Laundry treating apparatus

Abstract

The present invention relates to a laundry treating apparatus, comprising: a cabinet; the outer barrel is arranged in the box body and is used for storing water; the drum is rotatably arranged in the outer tub and used for containing clothes; a driving part located behind the outer tub and including a stator generating a rotating magnetic field and a rotor rotating by using the rotating magnetic field; a rotating shaft provided to be connected to the rotor so as to rotate together with the rotor, penetrating through the outer tub, and connected to the drum; and a connector that connects the drum and the rotating shaft and transmits the rotational force transmitted via the rotating shaft to the drum. The connector includes: a hub connected to the rotating shaft; and a plurality of arms extending from the hub in the radial direction of the drum, the arm includes: a first body arm forming one surface of the arm and extending adjacent to the drum; a second body arm extending in the same direction at a predetermined interval from the first body arm; and a connection rib disposed at a predetermined interval between the first body arm and the second body arm and connecting the first body arm and the second body arm. And the width of the first main body arm is smaller than that of the second main body arm.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a garment handling apparatus. More specifically, it relates to a connector that combines a roller and a rotating shaft for transmitting power from a motor to a roller. Background Technology

[0002] Clothing treatment devices are devices that can remove dust or foreign objects attached to clothing by applying physical force to the clothing, including washing machines, dryers, and clothing refurbishing machines (care machines).

[0003] The washing machine is configured to perform a washing process that separates and removes foreign objects from the clothes by supplying water and detergent to them.

[0004] The washing machine includes: an outer tub for containing water; a drum rotatably disposed inside the outer tub for containing clothes; and a drive unit for supplying rotational power to the drum to rotate the drum. The drive unit includes: a stator for generating a rotating magnetic field; and a rotor for rotating using the rotating magnetic field generated by the stator; the rotational force of the rotor can be transmitted to the drum via a rotating axis connected to the rotor.

[0005] In front-loading washing machines with an opening at the front, the stator can be fixed to the back of the outer tub. Additionally, the rotor is designed to surround the outer circumference of the stator, and a rotating shaft connected to the center of the rotor can pass through the back of both the stator and the outer tub and connect to the drum.

[0006] This existing washing machine is equipped with a connector to connect the drum and the rotating shaft to each other. Instead of simply connecting the rotating shaft to the center of the drum, a connector with arms extending radially from the center of the drum and capable of engaging with it is used to transmit the rotational force of the rotating shaft from the center of the drum to the radially outward side. Because a connector is used as a medium to connect the drum and the rotating shaft, the rotation of the rotating shaft can be transmitted to the drum more efficiently, and damage to the rotating shaft can be prevented.

[0007] On the other hand, in existing washing machines, there is a type of washing machine (Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2009-0038185) that has a shaft flange that performs the same function as the connector described above. A rotating shaft is attached to the shaft flange, which is also attached to the back of the drum, thereby transmitting the rotational power of the motor to the drum via the rotating shaft and the shaft flange. To enhance the strength of the shaft flange, a main reinforcing rib is provided between the front and back fins, causing the cross-section of the fins to form an I-beam shape.

[0008] However, there is a problem that various foreign objects, such as dust from clothing, accumulate in the space formed by the main reinforcing rib, the front wing, and the back wing. The main reinforcing rib requires more material because it extends from the center to the end of the wing, increasing its weight and causing it to consume unnecessary electricity to rotate.

[0009] Therefore, a new connector structure is needed that can reliably transmit the rotational power provided by the motor to the rollers, while maximizing durability while minimizing weight reduction. Summary of the Invention

[0010] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0011] The present invention was proposed to solve the above-mentioned problems, and its object is to provide a connector that stably transmits the rotational power provided by a motor to a drum and a garment handling device having said connector.

[0012] In addition, the present invention was proposed to solve the above-mentioned problems, and its object is to provide a connector that can minimize weight while ensuring durability and a garment processing device having the connector.

[0013] In addition, the present invention was proposed to solve the above-mentioned problems, and its object is to provide a connector that can prevent damage to stress concentration areas and a garment processing device having the connector.

[0014] In addition, the present invention was proposed to solve the above-mentioned problems, and its object is to provide a connector that can reduce weight by improving parts other than the necessary structure for ensuring the rigidity of the bearing housing, and a garment handling device having the connector.

[0015] On the other hand, the purpose of this invention is not limited to the above-mentioned purposes, and those skilled in the art can clearly understand other purposes not mentioned from the following description.

