the user can also move the detergent box 80 to the inside of the housing 70 by pressing the detergent box cover 81 of the detergent box 80 toward the installation direction -X.

[0236] In this case, the user may manually move the detergent box 80 to a point where the detergent box 80 contacts the push connector 150 .

[0237] When the detergent box 80 collides with the push connector 150 located at the third pressing position, the push connector 150 disposed at the first position may be rotated to the second position by the coupling guide surface 96 disposed in the through hole 91 , thereby being inserted into the through hole 91 .

[0238] Thereafter, the push connector 150 may be rotated back to the first position due to the reaction force of the spring 128 , and the locking protrusion 162 is supported by the support plate 94 , so that the push connector 150 may be coupled to the detergent box 80 .

[0239] refer to Fig.18 When it is detected that the push connector 150 is coupled to the detergent box 80, the push connector 150 may move toward the installation direction -X. The push connector 150 may move to the first pressing position. That is, the detergent box 80 may be fully inserted into the housing 70 and set to a closed state.

[0240] Fig.19 is a functional block diagram of a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0241] The washing machine 1 may include an input interface 300 , a sensor part 400 , a control part 200 , and an electric module 100 .

[0242] The input interface 300 may be provided to receive a user command so that the detergent box 80 is separated from the housing 70. The input interface 300 may be provided to transmit the obtained information to the control part 200.

[0243] The input interface 300 may include the input button 12a. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the input interface 300 may be provided as a touch pad, a dial, etc. Alternatively, the input interface 300 may be provided outside the washing machine 1. For example, the input interface 300 may be provided in a mobile phone.

[0244] A sensor 400 may be provided to detect the position of the push connector 150. The sensor 400 may be configured to detect a first pressing position, a second pressing position, and a third pressing position between which the push connector 150 moves in one direction +X↔-X. The sensor 400 may be configured to detect a first position and a second position between which the push connector 150 rotates around an axis in one direction +X↔-X.

[0245] The sensor 400 may be provided to transmit acquired information to the control portion 200 .

[0246] The sensor 400 may include the switch 140. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the sensor 400 may be provided in various forms, such as a linear encoder, etc.

[0247] A control portion 200 may be provided to control the electrical module 100 based on information received from the input interface 300 and / or the sensor 400. A control portion 200 may be provided to control the operation of the motor 121. The control portion 200 may control the push connector 150 to move in one direction +X↔-X by driving the motor 121.

[0248] The motor 121 may allow the push connector 150 to move or stop by being driven or not driven. The motor 121 may allow the push connector 150 to move in a separation direction +X or a mounting direction -X according to a rotation direction.

[0249] Fig. 20 is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0250] The input interface 300 may detect whether a detergent box opening command has been input from a user. In response to the detergent box opening command being input, the control unit 200 may control the motor 121 so that the push connector 150 moves to the second pressing position. In response to the push connector 150 moving to the second pressing position, and then the connection between the push connector 150 and the detergent box 80 is released, the control unit 200 may control the motor 121 so that the push connector 150 moves to the third pressing position. Thereafter, the control unit 200 may control the motor 121 so that the push connector 150 moved to the third pressing position stops and is set to a standby state.

[0251] Thereafter, the user may move the detergent box 80 in the installation direction −X so that the detergent box 80 may collide with the push connector 150 . In this case, the push connector 150 may be rotated by the coupling guide surface 96 and coupled to the detergent box 80 .

[0252] The sensor 400 may detect whether the push connector 150 is coupled to the detergent box 80. In response to the detergent box 80 and the push connector 150 being coupled to each other, the control part 200 may control the motor 121 so that the push connector 150 moves to the first pressing position.

[0253] That is, when the detergent box 80 is installed to the housing 70, the user may need to manually move the detergent box 80 only to the third pressing position where the push connector 150 is in a standby state, and then the push connector 150 and / or the detergent box 80 can be automatically moved toward the first pressing position through the control unit 200.

[0254] Meanwhile, in the process of the detergent box 80 moving from the third pressing position to the first pressing position of the push connector 150, a repulsive force may be generated by the docking between the detergent box 80 and the detergent pump. That is, in the process of the detergent box 80 moving in the installation direction -X, the detergent box 80 may collide with a component (such as a detergent pump, etc.) disposed at the rear, thereby receiving a repulsive force in a direction opposite to the installation direction -X.

