Laundry treating apparatus and method for controlling laundry treating apparatus

Abstract

The present invention relates to a laundry treating apparatus in which, when input is performed to a power supply unit, a drive unit rotates an inner tub in a state in which a door is unlocked by a lock unit, and a display unit displays weight information after the inner tub starts to rotate, the execution unit receives input of an execution command in a state in which the weight information is displayed by the display unit after the inner cylinder starts to rotate, and the display unit displays the weight information only when input is performed to the selection unit even if input is performed to the power supply unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a garment processing apparatus and its control method. More specifically, it relates to a garment processing apparatus and its control method that supplies steam and hot air to garments to perform drying processes such as sterilization, wrinkle removal, deodorization, and drying. Background Technology

[0002] Generally, a garment handling device refers to a device capable of performing one or more of the functions of washing, drying, and managing garments. Here, a garment handling device may perform only one of the functions of washing, drying, or managing, or it may perform all of them.

[0003] Such a garment handling device has arbitrary courses for performing washing, drying, or managing garments, the execution time of which is calculated based on the weight of the garments. For example, when the garments are heavy, the execution time is set to be relatively long, and when the garments are light, the execution time is set to be relatively short.

[0004] Figure 1 A method for performing any stroke of a conventional garment handling device is shown. (See Korean Patent Publication Nos. 10-2009-0077097 and 10-2008-0102611, etc.)

[0005] Figure 1 (a) illustrates a conventional method for controlling the execution of arbitrary strokes in a garment handling device.

[0006] Reference Figure 1 (a) Conventional garment handling apparatus includes: a power supply step S1 in which power is supplied to the garment handling apparatus by inputting an input (on) to a power button; a selection step S2 in which an appropriate program or option is selected on the control panel of the garment handling apparatus; and a start step S3 in which an input is made to an execution button for executing a program with various options set.

[0007] When the above-mentioned start step S3 is executed, the door locking step S4, which locks the door in the cabinet, is executed.

[0008] Conventional garment handling devices perform a weight sensing step S5, which senses the weight of the garments by applying an applied current value while rotating the inner drum that holds the garments. When the weight of the garments is calculated, the control unit of the conventional garment handling device performs a time display step S6, which displays the estimated execution time of the selected process to the user, and then performs an execution step S7, which automatically executes the selected process.

[0009] As a result, in conventional garment handling devices, the weight sensing step S5 and the time display step S6 are executed after the start step S3 of the user-executed process. Therefore, there is a problem that the user is forced to enter the execution of the process without receiving information about the weight of the garment or the estimated execution time.

[0010] As a result, users cannot actively control the execution time of the schedule or options, and the time display step S6 cannot perform any other function at the service level other than simply displaying information to the user.

[0011] Furthermore, in the case of conventional clothing handling devices, even if the execution time displayed in the time display step S6 does not match the user's current intention or situation, it does not provide the user with the opportunity to take proactive measures such as adding or reducing clothing.

[0012] Furthermore, in the case of conventional laundry handling devices, even if the execution time of the selected schedule or option does not meet the intention, it is impossible to cancel or change the schedule if no proactive measures are taken (such as arbitrarily turning off the power of the washing machine).

[0013] This inconvenience is further amplified when the aforementioned conventional clothing handling devices are remotely controlled.

[0014] Figure 1 (b) shows the rotation state of the inner drum when the conventional garment handling device senses weight.

[0015] Reference Figure 1 (b) In order to sense the weight of the garment L, the conventional garment handling device rotates the inner drum D more than one revolution in the direction of I.

[0016] Specifically, conventional garment handling devices calculate the weight of garments L by measuring the current applied or output to the drive unit that rotates the inner drum D in the direction I.

[0017] In conventional garment handling devices, when the inner drum D is rotated to sense weight, the garment L on the bottom surface of the inner drum rises inside the inner drum D and then falls in the direction II due to gravity, impacting the inner wall of the inner drum. This affects the current value of the drive unit.

[0018] Therefore, in the case of a deviation in the current value of the drive unit in conventional garment handling devices, it is necessary to continuously rotate the inner drum D in the I direction more than one revolution in order to calibrate the applied or output current value in order to accurately sense the weight of the garment L.

[0019] As a result, in the case of conventional garment handling devices, the time required to sense the weight of the garment is longer than the time required to continuously rotate the inner drum.

[0020] In addition, in the case of conventional clothing handling devices, the time required for the weight sensing step S5 is set to be relatively long, so it is not possible to quickly prompt the user with the time display step S6 that displays the execution time of the trip or option.

[0021] Furthermore, conventional garment handling devices can only perform weight sensing after the user selects a program or option and enters the start step S3, which involves pressing the execute button.

[0022] As a result, users cannot confirm the weight in advance to select a trip or option, and by the time the weight is sensed, most users have already left the garment handling device.

[0023] Therefore, conventional garment handling devices suffer from the fundamental problem that users cannot confirm or actively utilize information about weight.

[0024] On the other hand, garment handling devices are generally configured to automatically select the operating path when power is input. For example, when power is input, the device will automatically select the standard operating path that is predicted to be used most frequently by the user.

[0025] This approach offers the convenience of allowing users to skip the schedule selection process and simply press the execute button to immediately start the schedule, but it eliminates the possibility of users selecting or observing other schedules.

[0026] Therefore, in the case of conventional garment handling devices, even if there are various programs, they cannot provide appropriate prompts to the user or guide the user to select various programs, so the user cannot use all the functions of the garment handling device.

[0027] On the other hand, when users are forced to select a process, conventional clothing handling devices cannot provide any inspiration or motivation regarding when to sense the weight of the clothing and how to display it. Summary of the Invention

[0028] Technical issues

[0029] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a clothing handling device that guides users to select their travel itinerary.

[0030] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a clothing handling device that senses the weight of clothing in advance, even before the user selects a trip, and prepares to immediately prompt the user.

[0031] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a clothing handling device that starts sensing the weight of clothing and displays it to the user only after the user selects a program, thereby saving energy.

[0032] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a clothing handling device that can quickly sense the amount of clothing and identify the weight information of the clothing before the user inputs a command to execute the selected process.

[0033] Methods for solving problems

[0034] To address the aforementioned issues, the present invention provides a garment handling apparatus comprising: a housing having an opening at the front; a door connected to the housing to open and close the opening; a sensing unit disposed in the housing to sense the state of the door closing the opening; an inner tub housed inside the housing to hold the garments; a drive unit connected to the inner tub to rotate the inner tub; a control unit controlling the drive unit to sense the amount of garments and execute any stroke for handling the garments; a power supply unit receiving an input power command for supplying power to one or more of the sensing unit, the drive unit, and the control unit; a selection unit receiving an input selection command for selecting one of the strokes; and a control panel including a display unit displaying one or more of the amount of garments, the required washing dosage, and the estimated execution time of the stroke corresponding to the amount of garments.

[0035] Even if the power supply is input, the display unit will only display one or more of the following when the selection unit is input: the amount of clothing, the required washing dosage, and the estimated execution time of the trip corresponding to the amount of clothing.

[0036] When the power supply is input, the drive unit causes the inner drum to rotate and then stops. After the inner drum stops rotating, the display unit only displays one or more of the following when the selection unit is input: the amount of laundry, the required washing dosage, and the estimated execution time of the trip corresponding to the amount of laundry: after the selection unit is input.

[0037] When the power supply is input, the drive unit rotates the inner drum less than one revolution and then stops. Only when the selection unit is input, the display unit displays one or more of the following: the amount of laundry, the required washing dosage, and the estimated execution time of the cycle corresponding to the amount of laundry.

[0038] When the sensing unit detects that the door is opening or closing the opening, the driving unit rotates the inner cylinder and then stops.

[0039] After the inner drum stops rotating, the display unit will only display one or more of the following when input is made to the selection unit: the amount of clothing, the required washing dosage, and the estimated execution time of the trip corresponding to the amount of clothing: after input is made to the selection unit.

[0040] When the sensing unit detects that the door is opening or closing the opening, the driving unit rotates the inner drum less than one revolution and then stops. Only when the selection unit is input, the display unit displays one or more of the following: the amount of clothing, the required washing dosage, and the estimated execution time of the process corresponding to the amount of clothing.

[0041] After inputting the selection unit, the drive unit rotates the inner drum and then stops. After the inner drum stops rotating, the display unit displays one or more of the following: the amount of laundry, the required washing dosage, and the estimated execution time of the cycle corresponding to the amount of laundry.

[0042] Even if the power supply is input to the power supply unit or the sensor unit detects that the door is opening or closing the opening, the drive unit will only cause the inner cylinder to rotate when the selection unit is input.

[0043] When the selection unit is input, the drive unit rotates the inner cylinder less than one revolution and then stops.

[0044] The control panel also includes an execution unit that receives an input execution command for executing the trip selected by the selection unit. After the inner drum stops rotating, the display unit displays one or more of the following: the amount of laundry, the required washing dosage, and the estimated execution time of the trip corresponding to the amount of laundry: after the display unit displays the amount of laundry, the required washing dosage, and the estimated execution time of the trip corresponding to the amount of laundry: after the execution unit receives the input execution command.

[0045] It also includes a locking part that locks the door to keep the door closed from opening. After the inner drum stops rotating, the locking part locks the door after the display part displays one or more of the following: the amount of clothing, the required washing dosage, and the estimated execution time of the stroke corresponding to the amount of clothing.

[0046] When the amount of clothing stored in the inner drum is different, one or more of the following displayed on the display unit will be different: the amount of clothing, the required washing dosage, and the estimated execution time of the process corresponding to the amount of clothing.

[0047] Invention Effects

[0048] This invention has the effect of guiding users to select their itinerary.

[0049] This invention can sense the weight of clothing in advance, even before the user selects a trip, and prepare to immediately remind the user.

[0050] This invention senses the weight of clothing and displays it to the user after the user selects a trip, thereby saving energy.

[0051] This invention rapidly senses the amount of clothing and can identify the weight information of the clothing before the user inputs a command to execute the selected process. Attached Figure Description

[0052] Figure 1 This demonstrates the control method of a conventional garment handling device.

[0053] Figure 2 An embodiment of the garment processing apparatus of the present invention is shown.

[0054] Figure 3 An embodiment of the internal structure of the clothing handling apparatus of the present invention is shown when it is composed of a washing machine.

[0055] Figure 4 An embodiment of the internal structure of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention is shown in the case where the garment handling apparatus is composed of a drying mechanism.

[0056] Figure 5 An embodiment of the control panel of the present invention is shown.

[0057] Figure 6 The present invention is shown in a configuration where a washing machine and a dryer are stacked in a tower configuration (below, the wash-dry tower).

[0058] Figure 7 An embodiment of the control panel of the present invention is shown, which is composed of a shared panel.

[0059] Figure 8 Another embodiment of the garment processing apparatus of the present invention is shown.

[0060] Figure 9 An embodiment showing the internal structure of the composite device 4 is illustrated.

[0061] Figure 10 An embodiment of the composite panel structure is shown.

[0062] Figure 11 This illustrates a case where the garment processing apparatus of the present invention is composed of a miniature device.

[0063] Figure 12 An embodiment of the internal structure of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention is shown when it is composed of a micro-device.

[0064] Figure 13An embodiment of the control panel of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention is shown in the case where it is composed of a micro-device.

[0065] Figure 14 An embodiment of the clothing handling apparatus of the present invention is shown in which it is composed of a top-mounted washing machine.

[0066] Figure 15 An embodiment of the internal structure of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention is shown in the case where it is composed of a top-mounted washing machine.

[0067] Figure 16 An embodiment of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention is shown, which senses the weight of the garment.

[0068] Figure 17 An embodiment of the present invention is shown in which the weight of the clothes is sensed when the clothes handling apparatus is composed of a top-mounted washing machine.

[0069] Figure 18 An embodiment of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention is shown in which the control unit senses the weight of the garment via the drive unit.