[0016] Technical solutions to the problem

[0017] To achieve the above objectives, a preferred embodiment of the garment handling apparatus of the present invention includes: a housing; an outer tub disposed inside the housing for storing water; a roller rotatably disposed inside the outer tub for holding garments; a drive unit located behind the outer tub, including a stator that generates a rotating magnetic field and a rotor that rotates using the rotating magnetic field; a rotating shaft configured to be connected to the rotor to rotate together with the rotor, passing through the outer tub and connected to the roller; and a connector connecting the roller and the rotating shaft, transmitting rotational force transmitted via the rotating shaft to the roller; the connector includes: a hub connected to the rotating shaft; and a plurality of arms extending radially from the hub toward the roller; each arm includes: a first main arm forming one side of the arm and extending adjacent to the roller; a second main arm extending in the same direction separated from the first main arm by a predetermined interval; and a connecting rib disposed at a predetermined interval between the first main arm and the second main arm, connecting the first main arm and the second main arm; the width of the first main arm is smaller than the width of the second main arm.

[0018] Additionally, preferably, the first main body arm extends radially from the hub toward the roller, and its width gradually narrows in the direction of extension.

[0019] Additionally, preferably, the second main body arm extends radially from the hub toward the roller, and its width gradually narrows in the direction of extension.

[0020] Additionally, preferably, the first main body arm extends radially from the hub toward the roller, and its thickness decreases in the extending direction.

[0021] Additionally, preferably, the second main body arm extends radially from the hub toward the roller, and its thickness decreases in the direction of extension.

[0022] Additionally, preferably, the interval between the first main arm and the second main arm decreases in the radial direction toward the roller.

[0023] Preferably, the outer side of the first main body arm has a first reinforcing rib that protrudes from the center of the hub along the center of the first main body arm.

[0024] In addition, preferably, a second reinforcing rib extending along the outer side of the arm is formed between the first main arm and another main arm adjacent to the first main arm.

[0025] On the other hand, preferably, the connecting rib includes: a first connecting rib, which is disposed on one side of the arm with reference to its extension direction center and inclined downward toward the hub; and a second connecting rib, which is disposed on the other side of the arm with reference to its extension direction center and inclined downward toward the hub.

[0026] Preferably, the first connecting rib and the second connecting rib are centrally connected in the extension direction of the arm, having a V-shape with the tip pointing towards the hub.

[0027] Additionally, preferably, the first connecting rib and the second connecting rib are each formed such that the spacing between them decreases in the direction from the center of the extension direction of the arm toward the radially outward direction.

[0028] On the other hand, preferably, the roller is formed with a rear side that accommodates the connector, and the rear side is formed with a connector receiving groove that is recessed toward the front side of the roller.

[0029] Preferably, the connector receiving groove is further formed with a plurality of grooves corresponding to and accommodating the arm.

[0030] On the other hand, preferably, each of the arms has a fastening hole at its end, and the outer circumferential surface of the rear side of the roller is provided with a fastening rib, which is connected to the end of the arm and forms a fastening groove corresponding to each of the fastening holes.

[0031] Alternatively, preferably, the plurality of said arms extend radially around the hub and form the same angle with each other.

[0032] On the other hand, preferably, the hub includes: a first main hub located behind the roller and at the rotation center of the roller, with the first main arm extending from the first main hub; and a second main hub positioned facing the rear of the roller, with the rotation shaft fixed to the second main hub, and the second main arm extending from the second main hub.

[0033] On the other hand, preferably, the connecting ribs separate from each other while connecting the first main arm and the second main arm to form a flow path for water to pass through the first main arm and the second main arm.

[0034] On the other hand, preferably, the hub, the first main arm, the second main arm, and the connecting rib are integrally formed from the same material.

[0035] Invention Effects

[0036] According to the garment handling apparatus of the present invention, a connector that stably transmits rotational power provided by a motor to a roller and a garment handling apparatus having said connector are provided.

[0037] Furthermore, the garment processing apparatus according to the present invention provides a connector that can minimize weight while ensuring durability, and a garment processing apparatus having the connector.

[0038] Furthermore, according to the garment processing apparatus of the present invention, it is possible to provide a connector capable of preventing damage to stress-concentrated areas and a garment processing apparatus having the connector.

[0039] Furthermore, according to the garment processing apparatus of the present invention, it is possible to provide a connector that can reduce weight by improving parts other than the necessary structure for ensuring the rigidity of the bearing housing, and a garment processing apparatus having the connector.