[0255] In this case, since the detergent box 80 can be automatically moved by pushing the connector 150, the repulsive force can be prevented from being transmitted to the user. Therefore, the convenience of use when the detergent box 80 is installed in the housing 70 can be improved.

[0256] Fig.21 is a flowchart illustrating a method of controlling a washing machine according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0257] Omit and Fig. 20 Same description.

[0258] In response to no detergent box opening command being input, the sensor 400 may detect whether the push connector 150 is located at the first pressing position (210). When the push connector 150 is detected to be located at the first pressing position, it may be recognized whether the detergent box opening command is input to the input interface 300.

[0259] When it is detected that the push connector 150 is not located at the first pressing position, the sensor 400 may detect whether the push connector 150 is located between the first pressing position and the third pressing position (211). When it is detected that the push connector 150 is located between the first pressing position and the third pressing position, the control unit 200 may recognize that the push connector 150 is not located at the correct position, and control the motor 121 to move the push connector 150 to the first pressing position (212).

[0260] When detecting that the push connector 150 is not located between the first pressing position and the third pressing position, the sensor 400 may detect whether the push connector 150 is located between the third pressing position and the second pressing position or is located at the second pressing position ( 213 ).

[0261] When the push connector 150 is detected to be between the third pressing position and the second pressing position, the control unit 200 may recognize that the push connector 150 has stopped due to power failure or the like during the process of moving to the second pressing position, and control the motor 121 to move the push connector 150 to the second pressing position (202). Alternatively, even when the push connector 150 is detected to be at the second pressing position, the control unit 200 may control the push connector 150 to remain at the second pressing position (202).

[0262] When detecting that the push connector 150 is neither located between the third pressing position and the second pressing position nor located at the second pressing position, the sensor 400 may detect whether the push connector 150 is located at the third pressing position ( 214 ).

[0263] When detecting that the pushing connector 150 is located at the third pressing position, the control unit 200 may control the pushing connector 150 to maintain the third pressing position.

[0264] Fig. 22 is a perspective view showing the arrangement of a push connector and a switch according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0265] The switch contact 180 of the push connector 150 may be configured to press the switch 140. The inner button 141 and / or the outer button 142 of the switch 140 may be selectively opened and closed by the wing 185.

[0266] Hereinafter, for the convenience of description, when the inside button 141 and / or the outside button 142 is pressed, it may be referred to as “off”, and when the inside button 141 and / or the outside button 142 is not pressed, it may be referred to as “on”.

[0267] Fig.23 2 is a view illustrating a moving process of a push connector. Fig.24 It is shown Fig.23View of the switch shown.

[0268] Reference Fig.23 , the push connector 150 may be located at the first pressing position. In this case, refer to Fig.24 , the push connector 150 may be positioned so that the first pressing portion 181 presses the switch 140. The first pressing portion 181 may close the inner button 141 of the switch 140 while opening the outer button 142. The switch 140 may detect that the push connector 150 is in the first pressing position based on the inner button 141 being closed and the outer button 142 being opened.

[0269] Fig.25 2 is a view illustrating a moving process of a push connector. Fig.26 It is shown Fig.25 View of the switch shown.

[0270] Reference Fig.25 , the push connector 150 can move from the first pressing position toward the separation direction +X. In this case, refer to Fig.26 , the push connector 150 may be positioned so that the second pressing portion 182 presses the switch 140. The second pressing portion 182 may close the inner button 141 and the outer button 142 of the switch 140. The switch 140 may detect that the push connector 150 is between the first pressing position and the third pressing position based on the inner button 141 and the outer button 142 being closed.

[0271] Fig. 27 2 is a view illustrating a moving process of a push connector. Fig.28 It is shown Fig. 27 View of the switch shown.

[0272] Reference Fig. 27 , the push connector 150 may be located at the third pressing position. In this case, refer to Fig.28 , the push connector 150 may be positioned so that the third pressing portion 183 presses the switch 140. The third pressing portion 183 may turn on the inner button 141 while turning off the outer button 142 of the switch 140. The switch 140 may detect that the push connector 150 is in the third pressing position based on the inner button 141 being turned on and the outer button 142 being turned off.

[0273] Fig.29 2 is a view illustrating a moving process of a push connector. Fig.30 It is shown Fig.29 View of the switch shown.

[0274] Reference Fig.29 , the push connector 150 can move from the third pressing position toward the separation direction +X. In this case, refer to Fig.30 , the push connector 150 may be positioned so as not to press the switch 140. Since the portion of the push connector 150 disposed between the third pressing portion 183 and the fourth pressing portion 184 is located at a position corresponding to the switch 140, the switch 140 may not be pressed. The switch 140 may detect that the push connector 150 is located between the third pressing position and the second pressing position based on the inner button 141 and the outer button 142 being turned on.