[0070] Figure 19 shows an embodiment of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention using a weight sensing method based on the above-described structure and method.

[0071] Figure 20 illustrates an embodiment of weight sensing based on whether a door is open or closed.

[0072] Figure 21 This invention illustrates another embodiment of the garment handling apparatus for determining whether to additionally perform weight sensing.

[0073] Figure 22 An embodiment of the control method of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention is shown, implemented on a washing panel or a drying panel.

[0074] Figure 23 This illustrates the implementation of the control method described above on a shared panel.

[0075] Figure 24 An embodiment of the control method of the clothing handling device of the invention is shown implemented on an integrated panel. Figure 25 An embodiment of the control method of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention is shown, implemented on a micro panel.

[0076] Figures 26 to 29 An embodiment of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention is shown, which displays weight information.

[0077] Figures 30 to 33 Another embodiment of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention is shown, which displays weight information. Detailed Implementation

[0078] The embodiments disclosed in this specification will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this specification, even in different embodiments, the same or similar symbols are used for the same or similar structures, and related descriptions are replaced by the preceding description. Unless otherwise defined in the text, the singular used in this specification includes plural forms. Furthermore, when describing the embodiments disclosed in this specification, detailed descriptions of related well-known technologies are omitted if it is determined that a detailed description of those technologies would obscure the essence of the disclosed embodiments. Additionally, the accompanying drawings are only for aiding understanding of the embodiments disclosed in this specification, and the technical ideas disclosed in this specification are not limited to the content shown in the drawings.

[0079] Figure 2 An embodiment of the garment processing apparatus of the present invention is shown.

[0080] The garment processing apparatus of the present invention may include one or more of a washing machine 1 for washing clothes and a dryer 2 for drying clothes. For example, the garment processing apparatus of the present invention may include both a washing machine 1 and a dryer 2.

[0081] The washing machine 1 of the present invention can be either a front-loading washing machine with the opening for putting in clothes located at the front or a top-loading washing machine with the opening located at the top.

[0082] However, in the case of the dryer 2 of the present invention, the clothes need to rise from the bottom of the inner drum and be evenly exposed to the hot air, so a front-loading dryer with the opening located at the front is preferred.

[0083] Regardless of whether the clothing handling apparatus of the present invention is formed as either a washing machine 1 or a dryer 2, or as including both a washing machine 1 and a dryer 2, it may include a housing 10 that forms a common appearance and an inner drum 30 that is rotatably housed in the housing 10 for storing clothing.

[0084] The aforementioned box 10 has an opening that communicates with the aforementioned inner drum 30, through which clothing can be put into or taken out of the inner drum 30.

[0085] The garment handling apparatus of the present invention may further include a door 11 rotatably coupled to the aforementioned housing 10. The door 11 is capable of opening and closing the aforementioned opening.

[0086] The garment handling apparatus of the present invention may further include a sensing unit 13 for sensing whether the door 11 is closed or not. This prevents the inner tube 30 from rotating when the door 11 is open.

[0087] The sensing unit 13 can be formed in any structure as long as it can sense whether the door 11 is open or closed. For example, the sensing unit 13 may include a magnet attached to the door 11 and a Hall sensor attached to the housing 10 to sense the magnet.

[0088] On the other hand, in order to prevent clothing or water inside the inner drum 30 from being discharged from the opening, the door 11 needs to be selectively fixed to the housing 10. For this purpose, the clothing handling apparatus of the present invention may also include a locking part 12 that selectively locks the door 11 to the housing 10.

[0089] The locking part 12 can be configured in any structure, as long as it can selectively fix the door 11 to the housing 10 and prevent the door 11 from opening the opening arbitrarily. For example, the locking part 12 may include: a hook provided on the door 11 and inserted into the housing 10; a connecting member provided on the housing 10 and selectively connected to the hook; and a fixing member that selectively maintains the connection between the connecting member and the hook. The fixing member may be composed of a solenoid and a magnet, or a mechanical structure such as a button.

[0090] On the other hand, the garment processing apparatus of the present invention is configured to perform a process of processing garments. For example, when the garment processing apparatus of the present invention is configured as a washing machine 1, it performs a washing process to remove foreign matter from the garments; when the garment processing apparatus of the present invention is configured as a dryer 2, it performs a drying process to evaporate the moisture from the garments.

[0091] The garment handling apparatus of the present invention may further include a control panel 100, which is configured to receive input of commands for executing the above-mentioned process, or to display the status of executing the above-mentioned process, information required for executing the above-mentioned process, etc.

[0092] The control panel 100 may include one or more of the following: multiple buttons or touch panels for user input commands, a microphone for receiving user voice, a camera or proximity sensor for receiving user actions or status, a screen for displaying visual information to the user, and a speaker for conveying auditory information to the user.

[0093] In the case where the garment handling device of the present invention is configured as a front-mounted type with the opening located at the front of the housing, the control panel 100 is positioned higher on the front side of the housing 10 than the door 11. This ensures accessibility and recognizability.

[0094] Of course, when the garment handling device of the present invention is configured as a top-mounted type with the opening located at the top of the box, the control panel 100 is positioned on the upper surface of the box 10 closer to the front than the door 11.

[0095] When the clothing handling apparatus of the present invention is composed of a washing machine 1, the aforementioned housing 10 may include a washing housing 10a that forms the appearance of the washing machine 1, and the aforementioned door 11 may include a washing door 11a that opens and closes the opening formed in the aforementioned washing housing 10a.

[0096] The aforementioned sensing unit 13 may include a laundry sensing unit 12a that senses whether the washing door 11a is open or closed.

[0097] The aforementioned locking part 13 may include a laundry locking part 13a for fixing the aforementioned washing door 11a to the washing tank 10a.

[0098] The inner drum 30 mentioned above may include a washing inner drum 30a for storing clothes.

[0099] Additionally, the washing machine 1 of the present invention may further include a bucket 20 for storing water, which houses the washing inner drum 30a and is housed in the washing tank 10a.

[0100] In addition, the control panel 100 may include a washing panel 100a, which receives input of commands for controlling the washing machine 1 or displays information about the washing machine 1.

[0101] When the garment handling apparatus of the present invention is composed of a dryer 2, the aforementioned housing 10 may include a drying housing 10b that forms the appearance of the dryer 2, and the aforementioned door 11 may include a drying door 11b that opens and closes the opening formed in the aforementioned drying housing 10b.

[0102] The aforementioned sensing unit 13 may include a drying sensing unit 12b that senses whether the opening of the drying door 11b is open or closed.

[0103] The aforementioned locking part 13 may include a drying locking part 13b for fixing the aforementioned drying door 11b to the drying chamber 10b.

[0104] The inner drum 30 mentioned above may include a drying inner drum 30b for storing clothes.

[0105] Unlike the washing inner drum 30a, the drying inner drum 30b described above can omit the through hole on its outer circumferential surface.

[0106] In addition, the control panel 100 may include a drying panel 100b, which receives input of commands for controlling the dryer 2 or displays information about the dryer 2.

[0107] Figure 3 An embodiment of the internal structure of the clothing handling apparatus of the present invention is shown when it is composed of a washing machine 1.

[0108] The garment handling apparatus of the present invention may include a water supply unit 50 for supplying water to the aforementioned tub 20 and a drainage unit 60 for draining water from the aforementioned tub 20.

[0109] The water supply unit 50 may include: a water supply valve 51, which is combined with the washing tank 10a and connected to an external water source to selectively supply water; a water supply pipe 52, which extends from the water supply valve 51 to transmit water supplied from the external water source; and a detergent box 53, which stores detergent and receives water supplied from the water supply pipe 52 to the bucket 20.

[0110] The aforementioned drainage section 60 may include: a discharge pipe 61 connected to the lower part of the aforementioned tub 20 to discharge water from the aforementioned tub 20; a drainage pump 62 providing power for discharging water supplied from the aforementioned discharge pipe 61 to the outside of the aforementioned washing tank 10a; and a drain pipe 63 extending from the aforementioned drainage pump 62 to the outside of the aforementioned washing tank 10a to discharge water.

[0111] The garment processing apparatus of the present invention may further include a water level sensor 21 for sensing the water level in the aforementioned bucket 20.

[0112] The water level sensor 21 can be configured in any structure as long as it can sense the water level inside the bucket 20. The water level sensor 21 may also include: a connecting pipe that communicates with the bucket 20 and is blocked at its end; and a sensing unit disposed on the upper part of the connecting pipe for sensing pressure changes inside the connecting pipe.

[0113] The washing machine 1 of the present invention may further include a support portion 70 that supports the tub 20 in the washing tank 10a.

[0114] The aforementioned support portion 70 may include one or more of a suspension that supports the lower part of the aforementioned barrel 20 and a spring that supports the upper part of the aforementioned barrel 20.

[0115] The garment handling apparatus of the present invention may include a drive unit 40 for rotating the inner drum 30.

[0116] The aforementioned drive unit 40 may include a washing drive unit 40a that rotates the aforementioned washing inner drum 30a.

[0117] The aforementioned washing drive unit 40a may include: a washing stator 41a, which is combined with the aforementioned tub 20 to generate a rotating magnetic field; a washing rotor 42b, which is rotated by the aforementioned washing stator 41a; and a washing rotating shaft 43a, which is combined with the aforementioned washing rotor 42a, passes through the aforementioned tub 20, and is combined with the aforementioned washing inner tub 30a.

[0118] The garment handling apparatus of the present invention may further include a control unit that controls one or more of the drive unit 40, the water supply valve 51, the drain pump 62, the locking unit 13, and the water level sensor 21. The control unit may be integrated into the control panel 100 or configured independently of the control panel 100.

[0119] The control unit provides commands to control one or more of the drive unit 40, the water supply valve 51, the drain pump 62, the locking unit 13, and the water level sensor 21 to execute any washing cycle for washing the clothes.

[0120] Figure 4 An embodiment of the internal structure of the garment processing apparatus of the present invention is shown when it is composed of a dryer 2.

[0121] The aforementioned drying chamber 10c may also include a base positioned lower than the aforementioned inner cylinder 30 to support the aforementioned dryer 2. A heat supply unit 90, described later, is provided on the aforementioned base.

[0122] The garment processing apparatus of the present invention may include a heat supply unit 90 that supplies air to the inside of an inner drum 30 to dry the garments stored inside the inner drum 30.

[0123] For example, the aforementioned heat supply unit 90 may include a circulation unit 90b that re-supplyes the air in the inner cylinder 30 by circulating it at a position lower than the inner cylinder 30.

[0124] The aforementioned circulation section 90b may include: a circulation pipe 91b, which is disposed at a lower position on a base than the aforementioned drying inner cylinder 30b to provide a flow path for circulating air discharged from the aforementioned drying inner cylinder 30b; an evaporator 92b, which is housed in the aforementioned circulation pipe 91b to cool the aforementioned air to condense moisture; a condenser 93b, which is disposed downstream of the aforementioned evaporator to heat the aforementioned air; a compressor 94b, which supplies refrigerant for heating the aforementioned air to the aforementioned condenser 93b; an expansion valve, which causes the refrigerant discharged from the aforementioned condenser 93b to expand and cool; and a circulation fan 96b, which is disposed inside the aforementioned circulation pipe 91b to provide power for circulating the aforementioned air.

[0125] On the other hand, the circulation section 90b may also include: a water collection section 97b, which is connected to the circulation pipe 91b to collect water condensed in the evaporator 92b; and a water storage tank 98b, which stores the water collected in the water collection section 97b.

[0126] On the other hand, the garment handling apparatus of the present invention may further include a support portion 70 that rotatably supports the aforementioned drying inner drum 30b. The support portion 70 may include a rotating roller 70b that rotatably supports one or more of the front and rear sides of the aforementioned drying inner drum 30b.

[0127] The drive unit 40 of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention may further include a drying drive unit 40b for rotating the drying inner drum 30a.