[0040] On the other hand, the effects of the present invention are not limited to those described above, and those skilled in the art can clearly understand other effects not mentioned from the description in the claims. Attached Figure Description

[0041] Figure 1 This is a perspective view illustrating a simplified embodiment of a garment processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[0042] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a clothing processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing the roller and connector of a garment processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of a connector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 5 This is a front view showing a connector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] Figure 6 This is a side view showing a connector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] Figure 7 This is a bottom view showing a connector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] Figure 8 This is a partial cross-sectional view showing the installation state of a connector according to an embodiment of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0049] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, a garment processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0050] This invention can be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. Furthermore, for the sake of clarity, parts unrelated to the description have been omitted from the drawings, and similar reference numerals have been added to similar constituent elements in the specification. In the following description, repeated descriptions of the same constituent elements are omitted.

[0051] Furthermore, when describing the present invention, when referring to a constituent element being "connected" or "in contact" with another constituent element, it may mean that the constituent element is directly connected or in contact with the other constituent element. However, it should be understood that there may be other constituent elements between them. Conversely, in this specification, when referring to a constituent element being "directly connected" or "directly in contact" with another constituent element, it should be understood that there are no other constituent elements between them.

[0052] Furthermore, the terminology used in describing this invention is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended to limit the invention. Additionally, in the following description, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, singular expressions may include plural expressions.

[0053] Furthermore, when describing this invention, the names of the various constituent elements are defined with consideration for the function of this invention. Therefore, the various names defined for each constituent element may be referred to by other names in the relevant field.

[0054] Furthermore, in describing the present invention, the terms "comprising" or "having" should be understood to indicate only the presence of features, numbers, steps, actions, constituent elements, components, or combinations thereof as described in this specification, rather than pre-excluding the presence or additional possibilities of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, constituent elements, components, or combinations thereof.

[0055] Additionally, in describing this invention, the term "and / or" includes a combination of the plurality of described items or any one of the plurality of described items. In this specification, "A or B" can include "A" or "B" or "A and B".

[0056] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing a garment processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a garment processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing the roller and connector of a garment processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0057] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the garment handling apparatus of the present invention may include: a housing 100 forming the exterior; and an outer tank disposed inside the housing 100 for storing water (see reference). Figure 2 ); and a roller 300 rotatably disposed inside the outer drum for holding clothes. The housing 100 may include: a front panel 110 forming the front of the clothes handling device; an upper panel 130 forming the top surface; a side panel 120 forming the sides; and a back panel (not shown) forming the back.

[0058] The front panel 110 may be equipped with an operation panel 113. The operation panel 113 may include an input unit 114 for receiving control commands input by the user and a display unit 115 for outputting information such as selectable control commands. The control commands may include a drying program or drying options that execute a series of drying processes. The housing 100 may contain a control unit (not shown) that controls the internal components to execute the control commands input via the input unit 114. The control unit may be connected to and control the internal components of the garment handling device to execute the input commands.

[0059] The input unit 114 may include: a power supply request unit for requesting power to the garment processing device; a program input unit for allowing the user to select a desired program from a plurality of programs; and an execution request unit for requesting the user to start the program selected by the user.

[0060] The display unit 115 may include at least one of a display panel capable of outputting text and graphics, and a speaker capable of outputting voice signals and sounds.

[0061] On the other hand, the garment handling apparatus of the present invention may include a drawer 150 for supplying laundry detergent to the user for the washing process. The drawer 150 may be configured to be pushed in or pulled out from the front panel 110. The user can pull out the drawer 150 to supply laundry detergent, and then push the drawer 150 in. The aforementioned laundry detergent may include various products required for garment handling, such as laundry detergent used during washing and fabric softener used during rinsing.

[0062] Additionally, the housing 100 may include an inlet 111 for loading and unloading laundry. The inlet 111 may extend through the front panel 110. The inlet 111 is configured to communicate with the drum 300, so that the user can load or unload laundry into or from the drum 300 through the inlet 111.

[0063] Additionally, the housing 100 may include a door 140 for opening and closing the inlet 111. The door 140 may be rotatably attached to the front panel 110 to open and close the inlet 111. The door 140 may be made of a transparent material and may be configured such that the user can view the interior of the roller 300 even when the door 140 is closed over the inlet 111.

[0064] To aid in understanding the detailed structure of the garment handling device described below, the orientation can be defined as follows: with the center of the housing 100 as a reference, the orientation of the inlet 111 can be defined as the front side, and its opposite direction can be defined as the rear side. Based on the front-rear orientation, the right side and left side can be naturally defined.

[0065] On the other hand, such as Figure 2 As shown, a clothing processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: an outer tank 200 disposed inside a housing 100 for storing water; and a roller 300 rotatably disposed inside the outer tank 200 for accommodating clothing.