[0275] Fig.31 2 is a view showing a moving process of a push connector. Fig.32 It is shown Fig.31 View of the switch shown.

[0276] Reference Fig.31 , the push connector 150 may be located at the second pressing position. In this case, refer to Fig.32 , the push connector 150 may be positioned so that the fourth pressing portion 184 presses the switch 140. The fourth pressing portion 184 may close the inner button 141 and the outer button 142 of the switch 140. The switch 140 may detect that the push connector 150 is located at the second pressing position based on the inner button 141 and the outer button 142 being closed.

[0277] Specifically, the switch 140 can detect Fig.29 and Fig.30 The inner button 141 and the outer button 142 opened in the middle are as shown in FIG. Fig.31 and Fig.32 The push connector 150 is closed as in the second pressing position to detect that the push connector 150 is in the second pressing position.

[0278] Fig.33 2 is a view showing a moving process of a push connector. Fig.34 It is shown Fig.33 View of the switch shown in .

[0279] Reference Fig.33 , the push connector 150 can be moved from the second pressing position to the third pressing position in the installation direction -X. In this case, refer to Fig.34 , the push connector 150 may be positioned so that the third pressing portion 183 presses the switch 140. The third pressing portion 183 may turn on the inner button 141 while turning off the outer button 142 of the switch 140. The switch 140 may detect that the push connector 150 is in the third pressing position based on the inner button 141 being turned on and the outer button 142 being turned off.

[0280] Specifically, the switch 140 can detect Fig.31 and Fig.32 The closed inner button 141 and outer button 142 are switched so that Fig.33 and Fig.34 The inner button 141 is turned on and the outer button 142 is turned off to detect that the push connector 150 has moved from the second pressing position to the third pressing position. Therefore, the push connector 150 can be controlled to stop at the third pressing position and remain in the standby state. At the same time, in this case, the push connector 150 can be located at the first position.

[0281] Fig.35 2 is a view showing a moving process of a push connector. Fig.36 It is shown Fig.35 View of the switch shown in .

[0282] refer to Fig.35 , the push connector 150 located at the third pressing position may collide with the detergent box 80. In this case, the push connector 150 may be rotated to the second position by the coupling guide surface 96 of the detergent box 80 and thus inserted into the through hole 91 of the detergent box 80. In this case, Fig.36 , the push connector 150 may be rotated to the second position, and thus the third pressing portion 183 may be rotated so that the inner button 141 and the outer button 142 of the switch 140 are turned on.

[0283] Afterwards, the push connector 150 can be rotated back to the first position by the reaction force of the spring 128 and coupled to the detergent box 80. In this case, the third pressing portion 183 can be rotated to return to its original state so that the inner button 141 of the switch 140 is turned on and the outer button 142 is turned off ( Fig. 27 and Fig.28 ).

[0284] That is, the switch 140 can detect that the push connector 150 rotates from the first position to the second position and then rotates back to the first position in response to the collision between the detergent box 80 and the push connector 150. Therefore, the switch 140 can detect that the detergent box 80 and the push connector 150 are coupled to each other.

[0285] Thereafter, the push connector 150 may be moved from the third mounting position to the first mounting position in the mounting direction −X.

[0286] The washing machine 1 according to the embodiment includes: a housing 10; a barrel 20 arranged in the housing 10; and a detergent supply device 50, which is configured to supply detergent to the barrel, wherein the detergent supply device 50 includes: a shell 70, which is installed on the housing 10; a detergent box 80, which is configured to be movable in an installation direction -X to be installed on the shell 70, and movable in a separation direction +X to be separated from the shell; a push connector 150, which is configured to be pressed onto the detergent box 80 in the separation direction +X, and the push connector 150 is configured to be rotatable between a first position A and a second position B, in which the push connector 150 is connected to the detergent box to support the detergent box 80 in the installation direction -X, and in which the push connector 150 is released from the detergent box 80 to release the support of the detergent box 80 in the installation position -X; and a motor 121, which is configured to allow the push connector 150 to operate. According to the present disclosure, the push connector 150 can allow the detergent box 80 to move in the installation direction -X and / or the separation direction +X by the motor 121, so that the detergent box 80 can be automatically installed to the housing 70 and / or separated from the housing 70, thereby increasing the convenience of use. In addition, the push connector 150 can be connected to the detergent box 80 in the first position A, thereby preventing the detergent box 80 from being separated from the housing 70. The push connector 150 can be released from the detergent box 80 in the second position B, thereby facilitating the process, such as separating the detergent box 80 from the housing 70 to clean the detergent box 80 or replenishing detergent.