[0128] The aforementioned drying drive unit 40b is mounted on a base provided with the aforementioned circulation pipe 91b to rotate the aforementioned drying inner cylinder 30a. In this case, the aforementioned drying drive unit 40b may include: a motor, which is mounted on the aforementioned base; a pulley, which is connected to the aforementioned motor and rotates; and a belt, which connects the aforementioned pulley and the outer peripheral surface of the aforementioned inner cylinder.

[0129] However, if the drying drive unit 40b is configured as a pulley / belt type, it may be difficult to change the rotation speed and rotation direction of the inner drying cylinder 30b.

[0130] Therefore, in the garment handling apparatus of the present invention, the drying drive unit 40b is disposed behind the drying inner drum 30b in the same manner as the washing machine 1. That is, the drying drive unit 40b may include: a drying stator 41b disposed behind the drying inner drum 30b; a drying rotor 42b rotated by the drying stator; and a drying rotation shaft 43b connected to the drying rotor 42b and extending behind the drying inner drum 30b.

[0131] Therefore, the aforementioned drying drive unit 40b can freely change the rotation direction and rotation speed of the aforementioned drying inner cylinder 30b.

[0132] On the other hand, the garment handling apparatus of the present invention may include a reducer 406b for reducing the rotational speed (rpm) of the aforementioned drying rotating shaft 43b and increasing the torque.

[0133] The aforementioned reducer 406b is disposed between the aforementioned drying drive unit 40b and the aforementioned drying inner cylinder 30b to transmit the power generated by the aforementioned drying drive unit 40b to the aforementioned drying inner cylinder 30b.

[0134] The aforementioned reducer 406b is rotatable by connection to the aforementioned drying rotating shaft 43b and includes a complex gearbox connected to the aforementioned drying inner cylinder 30b. Thus, the speed (rpm) of the aforementioned reducer 406b is reduced compared to the aforementioned drying rotating shaft 43b, but correspondingly the torque is further enhanced and transmitted to the aforementioned drying inner cylinder 30b.

[0135] As a result, while the inner drying drum 30b rotates, the clothes do not stick to the inner wall of the inner drying drum 30b. Instead, they rise and fall, thus being evenly exposed to the hot air supplied to the inside of the inner drying drum 30b.

[0136] The garment handling apparatus of the present invention may further include a drying control unit, which controls one or more of the drive unit 40, the heat supply unit 90, the sensing unit 11, and the locking unit 12. The drying control unit may be built into the control panel 100 or configured independently of the control panel 100.

[0137] The aforementioned drying control unit can provide commands to control one or more of the aforementioned drive unit 40, the aforementioned heat supply unit 90, the aforementioned locking unit 13, and the aforementioned sensing unit 11 to execute any washing cycle for drying the aforementioned clothes.

[0138] Figure 5 An embodiment of the control panel of the present invention is shown.

[0139] The control panel 100 of the garment processing apparatus of the present invention may include one or more of the following components: a power supply unit 110, which receives an input of a power supply command for supplying power to all components of the garment processing apparatus; a stroke selection unit 130, which receives an input of a selection command for selecting a stroke for processing the garment; an option selection unit 140, which receives an input of a selection command for selecting an option, wherein the option is for adjusting or selecting one or more of the stroke intensity, execution time, and additional functions for executing the stroke; an execution unit 120, which receives an input of an execution command for executing the selected stroke and option; and a display unit 150, which displays the execution status of the stroke and option, the weight information of the garment, and information displayed by the garment processing apparatus.

[0140] The additional functions selectable by the option selection unit 140 when executing the above-mentioned cycle may include one or more of the following: steam supply, water temperature adjustment, Turbo Wash caused by the high-speed rotation of the inner drum, timer setting for the execution of the cycle, and mode switching function that can control other garment processing devices or external terminals.

[0141] The weight information of the garments displayed by the display unit 150 may include one or more of the following: the weight of the garments themselves, the amount of detergent required to process the garments of that weight, and the estimated execution time of the process of processing the garments.

[0142] The control panel 100 of the present invention may be composed of any one of the washing panel 100a, the drying panel 100b, or other panels. However, regardless of the form of the control panel 100, the functions of the power supply unit 110, the execution unit 120, the travel selection unit 130, the option selection unit 140, and the display unit 150 may be the same.

[0143] The control panel 100 of the present invention is shown below as being composed of a washing panel 100a. The washing panel 100a and the drying panel 100b described above may have different input commands or displayed information, but their structures may be the same.

[0144] The travel selection section 130 in the washing panel 100a is composed of a rotating knob, and the display section 150 may include a main display section 151 disposed inside the travel selection section 130 and an auxiliary display section 152 disposed outside the travel selection section 130.

[0145] The main display unit 151 may be formed in a circular shape, and the stroke selected by the stroke selection unit 130 is displayed as the stroke selection unit 130 rotates.

[0146] The main display unit 151 can also display the weight information of the sensed clothing.

[0147] The main display unit 151 described above can be equipped with a screen that displays the selected travel and weight information. As a result, the language displayed on the main display unit 151 can be freely changed by setting it. Therefore, it is unnecessary to print the name or description of the travel provided by the garment handling device on the washing panel 100a. In addition, the main display unit 151 can freely display the content to be conveyed by the control unit in various languages ​​and texts, pictures, graphics, icons, etc.

[0148] The aforementioned travel selection unit 130 can be configured to rotate the outer peripheral surface of the main display unit 151 by more than 360 degrees in both directions, and is set to change the travel displayed on the main display unit 151 according to the rotation angle of the travel selection unit 130. The aforementioned washing panel 100a may have a built-in encoder that senses the rotation of the travel selection unit 130 and determines the corresponding command according to the rotation angle, and a control panel that determines the content displayed on the main display unit 151 according to the encoder.

[0149] The above-mentioned option selection unit 140 can be configured outside the above-mentioned trip selection unit 130.

[0150] In the above-mentioned option selection unit 140, the determination of the strength of each process of the process, such as the first option, the second option, and the third option, or the area for inputting commands for additional functions of the above-mentioned process can be divided and configured.

[0151] For example, the first, second, and third options determine the washing, rinsing, and spin-drying intensities, respectively. This area can consist of touch buttons, physical buttons, or can be accessed via a touch panel that receives commands from the LCD screen, or through touch input.

[0152] The auxiliary display unit 152 described above can be disposed inside the option selection unit 140 described above.

[0153] The auxiliary display unit 152 is configured to display information about the option selected or activated by the option selection unit 140 to the outside.

[0154] Furthermore, the auxiliary display unit 152 is disposed separately from the main selection unit 151. The auxiliary display unit 152 is located outside the travel selection unit 130 and can visually indicate that the content being displayed is different from the content displayed in the main selection unit 151.

[0155] The above-mentioned option selection section 140 can be formed into a rectangular shape.

[0156] The aforementioned auxiliary display unit 152 may be composed of multiple lamps that display the set intensity of the first option, the second option, and the third option in an intuitive manner.

[0157] For example, if a light has a large number of lights on or is positioned at a high position, it indicates that the light is of high intensity.

[0158] The power supply unit 110 can be disposed between one side of the trip selection unit 130 and the detergent box 53.

[0159] The aforementioned execution unit 120 may be disposed between the other side of the aforementioned travel selection unit 130 and the aforementioned auxiliary display unit 152.

[0160] The power supply unit 110 and the execution unit 120 may be composed of touch buttons or physical buttons, and may selectively emit light to indicate whether they have been activated and can be input.

[0161] For example, when an input is given to the power supply unit 110, the power supply unit 110, the execution unit 120, and the display unit 150 are illuminated.

[0162] Figure 6 The present invention is shown in a configuration where the garment processing apparatus is arranged in a tower configuration (hereinafter referred to as the washing and drying tower 3) by stacking the washing machine 1 and the dryer 2.

[0163] The washing and drying tower 3 is equipped with a washing machine 1 at the bottom and a dryer 2 at the top. Except that the washing machine 1 and the dryer 2 share the same housing 10, the structure is the same as that of the washing machine 1 and the dryer 2.

[0164] In general, the washing machine 1, with its tub 20, is heavier than the dryer 2, so it is preferable to position the washing machine 1 lower than the dryer 2. However, depending on the design, the dryer 2 may also be positioned at the lower part of the washing machine 1.

[0165] In the aforementioned washing and drying tower 3, the aforementioned control panel 100 may include a common panel 100c disposed between the washing door 11a of the aforementioned washing machine 1 and the drying door 11b of the aforementioned dryer 2.

[0166] The aforementioned common panel 100c receives the input of control commands from the aforementioned washing machine 1 and the aforementioned dryer 2 and displays all the contents displayed in the aforementioned washing machine 1 and the aforementioned dryer 2.

[0167] As a result, although the washing and drying tower 3 is equipped with the washing machine 1 and the dryer 2, the user can control both the washing machine 1 and the dryer 2 through the common panel 100c.

[0168] Figure 7 An embodiment of the control panel of the present invention is shown, which is composed of a shared panel.

[0169] The common panel 100c of the present invention may have an upper part and a lower part, one of which controls one of the washing machine and the dryer, while the other controls the remaining one of the washing machine and the dryer.

[0170] In the aforementioned shared panel 100c, the upper and lower configurations can be the same as those of the washing machine 1 and the dryer 2.

[0171] The common panel 100c may have a main display unit 151 in the center to display the weight information of the clothing. A travel selection unit 130 for selecting travel is arranged on one side of the main display unit 151, and an option selection unit 140 for selecting options is arranged on the other side.

[0172] The main display unit 151 is divided into upper and lower parts. The main display unit 151 may include: a washing main display unit 151a, which is disposed in the lower part and has one or more icons or screens for displaying the weight information and status information of the washing machine 1; and a drying main display unit 151b, which is disposed in the upper part and has one or more icons or screens for displaying the weight information and status information of the dryer 2.

[0173] The aforementioned trip selection unit 130 is arranged in two parts, upper and lower, on the left side of the aforementioned main display unit 151.

[0174] The aforementioned cycle selection unit 130 may include: a washing cycle selection unit 130a, which is used to select multiple washing cycles for washing away foreign objects or removing bacteria from clothes; and a drying cycle selection unit 130b, which is disposed above the aforementioned washing cycle selection unit 130a, and is used to select multiple drying cycles for removing moisture from clothes or supplying steam and hot air to manage clothes.

[0175] The option selection unit 140 is configured in two parts, upper and lower, on the right side of the main display unit 151.

[0176] The aforementioned option selection unit 140 may include: a washing option selection unit 140a, which is used to select multiple options for setting the intensity, execution time, and additional functions of the washing cycle; and a drying option selection unit 140b, which is disposed below the aforementioned washing option selection unit 140a, and is used to select multiple options for setting the intensity, execution time, and additional functions of the drying cycle.

[0177] The above-mentioned option selection unit 140 can display whether additional functions such as steam supply, quick cleaning spray, water temperature adjustment, cylinder sterilization, and heat supply unit cleaning are selected by turning the lights on and off of the selection unit.

[0178] Additionally, the auxiliary display unit 152 can display the intensity of the option selected by the option selection unit 140. The auxiliary display unit 152 can be configured in an area corresponding to the intensity and execution time adjustable by the option selection unit 140.

[0179] The aforementioned auxiliary display unit may include: a washing auxiliary display unit 151a, which is disposed above the washing option selection unit 140a and is used to display the intensity of the set washing option; and a drying auxiliary display unit 151b, which is disposed above the washing auxiliary display unit 151a and is used to display the intensity of the set drying option.

[0180] The power supply unit 110 is configured in two parts, upper and lower, at one end of the common panel 110.

[0181] The power supply unit may include: a washing power supply unit 110a, which receives an input of a washing power command for supplying power to the washing machine 1; and a drying power supply unit 110b, which receives an input of a drying power command for supplying power to the dryer 2.

[0182] The aforementioned execution unit 120 is configured in two parts, upper and lower, at the other end of the aforementioned common panel 110.