[0066] A drive unit 500 for rotating the roller 300 may be provided at the rear of the outer barrel 200. The drive unit 500 may include: a stator 510 that generates a rotating magnetic field and a rotor 530 that rotates using the rotating magnetic field generated by the stator 510.

[0067] In addition, a garment processing device according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a rotating shaft 400, which is connected to the rotor 530 and rotates together with the rotor 530 to rotate the roller 300.

[0068] The rotating shaft 400 can pass through the outer barrel 200 and is rotatably supported on a bearing housing formed by insert injection molding in the outer barrel 200. It can be connected to the roller 300 via a connector 700 connected to the roller 300. Therefore, the rotational force of the drive unit 500 can be transmitted to the roller via the rotating shaft 400 and the connector 700 connected to the rotating shaft.

[0069] On the other hand, the garment handling device may include a spring 160 and a shock absorber 170 for damping vibrations caused by the operation of the drive unit 500 or by the imbalance of the garments housed inside the drum 300. The spring 160 and the shock absorber 170 may be configured to connect the outer side of the outer drum 200 to the inner side of the housing 100.

[0070] Additionally, the garment handling device may include a gasket 180 connecting the outer tub 200 and the housing 100. The gasket 180 connects the door 140 and the outer tub 200. The gasket 180 prevents water leakage through an opening located at the front of the outer tub 200. In other words, when the door 140 is closed, the gasket 180 blocks the space between the door 140 and the outer tub 200, thereby preventing water leakage to the outside of the outer tub 200.

[0071] The roller 300 can be configured as a hollow cylindrical roller body 310. That is, the roller body 310 can be provided with: two open circumferential surfaces facing each other; a disc-shaped front surface 330 fixed to the circumferential surfaces to form the front surface of the roller body; and a rear surface 350 fixed to the circumferential surfaces to form the rear surface of the roller body.

[0072] The front surface 330 has a roller inlet 312 through which supplied clothing is fed into the roller body 310. Additionally, a plurality of drain holes 312 are formed on the roller body 310, the front surface 330, and the rear surface 350, connecting the interior of the roller body 310 to the interior of the outer tub 200.

[0073] Additionally, the garment handling device may include: a water supply section (not shown) for supplying water required for washing to the outer tub 200; and a drain section (not shown) for draining water contained inside the outer tub 200 after washing. The water supply section may be connected to an external water source to receive water. Furthermore, the drain section may include a pump to force water contained inside the outer tub 200 to drain out of the container.

[0074] The roller 300 receives power from the drive unit 500 via the connector 700. Alternatively, the connector 700 may consist solely of a rotating shaft 400 connecting the rotor 530 and the roller body 310. In this case, the rotating shaft 400 extends through the back of the outer drum 200, with one end fixed to the rear surface 350 of the roller body and the other end fixed to the rotor 530.

[0075] On the other hand, such as Figure 3 As shown, the connector 700 may further include: a hub 401 for fixing the rotating shaft 400; and a plurality of arms 702, 703, 704 extending from the hub 701 toward the edge of the rear surface 350. When the rotating shaft 400 is directly connected to the rear surface 350 of the roller body 310, the rotational force of the rotating shaft 400 is concentrated on the rear surface 350 when the rotating shaft 400 rotates, which may cause damage to the rear surface 350.

[0076] On the other hand, a connector receiving groove 351 may be provided on the rear surface 350 to facilitate the transmission of the rotational force provided by the connector 700 to the roller body 310. The connector receiving groove 351 may be formed as a groove shape in which the rear surface 350 is concave and bent toward the front surface 330.

[0077] The connector receiving groove 351 can be formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of the hub 701 and the three arms 702, 703, 704. Therefore, the connector receiving groove 351 can stably transmit the rotational power transmitted from the hub 701 and the three arms 702, 703, 704 to the roller 300.

[0078] In addition, to fix the connector 700 to the roller body 310, the roller 300 may also be provided with fastening ribs 353 for fastening the hub 701 and the three arms 702, 703, and 704. The fastening ribs 353 are configured as cylindrical tubes fixed to the outer peripheral surface of the roller body 310 or the rear surface 350, and the fastening ribs 353 may be provided with a first fastening hole 355, a second fastening hole 356, and a third fastening hole 357 respectively connected to the three arms 702, 703, and 704 of the connector 700.

[0079] On the other hand, each free end of the three arms 702, 703, and 704 of the connector 700 may be provided with a fastening groove (not shown) corresponding to each fastening hole 355, 356, and 357 of the fastening rib 353. An additional fastening member (not shown) passing through each fastening hole 355, 356, and 357 is fastened to each fastening groove, thereby enabling the connector 700 to be fixed to the roller 300.