[0287] The push connector 150 may include a head 161 formed to extend toward the separation direction +X; and a locking protrusion 162 formed to extend from the head in a direction perpendicular to the separation direction +X to support the detergent box 80 in the first position A. The detergent box 80 may include: a support plate 94 configured to contact the locking protrusion 162 when the push connector 150 is in the first position A to be supported by the locking protrusion 162; and a through hole 91 formed in the support plate 94 to allow the locking protrusion 162 to pass therethrough when the push connector 150 is in the second position B. The through hole 91 may include: a central hole 92 through which the head 161 passes; and a locking hole 93 formed to extend from the central hole 92 and have a shape corresponding to the shape of the locking protrusion 162. According to the present disclosure, since the locking protrusion 162 can be supported on the support plate 94, the detergent box 80 and the push connector 150 can be coupled to each other. Since the locking protrusion 162 may pass through the through hole 91 , the coupling of the detergent box 80 and the push connector 150 may be released from each other.

[0288] The detergent box 80 may further include a coupling guide surface 96 adjacent to the locking hole 93, so that when the locking protrusion 162 is inserted into the locking hole 93, the locking protrusion 162 rotates from the second position B to the first position A. According to the present disclosure, the push connector 150 can be easily inserted into the detergent box 80 through the coupling guide surface 96. In addition, the coupling guide surface 96 can guide the push connector 150 to rotate while being inserted into the detergent box 80, so that the sensor 400 can detect whether the detergent box 80 and the push connector 150 are coupled to each other according to the rotation of the push connector 150.

[0289] The washing machine 1 may further include a rotation guide configured to guide the push connector 150 to rotate from the first position A to the second position B when the push connector 150 moves in the separation direction +X. According to the present disclosure, the push connector 150 may move linearly along one direction +X↔-X while rotating around an axis along one direction +X↔-X. That is, the push connector 150 may be coupled to or released from the detergent box 80 while moving the detergent box 80 in the separation direction +X and / or the installation direction -X.

[0290] The rotation guide may include: a rotation protrusion 172, which is provided on the push connector 150 and is formed to extend in a direction perpendicular to the separation direction +X; and a guide wall, which is provided adjacent to the push connector 150 and is configured to seat the rotation protrusion 172 thereon. The guide wall 115 may include a contact surface 116, which forms an upper surface to be contacted with the rotation protrusion 172, and is configured to have a first contact surface 116a that contacts the rotation protrusion 172 when the push connector 150 is in the first position A, and a second contact surface 116b that contacts the rotation protrusion 172 when the push connector 150 is in the second position. According to the present disclosure, since the contact surface 116 has a varying height, the rotation of the rotation protrusion 172 can be easily guided.

[0291] The washing machine 1 may further include: a sensor 400 configured to detect the position of the push connector 150 and generate a signal corresponding to the detection; and a control unit 200 configured to control the motor 121 by receiving the signal generated from the sensor 400. According to the present disclosure, when the position of the push connector 150 is detected by the sensor 400, the push connector 150 may be moved by the control unit 200 without the user manually moving the detergent box 80, thereby automatically moving the detergent box 80. Therefore, the convenience of using the washing machine 1 may be improved.

[0292] The sensor 400 may include a switch 140 disposed adjacent to the push connector 150, and the push connector 150 may further include a switch contact 180 configured to turn on or off the switch 140 when the push connector 150 moves in the separation direction +X. According to the present disclosure, the push connector 150 may press the switch 140 while moving in one direction +X↔-X, thereby easily detecting the movement of the push connector 150 in one direction +X↔-X.