[0183] The aforementioned execution unit 120 may include: a washing execution unit 120a, which receives input of a washing execution command for executing a selected washing cycle and option; and a drying execution unit 120b, which is disposed above the washing execution unit 120a and receives input of a drying execution command for executing a selected drying cycle and option.

[0184] Figure 8 Another embodiment of the garment processing apparatus of the present invention is shown.

[0185] The garment handling apparatus of the present invention includes a composite device 4 capable of performing both a washing cycle and a drying cycle.

[0186] When the garment handling apparatus of the present invention is composed of a composite device 4, the aforementioned housing 10 may include a composite housing 10c that forms the appearance of the composite device 4, and the aforementioned door 11 may include a composite door 11d that opens and closes the opening formed in the aforementioned composite housing 10c.

[0187] The aforementioned sensing unit 13 may include a composite sensing unit 12d that senses whether the composite door 11d is open or closed.

[0188] The aforementioned locking part 13 may include a composite locking part 13d that fixes the composite door 11d to the composite housing 10d.

[0189] The aforementioned composite device 4 can perform the functions of both the washing machine 1 and the dryer 2, and a drawer-type clothes handling device (hereinafter referred to as a mini device) can be added to the lower part.

[0190] The control panel 100 of the garment handling device of the present invention may include the composite panel 100d described above, which is capable of simultaneously controlling one or more of the washing machine 1, the dryer 2, and the lower micro device 5.

[0191] Figure 9 An embodiment of the internal structure of the composite device 4 is shown.

[0192] Reference Figure 9 The composite device 4 of the present invention may include: a composite barrel 20d, which is rotatably housed in the composite box 10d and stores water; and a composite inner cylinder 30d, which is rotatably housed in the composite barrel 20d and stores water.

[0193] The garment processing apparatus of the present invention may include a water supply section 50 for supplying water to the aforementioned tub 20 and a drainage section 60 for discharging water from the aforementioned tub 20.

[0194] When the garment handling apparatus of the present invention is composed of the composite device 4, the water supply unit 50 may include: a composite water supply valve 51d, which is combined with the composite housing 10d and connected to an external water source to selectively supply water; a composite water supply pipe 52d, which extends from the composite water supply valve 51d to transmit water supplied from the external water source; and a composite detergent box 53d, which stores detergent and receives water supplied from the composite water supply pipe 52d and transmits it to the composite tub 20d.

[0195] The aforementioned drainage section 60 may include: a composite discharge pipe 61d, which is connected to the lower part of the composite tank 20d to discharge water from the composite tank 20d; a composite drainage pump 62d, which provides power for discharging water supplied from the composite discharge pipe 61d to the outside of the composite housing 10d; and a composite drainage pipe 63d, which extends from the composite drainage pump 62d to the outside of the composite housing 10d to discharge water.

[0196] The garment processing apparatus of the present invention may further include a composite water level sensor 21d for sensing the water level of the composite tub 20d.

[0197] The composite water level sensor 21d can be configured in any structure as long as it can sense the water level inside the composite tank 20d. The composite water level sensor 21d may include: a connecting pipe that communicates with the composite tank 20d and is blocked at its end; and a sensing unit disposed on the upper part of the connecting pipe for sensing pressure changes inside the connecting pipe.

[0198] The composite device 4 of the present invention may further include a composite support portion 70d that supports the composite barrel 20d in the composite box 10d.

[0199] The aforementioned composite support 70d may include one or more of a suspension that supports the lower part of the aforementioned barrel 20 and a spring that supports the upper part of the aforementioned composite barrel 20d.

[0200] The composite device 4 of the present invention may include a drive unit 40 with the same structure as the washing machine 1.

[0201] The aforementioned composite device 4 may be configured such that the aforementioned heat supply unit 90 is connected to the aforementioned composite barrel 20d.

[0202] The housing 10d of the aforementioned composite device 4 has a base at the bottom, similar to that of the dryer 2, and the aforementioned heat supply unit 90 is disposed on the base.

[0203] Alternatively, the composite device 4 may have a composite barrel 20d that is securely supported inside the housing 10d and is configured such that the composite barrel 20d is closest to the composite inner cylinder 30d, so that the heat supply unit 90 can be installed in the composite barrel 20d.

[0204] The aforementioned heat supply unit 90 may include a composite supply unit 90d mounted on the upper part of the composite tank 20d. This prevents interference or conflict with the structure of the drainage unit 60 located at the lower part of the composite tank 20d.

[0205] The aforementioned composite supply unit 90d may include: a composite pipe 91d, which is installed along the front-rear direction of the composite barrel 20d to circulate air inside the composite barrel 20d; an evaporator 92d, which is housed in the composite pipe 91d to cool the air and condense moisture; a condenser 93d, which is disposed downstream of the evaporator to heat the air; a compressor 94d, which supplies refrigerant to the condenser 93d for heating the air; an expansion valve, which causes the refrigerant discharged from the condenser 93d to expand and cool; and a circulation fan 96d, which is disposed inside the circulation pipe 91d to provide power for circulating the air.

[0206] On the other hand, since the aforementioned composite supply section 90d is equipped with the aforementioned tank 20, the water collection section and water storage tank can be omitted. That is, the water condensed inside the aforementioned composite pipe 91d is collected in the aforementioned tank 20 and discharged from the aforementioned drain section 60.

[0207] As a result, the aforementioned composite device 4, as a structure integrating the washing machine 1 and the dryer 2, can perform both washing and drying cycles.

[0208] The composite device 4 of the present invention may include an integrated control unit that integrates the washing control unit and the drying control unit. The integrated control unit may be built into the control panel 100 or may be disposed separately from the control panel 100 and disposed inside the housing 10.

[0209] The aforementioned composite panel 100d can be switched between a washing mode and a drying mode. The washing mode is a mode that receives input for a command to execute a washing cycle or displays the status of the washing cycle, and the drying mode is a mode that receives input for a command to execute a drying cycle or displays the status of the drying cycle.

[0210] In addition, in the presence of the microdevice described later, it can be switched to a micro mode, which is a mode that receives input for executing commands for the microdevice or displays the status of the microdevice.

[0211] Figure 10 An embodiment of the structure of the composite panel is shown.

[0212] The aforementioned composite panel 100d needs to realize the washing mode for performing the washing cycle, the drying mode for performing the drying cycle, and the micro mode for performing the micro device on a single panel. Therefore, it is preferable that the aforementioned composite panel 100d omits physical buttons, etc., and is composed entirely of a touch panel to selectively display the washing mode, drying mode, and micro mode.

[0213] The aforementioned composite panel 100d can be formed into a screen or touch panel.

[0214] The aforementioned composite panel 100d can be formed into an ellipse or track shape with a width longer than its height, and a display section 150 can be provided in the central quadrilateral portion.

[0215] A power supply unit 110 and an execution unit 120 may be arranged on one side of the display unit 150. The power supply unit 110 and the execution unit 120 are composed of a touch area that allows touch input. The light is turned on when touch input is allowed and turned off when touch input is not allowed.

[0216] The display unit 150 can display weight information and status information related to the selected stroke and option. Furthermore, the display unit 150 can also be configured as a touch panel to perform the functions of the stroke input unit 130 and the option selection unit 140.

[0217] The aforementioned display unit 150 can display a stroke selection unit 130 for selecting strokes, displaying the currently selected stroke C1 in a larger size, and displaying the changeable strokes C2 and C3 in a smaller size on the left and right sides, etc.

[0218] The aforementioned display unit 150 may further include a status display unit 153 that displays the status of the garment handling device. The status display unit 153 may display one or more of the following statuses in the form of icons or the like: internal water level status, internal temperature status, locked status, sound emission status, and whether the process is in progress.

[0219] The option selection unit 140 described above can be configured outside the travel selection unit 130 or the area displaying the travel. The option selection unit 140 is configured at the lower part, spaced apart from the status display unit 153.

[0220] When an input is made to the option selection unit 140, the selectable or adjustable options are displayed on the display unit 150. During this process, the displays of the stroke selection unit 130 and stroke C may disappear.

[0221] Figure 11 This illustrates a case where the garment processing apparatus of the present invention is composed of a miniature device.

[0222] The garment handling apparatus of the present invention may further include a micro-device 5. The height and volume of the micro-device are smaller than those of the washing machine 1 and the dryer 2 or the combined apparatus 4.

[0223] The aforementioned micro-device, as an auxiliary garment handling device, can be additionally installed in the aforementioned washing machine 1, dryer 2, and composite device 4. Of course, the aforementioned micro-device 5 can also be installed independently.

[0224] When the garment handling device of the present invention is composed of a micro-device 5, the aforementioned box 10 may include a micro-box 10b whose height is smaller than its width in the left-right direction and its length in the front-back direction.

[0225] The aforementioned miniature box 10e is relatively short, so it can be installed at the bottom of the washing machine 1, dryer 2, and composite device 4.

[0226] Of course, the aforementioned micro-device 5 can also be configured on the upper part of the aforementioned washing machine 1, dryer 2, and composite device 4, but for ease of explanation, the following description will be based on the case where the micro-device 5 is configured on the lower part of the aforementioned washing machine 1, dryer 2, and composite device 4 or configured independently.

[0227] The aforementioned miniature box 10e has an opening at the front.

[0228] The aforementioned micro-device 5 may also include a drawer 80 disposed in the aforementioned micro-box 10e in a manner that allows entry and exit through the aforementioned opening.

[0229] The drawer 80 may include: a drawer body 82, which has a water container or a rotating inner cylinder inside; a drawer panel 81, which is disposed in front of the drawer body 81 to open and close the opening; and a guide rail 83, which allows the drawer body 82 to enter and exit relative to the miniature box 10e.

[0230] The drawer body 82 can be formed into a shell shape with an open top, and may also include a miniature door 29 inside that opens or closes the bucket and inner cylinder.

[0231] The aforementioned miniature device 5 has a drawer 80, so that its use will not be hindered even if there are other clothing handling devices or home appliances on the upper part.

[0232] Figure 12 An embodiment of the internal structure of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention is shown when it is composed of a micro-device.

[0233] The aforementioned miniature device 5 may include a miniature bucket 20e for storing water and a miniature inner tube 30e rotatably disposed in the miniature bucket for storing clothing inside the drawer 80.

[0234] The height of the aforementioned miniature bucket 20e and the aforementioned miniature inner cylinder 30e may be less than their diameter, and an opening for putting clothes in may be formed at the top.

[0235] The aforementioned miniature door 29 is attached to the upper part of the aforementioned miniature bucket 20e to prevent water or clothing inside the aforementioned miniature bucket 20e from being spilled out at will.

[0236] The aforementioned drive unit 40 is disposed at the lower part of the aforementioned miniature barrel 20e, thereby causing the aforementioned miniature inner cylinder 30e to rotate.

[0237] The aforementioned drive unit 40 may include: a miniature stator 41e, which is attached to the lower part of the miniature barrel 20d to generate a rotating magnetic field; a miniature rotor 42e, which is rotated by the miniature stator 41e; and a miniature rotating shaft 43e, which is rotated by the miniature rotor and attached to the lower part of the miniature inner cylinder 30e.

[0238] The aforementioned water supply unit 80 may include: a miniature water supply valve 51e, which is connected to a miniature housing 10e; a miniature water supply pipe 52e, which extends from the aforementioned miniature water supply valve 51e to a drawer to supply water; and a miniature housing 53e, which guides the water supplied from the aforementioned miniature water supply pipe 52e to a bucket.

[0239] The aforementioned miniature water supply pipe 52e is configured to extend forward to a length corresponding to the length by which the drawer 80 is pulled out from the miniature box 10e. Detergent can be placed into the aforementioned miniature box 53e for storage.

[0240] The aforementioned drainage section 80 may include: a miniature discharge pipe 61e that discharges water from the aforementioned miniature bucket 20e; a miniature pump 62e that is connected to the aforementioned miniature discharge pipe 61e to provide power for discharging water; and a miniature drain pipe 63e that extends from the aforementioned miniature pump 62e to the outside of the miniature housing 10e.