[0080] The following is for reference Figures 4 to 7 The connector 700 of the present invention will be described in detail below.

[0081] Figure 4 This is a perspective view showing a connector according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 5 This is a front view showing a connector according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 This is a side view showing a connector according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 This is a bottom view showing a connector according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0082] like Figure 4 As shown, the connector 700 of this embodiment may have: a hub 701 forming the center of the connector and connected to the rotation axis; and a first arm 702, a second arm 703, and a third arm 704 extending radially from the hub 701 toward the roller. The present invention illustrates a case with three arms 702, 703, and 704, but this may be increased or decreased depending on the situation, and the angles formed by each arm relative to each other may be the same.

[0083] On the other hand, the connector 700 includes: a first body 710 fixed to the rear side 350 of the roller 300, a second body 730 fixed to the rotating shaft 400, and connecting ribs 741, 743 that connect the first body 710 and the second body 73 separately.

[0084] The first body 710 may include: a first body hub 711 fixed to the rear surface 350 and located at the rotation center of the roller 300; and first body arms 713, 714, and 715 extending radially from the first body hub 711 toward the edge of the rear surface 350 to form a first arm 702, a second arm 703, and a third arm 704.

[0085] The second body 730 may include: a second body hub 731 configured to face the rear of the outer barrel 200 to fix the rotating shaft 400; and second body arms 733, 734, 735 extending radially from the second body hub 731 in the same direction as the first body arms 713, 714, 715, i.e., radially extending from the roller 300.

[0086] The connecting ribs 741 and 743 not only keep the first body 710 and the second body 730 separated, but also form a flow path for water to pass through the space between the first body 710 and the second body 730.

[0087] Such connecting ribs 741, 743 may be formed in plurality of those between the first main body arms 713, 714, 715 of the first main body and the second main body arms 733, 734, 735 of the second main body, and may be separated from each other by a predetermined interval. Preferably, the connecting ribs 741, 743 may be formed such that the interval is smaller the closer they are to the radial outer side of the first arm 702, the second arm 703, and the third arm 704.

[0088] On the other hand, the first body 710, the second body 730 and the connecting ribs 741 and 743 mentioned above can be integrally formed from the same material using a mold.

[0089] The outer surface of the first body 710 may be provided with a plurality of reinforcing ribs 702a, 703a, 704a, 705, 706, and 707 to enhance the strength of the first body 710.

[0090] The reinforcing ribs 702a, 703a, and 704a may include: a first reinforcing rib 702a extending in the same direction from the first main body hub 711 along the center of the first main body arm 713; a second reinforcing rib 703a extending in the same direction from the first main body hub 711 along the center of the second main body arm 714; and a third reinforcing rib 704a extending in the same direction from the first main body hub 711 along the center of the third main body arm 715.

[0091] The first reinforcing rib 702a, the second reinforcing rib 703a, and the third reinforcing rib 704a extend and protrude from one side of the first main arm 702, the second main arm 703, and the third main arm 704, thereby enhancing the rigidity of the first main arm 702, the second main arm 703, and the third main arm 704.

[0092] On the other hand, the reinforcing ribs 705, 706, and 707 may include: a fourth reinforcing rib 705 extending between the first main body arm 713 and the third main body arm 715 on the outer side of the first main body 710; a fifth reinforcing rib 706 extending between the first main body arm 713 and the second main body arm 714 on the outer side of the first main body 710; and a sixth reinforcing rib 706 extending between the second main body arm 715 and the third main body arm 715 on the outer side of the first main body 710.

[0093] The fourth reinforcing rib 705, the fifth reinforcing rib 706, and the sixth reinforcing rib 707 can extend and protrude between the first main arm 715 and the third main arm 715, between the first main arm 713 and the second main arm 714, and between the second main arm 714 and the third main arm 715, thereby enhancing the rigidity between the first main arm 702, the second main arm 703, and the third main arm 704.

[0094] Here, the reinforcing ribs 702a, 703a, 704a, 705, 706, and 707 described above can extend in the same direction as the first arm 702, the second arm 703, and the third arm 704. Therefore, water remaining on the surface of the first body 710 can be discharged under centrifugal force along the extending directions of the reinforcing ribs 702a, 703a, 704a, 705, 706, and 707.

[0095] On the other hand, the connector 700 may have a first arm 702, a second arm 703, and a third arm 704 formed radially around the hub 701. The first arm 702, the second arm 703, and the third arm 704 may be formed by the first body arms 713, 714, and 715 extending in the first body 710, the second body arms 733, 734, and 735 extending in the second body 730, and a plurality of connecting ribs 741 and 743 connecting the first body arms 713, 714, and 715 with the second body arms 733, 734, and 735.