[0293] When the detergent box 80 is mounted on the housing 70, the position of the push connector 150 connected to the detergent box 80 in the first position A in the direction +X of pressing the detergent box 80 is the first pressing position, and when the push connector 150 rotates to the second position B, the position of the push connector 150 in the direction +X of pressing the detergent box 80 is the second pressing position, and the control part 200 may be configured to control the motor 121 so that the push connector 150 can move between the first pressing position and the second pressing position. The washing machine 1 may also include an input interface 300, the input interface 300 is configured to generate a signal corresponding to the received command when receiving a command to separate the detergent box 80 from the housing 70, and the control part 200 may be configured to control the motor 121 to move the push connector 150 to the second pressing position and then to a third pressing position located between the first pressing position and the second pressing position when receiving a signal generated from the input interface 300. According to the present disclosure, the push connector 150 is automatically moved from the second pressing position to the third pressing position, thereby facilitating pressing of the detergent box 80 when the user moves the detergent box 80 in the installation direction -X.

[0294] The sensor 400 may be configured to generate a signal corresponding to the detection when detecting that the detergent box 80 is coupled to the push connector 150, and the control portion 200 may be configured to control the motor 121 to move the push connector 150 from the third pressing position to the first pressing position when receiving the signal generated from the sensor 400. The sensor 400 may be provided to detect the rotation of the push connector 150 from the first position A to the second position B when the push connector 150 is coupled to the detergent box 80. According to the present disclosure, when the push connector 150 is coupled to the detergent box 80, the push connector 150 may be automatically moved to the first pressing position, thereby preventing the repulsive force from being applied to the user in the separation direction +X.

[0295] The washing machine 1 according to the embodiment includes: a housing 10; a tub 20 disposed in the housing 10; a housing 70 mounted on the housing 10; a detergent box 80 configured to move in an installation direction -X to be mounted on the housing 70 and to move in a separation direction +X to be separated from the housing; a push connector 150 that can be coupled to the detergent box 80 to press the detergent box 80 in the separation direction +X; a motor 121 configured to operate the push connector 150; and a control unit 200 configured to control the motor 121, wherein the control unit 200 is configured to control the motor 121 to move the push connector 150 in the installation direction -X when the detergent box 80 moves in the installation direction -X and is coupled to the push connector 150. According to the present disclosure, since the push connector 150 automatically moves in the installation direction -X when coupled to the detergent box 80, it is possible to prevent the repulsive force from being applied to the user in the separation direction +X.

[0296] When the detergent box 80 is mounted on the housing 70, the position of the push connector 150 connected to the detergent box 80 in the first position A in the direction +X of pressing the detergent box 80 is the first pressing position, and when the push connector 150 rotates to the second position B, the position of the push connector 150 in the direction +X of pressing the detergent box 80 is the second pressing position, and the control part 200 may be configured to control the motor 121 so that the push connector 150 can move between the first pressing position and the second pressing position. The washing machine 1 may also include an input interface 300, the input interface 300 is configured to generate a signal corresponding to the received command when receiving a command to separate the detergent box 80 from the housing 70, and the control part 200 may be configured to control the motor 121 to move the push connector 150 to the second pressing position and then to a third pressing position located between the first pressing position and the second pressing position when receiving a signal generated from the input interface 300. The washing machine 1 may further include a sensor 400 configured to detect that the detergent box 80 is coupled to the push connector 150 and generate a signal corresponding to the detection, and the control unit 200 may be configured to control the motor 121 to move the push connector 150 from the third pressing position to the first pressing position upon receiving the signal generated from the sensor 400. According to the present disclosure, the user may input a command into the input interface 300 to cause the control unit 200 to move the push connector, thereby automatically moving the detergent box 80, without manually moving the detergent box 80. Therefore, the convenience of using the washing machine 1 may be improved.

[0297] The washing machine 1 according to the embodiment includes: a shell 10; a barrel 20 arranged in the shell 10; and a detergent supply device 50, which is configured to supply detergent to the barrel 20, wherein the detergent supply device 50 includes: a shell 70 formed with an opening 72; a detergent box 80, which is configured to be movable in one direction +X↔-X relative to the shell 70 through the opening 72; and an electrical module 100, which can be connected to the detergent box 80 so that the detergent box 80 can be moved in one direction +X↔-X, wherein the electrical module 100 includes a motor 121 and a push connector 150, which is configured to receive a driving force from the motor 121 and move in one direction +X↔-X, and the push connector 150 includes a locking protrusion 162, which is configured to be inserted into the detergent box 80 and can rotate around an axis in one direction +X↔-X to prevent the push connector 150 from being separated from the detergent box 80. According to the present disclosure, the push connector 150 can allow the detergent box 80 to move in one direction +X↔-X by the motor 121, so that the detergent box 80 can be automatically installed to the housing 70 and / or separated from the housing 70, thereby increasing the convenience of use. In addition, the locking protrusion 162 can be rotated and supported on the detergent box 80, thereby preventing the detergent box 80 from being separated from the housing 70.