[0241] The aforementioned miniature drain pipe 63e is configured to extend forward to a length corresponding to the length by which the aforementioned drawer 80 is pulled out from the miniature box 10e.

[0242] The aforementioned support 70 may include a miniature suspension 70d that connects the inner side of the drawer 80 and the outer side of the miniature bucket 20e.

[0243] Figure 13 An embodiment of the control panel of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention is shown in the case where it is composed of a micro-device.

[0244] The aforementioned control panel 100 may include a miniature panel 100e disposed in the drawer 80 to control the miniature device 5.

[0245] The aforementioned micro panel 100e may have a display unit 150 in the center, and a power supply unit 110 and an execution unit 120 may be arranged on the left and right sides of the display unit 150.

[0246] A stroke selection unit 130 for selecting strokes may be provided between the power supply unit 110 and the display unit 150, and an option selection unit 140 for selecting options may be provided between the display unit 150 and the execution unit 120.

[0247] The display unit 150 may include a main display unit 151 for displaying weight information or the status of the selected stroke, and auxiliary display units 152 may be arranged on both sides of the main display unit 151 for displaying the type of stroke selected by the stroke selection unit 130 and the type of option selected by the option selection unit 140.

[0248] The main display unit 151 can be composed of any one of liquid crystal, light bulb, or screen, and the auxiliary display unit 152 can be composed of any one of liquid crystal, light bulb, or screen.

[0249] Figure 14 An embodiment of the clothing handling apparatus of the present invention is shown, which is composed of a top-mounted washing machine.

[0250] The clothing handling apparatus of the present invention may include a washing machine 1, which may be a top-mounted washing machine.

[0251] In the case where the washing machine 1 described above is a top-mounted washing machine, most of its structure is similar to... Figure 2 and Figure 3 The structure of the washing machine 1 shown in the figure corresponds to that of the washing machine.

[0252] Below, to avoid repetition, and to align with... Figure 2 , Figure 3 The main focus of the explanation will be on the different features of the washing machine shown in the diagram.

[0253] When the garment handling apparatus of the present invention is configured as a top-mounted washing machine, an opening is provided at the upper part of the housing 10, and the washing door 11 is rotatably attached to the upper part of the housing 10. The control panel 100 is positioned further forward than the washing door 11 and is located at the upper part of the housing 10.

[0254] The garment handling apparatus of the present invention may further include: a sensing unit 11 that senses whether the washing door 11 is open or closed; and a locking unit 12 that fixes the state of the washing door 11 with the opening closed.

[0255] Figure 15 An embodiment of the internal structure of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention is shown in the case where it is composed of a top-mounted washing machine.

[0256] Top-loading washing machines may also include a tub 20, an inner drum 30, a drive unit 40, a water supply unit 50, and a drain unit 60.

[0257] The aforementioned barrel 20 and inner cylinder 30 are formed in a cylindrical shape, and an inlet is provided at the top.

[0258] Unlike the micro-device, the aforementioned barrel 20 and inner cylinder 30 are taller than their diameter or width.

[0259] The garment handling apparatus of the present invention may further include a pulsator 35 that rotates independently of the inner drum 30 at the lower part of the inner drum 30.

[0260] The impeller 35 can rotate either together with the inner drum 30 or independently of it. As a result, the clothes are agitated or water flow is formed inside the inner drum 30.

[0261] The aforementioned drive unit 40 may also include a clutch unit 44 that determines whether to rotate the impeller 35 and the inner cylinder 30 independently.

[0262] The aforementioned clutch 44 can also determine whether the power of the rotation of the rotating shaft 43 is transmitted to both the impeller 35 and the inner cylinder 30 or only to either the impeller 35 or the inner cylinder 30.

[0263] The aforementioned rotating shaft 43 is coupled to the aforementioned clutch portion 44, and the aforementioned clutch portion 44 may also have a separate drive shaft 45 for transmitting power from the aforementioned rotating shaft 43.

[0264] The aforementioned drive shaft 45 can be coupled to the impeller 35, and the outer casing of the aforementioned clutch part 44 can be coupled to the aforementioned inner cylinder 30.

[0265] As a result, the impeller 35 and the inner cylinder 30 selectively receive power from the drive unit 40 by combining with each other's different structures.

[0266] The control panel 100 of the present invention controls the clutch section 44 to make the impeller 35 and the inner drum 30 rotate independently during washing and rinsing, and to make the impeller 35 and the inner drum 30 rotate together during dehydration.

[0267] As a result, during the washing and rinsing process, the clothes are twisted or agitated by the water flow, which enhances the washing and rinsing performance. During the spin-drying process, it can prevent the clothes from being rubbed or damaged due to the speed difference between the impeller 35 and the inner drum 30.

[0268] Figure 16 An embodiment of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention is shown, which senses the weight of the garment.

[0269] The garment handling apparatus of the present invention senses the weight of the garments and executes washing and drying cycles based on the sensed weight. The heavier the garments, the more time and energy are required to wash or dry them; therefore, the execution time of the washing and drying cycles is set to be longer. As a result, the process is prevented from ending with insufficient washing or drying, thereby ensuring washing performance and drying function.

[0270] The garment handling apparatus of the present invention senses the weight of the garment. The lighter the garment, the less time and energy is consumed when washing or drying it. Therefore, the execution time of the washing cycle and the drying cycle is set to be shorter.

[0271] As a result, it prevents clothes from being overwashed and overdried, thereby preventing damage to the clothes and saving energy.

[0272] The garment handling apparatus of the present invention can be used to sense the weight of the garment by rotating an inner drum containing the garment. When the inner drum 30 is rotated, the weight of the garment can be calculated by measuring the current value or load applied or generated to the drive unit 40.

[0273] Even when clothes are placed inside the inner drum 30 before power is supplied to the drive unit 40, the garment handling apparatus of the present invention can smoothly sense the weight of the clothes by measuring the current value output or generated by the drive unit 40 after power is supplied to the drive unit 40. As a result, the garment handling apparatus of the present invention can sense the weight of the clothes in all situations, whether the door 11 is opened and clothes are placed inside while the user is supplying power to the drive unit 40 by inputting power to the power unit 110, or whether the door 11 is opened and clothes are placed inside before the user inputs power to the power unit 110.

[0274] As a result, although it takes longer to sense the weight of clothing compared to sensing the weight by a load sensor that directly senses the load on the inner drum, the clothing handling device of the present invention can sense the weight of clothing in all cases where the user inputs power to the power unit 110 after the door 11 is opened and clothing is placed inside.

[0275] Figure 16 (a) illustrates an embodiment of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention that senses the weight of garments. The garment handling apparatus of the present invention can sufficiently sense the weight of garments even when the inner drum rotates less than one revolution.

[0276] That is, the longer the inner drum 30 rotates, the more accurately the weight of the clothes can be sensed. Even if the inner drum 30 is rotated only a certain angle in real time, the weight of the clothes can be fully sensed by calculating the inertial energy or current value required when it is rotated, or the torque and energy generated during the process of stopping after temporary rotation.

[0277] Therefore, although the garment handling apparatus of the present invention can sense the weight of the garment by rotating the inner drum more than one revolution, it can also sense the weight of the garment by rotating the inner drum less than one revolution.

[0278] The garment handling apparatus of the present invention can sense the weight of garments by rotating the inner drum at an angle of less than 360 degrees. The garment handling apparatus of the present invention can sense the weight of garments both during the rotation of the inner drum less than 360 degrees and after the inner drum has stopped rotating. The process of stopping after the inner drum rotates includes the concept of rotating the inner drum in the opposite direction until it returns to its original position.

[0279] In either case, the garment handling device of the present invention can fully grasp the weight of the garment within 3 seconds after the inner drum begins to rotate.

[0280] Therefore, when the sensing unit 13 senses that an input has been made to the power supply unit 110 or that the door 11 has been opened or closed, the clothing handling device of the present invention drives the drive unit 40 to rotate the inner drum 30 less than one revolution before inputting the stroke selection unit 130 or the execution unit 120, thereby sensing the amount of clothing.

[0281] When the amount of clothing is sensed, the control unit can display the weight information of the clothing on the display unit 150 before inputting data to the trip selection unit 130 or the execution unit 120. As a result, the user can confirm the displayed weight information and select the appropriate trip to execute.

[0282] The locking unit 12 is controlled so that the door 11 can only be locked in the housing 10 when input is given to the execution unit 120. As a result, the garment handling apparatus of the present invention rotates the inner drum 30 to sense the weight of the garment while the door is unlocked (LOCK) and displays the weight information of the garment to the display unit 150.

[0283] Therefore, users can confirm the weight information and open the door 11 to add or remove clothing in the appropriate direction.

[0284] Figure 16 (b) shows another embodiment of sensing the weight of clothing using the clothing handling apparatus of the present invention.

[0285] Of course, the garment handling apparatus of the present invention can sense the weight of the garment by rotating the inner drum more than one revolution. However, when sensing the weight of the garment by rotating the inner drum less than one revolution, it is necessary to control the rotation angle of the inner drum.

[0286] For example, such as Figure 16 As shown in (a), the inner drum is stopped after being rotated by an angle of more than 90 degrees, i.e., angle A. During this process, the control unit can sense the weight of the garment through the drive unit 40.

[0287] However, in front-loading washing machines, when the inner drum 30 rotates to angle A, the clothes fall or roll downwards from the inner drum 30 due to gravity, causing changes in their arrangement and shape. This results in an electric current generated by the movement or impact of the clothes being applied to the drive unit 40, or an additional electric current generated by the movement or impact of the clothes being generated in the drive unit 40. This can reduce the accuracy of the control unit's sensing of the weight of the clothes.

[0288] Therefore, the garment handling apparatus of the present invention can sense the weight of the garment by rotating the inner drum 30 by an angle of less than 90 degrees, i.e., angle B. As a result, changes in the arrangement and shape of the garment can be minimized or completely prevented, and the control unit accurately senses the weight of the garment by measuring the current value from the drive unit 40.

[0289] Preferably, angle B can be set to less than 45 degrees, and most preferably, it can be set to less than 15 degrees. As a result, the control unit can accurately sense the weight of the clothing even if the shape or arrangement of the clothing changes.

[0290] Furthermore, since the rotation of the garments is reduced accordingly, the user can hardly detect any arbitrary rotation of the inner drum 30, thus avoiding any doubt about the performance of the garment handling device. The garment handling device of the present invention can display weight information more quickly.

[0291] Figure 17 An embodiment of the present invention is shown in which the weight of the clothes is sensed when the clothes handling apparatus is configured as a top-mounted washing machine.

[0292] Reference Figure 17 (a) Before the washing cycle and drying cycle are performed and with the door unlocked, the clothes placed in the inner drum 30 can be placed in the pulsator 35.

[0293] In this process, the inner drum 30 of the garment handling device of the present invention also rotates less than one revolution, thereby sensing the weight of the garment through the drive unit 40.

[0294] However, the garment handling apparatus of the present invention can rotate the inner drum 30 and the impeller 35 simultaneously when sensing the weight of the garment. This minimizes the possibility of the garment being damaged, twisted, or having its shape or arrangement altered due to friction between the inner drum 30 and the impeller 35.

[0295] Reference Figure 17 (b) In a top-loading washing machine, even if the inner drum 30 rotates nearly one revolution, the probability of the shape or arrangement of the above-mentioned clothes changing is lower than that in a front-loading washing machine.

[0296] Therefore, when the clothing handling device of the present invention is configured as a top-mounted washing machine, in order to sense the weight of the clothes, one or more of the inner drum 30 and the impeller 35 are rotated by more than 90 degrees and stopped before reaching 360 degrees.

[0297] For example, the garment handling apparatus of the present invention can rotate the inner drum 30 and the impeller 35 simultaneously by less than 180 degrees and then stop, and then measure the load of the drive unit 40 to sense the weight of the garment.