[0096] Furthermore, the first arm 702, the second arm 703, and the third arm 704 of the connector can all be formed to have the same shape. Therefore, the following description will take the first arm 702, the first body arm 713 of the first body 710 forming the first arm 702, and the second body arm 733 of the second body 730 forming the first arm 702 as examples.

[0097] However, the shape of the first arm 702 of the connector 700 is not limited; it is only used to describe the first arm 702, the second arm 703, and the third arm 704. Therefore, the first arm 702, the second arm 703, and the third arm 704 can be formed into different shapes as needed, and can be changed to add additional functions.

[0098] On the other hand, the connecting ribs 741 and 743 can be composed of a first connecting rib 741 and a second connecting rib 743. The first connecting rib 741 is inclined downward from the left end of the first arm 702 toward the rotation axis 400, and the second connecting rib 743 is inclined downward from the right end of the first arm 702 toward the rotation axis 400.

[0099] One end of each of the first connecting rib 741 and the second connecting rib 743 can extend from the first main body arm 713, and the other end can extend from the second main body arm 733. That is, the first connecting rib 741 and the second connecting rib 743 can be formed by extending from one side of the first main body arm 713 and one side of the second main body arm 733 opposite to the side of the first main body arm 713, respectively. In addition, the first connecting rib 741 and the second connecting rib 743 can be integrally formed with the first main body arm 713 and the second main body arm 733.

[0100] Furthermore, one end of the first connecting rib 741 and one end of the second connecting rib 743 can be connected to each other. Hereinafter, the portion where one end of the first connecting rib 741 connects to the second connecting rib 743 is referred to as the connection point (not shown).

[0101] The first connecting rib 741 may be formed to be inclined at a predetermined angle α1 toward the center of the extension direction of the first main arm 713 and the second main arm 733, and the second connecting rib 743 may be formed to be inclined at a predetermined angle α2 toward the center of the extension direction of the first main arm 713 and the second main arm 733.

[0102] Here, the angle α1 formed by the first connecting rib 741 and the angle α2 formed by the second connecting rib 743 can be formed such that they are symmetrical about each other with the same angle (refer to) with the center of the first arm 702 (i.e., the first main arm 713 and the second main arm 733) as the reference. Figure 5 ).

[0103] On the other hand, the connection points of the first connecting rib 741 and the second connecting rib 743 can be configured as a V-shape with the tip facing the hub 701. If the connection points of each of the connecting ribs 741, 743 are configured as a V-shape with the tip facing the hub 701, then the connector 700 can have resistance to forces acting in the width direction of the first arm 702, forces acting in the length direction of the first arm 702, and forces acting in the thickness direction of the first arm 702.

[0104] As described above, a plurality of the first connecting rib 741 and the second connecting rib 743 may be provided, and each connecting rib 741, 743 is preferably arranged separately from each other along the extension direction of the first arm 702.

[0105] In addition, the angle α1 formed by the first connecting rib 741 can be formed in the same direction as the extension direction of another third arm 704 adjacent to the first arm 702, and the angle α2 formed by the second connecting rib 743 can be formed in the same direction as the extension direction of another first arm 702 adjacent to the first main body arm.

[0106] On the other hand, the plurality of first connecting ribs 741 and the plurality of second connecting ribs 743 formed on the first arm 702 can have a predetermined interval (G1-G5) based on the connection point where each connecting rib is connected. In this case, the interval between the connection points of each of the connecting ribs 741, 743 can be formed such that the interval decreases as it approaches the outer side of the first arm 702 with the hub 701 as the center (see reference). Figure 7 ).

[0107] That is, in the connector 700, the first arm 702 extends radially with the hub 701 as the center, and the torque applied to the outermost part of the first arm 702 is the greatest. Therefore, in order to increase the strength of the outer part of the first arm 702, the strength of the outer part of the first arm 702 can be increased by changing the interval between the first connecting ribs 741 and the interval between the second connecting ribs 743 disposed between the first main arm 713 and the second main arm 733.

[0108] On the other hand, the first main arm 713 may extend radially around the hub 701 with a narrower width than the first main arm 713. That is, the width W2 of the second main arm 733 may be greater than the width W1 of the first main arm 713.

[0109] In this configuration, when the connector 700 is fastened to the rear surface 350 of the roller 300, the size of the connector receiving groove 351 used to fasten the connector 700 can be reduced. Reducing the size of the connector receiving groove 351 allows for an expansion of the internal space of the roller 300 (see reference). Figure 8 ).