[0298] While the present disclosure has been shown and described with reference to various embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A washing machine, comprising: shell; a barrel, disposed inside the shell; and a detergent supply device configured to supply detergent to the tub, The detergent supply device comprises: A housing, mounted on the outer shell; a detergent box configured to be movable in a mounting direction to be mounted on the housing and movable in a separation direction to be separated from the housing; and a push connector configured to press the detergent box in the separation direction, the push connector configured to be rotatable between a first position in which the push connector is coupled to the detergent box to support the detergent box in the installation direction and a second position in which the push connector is released from the detergent box to release support of the detergent box in the installation direction; and A motor is configured to operate the push connector.

2. The washing machine according to claim 1, wherein: The push connector includes a head formed to extend toward the separation direction; and A locking protrusion is formed to extend from the head in a direction perpendicular to the separation direction to support the detergent box at the first position.

3. The washing machine according to claim 2, wherein the detergent box comprises: a support plate configured to contact the locking protrusion to be supported by the locking protrusion when the push connector is in the first position; and A through hole is formed in the support plate to allow the locking protrusion to pass through the through hole when the push connector is in the second position.

4. The washing machine according to claim 3, wherein: The through hole comprises: a central hole through which the head passes; and A locking hole is formed to extend from the central hole and has a shape corresponding to that of the locking protrusion.

5. The washing machine according to claim 4, wherein: The detergent box further includes a coupling guide surface adjacent to the locking hole, such that when the locking protrusion is inserted into the locking hole, the locking protrusion is configured to rotate from the second position to the first position. 6 . The washing machine according to claim 1 , further comprising a rotation guide configured to guide the push connector to rotate from the first position to the second position when the push connector moves in the separation direction.

7. The washing machine according to claim 6, wherein: The rotating guide comprises: a rotation protrusion provided on the push connector and formed to extend in a direction perpendicular to the separation direction; and A guide wall is disposed adjacent to the push connector and is configured to seat the rotation protrusion thereon.

8. The washing machine according to claim 7, wherein: The guide wall includes a contact surface forming an upper surface in contact with the rotation protrusion, The height of the first contact surface is different from the height of the second contact surface, the first contact surface is configured to contact the rotating protrusion when the pushing connector is in the first position, and the second contact surface is configured to contact the rotating protrusion when the pushing connector is in the second position.

9. The washing machine according to claim 1, further comprising: a sensor configured to detect a position of the push connector and generate a signal corresponding to the detection; and A processor is configured to control the motor by receiving the signal generated from the sensor.

10. The washing machine according to claim 9, wherein: The sensor includes a switch disposed adjacent to the push connector, The push connection further comprises a switch contact, wherein the switch contact is configured to open or close the switch when moving along the separation direction +X.

11. The washing machine according to claim 9, wherein: When the detergent box is mounted on the housing, the position of the push connector connected to the detergent box in the first position in a direction of pressing the detergent box is a first pressing position, When the push connector rotates to the second position, the position of the push connector in the direction of pressing the detergent box is a second pressing position, and The processor is configured to control the motor to move the push connector between the first pressed position and the second pressed position.

12. The washing machine according to claim 11, further comprising an input interface, wherein when receiving a command to separate the detergent box from the housing, the input interface is configured to generate a signal corresponding to the received command, in, The processor is configured to control the motor to move the push connector to the second pressing position and then to a third pressing position between the first pressing position and the second pressing position when receiving a signal generated from the input interface.

13. The washing machine according to claim 12, wherein the sensor is configured to generate a signal corresponding to the detection when detecting that the detergent box is coupled to the push connector, and The processor is configured to control the motor to move the push connector from the third pressing position to the first pressing position upon receiving the signal generated from the sensor. 14 . The laundry machine of claim 13 , wherein the sensor is configured to detect rotation of the push link from the first position to the second position when the push link is coupled to the detergent box.

15. A washing machine, comprising: shell; a barrel, disposed inside the shell; A housing, mounted on the outer shell; a detergent box configured to be movable in a mounting direction to be mounted on the housing and movable in a separation direction to be separated from the housing; a push connector, which can be coupled to the detergent box to press the detergent box in the separation direction; and a motor configured to operate the push connector; and a processor configured to control the electric motor, Wherein, the control part is configured to control the motor to move the push connector in the installation direction when the detergent box moves in the installation direction and is connected to the push connector.

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