[0298] As a result, the garment handling apparatus of the present invention can display the weight information of the garments while the door is unlocked before input is made to the execution unit 120.

[0299] Figure 18 An embodiment of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention is shown, in which the control unit senses the weight of the garment via the drive unit.

[0300] Reference Figure 18 (a) The garment handling apparatus of the present invention can perform a sensing step F, which senses the weight of the garments inside the inner drum 30, while the door is unlocked, before performing the washing process, before performing the rinsing process, and before performing the dehydration process.

[0301] Therefore, the control unit can execute an acceleration step F1 that starts the inner drum 30 from rotating, a deceleration step F2 that stops the inner drum 30, and a weight sensing step F3 that senses the weight of the clothes stored in the inner drum by measuring the acceleration value of the drive unit 40 in the acceleration step and the deceleration value of the drive unit in the deceleration step.

[0302] The garment handling apparatus of the present invention senses an acceleration measurement value measured from or applied to the drive unit 40 while driving the drive unit 40, and senses a deceleration measurement value measured from or applied to the drive unit 40 while decelerating the drive unit 40. Then, the weight of the garment stored in the inner drum 30 is sensed by calculating the acceleration and deceleration measurement values.

[0303] The aforementioned acceleration measurement value and the aforementioned deceleration measurement value may be command values ​​applied to the aforementioned drive unit 40 while driving the aforementioned drive unit 40, and may also be measurement values ​​measured from the aforementioned drive unit 40 while driving the aforementioned drive unit 40.

[0304] On the other hand, the aforementioned sensing step F may also include a preparation step F0 for checking the position of the drive unit 40 in order to set a reference value that enables the execution of the aforementioned acceleration step F1 and the aforementioned deceleration step F2. In the aforementioned preparation step F0, the inner cylinder 30 is in a stopped state.

[0305] In the acceleration step F1, the inner cylinder, which was stopped in the preparation step F0, is further accelerated to a first rotational speed (rpm), and in the deceleration step F2, the inner cylinder is decelerated from the first rotational speed (rpm). That is, the acceleration step F1 and the deceleration step F2 can be executed continuously. The deceleration step F2 simply reduces the current command value applied to the drive unit 40 in the acceleration step F1, or cuts off the voltage applied to the drive unit 40, so there is no need to worry about damage to the control unit P or the circuit.

[0306] At this point, the aforementioned acceleration and deceleration measurements can be performed between the first rotational speed (rpm) and a second rotational speed (rpm) lower than the first rotational speed (rpm). That is, the weight is sensed by measuring the current value within the interval where the peak of the speed curve is located. This allows for continuous measurement of the current value and weight sensing, thus minimizing the possibility of errors.

[0307] On the other hand, the aforementioned acceleration and deceleration measurements can be performed between a second rotational speed (rpm) lower than the first rotational speed (rpm) and a third rotational speed (rpm) higher than the second rotational speed (rpm) but lower than the first rotational speed (rpm). That is, although not within the range where the aforementioned peak is located, the current value can be measured within the same speed range to sense the weight. Since the speed change is greatest at the peak, it has the advantage of measuring a stable current value, thus improving the accuracy of weight calculation.

[0308] On the other hand, the first rotational speed (rpm) can be set to a speed (rpm) lower than the fixed rotational speed (rpm) at which the clothes stored inside the inner drum 30 adhere to the inner wall of the inner drum 30. That is, the first rotational speed (rpm) is relatively lower than the rotational speed (rpm) used in the washing, rinsing, and spin-drying processes.

[0309] The acceleration step F1 described above can be equivalent to the step of rotating the inner cylinder, and the deceleration step F2 described above can be equivalent to the step of resetting the inner cylinder to its original position. Consequently, the reset step D2 can be the step where the control unit P actively applies current to cause the drive unit 40 to rotate in the opposite direction.

[0310] The weight sensing step F3 described above can omit the process of the control unit P directly calculating the moment of inertia, or the process of extracting the moment of inertia by comparing it with the weight data of the clothing stored in the storage unit associated with the control unit.

[0311] The current applied in the acceleration step F1 can be defined as the first current, and the current applied in the deceleration step F2 can be defined as the second current. The control unit P can sense the weight using the first and second currents.

[0312] Figure 18 (b) shows another embodiment of the control unit calculating the weight of the clothing.

[0313] The figure shows the following: The deceleration step F2 is not a deceleration step that applies current to the drive unit 40 to cause the inner tube 30 to rotate in the opposite direction, but rather an interruption step that cuts off the power applied to the drive unit 40, allowing the drive unit 40 to reset and decelerate by the weight of the clothing.

[0314] The control unit P senses the back electromotive force generated during the interruption step and measures the current value corresponding to the back electromotive force to sense the weight of the clothing.

[0315] The current applied in the acceleration step F1 can be defined as the first current, and the current applied in the interruption step F2 can be defined as the third current. The control unit P can sense the weight by the first current and the third current.

[0316] Figure 19 shows an embodiment of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention using a weight sensing method based on the above-described structure and method.

[0317] Figure 19a An embodiment that basically employs the weight sensing method described above is shown.

[0318] When the power supply unit 110 of the garment handling device of the present invention is input, power can be supplied to the water supply unit 50, the drive unit 40, the drainage unit 60, etc., and power can also be supplied to the control unit P.

[0319] When power is supplied to the power supply unit 110, the control unit P can sense the weight of the clothing. For example, the necessary condition for sensing the weight of the clothing in the clothing handling apparatus of the present invention is the input of power supply unit 110.

[0320] Therefore, even if the user opens the door 11 before inputting power to the power unit 110, puts clothes into the inner drum 30, and closes the door 11, the control unit P can immediately sense the weight of the clothes.

[0321] The aforementioned control unit P can calculate the estimated time for executing a specific itinerary or option based on the weight of the aforementioned clothing.

[0322] Therefore, the control unit P can identify the weight of the clothing by associating it with the corresponding estimated time.

[0323] Furthermore, the control unit P can also compile the washing dosage required when performing any cycle or option based on the weight of the aforementioned clothing into data. The control unit P can calculate the washing dosage required when washing the aforementioned clothing using the aforementioned cycle or option.

[0324] For example, the clothing handling apparatus of the present invention can perform a power supply step A1, which supplies power to the power supply unit 110 of the clothing handling apparatus, and a weight sensing step A2, which senses the weight of the clothing stored in the inner drum 3 when the power supply step A1 is performed.

[0325] In other words, the garment handling apparatus of the present invention can sense weight not only after inputting to the execution unit 120, but also before inputting to the execution unit 120.

[0326] When the weight of the garment is sensed in the weight sensing step A2, the information display step A3 is executed, which displays at least one of the following weight information on the display unit 150: the weight of the garment, the estimated execution time of the washing cycle or option for the garment, and the washing dosage required to execute the cycle or option.

[0327] In the information display step A3 above, the corresponding execution time of the preset standard trip or standard option corresponding to the weight of the above clothing can be displayed.

[0328] Users can compare the weight of the clothes, the preset schedule or the execution time of the option displayed in the above information display step A3 with their own schedule, and confirm the above washing dosage.

[0329] In other words, the garment handling apparatus of the present invention confirms weight-related information before inputting data to the execution unit 120, and selects the desired travel and options before inputting data to the execution unit 120. That is, if the user is satisfied with the information displayed in the information display step A3, they can input data to the execution unit 120. The control unit P can execute the execution input step A6, which senses the input to the execution unit 120.

[0330] When the above-mentioned execution input step A6 is executed, the above-mentioned control unit P controls the locking unit 12 to lock the door 11 in the above-mentioned housing 10 to prevent the door 11 from being opened at will.

[0331] When the above-mentioned execution input step A6 is executed, the above-mentioned control unit P can execute one or more of the washing process, rinsing process, and dehydration process according to the above-mentioned schedule or option settings.

[0332] However, after the user confirms at least one of the weight of the clothes, the execution time of the preset trip or option, and the washing dosage in the above information display step A3, the user can also perform the trip setting step A4, which selects the trip and option through the trip selection unit 130 and the option selection unit 140.

[0333] That is, users can choose any program or option instead of the default standard program.

[0334] For example, after confirming the weight of the clothing through the above-mentioned schedule setting step A4, the user can input one or more of the schedule selection unit 130 and the option selection unit 140, and after confirming the execution time associated with the weight, input one or more of the schedule selection unit 130 and the option selection unit 140 to change the schedule or option.

[0335] When the above-mentioned trip setting step A4 is executed, the above-mentioned control unit P can perform a recalculation of the estimated execution time or washing dosage of the changed trip or option corresponding to the weight of the above-mentioned clothes and transmit it to the above-mentioned display unit 150 in the change display step A5.

[0336] In the above-mentioned change display step A5, the display unit 150 may display one or more of the expected execution time of the changed process or option and the changed washing dosage.

[0337] If the user determines that the estimated execution time or washing dosage is appropriate, the user can input the information into the execution unit 120. If the user determines that the estimated execution time or washing dosage is inappropriate, the user can input the information again into one or more of the trip selection unit 130 and the option selection unit 140.

[0338] The aforementioned control unit P can perform the execution input step A6, which senses the input of the aforementioned execution unit 120.

[0339] However, when more than one of the trip selection unit 130 and option selection unit 140 is detected to be re-entered, the trip setting step A4 and the change display step A5 can be re-executed.

[0340] As a result, the garment handling apparatus of the present invention completes weight sensing before the user selects the final travel and option. Furthermore, by rotating the inner drum less than one revolution and calculating the weight within 3 seconds, information about the weight can be provided before input is made to either the travel selection unit 130 or the option selection unit 140.

[0341] For example, weight sensing is completed at the moment when the power supply unit 110 is input and the display unit 150 is activated, thereby providing the user with information corresponding to the weight.

[0342] Therefore, users can confirm the estimated time for the most suitable schedule and options at the current time while confirming the information about the weight, and set the best schedule and options or add the best amount of washing liquid.

[0343] Figure 19b Show Figure 19a An extended embodiment of the control method.

[0344] When a command is input to the power supply unit 110, the garment handling apparatus of the present invention can perform a power input step A1, which supplies power to one or more of the control unit P, the drive unit 40, the water supply unit 50, the drainage unit 60, and the control panel 100.

[0345] When the power input step A1 is performed, the clothing processing device can perform the weight sensing step A2, which senses the weight of the clothing.

[0346] In the weight sensing step A2 described above, the weight is sensed by rotating the inner cylinder less than one revolution, as described above.

[0347] At this time, the control unit P simultaneously executes clothing sensing step A2-1, which senses whether clothing is stored in the inner drum 30. In clothing sensing step A2-1, if clothing is present in the inner drum 30, then... Figure 19a Control methods.

[0348] However, if the clothing is not stored in the inner tube 30, the control unit P executes the door opening / closing sensing step A2-2, which waits for the door 11 to be opened and closed.

[0349] That is, when the weight of the clothing is not sensed, the control unit P waits until the opening or closing of the door is sensed.

[0350] At this time, when the door opening and closing sensing step A2-2 is executed, the control unit P re-executes the weight sensing step A2 to additionally sense the weight of the clothing.

[0351] Therefore, the garment handling apparatus of the present invention can immediately sense the weight of garments when they are stored in the inner drum 30 before the power supply unit 110 is input. However, when there are no garments in the inner drum 30 before the power supply unit 110 is input, the weight of the garments is sensed only after they are placed into the inner drum 30.

[0352] In other words, when power is supplied to the control unit P by inputting power to the power supply unit 110, the garment handling device of the present invention can perform weight sensing immediately in principle.

[0353] Therefore, when the user puts the clothes into the inner drum 3 before inputting the power supply unit 110, the control unit P can perform weight sensing.

[0354] However, before inputting power to the power supply unit 110, if there are no clothes inside the inner drum 3, the control unit P waits for the door to open or close before performing weight sensing. Of course, the presence or absence of clothes can be sensed using weight sensing. In this case, if no weight is sensed, the display unit 150 may not display the weight.