[0110] In addition, when the first main body arm 713 extends with the first main body hub 711 as the center, the width RT1 of the end of the first main body arm 713 can be smaller than the width RT2 on the side of the first main body hub 711.

[0111] The strength of the first arm 702 is enhanced by the first connecting rib 741 and the second connecting rib 743 formed between the first main arm 713 and the second main arm 733. As described above, the first connecting rib 741 and the second connecting rib 743 are formed to be narrower in width as they approach the radial outer side of the first arm 702, thereby enhancing the strength of the outer portion of the first arm 702.

[0112] Therefore, even if the width of the first main body arm 713 is formed to be narrower towards the outer side from the side of the first main body hub 711, the strength of the first main body arm 713 can be maintained. That is, the width RT1 of the outer portion of the first main body arm 713 can be smaller than the width RT2 of the side of the first main body hub 711.

[0113] Furthermore, as the width of the first main body arm 713 decreases as it approaches the outer edge of the first main body hub 711, the size of the connector receiving groove 351 used to house the connector 700 can be further reduced. By further reducing the size of the connector receiving groove 351, the internal space of the roller 300 can be further expanded.

[0114] In addition, when the second main body arm 733 extends with the second main body hub 731 as the center, the width RB1 of the end of the second main body arm 733 can be smaller than the width RB2 on the side of the second main body hub 731.

[0115] The strength of the first arm 702 is enhanced by the first connecting rib 741 and the second connecting rib 743 formed between the first main arm 713 and the second main arm 733. As described above, the first connecting rib 741 and the second connecting rib 743 are formed to be narrower in width as they approach the radial outer side of the first arm 702, thereby enhancing the strength of the outer portion of the first arm 702.

[0116] Therefore, even if the width of the second main body arm 733 is formed to be narrower towards the outer side from the side of the second main body hub 731, the strength of the second main body arm 733 can be maintained. That is, the width RB1 of the outer portion of the second main body arm 733 can be smaller than the width RB2 of the side of the second main body hub 731.

[0117] In addition, such as Figure 6 As shown, the interval between the first main arm 713 and the second main arm 733 forming the first arm 702 can become narrower and narrower in the extension direction of the first arm 702 with reference to the hub 701.

[0118] That is, the distance D1 between the first main arm 713 and the second main arm 733 adjacent to the hub 701 can be greater than the radial outer distance D2 between the first main arm 713 and the second main arm 733.

[0119] The strength of the first arm 702 is enhanced by the first connecting rib 741 and the second connecting rib 743 formed between the first main arm 713 and the second main arm 733. As described above, the first connecting rib 741 and the second connecting rib 743 are formed to be narrower in width as they approach the radial outer side of the first arm 702, thereby enhancing the strength of the outer portion of the first arm 702.

[0120] Therefore, by making the gap between the first main arm 713 and the second main arm 733 narrower as it gets closer to the outside from the hub 701 side, the strength of the first arm 702 can also be maintained. That is, the gap between the first main arm 713 and the second main arm 733 can be made such that the gap D2 on the outer side is smaller than the gap D1 on the hub 701 side.

[0121] In addition, such as Figure 7 As shown, the thickness of the first main arm 713 and the second main arm 733 can be progressively thinner in the direction in which the first arm extends outward from the hub.

[0122] That is, the thickness T1 of the first main arm 713 adjacent to the hub 701 can be greater than the radial outer thickness T1 of the first main arm 713, and the thickness T3 of the second main arm 733 adjacent to the hub 701 can be greater than the radial outer thickness T4 of the second main arm 733.

[0123] That is, the thicknesses T1 and T3 of the first main arm 713 and the second main arm 733 adjacent to the hub 701 can be greater than the radial outer thicknesses T2 and T4 of the first main arm 713 and the second main arm 733, respectively.

[0124] The strength of the first arm 702 is enhanced by the first connecting rib 741 and the second connecting rib 743 formed between the first main arm 713 and the second main arm 733. As described above, the first connecting rib 741 and the second connecting rib 743 are formed to be narrower in width as they approach the radial outer side of the first arm 702, thereby enhancing the strength of the outer portion of the first arm 702.

[0125] Therefore, even if the thickness of the first main arm 713 and the second main arm 733 is formed to be thinner towards the outer side from the hub 701 side, the strength of the first arm 702 can be maintained. That is, the thickness of the first main arm 713 and the second main arm 733 can be formed such that the thickness T2 and T4 of the outer portion is smaller than the thickness T1 and T3 of the hub 701 side.