[0355] On the other hand, when the power supply unit 110 receives an input and senses the opening or closing of the door 11, the control unit P determines that clothing has been placed inside and performs weight sensing. Of course, if no weight is sensed, the display unit 150 either does not display the weight or displays information that there is no clothing inside.

[0356] When the weight is sensed, the garment handling apparatus of the present invention can display at least one of the following on the display unit 150: the weight information of the garment or the execution time of the trip and options corresponding to the weight, and the required washing dosage.

[0357] As a result, the garment handling device of the present invention senses the weight of the garment before inputting the above-mentioned execution unit 120 and conveys information such as the execution time of the trip or option and the required washing dosage to the user.

[0358] As a result, it can be indicated that the weight of the garment is sensed and the weight information is displayed before input is given to the aforementioned execution unit 120, and the inner tube 30 is rotated and the weight information is displayed on the display unit 150 while the door 11 is unlocked.

[0359] Figure 20 illustrates an embodiment of weight sensing based on whether a door is open or closed.

[0360] Reference Figure 20a When the opening or closing of the door 11 is sensed, the control unit P can sense the weight of the clothing. That is, the opening or closing of the door 11 is a condition for sensing the weight of the clothing.

[0361] The opening and closing of the door 11 indicates a high probability that clothes are placed into the inner drum 30. Furthermore, the opening and closing of the door 11 indicates that the amount of clothes in the inner drum 30 increases or decreases.

[0362] Therefore, when the opening or closing of the door 11 is sensed, the garment handling device of the present invention immediately senses the weight of the garment and informs the user of the weight of the garment itself, the estimated execution time or changed execution time of the process or option, the required washing dosage or changed washing dosage.

[0363] The garment handling apparatus of the present invention can perform an opening and closing step B1 that senses the opening and closing of the door 11. When the opening and closing of the door 11 is sensed in the opening and closing step B1, the control unit P can perform a weight sensing step B2 that senses the weight of the garment, and perform an information display step B3 that displays one or more of the following based on the sensed weight: the weight of the garment, the execution time of a preset trip or option, and the required washing dosage.

[0364] In other words, even before inputting to the travel selection unit 130 and the execution unit 120, the garment handling device of the present invention can sense the weight of the garment within 3 seconds and display it in the manner described above if it senses the opening or closing of the door 11.

[0365] After the information display step B3, the control unit P senses whether the user has input to the execution unit 120 and executes the execution input step B6, and senses whether the user has changed the schedule or option and executes the schedule setting step B4 and the change display step B5.

[0366] The above information display step B3, the above itinerary setting step B4, the above change display step B5, and the execution input step B6 are the same as those in the above embodiment.

[0367] Figure 20b Show Figure 20a Extended embodiments.

[0368] Before the opening / closing step B1, the garment handling device of the present invention may also perform a power input step B0 to sense whether a power supply has been input.

[0369] Because only by performing the above power input step B0 can power be supplied to the control unit P, the control unit P can sense whether the door 11 is opened or closed.

[0370] Therefore, after performing the power input step B0, when the door 11 is sensed to be opened and closed, the control unit p can perform the weight sensing step B2.

[0371] When the opening or closing of the door 11 is sensed in the opening and closing step B1, the control unit P can perform a weight sensing step B2 to sense the weight of the clothes, and perform an information display step B3 to display one or more of the following based on the sensed weight: the weight of the clothes, the execution time of the preset trip or option, and the required washing dosage.

[0372] After the information display step B3, the control unit P senses whether the user has input to the execution unit 120 and executes the execution input step B6, and senses whether the user has changed the schedule or option and executes the schedule setting step B4 and the change display step B5.

[0373] The above information display step B3, the above itinerary setting step B4, the above change display step B5, and the execution input step B6 are the same as in the above embodiment.

[0374] Therefore, when the opening or closing of the door 11 is sensed while the power is supplied to the garment handling device, the garment handling device of the present invention immediately senses the weight of the garment and informs the user of the weight of the garment itself, the estimated execution time or changed execution time of the trip or option, the required washing dosage or changed washing dosage.

[0375] Figure 20c Show Figure 20a Another extended embodiment.

[0376] The garment handling apparatus of the present invention can store the history of the opening and closing of the aforementioned door 11 in the aforementioned storage unit P2. That is, even without input to the aforementioned power supply unit 110, the garment handling apparatus of the present invention can store the history of the opening and closing of the aforementioned door 11 by supplying power to the aforementioned control panel P through standby power.

[0377] Therefore, even if the door 11 is opened or closed before the power supply unit 110 is input, the garment handling apparatus of the present invention can perform the history storage step B11 of storing the opening and closing history of the door 11 into the history storage step of the control unit P.

[0378] Subsequently, when the power input step B0, which supplies power to the control unit P by inputting power to the power unit 110, is performed, the garment processing apparatus of the present invention causes the control unit P to perform the weight sensing step B2.

[0379] In the opening and closing step B1, when the opening and closing of the door 11 is sensed, the control unit P can perform a weight sensing step B2 to sense the weight of the clothes, and perform an information display step B3 to display one or more of the following based on the sensed weight: the weight of the clothes, the execution time of the preset trip or option, and the required washing dosage.

[0380] After the information display step B3, the control unit P senses whether the user has input to the execution unit 120 and executes the execution input step B6, and senses whether the user has changed the schedule or option and executes the schedule setting step B4 and the change display step B5.

[0381] The above information display step B3, the above itinerary setting step B4, the above change display step B5, and the execution input step B6 are the same as those in the above embodiment.

[0382] Therefore, even if the user opens the door 11 and puts clothes into the inner drum 30 before inputting power to the power unit 110, the clothing handling device of the present invention can detect whether the door 11 is open or closed and sense the weight of the clothes when the power unit 110 is input.

[0383] Therefore, the garment handling device of the present invention can help the user select the optimal cycle and option or washing dosage before the user inputs the input to the execution unit 120.

[0384] As a result, the control unit P can be set to sense the weight of the clothing when the power supply unit 110 is input or the sensing unit 13 senses that the door has closed the opening.

[0385] The control unit P can be configured to sense weight only when the input of the power supply unit 110 and the opening and closing of the door 11 are simultaneously sensed, or to sense weight when either the input of the power supply unit 110 or the opening and closing of the door 11 is performed.

[0386] On the other hand, in the garment handling apparatus of the present invention, the locking part 12 can only fix the door 11 to the housing 1 when the actuator 120 is input to start the process and select options. Therefore, when weight sensing is performed before the actuator 120 is input, the door 11 may be in a state where it is not locked by the locking part 12.

[0387] Therefore, users can open the door 11 to add or remove clothing during or after the weight sensing process.

[0388] When the additional ground sensing door 11 is opened or closed, the garment handling device of the present invention can re-perform weight sensing to sense whether the weight of the garment has changed, and display information related to the changed weight on the display unit 150.

[0389] That is, the above-mentioned sensing of the opening and closing of the door and sensing of weight may include sensing the weight again when the door is additionally sensed after the first sensing of weight.

[0390] Figure 21This invention illustrates another embodiment of the garment handling apparatus for determining whether to additionally perform weight sensing.

[0391] As described above, the garment handling device of the present invention performs weight sensing again when the box 1 is opened and closed again by the door 11, or when the power supply to the control unit P is cut off by inputting to the power supply unit 110 again and then powered on again.

[0392] However, if the time it takes for the door 11 to open and close is much shorter than the time T required to place the clothes into the inner drum 3, the internal state of the inner drum 3 is less likely to change. Furthermore, if the time it takes for the power supply unit 110 to re-input and re-supply the control unit P is much shorter than the time T required to place the clothes, the internal state of the inner drum 3 is less likely to change.

[0393] Therefore, when the time for the door 11 to open and close again or the time for the power supply unit 110 to input again is shorter than the limit time T, the garment handling device of the present invention does not need to perform additional weight sensing.

[0394] Therefore, if the user accidentally opens the door 11 and then quickly closes it, or accidentally inputs power to the power supply unit 110 and then inputs it again, the clothing handling device of the present invention will prevent the weight sensing from being performed, thereby preventing unnecessary energy consumption.

[0395] The control unit P can sense the time interval between inputting to the power supply unit 110 and inputting again, and can also sense the time interval between opening and closing the opening 111 by the door 11 through the sensing unit 13 or the locking unit 12.

[0396] The aforementioned time limit T is, for example, less than 1 second.

[0397] On the other hand, the aforementioned sensing unit 13 is configured opposite to or adjacent to the door 11 in the aforementioned housing 1, and may be configured as a Hall sensor or a reed switch that senses signals such as magnetic fields generated on the door 11, and may also sense the opening angle of the door 11 by sensing the intensity of the aforementioned magnetic field.

[0398] For example, when the sensing unit 13 does not sense the magnetic field, it can be determined that the door 11 has opened the opening 111 to a minimum gap that allows clothing to be placed, i.e., the placement gap or higher. When the magnetic field is sensed, it can be determined that the door 11 has opened the opening 111 to a gap below the placement gap.

[0399] Alternatively, a sensing unit 13 can be provided in the hinge portion where the door 11 is rotatably connected to the housing 1 to sense the opening angle of the door 11.

[0400] Thus, when the door 11 is opened within the insertion interval and then closed, the garment handling device of the present invention determines that the internal state of the inner tube 3 has not been changed and does not perform weight sensing.

[0401] The spacing between the items can be set to less than 10 centimeters, etc.

[0402] Specifically, the garment handling apparatus of the present invention can perform a power input step M1, in which a power command is input to the control unit P through the power supply unit 110 to supply power. Afterwards, a door sensing step M2 can be performed, in which the door 11 is sensed to determine whether the opening 111 is closed.

[0403] When the door 11 is closed, the weight sensing step M3, which involves rotating the inner cylinder less than one revolution to sense the weight, can be performed.

[0404] The aforementioned weight sensing step M3 senses weight by applying or outputting the current value when the inner drum rotates less than one revolution. The rotation angle of the inner drum can be set to a value below the angle at which the clothes separate from the inner wall of the inner drum or the arrangement of the clothes changes.

[0405] In the weight sensing step M3 described above, within 2 seconds after the inner cylinder rotates, the control unit P can calculate the weight, and within 3 seconds, it can execute the information display step M4, which displays information related to the sensed weight on the display unit 150.

[0406] Subsequently, the control unit P can perform a state sensing step M5, which senses whether the opening 111 was opened by the door 11 and then closed before inputting to the execution unit 120, or whether input was given to the power supply unit 110 again.

[0407] In the state sensing step L5, if the control unit P is cut off and then re-powered after the door 11 opens and closes the opening 111 again or the power supply unit 110 is input again, the control unit P can perform the judgment step M6 to determine whether the time for the door 11 to open and close again or the time for the power supply unit 110 to be input repeatedly is within the limit time.

[0408] If the time for opening and closing the door 11 again or the time for repeatedly inputting the power supply unit 110 in the limit judgment step M6 is greater than the limit time, then the weight sensing step M3 is executed again and the information display step M4 is executed again, thereby modifying the existing information to the information corresponding to the re-sensed weight.

[0409] On the other hand, if the time for the door 11 to be opened and closed again or the time for the power supply unit 110 to be repeatedly inputted in the limit judgment step M6 is less than the limit time T, then the control unit P can execute the ignore step M7, which does not perform weight sensing even if the door is opened and closed again or the power supply unit is inputted again.

[0410] In the limit judgment step M6 above, it can also be determined whether the degree to which the door 11 opens the opening 111 or the opening interval or opening angle is less than the insertion interval for the clothing to be placed.

[0411] For example, the sensing unit 13 provided in the housing 1 calculates the degree of opening of the door 11 by measuring the degree of sensing value sensed by the Hall sensor or the like, and senses the opening angle by the hinge part provided in the door 11.

[0412] During the execution of the above-mentioned ignore step M7 or during the execution of the information display step M4, the execution input step M8 can be executed. In the execution input step M8, the execution unit 120 is input to receive the execution command for executing the trip and option selected by the trip selection unit 130.