[0126] Although the first arm 702 has been described above, the second arm 703 and the third arm 704 can be similarly applied to and implement the structure of the first arm 702.

[0127] For the connector 700 described above, in order to reduce the size of the connector receiving groove 351 of the roller 300, the thickness, width, and spacing of the first main body arms 713, 714, 715 and the second main body arms 733, 734, 735 forming the connector 700, as well as the spacing of the connecting ribs 741, 743, have been described. However, the above description can be applied individually to the connector 700 for implementation.

[0128] As described above, while preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail, those skilled in the art can make various modifications to the invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. Therefore, future modifications to the embodiments of the present invention cannot deviate from the technology of the present invention.

Claims

1. A laundry treating apparatus, characterized by, Comprising: a cabinet; a tub provided inside the cabinet to store water; a drum rotatably provided inside the tub to accommodate laundry; a driving part located at the rear of the tub, including a stator generating a rotating magnetic field and a rotor rotated by the rotating magnetic field; a rotating shaft provided to be connected with the rotor to rotate together with the rotor, penetrating the tub and connected with the drum; and a connector connecting the drum with the rotating shaft to transmit the rotating force transmitted via the rotating shaft to the drum; the connector comprising: a hub connected with the rotating shaft; and a plurality of arms extending from the hub toward the radial direction of the drum; the arm comprising: a first body arm forming one side of the arm, extending adjacent to the drum; a second body arm extending in the same direction apart from the first body arm by a prescribed interval; and a connecting rib disposed at a prescribed interval between the first body arm and the second body arm, connecting the first body arm and the second body arm; the width of the first body arm is smaller than the width of the second body arm.

2. The laundry treating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first body arm extends from the hub toward the radial direction of the drum, and the width thereof becomes narrower in the extending direction.

3. The laundry treating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second body arm extends from the hub toward the radial direction of the drum, and the width thereof becomes narrower in the extending direction.

4. The laundry treating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first body arm extends from the hub toward the radial direction of the drum, and the thickness thereof becomes smaller in the extending direction.

5. The laundry treating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second body arm extends from the hub toward the radial direction of the drum, and the thickness thereof becomes smaller in the extending direction.

6. The laundry treating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the interval between the first body arm and the second body arm becomes smaller in the radial direction toward the drum.

7. The laundry treating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein an outer side surface of the first body arm is formed with a first reinforcing rib protruding from the center of the hub along the center of the first body arm.

8. The laundry treating apparatus according to claim 7, wherein a second reinforcing rib extending along the outer side surface of the arm is further formed between the first body arm and another body arm adjacent to the first body arm.

9. The laundry treating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the connecting rib comprises: a first connecting rib provided to be inclined downward toward the hub on one side of the arm with reference to the center in the extending direction thereof; and a second connecting rib provided to be inclined downward toward the hub on the other side of the arm with reference to the center in the extending direction thereof.

10. The laundry treating apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the first connecting rib and the second connecting rib are connected at the center in the extending direction of the arm, having a V-shape with the tip end thereof directed toward the hub. 11.The laundry treating apparatus of claim 9, wherein each of the first and second connecting ribs is formed to have a spacing between the ribs that decreases toward a radially outer side from a center of an extension direction of the arms. 12.The laundry treating apparatus of claim 1, wherein the drum is formed with a rear surface that accommodates the connector, the rear surface being formed with a connector accommodation groove formed in a shape that is recessed toward a front surface of the drum. 13.The laundry treating apparatus of claim 12, wherein the connector accommodation groove is formed with a plurality of grooves corresponding to the arms and accommodating the arms. 14.The laundry treating apparatus of claim 12, wherein end portions of the plurality of arms are respectively formed with fastening holes, and an outer circumferential surface of the rear surface of the drum is further provided with a fastening rib that interfaces with the end portions of the arms and is formed with fastening grooves corresponding to the fastening holes. 15.The laundry treating apparatus of claim 1, wherein the plurality of arms extend in a radial direction of the hub with the hub as a center and form the same angle with respect to each other. 16.The laundry treating apparatus of claim 1, wherein the hub includes: a first main hub located at a rear surface of the drum and at a center of rotation of the drum, the first main arms extending from the first main hub; and a second main hub disposed toward a rear of the drum, the rotating shaft being fixed to the second main hub, the second main arms extending from the second main hub. 17.The laundry treating apparatus of claim 1, wherein the connecting ribs are separated from each other while connecting the first main arms and the second main arms to form a flow path for water between the first main arms and the second main arms. 18.The laundry treating apparatus of claim 1, wherein the hub, the first main arms, the second main arms, and the connecting ribs are integrally formed of the same material.

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