[0413] When the above-mentioned execution input step M8 is executed, the locking unit 12 executes the door locking step M9, which locks the door 11 to the housing 1 and prevents the opening 111 from being opened.

[0414] The control method for implementing the garment handling apparatus of the present invention will now be described.

[0415] Figure 22 An embodiment of the control method of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention is shown, implemented on a washing panel or a drying panel.

[0416] The washing panel 100a and the drying panel 100b have the same structure, so to avoid repetitive description, an embodiment applied to the washing panel 100a will be described.

[0417] Reference Figure 22 (a) When the user inputs power to the power supply unit 100, power is supplied to the main display unit 150 located inside the trip display unit 130.

[0418] The main display unit 150 displays the start-up information G1 indicating that the washing machine 1 is in preparation.

[0419] The startup information may include a welcome message such as "Hello" or one or more icons, pictographs, or holograms indicating the start-up process.

[0420] Reference Figure 22 (b) The aforementioned display unit 150 does not display the weight information or travel information of the clothing, but instead displays a request information G3 requesting the selection of a travel route.

[0421] The aforementioned request information G3 may include prompt text such as "Please select a trip" and one or more of the following: a pictograph, icon, or hologram requesting the selection of a trip.

[0422] Through the above request information G3, users can identify that they need to select the trip themselves rather than having the trip automatically selected.

[0423] Reference Figure 22 (c) The user can rotate the stroke selection unit 130 to confirm the stroke available in the garment handling device and select the appropriate stroke.

[0424] Reference Figure 22 As the stroke selection unit 130 rotates, the control unit can sequentially select strokes according to the corresponding angle, and the display unit 150 displays the type of selected stroke.

[0425] When displaying the type of trip, you can show the trip name c1 and the trip description, etc.

[0426] At this time, when the control unit senses the weight of the clothing during or before selecting the above-mentioned trip, the weight information I of the clothing can also be displayed.

[0427] The weight information I of the aforementioned clothing may include one or more of the following: the weight of the clothing itself, the estimated execution time I2 for processing the clothing of that weight through the selected process, and the required washing dosage I3.

[0428] Figure 23 This illustrates the implementation of the control method described above on a shared panel.

[0429] Reference Figure 23 (a) When an input is made to one or more of the washing power supply unit 110 and the drying power supply unit 110, the garment handling apparatus of the present invention may display start information G11, G12 on one or more of the washing display unit 150a and the drying display unit 150b.

[0430] The aforementioned startup information may include a welcome message such as "Hello" or one or more icons, pictographs, or holograms indicating startup.

[0431] When the device that inputs power to the power unit 110 in the washing machine 1 and dryer 2 is activated, the control unit may also be in a state where the weight sensing of the clothes has been completed.

[0432] Reference Figure 23 (b) The display unit 150 of the device that inputs the corresponding power supply unit 110 in the washing machine 1 and the dryer 2 can display the request information G31, G32 requesting the selection of a trip.

[0433] The aforementioned request information G3 may include one or more of the following: prompt text such as "Please select a trip", pictographs, icons, or holograms requesting trip selection.

[0434] Through the above request information G3, users can identify that they need to select the trip themselves rather than having it automatically selected.

[0435] Reference Figure 23 (c) The user can press one or more of the trip selection unit 130 and the option selection unit 140 to select one or more of the trip and options.

[0436] During this process, the user can change the aforementioned travel schedule by applying pressure to the travel selection unit 130. At this time, the weight information I is changed to the estimated execution time corresponding to the changed travel schedule and displayed.

[0437] Reference Figure 23 (d) When the above trips and options are selected, weight information I and one or more of the selected trips C12 and C11 can be displayed.

[0438] The aforementioned weight information I may include one or more of the following: information I1 related to the weight of the garment itself, the estimated time I21 for processing the garment of the aforementioned weight through the process, and the required washing dosage I3 for processing the garment of the aforementioned weight through the process.

[0439] Figure 24 An embodiment of the control method of the clothing handling device of the invention is shown implemented on an integrated panel. Figure 25 An embodiment of the control method of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention is shown, implemented on a micro panel.

[0440] The integrated panel and the micro panel described above differ only in structure, possessing the same components as the control panel 100, and therefore the control methods described above can be applied in the same way. Therefore, the description can be omitted based on the accompanying drawings.

[0441] Figures 26 to 29 An embodiment of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention is shown, which displays weight information.

[0442] The garment handling device of the present invention can sense the weight of the garment in advance before the user selects a cycle. That is, when the power supply unit 110 is input, the weight of the garment is sensed with the door unlocked, and when the user selects a cycle, not only cycle information c, but also weight information I is displayed at the same time.

[0443] As a result, the garment handling device of the present invention can also confirm the weight information I when the user selects the course, so it can confirm in advance whether the course is suitable for the garments being processed.

[0444] Furthermore, in the garment handling apparatus of the present invention, when the power supply unit 110 is input without being input to the travel selection unit 130 or when the opening or closing of the door is sensed, the weight of the garment can be sensed immediately in the manner described above, thereby preparing to quickly convey weight information I to the user when needed.

[0445] Reference Figure 26 (a) In the garment handling apparatus of the present invention, when an input is made to one or more of the washing power supply unit 110 and the drying power supply unit 110, start information G1 can be displayed in one or more of the washing display unit 150a and the drying display unit 150b.

[0446] The startup information may include a welcome message such as "Hello" or one or more icons, pictographs, or holograms indicating the start-up process.

[0447] Reference Figure 26 (b) After displaying the aforementioned startup information, the garment handling apparatus of the present invention controls the drive unit 40 of the device that inputs power to the power unit 110 in the washing machine 1 and the dryer 2 to rotate the inner drum 30, thereby sensing the weight of the garments. In order to quickly sense the weight of the garments, the garment handling apparatus of the present invention rotates the inner drum 30 of the device that inputs power to the power unit 110 in the washing machine 1 and the dryer 2 less than one revolution.

[0448] The aforementioned display unit 150 can display measurement information G2 indicating the status of sensing the weight of the clothing. This allows the user to recognize that the clothing handling device is automatically sensing the weight of the clothing, thereby further increasing the user's trust in the clothing handling device.

[0449] Reference Figure 26 (c) The user can select a trip through the trip selection unit 130.

[0450] Reference Figure 26 (d) When the above itinerary is selected, the itinerary information C1 and the weight information I of the above clothing can be displayed together.

[0451] The weight information of the aforementioned clothing may include the estimated travel time I2 corresponding to the aforementioned trip and the washing dosage I3 capable of handling the weight of the aforementioned clothing.

[0452] Figure 27 and Figure 29 This illustrates the application of the control method described above when the control panel 100 is configured in another embodiment.

[0453] and Figure 26 Compared to the previous case, only the structure is different; the order, function, and principle can be the same.

[0454] Figure 30 Another embodiment of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention is shown, which displays weight information.

[0455] The garment handling apparatus of the present invention is configured to sense the weight of the garment only when the user selects a travel route through the travel selection unit 130.

[0456] That is, the user inputting power to the power supply unit 110 and the trip selection unit 130 selecting the trip are prerequisites for sensing the weight of clothing.

[0457] Thus, when the user selects a stroke through the stroke selection unit 130, it means that the user intends to operate the garment handling device. Therefore, when the user selects a stroke through the stroke selection unit 130, the inner drum 30 is rotated to sense the weight of the garment, thereby preventing unnecessary sensing of the garment's weight.

[0458] Therefore, it can save energy and prevent users from mistakenly believing that the garment handling device is working arbitrarily.

[0459] Reference Figure 30 (a) When the power supply unit 110 is input, the display unit 150 can display startup information G1.

[0460] Reference Figure 30 (b) The request information G3 can be displayed on the display unit 150. Thus, the user can operate the trip selection unit 130 to select a trip.

[0461] Reference Figure 30 (c) When the user operates the travel selection unit 130, the garment handling apparatus of the present invention can perform weight sensing of the garment. The display unit 150 can display measurement information G2.

[0462] The weight sensing of the aforementioned clothing will end within 3 seconds at the latest, and the information displayed on the aforementioned display unit 150 will be changed to measurement information G2, so the user can wait with peace of mind.

[0463] As a result, the user can confirm the weight information I of the clothing before inputting data into the execution unit 120. That is, the weight sensing of the clothing ends when the door 11 is unlocked, and the weight information I is displayed on the display unit 150.

[0464] Reference Figure 30 (d) The display unit 150 can display travel information C1 and weight information I about the selected travel.

[0465] The aforementioned weight information I may include one or more of the following: the weight of the garment I1, the estimated execution time I2 required to perform the aforementioned process, and the required washing dosage I3.

[0466] The weight I1 of the above-mentioned clothing can be displayed in a direct weight unit such as KG or in a weight class obtained by classifying the above-mentioned weight using a clothing processing device.

[0467] Figures 31 to 33 The garment handling apparatus of the present invention is shown in conjunction with... Figure 30 Examples of implementing control methods in different control panel configurations. Figure 30 In comparison, only the structure is different; the order, function, and principle can be the same.

[0468] This invention can be implemented in various ways, and therefore its scope of claim is not limited to the above embodiments. Therefore, if a modified embodiment includes the constituent elements of the claims of this invention, it should be considered to fall within the scope of this invention.

Claims

1. A garment processing device, characterized in that, The garment processing device includes: The box body has an opening at the front; The door is attached to the aforementioned housing to open and close the aforementioned opening. The sensing unit senses the state in which the door is closed at the opening. A locking mechanism that locks the door to the housing. The inner tube is stored inside the aforementioned box to hold clothing; A drive unit, which is connected to the inner cylinder to rotate the inner cylinder; and The control panel includes: a power supply unit that receives a power command for supplying power; a selection unit that receives a selection command for selecting a process from any given process; a display unit that displays the weight information of the garment; and an execution unit that receives an execution command for executing a process that processes the garment. When the power supply is input, the drive unit rotates the inner cylinder while the door is unlocked by the locking unit. The aforementioned display unit displays the aforementioned weight information after the inner cylinder begins to rotate. The aforementioned actuator receives the execution command input after the inner cylinder begins to rotate, while the aforementioned display unit is displaying the aforementioned weight information. Even if the power supply is input, the display unit will only display the weight information when the selection unit is input.

2. The garment processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the power supply is input, the drive unit causes the inner cylinder to rotate. The weight information is displayed on the display unit only after the inner cylinder has started to rotate and input has been made to the selection unit.

3. The garment processing device according to claim 2, characterized in that, When the power supply is input, the drive unit rotates the inner cylinder less than one revolution and then stops. The weight information is displayed on the display unit only when the selection unit has been entered.

4. The garment processing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the sensing unit detects that the door is opening or closing the opening, the driving unit causes the inner cylinder to rotate. The weight information is displayed on the display unit only after the inner cylinder has started to rotate and input has been made to the selection unit.

5. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, When the aforementioned sensing unit detects the opening or closing of the door, the aforementioned driving unit rotates the inner cylinder less than one revolution and then stops. The weight information is displayed on the display unit only when the selection unit has been entered.

6. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, After inputting the selection into the selection unit, the drive unit rotates the inner cylinder and then stops. The display unit shows the weight information after the inner cylinder stops rotating.

7. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that, Even if the power supply is input or the sensing unit senses that the door is opening or closing the opening, the drive unit will only rotate the inner cylinder when the selection unit is input.

8. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that, When the selection unit is input, the drive unit rotates the inner cylinder less than one revolution and then stops.

9. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The control panel also includes an execution unit that receives input of an execution command for executing the process selected by the selection unit. After the inner cylinder stops rotating, the display unit displays the weight information, and then the execution unit receives the input of the execution command.

10. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, After the inner cylinder stops rotating, the display unit displays the weight information, and then the locking unit locks the door.

11. The garment processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the amount of clothing stored in the inner drum is different, the weight information displayed on the display unit will be different.

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